Born Terry Gene Bollea, Hulk Hogan died in Clearwater, Florida at 71 years of age on Thursday. A two-time WWE Hall of Famer and former world champion, Hogan’s influence was felt outside the squared circle as well. As you probably know, he was a huge figure not just for his larger-than-life persona but for his contributions to bringing professional wrestling into the mainstream around the world.
Hogan’s career lasted more than four decades, and during that time he became an icon of the sport. His extraordinary adventure first took off in the late 1970s. Almost overnight, he shot to the top, gaining fame as one of the most recognizable faces in the history of pro wrestling. Using a mix of charisma, athleticism, and that ever-memorable catchphrase, “Hulkamania” exploded into the cultural zeitgeist.
He is survived by his son Nick Hogan and daughter Brooke Hogan. Hogan’s family has not yet issued a public statement on his death. Fans and fellow wrestlers have inundated social media with tributes, their stories underscoring the kind of deep, personal impact he had on their lives and careers.
Even in his later years, Hogan was a great force in both entertainment and politics. Notably, he delivered a speech in support of Donald Trump during the Republican National Convention last year, demonstrating his continued relevance beyond wrestling.
Outside the ring, Hogan had perhaps his biggest cultural impact in his outstanding cameo role in the 1982 film “Rocky III,” where he played the wrestling champion Thunderlips. It was this role that really established his crossover appeal into the mainstream media. He starred with Brooke Shields in a guest spot on the TV sitcom “Suddenly Susan.”
The wrestling community has been tragically prolific in mourning over Hogan’s passing. WWE Chairman Vince McMahon stated, “He was a trailblazer, the first performer who transitioned from being a wrestling star into a global phenomenon. His grit and unbridled thirst for success were unparalleled – and made him the consummate performer.”
John Layfield, a fellow wrestler, shared his sentiments on social media: “RIP legend. There will never be another. Hulkamania never dies.” He reminisced about Hogan’s kindness during their encounters, saying, “Hulk was always so nice to me and was the one celebrity that wanted to see all the kids I brought over from Bermuda.”
WWE superstar The Undertaker paid tribute to Hogan as well: “The wrestling world has lost a true legend. Thank you, Hulk Hogan.” Ric Flair expressed his shock at the news: “I Am Absolutely Shocked To Hear About The Passing Of My Close Friend @HulkHogan!”
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson recalls in greater detail one of his most favorite memories as a young child. To repay the favor, Hogan presented him with a headband after Johnson returned one he had caught during a 1984 match at Madison Square Garden. This decades-long history reached a fever pitch when they faced off in legendary Wrestlemania X8 match in 2002.
Donald Trump took to social media to remember his friend: “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 family, stating, “To his wife, Sky, and family, we give our warmest best wishes and love. Hulk Hogan will be greatly missed!”
