Hulk Hogan, the most recognizable figure in professional wrestling history and a pop culture icon of the 1980s, died on July 24, 2025, at the age of 71. Known offstage as Terry Gene Bollea, Hogan rose from Florida wrestling circuits to global superstardom, transforming the World Wrestling Federation into a household name. His blend of muscle-bound charisma, ripped shirts, and roaring catchphrases turned him into a hero to millions during the peak of “Hulkamania.”
From slamming André the Giant before 93,000 fans at WrestleMania III to starring in films, cartoons, and reality TV, Hogan’s influence extended far beyond the ring. His life was marked by triumph, controversy, and public reinvention—leaving behind a legacy that forever altered the face of wrestling and entertainment.
His Illnesses
A lifetime of wrestling took a brutal toll on Hogan’s body. He underwent more than 25 surgeries over the years—over 10 of them on his back—along with operations on his knees, hips, shoulders, abdomen, neck, and face. Chronic pain became a part of his everyday life.
In 2010, Hogan had traditional spinal fusion surgery after a series of failed procedures that led to a high-profile lawsuit. In his later years, he continued to undergo spinal and neck surgeries, including a major cervical spine operation in mid-2025. Despite brief recoveries, his mobility was often limited. He publicly shared his struggles and resilience, often appearing with a back brace or cane, though still engaging with fans at events and through social media.
His Final Days and Funeral Plans
On the morning of July 24, 2025, emergency services were called to Hogan’s home in Clearwater, Florida, where he had suffered cardiac arrest. He was transported by ambulance and later pronounced dead. He was 71.
According to his wife, Sky Daily, he had recently undergone surgery but was recovering well and had not been in a coma or critical decline, contrary to weeks of speculation. His death was sudden, and tributes from around the world began pouring in within hours.
Funeral arrangements will include a private family service followed by a public “Celebration of Life” event in Clearwater. WWE is preparing a televised tribute featuring career highlights and testimonials from fellow legends and fans. Mourners have been leaving flowers, memorabilia, and handwritten notes at Hogan’s Florida training center.
Career Highlights
Hogan made his wrestling debut in 1977 and became the undisputed face of the WWF in the 1980s. He was a six-time WWF World Heavyweight Champion, two-time Royal Rumble winner, and a six-time WCW World Heavyweight Champion. He headlined eight of the first nine WrestleManias and helped usher in the pay-per-view era.
In the 1990s, Hogan shocked fans by turning heel and launching the New World Order (nWo) faction in WCW as “Hollywood” Hogan, revitalizing his career and propelling WCW to the top of the ratings during the “Monday Night Wars.” His charisma, storytelling, and ring psychology made him one of wrestling’s most bankable stars for over two decades.
He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame twice—once in 2005 for his solo career and again in 2020 as part of the nWo.
Legal Battles
Hogan’s life outside the ring was equally headline-grabbing. In 2012, a private sex tape involving Hogan was published by Gawker Media. He filed a lawsuit for invasion of privacy and was awarded $140 million by a Florida jury. The case was later settled for $31 million and resulted in Gawker’s bankruptcy. The legal battle sparked national debate over privacy rights and digital media ethics, with many citing the verdict as a landmark case in celebrity rights.
He also filed a medical malpractice lawsuit in 2013, alleging that a spinal surgery provider had performed unnecessary and harmful procedures. This, too, highlighted the growing trend of athletes seeking legal remedies for botched medical care.
TV, Movies, and Pop Culture Impact
Hogan’s crossover into mainstream entertainment was unprecedented for a wrestler. He starred as Thunderlips in Rocky III, headlined films like No Holds Barred, Suburban Commando, and Mr. Nanny, and voiced cartoon versions of himself. His reality series, Hogan Knows Best, aired for several seasons and offered a glimpse into his family life.
He released a music album, fronted commercials, launched a pasta restaurant, branded energy drinks, and even became a video game icon. His voice, image, and phrases became part of 1980s and ’90s pop culture fabric—parodied on SNL, referenced in sitcoms, and idolized by kids across North America.
In 2024, he made a surprise appearance at the Republican National Convention, tearing his shirt off to reveal a political endorsement. It was a throwback to his theatrics—and a reminder of his enduring cultural currency.
Legacy
Few figures in entertainment history changed the perception of an entire industry the way Hulk Hogan did. He took pro wrestling out of smoky arenas and into stadiums, network TV, and toy stores. He turned athletes into brands and helped usher in the celebrity-wrestler crossover era.
His influence is seen today in the way wrestling is presented, in the global fandom it enjoys, and in the way wrestlers approach character building. Hogan’s ability to connect with audiences—whether as a hero or a villain—cemented him as a timeless icon. His death marks the end of an era, but his legacy remains firmly etched in the DNA of professional wrestling and popular culture.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hulk Hogan’s Death
He was born August 11, 1953, and died July 24, 2025.
He died of cardiac arrest at his home in Clearwater, Florida.
His match against André the Giant at WrestleMania III, where he bodyslammed the 520-pound giant.
Six WWF titles, six WCW titles, and two Royal Rumble victories
Yes. He has a daughter, Brooke, and a son, Nick.
Yes. He became “Hollywood Hogan” in 1996 and led the New World Order (nWo) faction in WCW.
Yes. He was married to Sky Daily, whom he wed in 2023.
A private family service will be followed by a public celebration of life in Clearwater, Florida, with WWE planning a televised tribute.
He mainstreamed pro wrestling, broke records, created iconic moments, and became one of the most marketable athletes of all time.