The Epic Legacy of Hulk Hogan: Wrestling Legend Passed Away at 71
- CharlesDayquon Strother
- Jul 24
- 2 min read
Wrestling rocked the world Thursday, July 24, 2025; Hogan Mania officially came to an end. The Hulkster, born Terry Gene Bollea in Augusta, Georgia on August 11, 1953, died at age 71 in his Clearwater, Florida home. Emergency responders were called early in the morning for a reported cardiac arrest. Despite his wife Sky Daily recently affirming his heart was “strong” amid post-surgery recovery, the icon succumbed—surrounded by headlines and heartbreak.
From Rock-Solid Roots to "Hulkamania"
Rise to stardom: Hogan’s wrestling debut came in 1977, but it was his 1979 WWE entry that catapulted him into superstardom. With flamboyant bandanas, bulging biceps, and catchphrases like “say your prayers and eat your vitamins,” he became the face of WWF’s 1980s boom.
Trailblazing moments: Hogan headlined eight of the first nine WrestleManias, held 12 world championships, and executed the legendary showdown against André the Giant on The Main Event in 1988. That match still holds one of the biggest Nielsen ratings in wrestling history.
The Man Off‑The‑Mat
Beyond the ring, Hogan proved he was more than muscle:
On‑screen persona: From playing Thunderlips in Rocky III to starring in reality TV series Hogan Knows Best, he crossed over from wrestling to entertainment seamlessly.
Hall of fame (twice!): Honored in WWE’s Hall of Fame in 2005, he faced controversy—and removal—in 2015 due to racist remarks. Redemption followed in 2020 when he was re‑inducted as part of the NWO stable.
Loved, Controversial, Unforgettable
Hogan wasn’t just muscles and mania—he was man:
Married thrice; left behind his wife Sky Daily and two children. He also fathered Brooke and Nick with first wife Linda, who candidly shared a poignant throwback photo days before his passing.
His career endured after controversies surrounding steroid use and personal remarks. Still, his contribution to wrestling and pop culture was undeniable.
End of an Era
In the squared circle, he was immortal. Out in public, he transcended sport. Hulk Hogan turned WWF—and later WWE—into a global spectacle. His signature showmanship forever changed the wrestling world. In 2025, he passed away—but the legacy of "Hulkamania" lives on.
Final Punch
He wasn’t just a wrestler—he was the wrestler. Terry Bollea was a cultural force, a stadium-filling personality whose trademark pose and yellow tank top inspired millions. To the fans, he was the immortal Hulkamania. To the history books, he’s legend.
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