Clearwater, Florida – July 24, 2025
The world of professional wrestling and pop culture is in mourning today as Terry “Hulk” Hogan, one of the most iconic and influential figures in WWE history, passed away at the age of 71. Hogan, often referred to as the face of “Hulkamania” and the golden era of wrestling, died following a sudden cardiac arrest at his home in Clearwater, Florida.
Paramedics arrived at his residence around 10 a.m., but despite swift medical attention, Hogan was declared dead at Morton Plant Hospital by 11:17 a.m. ET. Authorities confirmed that there were no signs of foul play, ruling out any suspicious circumstances surrounding his death.
🏥 Final Days: Health Struggles and Hopeful Comeback
In the weeks leading up to his death, Hogan had been experiencing serious health challenges. Sources close to the family revealed he suffered from shortness of breath, rapid weight loss, and required supplemental oxygen regularly. Despite the complications, his wife Sky Daily remained optimistic, recently dismissing concerns by stating Hogan’s heart was still “as strong as ever” after undergoing a major neck surgery (four-level cervical fusion) in May 2025.
Yet, just weeks before his death, Hogan gave fans a glimpse of his enduring spirit in a televised interview on Fox News, where he excitedly promoted his new wrestling venture, “Real American Freestyle.”
🎤 Hulkamania to Hollywood: A Career That Changed Wrestling Forever
Born in Augusta, Georgia, in 1953, Hogan debuted in professional wrestling in 1977. By the 1980s, he became the face of the WWF (now WWE), igniting the phenomenon of Hulkamania with his catchphrases, charisma, and colorful yellow-red ring attire. He inspired millions with his signature line, “Say your prayers and take your vitamins.”
Over the decades, Hogan headlined eight WrestleManias, including the legendary WrestleMania III clash against André the Giant in front of 93,000 fans. His match with Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson at WrestleMania X8 in 2002 marked another milestone, merging two wrestling generations.
He won at least six WWE World Championships, and during the 1990s, Hogan shocked the wrestling world by turning heel in WCW and co-founding the New World Order (NWO) as “Hollywood Hogan.” His legacy was cemented with two inductions into the WWE Hall of Fame—in 2005 as a solo superstar and in 2020 as part of the NWO.
🎬 Beyond the Ring: Movies, Reality TV & Politics
Hogan’s appeal extended far beyond the squared circle. He starred in Hollywood films like Rocky III, No Holds Barred, and Mr. Nanny. His reality show, “Hogan Knows Best,” gave fans an inside look into his family life and aired for several successful seasons on VH1.
In recent years, Hogan made headlines with his political involvement, especially his outspoken support for Donald Trump, famously launching the “Trumpamania” slogan at the 2024 Republican National Convention.
He also launched business ventures like Real American Beer and the Real American Freestyle wrestling promotion, reflecting his entrepreneurial drive even in his later years.
💔 Controversies and Redemption
Despite his success, Hogan’s journey wasn’t without turmoil. In 2015, he faced a massive public backlash over leaked racist remarks, leading to his temporary removal from the WWE Hall of Fame. He also won a landmark $140 million lawsuit against Gawker Media over a leaked sex tape, a case that drew global media attention.
Hogan later expressed remorse, worked toward personal growth, and was ultimately reinstated into the Hall of Fame, proving that even legends face and overcome adversity.
💐 Tributes Pour In from Around the World
As news of Hogan’s death spread, fans and celebrities shared heartfelt tributes.
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson called him a “hero, rival, and lifelong friend,” recalling their historic WrestleMania moment and sharing an emotional photo of a headband Hogan once gave him.
Ric Flair, Triple H, The Undertaker, Vince McMahon, and even Sylvester Stallone mourned the loss of the man they called “the ultimate wrestling icon.”
Indian actor Arjun Kapoor and global figures including Donald Trump praised Hogan’s unmatched charisma, patriotism, and legacy.
🚀 Real American Freestyle: Hogan’s Final Passion Project
At the time of his death, Hogan was serving as Commissioner of “Real American Freestyle,” a hybrid wrestling league blending Olympic-style wrestling with WWE-style storytelling. The league’s debut was set for August 30, 2025, in Cleveland, with events also scheduled in New York, Chicago, and Tampa.
He envisioned the league as a platform for collegiate and Olympic athletes, aiming to offer them professional careers with compelling narratives. Hogan remained hopeful about the league’s success and was actively involved in planning the events just days before his passing.
🕊️ In Conclusion
Terry “Hulk” Hogan’s sudden death on July 24, 2025, brings down the curtain on an era. He wasn’t just a wrestler—he was a movement, a symbol of strength, and a part of millions of childhoods.
From slamming giants in the ring to starring on the silver screen and fighting personal battles off-camera, Hogan’s life was filled with highs, lows, and unforgettable moments.
He leaves behind his wife Sky Daily, and children Brooke and Nick, along with an unmatched legacy that continues to inspire new generations of fans and wrestlers alike.
“Train, say your prayers, eat your vitamins, be true to yourself and be true to your country” — Hulk Hogan 💪🇺🇸
Rest in Power, Hulkster.
