Hulk Hogan, one of professional wrestling’s most iconic figures, has died at the age of 71.
The WWE Hall of Famer passed away early Thursday morning, July 24, after emergency responders were called to his home in Clearwater, Florida, following reports of a cardiac arrest, according to TMZ. Paramedics and police were seen outside his residence, and Hogan was reportedly taken from the home on a stretcher and transported by ambulance. His official cause of death has not yet been released.
World Wrestling Entertainment confirmed the news in a statement:
“WWE is saddened to learn WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has passed away. One of pop culture’s most recognizable figures, Hogan helped WWE achieve global recognition in the 1980s. WWE extends its condolences to Hogan’s family, friends, and fans.”
Born Terry Gene Bollea in Augusta, Georgia, and raised in Florida, Hogan rose to superstardom in the 1980s. Known for his red-and-yellow attire and his entrance to “Real American,” he became a symbol of patriotism and strength in the wrestling world. His 1984 victory over the Iron Sheik launched the “Hulkamania” phenomenon, making him the World Wrestling Federation’s (now WWE) heavyweight champion and a household name.
In 1988, Hogan famously lost the title to Andre the Giant, but continued to dominate the wrestling scene. He left WWF in the early 1990s amid a steroid scandal and pursued an acting career, with roles in Rocky III (1982), Gremlins 2 (1990), Suburban Commando (1991), Mr. Nanny (1993), and Santa with Muscles (1996).
Hogan joined World Championship Wrestling (WCW) in 1994, where he reinvented himself as the villainous “Hollywood Hogan” in 1996. He returned to WWE in the early 2000s, cementing his legacy as one of the most influential figures in wrestling history.
Hogan is remembered not only for his achievements in the ring but also for his outsized impact on pop culture and the global reach of professional wrestling.
