The world of wrestling is mourning the loss of WWE icon and pop culture legend Hulk Hogan, who passed away at the age of 71.
The iconic figure, who defined professional wrestling in the 1980s, reportedly died on Thursday morning in Clearwater, Florida.
TMZ broke the news, revealing that emergency responders were called to Hogan’s home where he was believed to have suffered a cardiac arrest.
The WWE has since confirmed his death in a heartfelt statement.
“WWE is saddened to learn WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan had passed away,” the organization wrote, noting he was “one of pop culture’s most recognisable figures.”
The news has left many shocked, especially given recent updates from his wife, Sky Daily, who insisted earlier this month that Hogan was recovering well from major surgery.
“No, he’s definitely not in a coma! His heart is strong, and there was never any lack of oxygen or brain damage … none of those rumours are true,” she shared on Instagram.
She explained that Hogan had been “recovering from a major four-level Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion which is an intense surgery with a long and layered healing process.”
Despite this assurance, close acquaintances had hinted that the wrestling icon had been in fragile health since early July.
Hogan, born in Augusta, Georgia, in 1953, rose to worldwide fame with his “Hulkamania” persona.
His energy, charisma, and unmatched presence helped transform WWE formerly known as WWF into a global entertainment powerhouse.
His career stretched far beyond the wrestling ring. Hogan appeared in movies, TV shows, and even reality series, becoming a household name across generations.
He was a father to two children, Brooke and Nick, from his first marriage to Linda.
After divorcing Linda, Hogan married Jennifer McDaniel in 2010. In 2023, he tied the knot with his third wife, Sky Daily.
At the time of his death, Hogan was serving as the commissioner of Real American Freestyle wrestling.
Interestingly, just days before his passing, FOX Nation announced it had secured rights to broadcast matches under this brand, starting with “RAF01” in Cleveland.
The entire wrestling community is united in grief, remembering the man who inspired millions.
May his soul rest well.
