Thu Jul 24 15:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Hulk Hogan Dies at 71: Wrestling Legend Succumbs to Cardiac Arrest
**Clearwater, FL -** Hulk Hogan, the wrestling icon who transformed professional wrestling into a global phenomenon, has died at the age of 71. TMZ Sports first reported the news, stating that medics were dispatched to his Clearwater, Florida home early Thursday morning in response to a cardiac arrest.
Emergency responders arrived at Hogan’s residence at 9:51 AM and were seen performing chest compressions as they transported him to a nearby hospital. He was pronounced dead at the hospital. Clearwater Police have confirmed the death and will hold a press conference later today to provide further details.
The news comes just weeks after Hogan’s wife, Sky, whom he married in September 2023, denied rumors that he was in a coma, assuring fans that his heart was strong. Last month, reports surfaced that Hogan was on his deathbed, but sources close to the wrestler indicated he was simply recovering from a neck procedure performed in May.
Hogan, whose real name is Terry Bollea, revolutionized wrestling in the 1980s with his charismatic personality and larger-than-life persona. He captivated audiences of all ages and ushered in the era of “Hulkamania” after defeating the Iron Sheik for the World Heavyweight Championship in 1984. His signature bandana and handlebar mustache became iconic symbols.
In 1996, Hogan shocked the wrestling world by turning heel and forming the New World Order (NWO), further solidifying his legacy and pushing the sport to new heights. He engaged in memorable rivalries with wrestling legends such as Andre the Giant, Ultimate Warrior, and Randy Savage, and delivered iconic performances against Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson.
Hogan was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005 but was later removed following a controversy involving racist comments leaked from a private recording. He successfully sued Gawker for publishing the clip and was re-inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2020 as a member of the NWO.
WWE released a statement acknowledging Hogan’s immense impact on the industry, stating, “One of pop culture’s most recognizable figures, Hogan helped WWE achieve global recognition in the 1980s. WWE extends its condolences to Hogan’s family, friends, and fans.”
Beyond wrestling, Hogan had a successful acting career, appearing in films like “Rocky III,” “No Holds Barred,” and “Mr. Nanny.” He also starred in the hit VH1 reality show “Hogan Knows Best,” offering a glimpse into his family life. He also set the room ablaze with theatrics at the 2024 Republican National Convention.
Despite enduring numerous surgeries stemming from wrestling injuries, Hogan remained active in the wrestling world, recently launching an amateur wrestling league called Real American Freestyle, with its first event scheduled for August 30th.
Hulk Hogan’s death marks the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy of unmatched showmanship and a lasting impact on popular culture.
First Piper 