Wrestling Icon Hulk Hogan Dies at 71 After Cardiac Arrest, Ending a Towering Era in Wrestling History [VIDEO]

 

Terry Gene Bollea, known to the world as Hulk Hogan, has died at the age of 71. The man who once brought wrestling into living rooms across the globe suffered cardiac arrest early Thursday at his Clearwater, Florida residence. Emergency medical teams were dispatched to the scene, quickly placing him on a stretcher and transporting him by ambulance in a desperate effort to save his life.

Family sources and multiple media outlets, including TMZ, confirmed the heartbreaking news, prompting an outpouring of grief from fans and fellow wrestlers worldwide. Hogan’s death leaves an irreplaceable void in the world of professional wrestling, where he stood as an iconic figure for decades.

Despite reports earlier this year regarding health complications—including a surgical procedure on his neck—his wife Sky Bollea had remained publicly optimistic about his condition. She had assured concerned fans that his heart remained “strong.” Sadly, fate had a different plan.

From his early days in wrestling halls to headlining some of the most celebrated wrestling events in history, Hogan redefined the scope and appeal of professional wrestling. Emerging on the scene in 1977, he worked his way through various promotions before becoming the face of the then-World Wrestling Federation during the 1980s.

“Whatcha gonna do when Hulkamania runs wild on you?” became more than a catchphrase; it became a generational rallying cry. Known for his unmistakable charisma, towering physique, and red-and-yellow ring attire, Hogan turned wrestling into a household spectacle, transforming it from niche entertainment to a global sensation. His feud-driven storylines and over-the-top persona helped wrestling gain mainstream attention, making him a cultural icon.

His accomplishments inside the squared circle are legendary. He captured the WWF Championship six times and was the face of some of the biggest pay-per-view events, including WrestleMania III, which featured his unforgettable clash with André the Giant. The image of Hogan slamming the massive giant in front of a sold-out Pontiac Silverdome still stands as one of wrestling's most iconic moments.

Yet his career took a dramatic twist in 1996, when he abandoned his heroic image and reinvented himself as “Hollywood Hogan.” Aligning with Scott Hall and Kevin Nash, he became the centerpiece of the nWo (New World Order) faction in World Championship Wrestling. This storyline shift revitalized his career and reshaped the wrestling industry’s creative direction during the Monday Night Wars.

Recognition of his contribution to wrestling history came in the form of dual inductions into the WWE Hall of Fame. He was first honored in 2005 for his individual achievements, then again in 2020 as part of the nWo stable that helped redefine the industry's storytelling landscape.

Beyond the ring, Hogan ventured into Hollywood, finding roles in films that embraced his larger-than-life persona. His appearances in Rocky III (as the flamboyant Thunderlips), No Holds Barred, Mr. Nanny, and Suburban Commando further cemented his crossover appeal. Whether playing a tough guy with a soft side or a campy action hero, Hogan remained a consistent presence in pop culture throughout the 80s and 90s.

His impact wasn’t limited to performance. Hogan's influence extended to merchandise sales, branding, and global fan engagement. Few wrestlers have achieved the level of crossover appeal that he enjoyed at his peak. Generations of fans, both young and old, grew up idolizing him. His name became synonymous with wrestling itself.

Colleagues and fans across the world have begun paying tribute to the legend, sharing stories of his generosity, work ethic, and commitment to his audience. Many describe him not just as a wrestling superstar, but as a once-in-a-lifetime entertainer whose legacy will never be replicated.

The wrestling world mourns the loss of one of its most influential and beloved figures. Terry Bollea may have left the ring for the final time, but the roar of Hulkamania will echo for generations.