Wrestling Legend Hulk Hogan Dies at 71 After Cardiac Arrest
Home Academy | July 24, 2025 — Wrestling icon Hulk Hogan, whose real name was Terry Gene Bollea, passed away on Thursday morning at the age of 71 following a sudden cardiac arrest at his home in Clearwater Beach, Florida. The WWE Hall of Famer was rushed to Morton Plant Hospital, where he was pronounced dead despite emergency medical efforts.
According to sources close to the family, no foul play is suspected, and the cause of death has been confirmed as a natural cardiac event. Hogan had long battled chronic spinal and neck injuries, enduring multiple surgeries in the past decade. Reports indicate that his health had appeared unstable in recent weeks.
A Titan of Wrestling and Pop Culture
Hulk Hogan was a towering figure who helped bring professional wrestling into mainstream entertainment during the 1980s and 1990s. With his signature handlebar mustache, bandana, and catchphrases like "Whatcha gonna do, brother?", Hogan became a household name around the world.
He was a 12-time world heavyweight champion, a two-time WWE Hall of Fame inductee, and one of the most recognizable faces in the history of sports entertainment. Hogan also appeared in films such as Rocky III and starred in the reality show Hogan Knows Best.
Recent Endeavors
Despite his age and declining health, Hogan had recently announced his return to the spotlight as commissioner of a new unscripted wrestling venture, Real American Freestyle. Its first event was scheduled to take place on August 30, 2025, in Cleveland, Ohio — just over a month after his passing.
Fans were looking forward to seeing the legend back in action, not in the ring, but in a leadership role aimed at reviving grassroots wrestling.
Tributes Pour In
Tributes have been pouring in from across the globe. Fellow wrestling legends Ric Flair, The Undertaker, and John Cena shared emotional messages, praising Hogan’s unmatched charisma and larger-than-life presence.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump, a longtime friend of Hogan, expressed deep sorrow over his passing, calling him “a great American icon and a true warrior who inspired millions.”
A Legacy That Transcends Generations
Hulk Hogan’s influence on wrestling and American pop culture is immeasurable. From record-breaking WrestleMania events to memorable feuds and tag-team partnerships, his name became synonymous with the golden era of wrestling.
Beyond the ring, Hogan’s life was marked by personal ups and downs, including publicized legal battles and health struggles, yet he remained a beloved figure to generations of fans.
📌 Summary
-
Name: Terry Gene Bollea (Hulk Hogan)
-
Died: July 24, 2025 (Age 71)
-
Cause: Cardiac arrest
-
Location: Clearwater Beach, Florida
-
Legacy: 12-time world champion, pop culture icon, WWE Hall of Famer
-
Recent Project: Real American Freestyle wrestling promotion
Hulk Hogan leaves behind a lasting legacy of strength, showmanship, and resilience. He was more than just a wrestler — he was a symbol of an era.
Rest in peace, Hulkster.