End of an Era: Wrestling Icon Hulk Hogan Dies at 71

“End of an Era: Wrestling Icon Hulk Hogan Dies at 71”


Tribute — WrestlingChimp.com

Terry Gene Bollea — better known as Hulk Hogan — passed away this morning, leaving the world of professional wrestling and pop culture in mourning. The wrestling titan was found unresponsive at his Clearwater, Florida home and later pronounced dead at Morton Plant Hospital. No foul play is suspected. 

Hogan’s larger-than-life persona defined an era, bringing wrestling into the mainstream during the 1980s with his electrifying “Hulkamania” gimmick. He headlined the first WrestleMania, bodyslammed André the Giant at WrestleMania III, and was inducted twice into the WWE Hall of Fame (2005, 2020) 

Despite recent health challenges—including neck surgery in May and over two dozen operations in the past decade—Hogan had appeared upbeat. His longtime manager Jimmy Hart had even described him as “phenomenal” just days ago.

WWE, peers, and celebrities have poured out tributes. Among them are Ric Flair, Charlotte Flair, Sylvester Stallone, Donald Trump Jr., and the global wrestling community, all celebrating Hogan’s influence on and off the ring.

He leaves behind his wife, Sky Daily; ex-wives Linda Hogan and Jennifer McDaniel; and his children Brooke and Nick. His passing marks the end of an era, but the ripple of Hulkamania will endure forever.


🕰️ Final Moments & Legacy

  • Cardiac arrest occurred at approximately 9:51 a.m. local time on July 24, 2025; emergency services responded, but he did not recover. 
  • Health history: Underwent neck surgery in May, with a total of 25 surgeries over the past decade
  • Cultural impact: He was one of WWE’s most recognizable figures, starring in “Rocky III,” TV shows, reality series, and pioneering the nWo in WCW.

🧠 What This Means

  • Wrestling’s Golden Age Fades: Hogan was the face of wrestling for millions—his persona inspired countless athletes and entertainers.
  • Enduring Brand: Hulkamania will live on in the hearts of fans, WWE archives, and numerous pop culture touchpoints.
  • Final Act: Just this year, he co-founded Real American Freestyle, a new wrestling league that had its first event scheduled for August — now his legacy continues in spirit.

Our thoughts are with the Bollea family and the worldwide wrestling community. Hulk Hogan’s iconic image—bleached-blonde mane, red and yellow gear, boundless energy—will forever echo in arenas and hearts around the globe.

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