Long before Hulk Hogan became a global legend, he was a trusted friend to Donald Trump, a loss now felt as deeply by the former president as it is by the world mourning the wrestling icon’s death.
President Donald Trump shared a heartfelt tribute following the passing of professional wrestling icon Hulk Hogan on July 24, 2025, at his home in Clearwater, Florida. Trump lauded him as a great friend, emphasizing their bond that spanned decades.
On Truth Social, Trump wrote, “We lost a great friend today, the ‘Hulkster.’ Hulk Hogan was strong, tough, smart, but with the biggest heart,” adding, “To his wife, Sky, and family, we give our warmest best wishes and love. Hulk Hogan will be greatly missed!” Donald Trump Jr. also posted a brief yet poignant message on X.
The two men shared a personal friendship that stretched over 35 years, rooted in the larger-than-life world of professional wrestling and extending into years of public camaraderie and private connection. Trump and the man who popularized “Hulkamania” first met at a wrestling event in Atlantic City, New Jersey, in the late 1980s. This meeting marked the beginning of their decades-long friendship. The WWE icon also recalled winning a wrestling world title at a WrestleMania event held at the Trump Plaza hotel and casino in Atlantic City, with Trump ringside.
News of Hogan’s passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans and celebrities, all mourning the loss of a figure who significantly shaped modern wrestling culture. While Trump’s tribute highlights their personal bond, a closer look at Hogan’s life and career reveals the profound influence he had on both wrestling and entertainment globally.
A Career That Redefined Wrestling
The legendary figure, instrumental in catapulting professional wrestling into mainstream culture, died following a cardiac arrest at his home. The WWE icon’s sudden passing marks the end of a transformative career that redefined the sport and left an indelible mark on global entertainment.
According to TMZ Sports, emergency responders were dispatched to Hogan’s Florida residence around dawn on Thursday, and he was quickly transported by ambulance. This sudden event occurred months after he underwent a successful “little fusion procedure” in May to alleviate neck issues. A representative stated at the time that the wrestling star required minimal recovery time and was making a “quick turnaround.”
Hogan was no stranger to surgeries. In 2024, he disclosed on Logan Paul’s “Impaulsive” podcast that he had undergone as many as 25 procedures in the preceding decade, including “10 back surgeries,” along with replacements for “Both knees and both hips… shoulders — everything.”
Unfortunately, several rumors about his health had circulated, particularly after earlier hospitalizations for neck issues. On June 18, local radio personality Bubba the Love Sponge claimed on air that Hogan’s health was so dire that family members were being called to say their goodbyes. While acknowledging his source might be outdated, he expressed strong trust in his insider, sparking widespread concern. TMZ Sports quickly refuted this report, citing a representative who stated Hogan was not “close to death” and had only been hospitalized for ongoing neck and back issues, moving around again despite the long-standing ailments. Additionally, his wife, Sky Daily Hogan, had refuted claims weeks prior that her husband was in a coma, confirming he was doing well even after multiple heart surgeries.
The news of his death is a significant blow to fans, especially with the anticipated launch of the new Real American Freestyle league this summer, a venture he was involved in. He had also partnered with brands like Real American Beer, which recently posted an image of Hogan on a beach towel with the caption, “Beach day sponsored by brotherhood.”
Hogan revolutionized professional wrestling with his charismatic personality, transforming it into a family-friendly sport that reached broader audiences. He was adored by children and parents alike and eventually ventured into Hollywood. In the 1990s, he appeared in the film “Thunder in Paradise” and its two sequels. In 1996, he further cemented his fame by creating the New World Order. In the 2000s, the WWE Hall of Famer and his family, including ex-wife Linda Hogan and children Brooke and Nick Hogan, starred in the reality television show “Hogan Knows Best.” He even played a janitor in his daughter’s music video for “Everything to Me.”
Throughout his diverse career, he remained a fixture for the WWE. At this time, we extend our sincere condolences to Hogan’s loved ones and his fans worldwide.
For Trump and many others who called him a friend, the loss is deeply personal. For the millions who grew up watching him, cheering for him, and believing in his larger-than-life spirit, Hogan will forever be remembered as the ultimate champion of hearts.