Wrestling Icon Hulk Hogan Passes Away at 71, Leaving a Legacy of Fame and Impact

Born Terry Gene Bollea, Hulk Hogan died on Thursday at 71 years old. His profound impact on professional wrestling and beyond ensures that his legacy will never, ever be forgotten. Hogan is a two-time WWE Hall of Fame and former world champion. Beyond his undeniable impact on the game, his contributions to popular culture secured…

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Wrestling Icon Hulk Hogan Passes Away at 71, Leaving a Legacy of Fame and Impact

Born Terry Gene Bollea, Hulk Hogan died on Thursday at 71 years old. His profound impact on professional wrestling and beyond ensures that his legacy will never, ever be forgotten. Hogan is a two-time WWE Hall of Fame and former world champion. Beyond his undeniable impact on the game, his contributions to popular culture secured his status as a household name. Even in death, he continues to inspire millions. His legacy continues to shine through his children Nick and Brooke Hogan and fans across the world, including all of you.

Hogan’s wrestling career began in the late 1970s. Ultimately, it was his larger-than-life character that catapulted him to superstardom in the 80’s. He is best known for his role as the wrestling giant Thunderlips in the 1982 movie “Rocky III” opposite Sylvester Stallone. Though a small role, this was a turning point in his career, demonstrating what an engaging personality he was outside of the wrestling ring.

Hogan and his latest successful wrestling career. He continued to make numerous television appearances, including a guest starring role on the sitcom Suddenly Susan opposite Brooke Shields. His charisma and showmanship translated seamlessly to television, radio, and every other medium he graced.

Hogan’s legacy doesn’t just lie in the world of entertainment. He was a politically active individual. Last year, he delivered a speech supporting Donald Trump during the final night of the Republican National Convention, further solidifying his presence in contemporary discussions.

As news of his sudden passing spread, tributes poured in from all across social media from fans and fellow wrestlers—in overwhelming numbers. WWE expressed its condolences, stating, “Our thoughts are with Hulk Hogan’s family, friends, and fans.”

Vince McMahon, WWE Chairman and CEO, reflected on Hogan’s impact, saying, “He was a trailblazer, the first performer who transitioned from being a wrestling star into a global phenomenon.” McMahon praised Hogan’s relentless ambition: “His grit and unbridled thirst for success were unparalleled and made him the consummate performer.”

Hogan’s famous catchphrase, “Train, take your vitamins and say your prayers,” became a guiding motto for his fans and is now part of his enduring legacy.

John Layfield shared his sentiments about Hogan’s passing: “RIP legend. There will never be another. Hulkamania never dies.” He recounted Hogan’s kindness towards children during events, noting that he was “the one celebrity that wanted to see all the kids I brought over from Bermuda.”

Fellow wrestler Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, who had looked up to Hogan as a childhood idol himself, said he was heartbroken upon receiving the news. Johnson looked back happily on the time in his childhood. When he lured Hulk Hogan to join in 1984 at Madison Square Garden, he threw him a special gift—an old red Mukul scrunchie. Their storied rivalry culminated in their dream match at WrestleMania X8 in 2002. There, they fought each other in arguably the best wrestling match in history.

Even former President Donald Trump praised Hogan’s mutual friendship and service. He remarked, “We lost a great friend today, the ‘Hulkster.’ He entertained fans from all over the world, and the cultural impact he had was massive.” Trump extended his condolences to Hogan’s wife, Sky, and his family: “To his wife, Sky, and family, we give our warmest best wishes and love. Hulk Hogan will be greatly missed!”

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