Word has come down from TMZ that WWE legendHulk Hoganhas passed away at the age of 71. Reports are that medics were called to the Clearwater, Florida home of Hogan early Thursday morning, with operators stating it was regarding a “cardiac arrest.” He was seen being wheeled into an ambulance on a stretcher as police and EMTs surrounded the area. The news comes just days after Hogan’s longtime friend and fellow WWE icon, Jimmy Hart, refuted claims that his health was failing.
Hogan, whose real name is Terry Bollea, began his career in professional wrestling in the 1970s, wrestling under a number of different personas. He eventually made his way to the WWE (then WWF), appearing as a villain. He left the company after a disputeover his appearance inRocky IIIto go wrestle in Japan and the AWA before returning in 1983 and giving birth to Hulkamania, winning his first championship from The Iron Sheik in 1984. His superstardom allowed him to make the transition to Hollywood, where he starred in such films asNo Holds Barred,Suburban Commando, andMr. Nanny.
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Hogan would also go on to be a star on the small screen as well, appearing in shows such asThe A-Team,Walker, Texas Ranger, and snagging a lead role inThunder in Paradise. His family became the center of attention in the reality TV seriesHogan Knows Best, which lasted from 2005 to 2007 on VH1. He also appeared regularly in the spin-off that focused on his daughter, titledBrooke Knows Best, that aired for two seasons from 2008 to 2009.
Tributes Pour in for Hulk Hogan
As longtime wrestling fans and colleagues continue to process the news of Hogan’s death, tributes are already beginning to pour in on social media for the late star. The WWE itself confirmed the news of his passing, writing on X:
“WWE is saddened to learn WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has passed away. One of pop culture’s most recognizable figures, Hogan helped WWE achieve global recognition in the 1980s. WWE extends its condolences to Hogan’s family, friends, and fans.”
Tony Schiavone, who is a broadcaster with AEW but worked with Hogan in WCW back in the 90s, added his voice to the mix, posting: “Say what you want about Hulk Hogan, but his impact on pro wrestling is undeniable. RIP Hulkster. The end of an era.” Popular wrestling podcaster Conrad Thompson also paid tribute to Hulkster, writing: “Hulk Hogan was the reason I fell in love with wrestling. Thank you for the memories. I’ll pray for peace and contentment for your family.” Fellow superstar Ric Flair, who had many battles with Hogan over the years, also offered his condolences, writing:
“I Am Absolutely Shocked To Hear About The Passing Of My Close Friend @HulkHogan! Hulk Has Been By My Side Since We Started In The Wrestling Business. An Incredible Athlete, Talent, Friend, And Father! Our Friendship Has Meant The World To Me. He Was Always There For Me Even When I Didn’t Ask For Him To Be. He Was One Of The First To Visit Me When I Was In The Hospital With A 2% Chance Of Living, And He Prayed By My Bedside. Hulk Also Lent Me Money When Reid Was Sick. Hulkster, No One Will Ever Compare To You! Rest In Peace My Friend!”
Fans are also paying tribute to the WWE Hall of Famer, mentioning how it was Hogan who first introduced them to sports entertainment when they were a child. Indeed, many people grew up watching Hogan, who became a controversial figure later in life, leadingmany to feel conflicted about the superstaras they matured.
Regardless of how you feel about him as a person, there’s no denying that Hogan helped make pro wrestling what it is today, and without him, sports entertainment might not be the juggernaut that it is. We here at MovieWeb extend our sympathies to his family and friends, and will be watchingNo Holds Barredon Tubi later in his honor.
