Hulk Hogan, the man who slammed giants and broke barriers in professional wrestling, has died at age 71. Authorities in Clearwater, Florida confirmed the WWE Hall of Famer—born Terry Bollea—passed away following cardiac arrest. No foul play is suspected.
A larger-than-life figure with trademark red-and-yellow gear and a booming voice that inspired millions to “say your prayers and take your vitamins,” Hogan was the face of wrestling’s golden age. His legacy spans beyond the ring—headlining the inaugural WrestleMania, sparring with Rocky Balboa on the silver screen, and leading the rebellious New World Order during WCW’s 1990s dominance.
Hogan’s cultural footprint is massive: from his 1,474-day WWF title reign to the 33 million viewers he drew with Andre the Giant on primetime TV. Despite health battles and controversies—including a 2015 scandal that led to his temporary WWE ousting—he remained a symbol of wrestling’s crossover power.
In recent years, Hogan explored business ventures including Real American Freestyle Wrestling and a bar opening near Madison Square Garden. Tributes poured in from wrestling legends and public figures alike, including former President Donald Trump.
Through heel turns, body slams, and redemption arcs, Hulk Hogan was never just a wrestler—he was an era.