Hulk Hogan Visits MTV's "TRL" - January 7, 2008

Who Was Hulk Hogan? His Life, Legacy, and Cause of Death

He rose to fame in the 1980s as the heroic star of the WWF (now WWE)

Hulk Hogan, born Terry Gene Bollea, was one of wrestling’s biggest legends. Standing 6′7″ and weighing nearly 300 lb, he rose to fame in the 1980s as the heroic star of the WWF (now WWE). He ignited the era of “Hulkamania,” headlined eight WrestleManias, and captured six world championships, becoming a true cultural icon.

After wrestling, Hogan became a familiar face in Hollywood—appearing in Rocky III, Mr. Nanny, and his own reality TV show Hogan Knows Best. He also made headlines for both controversy (steroid use, personal scandals) and appearances in politics, including a speech at the 2024 Republican National Convention.

Tragically, on July 24, 2025, Hulk Hogan passed away at the age of 71 due to cardiac arrest at his home in Clearwater, Florida. According to Entertainment Today, paramedics rushed him to the hospital, but he was pronounced dead shortly after arriving. Hogan’s manager, Linda Bose, shared a statement with the outlet: “We are heartbroken. He was not only a legendary performer, but a truly kind human being and a dear friend.”

Hulk Hogan’s Legacy

Hulk Hogan was a true wrestling pioneer, helping transform professional wrestling into mainstream entertainment and becoming the sport’s most recognizable face. But his influence didn’t stop there — he evolved into a full-fledged pop culture icon, appearing in films, TV shows, video games, and launching ventures like restaurants and even his own beer brand.

He was also a polarizing figure. Known for his larger-than-life charisma, Hogan’s career was marked by both admiration and controversy. His public persona and headline-grabbing moments kept him in the spotlight long after his time in the ring.

Hulk Hogan lived larger than life—his red-and-yellow bandana, his fist-pumping “Hulkamania” catchphrases, and his impact on wrestling’s golden age are unforgettable. His death marks the end of an era. He is survived by his wife, Sky Daily, and his children, Brooke and Nick.

Hogan’s legacy lives on—on TV, in wrestling history, and in the countless fans who rallied behind him. He truly was wrestling’s first global superstar.