The wrestling world is heartbroken over the loss of Hulk Hogan, a titan who brought professional wrestling to global fame. On July 24, 2025, the 71-year-old legend died of heart failure at his home in Tampa, Florida, leaving behind a legacy that transformed sports entertainment forever.
Hulk Hogan, born Terry Gene Bollea, passed away early Thursday after suffering a cardiac arrest, according to Sports Insider. Emergency responders rushed to his Tampa residence at dawn, but despite their efforts, he could not be saved. The news stunned fans, coming just months after Hogan underwent a minor spinal fusion surgery in April 2025, which his team described as a “smooth recovery.”
Hogan was open about his health battles, telling wrestler-turned-podcaster Jake “The Snake” Roberts on the Snake Pit podcast in 2024 that he’d endured “12 back surgeries, both hips, both knees, and a shoulder replacement” over the years. “I’m held together with grit and glue,” he joked, downplaying his pain.
Rumors about his health had swirled recently. In June, Tampa radio host Mike “The Bulldog” Carter claimed Hogan’s condition was critical, prompting concern. His wife, Jennifer Hogan, quickly dismissed the rumors on social media, saying, “Terry’s stronger than ever after his latest procedure. No coma, just healing.” A source close to Hogan told Sports Insider he was managing chronic back issues and “moving better than he had in years.”
The sudden loss hit hard, especially as Hogan was gearing up for the launch of his American Wrestling Alliance, a new venture set for late 2025. He’d also been promoting his Hulk’s Hardcore Lager brand, recently posting a photo of a branded beach towel with the caption, “Chillin’ with the Hulkamaniacs!”
Hogan’s larger-than-life persona revolutionized wrestling in the 1980s, making it a household spectacle. As a WWE superstar, his charisma and “Hulkamania” catchphrase won over fans of all ages. He co-founded the New World Order in 1996, cementing his influence. Beyond the ring, Hogan starred in films like No Holds Barred and the Suburban Commando series, and led the reality show Hogan’s Heroes with his ex-wife Linda and children Brooke and Nick in the 2000s. He even made a cameo in Brooke’s music video, About Us, as a proud dad.
His impact reached far beyond wrestling. “Hulk was a cultural force,” a WWE spokesperson said. “He made wrestling a family affair, inspiring kids and parents alike.” Fans flooded social media with memories of his iconic matches and infectious energy.
We extend our deepest condolences to Hogan’s family, friends, and millions of fans worldwide. His legacy as a wrestler, entertainer, and “Hulkamaniac” icon will live on forever.
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