By Ikpommwosa Odigie
Legendary professional wrestler and pop culture icon, Hulk Hogan, has died at the age of 71, according to multiple U.S. media reports.
NBC News, citing his longtime manager Chris Volo, confirmed that Hogan whose real name was Terry Bollea passed away at his home in Florida. TMZ also reported the death, referencing emergency dispatch audio citing a suspected cardiac arrest.
Standing at 6-foot-7 with a signature bandana and blond handlebar mustache, Hogan was the face of “Hulkamania,” a wrestling phenomenon that swept across America in the 1980s. His all-American persona and charisma played a pivotal role in catapulting professional wrestling into mainstream entertainment.
Hogan began his wrestling career with the World Wrestling Federation (WWF, now WWE) in 1979 and rose to stardom alongside legends like Andre the Giant and “Rowdy” Roddy Piper. He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005.
Beyond the ring, Hogan found success in Hollywood, appearing in films such as Rocky III, No Holds Barred, and the television series Baywatch.
WWE issued a statement following the news:
“WWE is saddened to learn WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has passed away. One of pop culture’s most recognizable figures, Hogan helped WWE achieve global recognition in the 1980s.”
However, Hogan’s later years were not without controversy. In 2015, he was released from WWE after a leaked video captured him using racist language. The incident drew wide criticism. He later apologized and was reinstated into the Hall of Fame.
In recent years, Hogan remained active in public life and became a vocal supporter of former U.S. President Donald Trump, notably speaking at the 2024 Republican National Convention.
Hogan battled numerous health complications due to his decades-long wrestling career. He was married three times and had two children with his first wife, Linda.
