Hulk Hogan, the towering titan who helped catapult professional wrestling into mainstream popularity during the 1980s, has died at the age of 71, according to multiple U.S. media reports on Thursday.
NBC News, citing Hogan’s longtime manager Chris Volo, confirmed that the wrestling icon passed away at his Florida home. Entertainment outlet TMZ also reported the development, referencing sources and emergency calls indicating a cardiac arrest.
Known for his imposing 6’7” frame, trademark blond moustache, and red-and-yellow bandana, Hogan—born Terry Bollea—was a cultural phenomenon. His larger-than-life persona and electrifying charisma helped transform wrestling into a global spectacle, earning him household-name status far beyond the squared circle.
“Hulkamania” wasn’t just a wrestling catchphrase—it was a movement that swept through arenas, living rooms, and even movie theatres. Hogan made his debut in the World Wrestling Federation (now WWE) in 1979, but truly became a national icon by the mid-1980s, sharing the spotlight with legends like Andre the Giant and “Rowdy” Roddy Piper.
His crossover success included film roles in Rocky III and No Holds Barred, as well as guest appearances on popular TV shows like Baywatch. Hogan was enshrined in the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005, cementing his place in sports entertainment history.
“WWE is saddened to learn WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has passed away. One of pop culture’s most recognisable figures, Hogan helped WWE achieve global recognition in the 1980s,” the organisation posted on social media. “WWE extends its condolences to Hogan’s family, friends, and fans.”
Despite his fame, Hogan’s life was not without controversy. In 2015, he was removed from WWE’s Hall of Fame following the leak of a video in which he used racist language. Hogan later issued a public apology, and WWE reinstated him years later.
About Hulk Hogan
In recent times, Hogan had been a vocal supporter of former President Donald Trump. At the 2024 Republican National Convention, he took to the stage, ripping his shirt off to reveal a Trump-Vance tank top.
“With our leader up there, my hero, that gladiator, we’re gonna bring America back together,” Hogan told the crowd in July 2024.
Hogan’s health had reportedly declined in his later years, due in part to the physical toll of his decades-long wrestling career. He was married three times and fathered two children, Brooke and Nick, with his first wife, Linda.
Though his life had its ups and downs, Hogan’s legacy as one of wrestling’s most transformative figures remains undisputed.
