One of the most recognizable figures in sports entertainment is gone, and the industry is in sorrow. World Wrestling Entertainment has reported that Terry Bollea, better known as Hulk Hogan, died at the age of 71. Fans and other wrestlers expressed their profound sadness over the loss of a true wrestling legend as the unexpected news of Hulk Hogan’s passing surfaced on Thursday.
Considered the most influential performer in WWE history, Bollea was a titan of professional wrestling. Hogan became well-known throughout the world in the 1980s and 1990s thanks to his charisma, unrivaled energy, and memorable catchphrases. “One of pop culture’s most recognizable figures, Hogan helped WWE achieve global recognition in the 1980s,” read an official statement from WWE acknowledging his efforts.
An emergency call about a cardiac arrest was received from Bollea’s residence, and authorities in Clearwater, Florida, arrived. He was treated on the spot by emergency medical professionals before being sent to Morton Plant Hospital, where he was declared deceased. Although an investigation is still ongoing, police have stated that no foul play is suspected.
Known for his bold personality, “24-inch pythons,” and motivational mantras like “say your prayers and eat your vitamins,” Hogan defined wrestling’s golden era. His legendary feuds with names like André the Giant, “Rowdy” Roddy Piper, and “Macho Man” Randy Savage helped catapult the sport into mainstream pop culture.
In a career filled with dramatic twists, Hogan made headlines in the 1990s when he left WWE (then WWF) for its rival, WCW. His infamous “heel turn” in 1996, when he adopted the persona of “Hollywood Hogan,” marked one of the most shocking and influential storylines in wrestling history. This transformation helped WCW outperform WWE in TV ratings for 83 consecutive weeks, shifting the balance of power in the wrestling world.
However, his WCW career had low points as well. A controversial moment known as the “Finger Poke of Doom” – where fellow wrestler Kevin Nash theatrically fell after being poked by Hogan – is widely criticized for damaging WCW’s credibility. The backlash led to a decline in viewership that WWE eventually capitalized on, acquiring WCW at a fraction of its peak value.
Hogan made a high-profile return to WWE in the early 2000s, including a historic match against Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson at WrestleMania X8. Their face-off was a defining moment in wrestling, uniting generations of fans in a single roaring crowd.
Later in his career, Hogan joined TNA Wrestling in 2010, but his stint there failed to replicate past glories. Many criticized the promotion’s reliance on aging stars, a move that alienated younger talent and stifled growth.
Hulk Hogan’s death marks the end of a monumental chapter in sports entertainment. From body slams to blockbuster moments, this wrestling legend left a mark that will never fade from the ring or from fans’ hearts.
