Hulk Hogan Passes Away, Aged 71
Global wrestling superstar and cultural phenomenon Hulk Hogan has died, aged 71.
*UPDATED Friday 1 August 2025: Hulk Hogan’s official cause of death on 24 July has been ruled as an acute myocardial infarction, or heart attack.
Considered one of the greatest professional wrestlers of all time, Hulk Hogan was pronounced dead in Florida on Thursday morning local time. Authorities had responded to his residence following a call about a cardiac arrest.
Born Terry Gene Bollea in 1953, Hulk Hogan became an indomitable force in pro wrestling during the ‘70s and ‘80s. In 1983, he joined the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), now World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), and ruled the ring for decades as one of its biggest stars. In 2005, he was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame.
“WWE is saddened to learn WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has passed away,” World Wrestling Entertainment posted on social media.
“One of pop culture’s most recognisable figures, Hogan helped WWE achieve global recognition in the 1980s. WWE extends its condolences to Hogan’s family, friends, and fans.”
Hulk Hogan’s massive physique, charismatic bravado and flamboyant persona made him a fan favourite, completed by his trademark handlebar moustache and bandana, and armed with catchphrases like: “Whatcha gonna do when Hulkamania runs wild on you, brother?”, “Eat your vitamins and say your prayers”, and “Let me tell you something, brother”.
Outside the ring, Hulk Hogan gained further recognition through an extensive acting career, appearing in numerous film and televisions roles, usually playing himself. His name and image were used to endorse a wide range of products and merchandise, from energy drinks and restaurants to action figures and video games.
Later years of Hulk Hogan’s epic career were marked by controversy when in 2012 Gawker Media leaked a sex tape of Hulk Hogan made in 2007 on which Hogan can be heard using a racial slur. The ensuing lawsuit was won by Hogan and bankrupted Gawker. However, Hogan was terminated from the WWE and removed from its Hall of Fame until being reinstated in 2018.
In 2024, Hulk Hogan took his t-shirt ripping, flag-waving, All American hero persona into politics, endorsing Donald Trump in the US Presidential election with the cry of: “Let Trumpamania run wild, brother! Let Trumpamania rule again! Let Trumpamania make America Great Again!”. President Trump was among many paying tributes to Hogan on social media.
Hulk Hogan also suffered severe medical issues, especially with his spine, largely due to the years of extreme physical abuse he endured as a professional wrestler. He underwent a series of surgeries, including major spinal fusion a month before his death.
Larger than life, Hulk Hogan changed the face of sporting entertainment and left this world a legend. Rest in peace, brother.
Rethink your packaging solutions with MADCAP Global Packaging & Geo-Fabrics
