Wrestling Icon Hulk Hogan Dies at 71 from Cardiac Arrest
By: Kwame Bediako
Published: July 24, 2025
Legendary professional wrestling figure Hulk Hogan, born Terry Gene Bollea, has passed away at the age of 71. The iconic WWE Hall of Famer died of cardiac arrest at his Clearwater, Florida home on Thursday, July 24, 2025, according to reports from TMZ. Emergency services were called to his residence following a medical emergency but were unable to revive him.
Hogan rose to superstardom in the 1980s, becoming the face of WWE (then WWF) and launching the phenomenon known as “Hulkamania.” With his trademark charisma, bandana, and signature slogans—“Train, say your prayers, and take your vitamins”—he inspired millions of fans around the world and helped propel wrestling into mainstream popularity.
His influence continued into the 1990s when he joined rival promotion WCW and shocked fans by turning heel to lead the New World Order (nWo), a groundbreaking faction that redefined wrestling storytelling and character work.
In recent years, Hogan had been battling a host of serious health issues resulting from decades of intense physical performance. He publicly shared that he had undergone more than 25 surgeries, including multiple back operations and joint replacements. In 2024, he spoke candidly about his health on Jake Paul’s IMPAULSIVE podcast, showing both vulnerability and resilience.
Though rumors had swirled about his declining condition, Hogan had recently undergone successful neck surgery, and his representatives had dismissed earlier claims that he was near death. Unfortunately, years of accumulated injuries ultimately took their toll.
Hulk Hogan leaves behind a lasting legacy as one of professional wrestling’s most recognizable and influential figures. From sold-out arenas to movie roles and cultural references, Hogan not only transformed WWE into a global brand but also became a symbol of an entire generation of sports entertainment.
He is mourned by fans, fellow wrestlers, and the entertainment world at large, who will remember him as the larger-than-life figure who told them to “believe in themselves” and never give up.
