A Wrestling Giant Falls: Hulk Hogan Dies at 71
Hulk Hogan, the wrestling superstar who redefined sports entertainment in the 1980s, has died at 71. Known for his explosive energy, shirt-ripping entrances, and unmatched charisma, Hogan passed away in Florida surrounded by family.
Clearwater authorities responded to a cardiac arrest call at 9:51 a.m. He was declared dead at 11:17 a.m. at Morton Plant Hospital. Police confirmed there were no signs of foul play.
WWE released a statement mourning his loss, saying, “Hogan helped WWE achieve global recognition in the 1980s. He was one of pop culture’s most recognizable faces.”
Hulk Hogan dies at 71, but his legacy is far from forgotten.
Hulkamania, Stardom, and Legacy
Born Terry Gene Bollea, Hogan entered the wrestling world in 1977. His persona gave birth to “Hulkamania,” a cultural storm that peaked during his legendary match against André the Giant at WrestleMania III.
He later joined WCW, creating the New World Order, a villainous wrestling faction that revitalized his image. Hogan also starred in films like Rocky III and ran a reality show, Hogan Knows Best, adding mainstream fame to his wrestling stardom.
In 2016, Hogan famously won a $140 million lawsuit against Gawker, which marked a turning point in digital privacy cases.
A Complex Legacy and Final Years
Despite his fame, Hogan’s life wasn’t free from controversy. He faced racism allegations in 2015, leading WWE to remove him from the Hall of Fame. He was reinstated in 2018 after a public apology.
Hulk Hogan dies at 71 after decades of shaping wrestling and entertainment. Fans, colleagues, and political figures like Donald Trump and Ron DeSantis expressed deep sorrow.
Even in his final public appearance, boos from younger fans echoed his complicated legacy. Still, for many, he remains a symbol of wrestling’s golden age.
As Ric Flair said, “Our friendship meant the world to me. He was always there when I needed him.”
