Hulk Hogan Passes Away at 71: Wrestling World and Beyond Pays Tribute to a True Icon
Hulk Hogan, the legendary face of professional wrestling and a pop culture titan for over four decades, has passed away at the age of 71, sending shockwaves across the entertainment and sports worlds.Born Hogan, whose real name was Terry Gene Bollea, died on Thursday morning at his home in Clearwater, Florida, after having a heart attack. He was declared dead at Morton Plant Hospital, despite attempts to save him.
Hulk Hogan: A Legacy That Transcended Wrestling
Hogan’s career helped make professional wrestling popular in the 1980s. He became one of the most well-known faces in sports entertainment because of his charm, huge body, and memorable catchphrases. His fame went beyond the ring and into Hollywood, music, reality TV, and even his own chain of restaurants.
Despite facing controversy in his later years—including a leaked video scandal involving racial slurs—Hogan’s contributions to wrestling culture remained unparalleled. WWE briefly distanced itself but eventually welcomed him back, with fans offering mixed but passionate responses.
A Wave of Tributes: Wrestling Legends, Celebrities Mourn Hulk Hogan
Within hours of the news breaking, tributes began to pour in. President Donald Trump was the first to pay tribute on Truth Social, calling Hogan a “great friend” and a proud “MAGA” supporter. Trump talked about Hogan’s speech at the Republican National Convention, saying he was “strong, tough, smart, but with the biggest heart.”
The official White House X account shared a tribute with Trump’s statement, saying, “Hulk Hogan will be greatly missed.”
Hollywood legend Sylvester Stallone, who starred alongside Hogan in Rocky III, shared a heartfelt Instagram post:
“I had the pleasure of meeting this brilliant personality and showman when he was 26 years old. He was absolutely wonderful and made Rocky III incredibly special. My heart breaks thinking that he’s gone.”
Actress Brooke Shields also joined in, recalling their time together on the sitcom Suddenly Susan. Posting a playful throwback photo, she wrote:
“Rest easy, Hulk. His guest episode was a highlight. Sending love to his family.
Fellow Wrestlers Honor Hulk Hogan Impact and Friendship
Wrestling legends thought a lot about how Hogan affected them. X said, “The wrestling world has lost a true legend.” He has done so much that it’s hard to put into words. Thanks, Hulk Hogan.
Vince McMahon, who used to be the chairman of WWE, wrote a touching tribute: “Hulk Hogan was the best WWE Superstar of all time.” A worldwide event. He gave everything to the people who loved him. One of his most famous lines is “Train, take your vitamins, and say your prayers.” We pray for him today.
Ric Flair, one of Hogan’s most iconic rivals and close friends, expressed his grief:
“Hulk stood by me through my hardest days. He visited me in the hospital when I had only a 2% chance of surviving and even helped financially when my son was sick. Hulkster, no one will ever compare to you.”
John Cena also honored Hogan by posting a powerful throwback photo of the two in the ring on Instagram—letting the moment speak volumes.
Hulk Hogan’s Legend Lives On
Hulk Hogan is no longer in the ring, but his legacy will live on in sports entertainment, culture, and the hearts of millions of fans around the world. His larger-than-life personality, unforgettable energy, and unmatched legacy will continue to inspire people for years to come.
