WWE Legend Hulk Hogan Dead at 71 Following Cardiac Arrest in Florida

CLEARWATER, Fla. — Hulk Hogan, the legendary professional wrestler who became one of the most recognizable figures in sports entertainment history, has died at the age of 71, according to multiple reports.

TMZ Sports was the first to report that emergency services were dispatched to Hogan’s residence in Clearwater early Thursday morning following a call regarding a suspected cardiac arrest. Paramedics and police were seen outside the home, and Hogan was reportedly transported on a stretcher into an ambulance. As of now, no official statement has been released by WWE or Hogan’s family.

Born Terry Gene Bollea on August 11, 1953, Hogan rose to fame in the 1980s as the face of the then-World Wrestling Federation. With his imposing physique, handlebar mustache, and larger-than-life persona, Hogan became a household name, transcending professional wrestling and entering mainstream pop culture. His signature catchphrases, such as

“Whatcha gonna do when Hulkamania runs wild on you?” became emblematic of the era and solidified his place in entertainment history.

Hogan’s wrestling career spanned over four decades. He was a six-time WWF Champion and played a central role in ushering in the "Golden Age" of professional wrestling. He headlined multiple WrestleMania events, most notably WrestleMania III in 1987, where he body-slammed André the Giant in a moment that has become iconic in wrestling lore.

In the mid-1990s, Hogan reinvented himself in World Championship Wrestling by turning heel and forming the New World Order, or NWO, alongside Kevin Nash and Scott Hall. The move revitalized his career and played a key role in WCW's rise during the heated Monday Night Wars with WWE. He would later return to WWE and continue making periodic appearances into the 2010s.

Beyond wrestling, Hogan built a career in film and television. He appeared in films like "Rocky III," "No Holds Barred," and "Suburban Commando." He also starred in the VH1 reality show "Hogan Knows Best," which documented his family life and drew considerable ratings during its run. His influence extended into advertising, merchandising, and even politics, as he made appearances at major events including the 2024 Republican National Convention.

Hogan’s personal life was often as dramatic as his wrestling storylines. In 2015, he was embroiled in a high-profile legal battle with the now-defunct media outlet Gawker after a sex tape was published without his consent. The lawsuit resulted in a $140 million jury verdict in Hogan’s favor and played a role in the outlet’s eventual bankruptcy. That same year, he was temporarily removed from the WWE Hall of Fame following the release of a separate recording in which he made racist remarks. He was reinstated in 2018 and inducted again in 2020 as part of the NWO.

In recent years, Hogan had reportedly undergone numerous surgeries, including procedures on his back and neck. Despite persistent rumors about his declining health, Hogan and his wife, Sky Daily, maintained publicly that he was in stable condition and recovering well. Just weeks ago, she denied rumors that he was in a coma, stating his heart was strong following surgery.

Hogan’s death marks the end of a pivotal chapter in professional wrestling history.