**Hulk Hogan, WWE Icon, Dies at Age 71 Following Cardiac Arrest at Florida Home**
The world of professional wrestling is today mourning the loss of one of its greatest superstars, as Hulk Hogan, one of the most recognisable and influential figures in WWE history, has died at the age of 71. The legendary wrestler, born Terry Gene Bollea, was discovered unresponsive at his home in Clearwater, Florida, on the morning of Thursday, 24 July 2025.
Reports indicate that emergency services, including both paramedics and police units, were dispatched to Hogan’s Florida residence after concerns were raised regarding his wellbeing. Sources close to the situation have revealed that the call-out was in response to a suspected cardiac arrest. Despite being quickly transferred to a nearby medical facility, efforts to revive the wrestling star were unsuccessful.
In the months leading up to his passing, speculation regarding Hogan’s health had been rampant within both wrestling circles and among fans. In May this year, it was revealed that he had recently undergone a neck fusion procedure, described by representatives as a minor surgery. His wife, Sky Daily, was quick to reassure the public at the time, dismissing persistent rumours that the 71-year-old was in a coma.
Nonetheless, speculation continued to swirl, especially after a popular YouTuber suggested Hogan’s prognosis was less than favourable just last month. A spokesperson for the wrestling veteran refuted these suggestions, stating that the wrestling icon’s surgery had been a success and there was “no cause for panic”. The representative added that Hogan simply required routine medical check-ups, perhaps a subtle acknowledgement of the toll taken by decades spent inside the wrestling ring.
Hulk Hogan’s journey to superstardom began in earnest in 1977, though his ascent to global fame occurred following his move to the World Wrestling Federation (now WWE) in the early 1980s. Instantly recognisable for his distinctive blonde handlebar moustache and trademark yellow-and-red attire, Hogan became the embodiment of wrestling’s golden era, captivating audiences both in the United States and worldwide.
One of his most memorable career highlights came in 1988, when he faced Andre the Giant during The Main Event. The broadcast achieved staggering ratings, drawing more than 33 million American viewers, a record that still stands among televised wrestling matches. Though he officially stepped away from competition in 2012—his final bout being a six-man tag team event in England—Hogan’s presence within the wrestling industry never truly faded.
Even after his retirement from the ring, Hogan remained a constant figure in WWE programming and fan events. He appeared at high-profile shows, hosted special editions, and continued to delight supporters with nostalgic appearances. His last known live appearance took place in January this year, as part of WWE’s celebrated debut on Netflix.
Tributes have poured in from across the wrestling world and beyond. WWE released a statement expressing profound sadness at the loss of their Hall of Fame inductee, highlighting Hogan’s pivotal role in propelling the company onto the global stage during the 1980s. Wrestling legend Ric Flair took to social media platform X to pay homage to his long-time friend, describing Hogan as an extraordinary athlete, peer, and father, and admitting to being “absolutely shocked” by the news.
Many in the entertainment and sporting communities have echoed these sentiments, emphasising Hogan’s lasting impact on the world of professional wrestling and pop culture at large. His charisma in and out of the ring, coupled with his extraordinary athletic ability, made him a household name for generations of fans.
As tributes continue to flow, there is little doubt that Hulk Hogan’s legacy will endure as one of the greats of the wrestling world. The thoughts of fans, friends, and the WWE fraternity remain with his family during this difficult time. His influence on the sport—and the millions who cherished his exploits—will certainly not be forgotten.