Hulk Hogan, the iconic professional wrestler and pop culture phenomenon, has died at the age of 71 due to cardiac arrest at his home in Clearwater, Florida. Hogan's death was confirmed by the WWE and the Clearwater Police Department, with emergency responders attending to him shortly before 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 24, 2025.
Career Highlights
Hogan's illustrious career spanned multiple decades and organizations, including the World Wrestling Federation (WWF, now WWE) and World Championship Wrestling (WCW). He is widely regarded as one of the most recognizable figures in professional wrestling history, known for his charisma, massive physique, and trademark blond horseshoe mustache and bandanas.
- *WWE Hall of Fame Inductions*: Hogan was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame twice, first in 2005 as a solo inductee and again in 2020 as part of the nWo group.
- *Championship Titles*: Hogan won six world titles in WWE and six WCW World Heavyweight Championships, headlining numerous WrestleMania events and engaging in legendary feuds with wrestlers like André the Giant, Randy Savage, and The Rock.
- *Pop Culture Impact*: Hogan's influence extended beyond wrestling, with appearances in films like "Rocky III" and TV shows such as "Hogan Knows Best," cementing his status as a household name.
Tributes and Legacy
The wrestling community and fans worldwide have paid tribute to Hogan's enduring legacy, describing him as a trailblazer who shaped modern wrestling. WWE released a statement honoring his contributions, while fellow wrestling legends like Ric Flair expressed their sorrow and admiration for Hogan's impact on the sport.
- *Ric Flair's Tribute*: "I am absolutely shocked to hear about the passing of my close friend @HulkHogan! Hulk has been by my side since we started in the wrestling business."
- *WWE's 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."
Final Days and Funeral Arrangements
Hogan had undergone spinal fusion surgery in recent months, with his wife Sky denying rumors of a coma or paralysis. Funeral arrangements have not been publicly announced, but tributes continue to pour in from the wrestling world and beyond ¹ ².
