Tragic news in the wrestling world after TMZ announced legendary Hulk Hogan died on July 24th. The musclebound megastar who body-slammed professional wrestling into the mainstream was 71.
According to reports first shared by TMZ Sports, paramedics were called to Hogan’s home in Clearwater, Florida, early Thursday morning following a medical emergency labeled as “cardiac arrest.” A convoy of police and emergency vehicles responded to the call, and Hogan was transported from the scene by stretcher.
Hulk Hogan: A Legend Gone Too Soon
The tragic development comes just weeks after Hogan’s wife, Sky Daily, had publicly denied swirling rumors about his health, telling fans his heart was “strong” as he recovered from surgery. Still, concern had been mounting behind the scenes. Last month, whispers of Hogan being on his “deathbed” made the rounds online. There were rumors that his team bravely tried to downplay, attributing his condition to complications following a multi-level neck fusion procedure.
Unfortunately, as it turns out, those concerns weren’t unfounded. This is despite Jimmy Hart addressing other rumors about his health, updating fans via Facebook. “Hulk is doing great, doing phenomenal,” he wrote. “Lasting that karaoke with Nick was absolutely fantastic, baby!”
The news comes as several sources revealed the legend was struggling with speech due to tracheal damage. Hogan was reportedly “resting in a hospital bed.”
Hogan’s Greatest Moments
Hogan, born Terry Gene Bollea, wasn’t just a wrestler. He was an empire. With his handlebar mustache, twenty-four-inch pythons, and signature red-and-yellow gear, Hogan helped redefine pro wrestling in the 1980s. His charisma captivated kids and parents alike, transforming the once-niche sport into prime-time family entertainment.
From “WrestleMania” main events to his epic and stunning villainous reinvention in WCW’s “New World Order,” Hogan didn’t just ride the wrestling wave; he made it. He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame twice. Once in 2005 as a solo legend, and again in 2020 as part of the nWo faction.
But his life outside the ring was just as headline-worthy. He also dabbled with acting here and there, starring in “Rocky III” in 1982 as Thunderlips. He then starred in cult classics like “No Holds Barred” and “Suburban Commando.” In the 2000s, VH1’s “Hogan Knows Best” gave fans a glimpse into his personal life alongside wife Linda and their children, Nick and Brooke. Safe to say this made fans adore the family even more.
If there’s one thing Hogan was known for, it was resilience. He survived countless surgeries over the years due to injuries sustained throughout his decades-long wrestling career.
‘Real American Freestyle’
The last public glimpse fans got of the “Hulkster” was in May 2025, as he launched “Real American Freestyle.” A new amateur wrestling league set to debut August 30 on Fox Nation. Despite recovering from surgery, Hogan appeared optimistic and proud, sharing his vision for the future of the sport he helped define.
Now, that first event will sadly go on without him. Wrestling fans around the globe are mourning the loss of one of the most iconic figures of the sport. Whether as the all-American hero or the Hollywood heel, Hogan’s influence is undeniable.
He taught a generation to train, say their prayers, and take their vitamins. Now, the ring is a little quieter without him.
Rest in power, Hulk Hogan. You were the real main event.
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Revered Star Hulk Hogan’s Health Was of Concern Weeks Before Passing, Amid WWE’s Reassurance