Legendary professional wrestler Hulk Hogan, one of the most recognisable figures in WWE history, has died at the age of 71.
Authorities confirmed that emergency responders were called to Hogan’s home in Clearwater, Florida, on Monday morning after he suffered cardiac arrest. He was taken to hospital but passed away shortly after.
Born Terry Bollea in Georgia, USA, Hogan rose to global fame in the 1980s, becoming the face of World Wrestling Entertainment (then WWF). With his trademark blonde moustache, ripped bandanas, and booming “brother!” catchphrases, Hogan helped turn wrestling into a mainstream entertainment spectacle.
He headlined the first-ever WrestleMania in 1985 and battled legends like Andre the Giant, Randy Savage, The Rock, and even WWE chairman Vince McMahon. Over his career, Hogan captured six WWE world championships and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2005 by actor Sylvester Stallone.
Hogan’s influence went beyond the ring. He starred in films such as Rocky III and Suburban Commando, and appeared in the reality show Hogan Knows Best. He became a cultural icon whose larger-than-life persona drew millions of fans worldwide, including many in South Africa, where WWE grew a loyal following during the 1990s and 2000s.
WWE paid tribute in a statement:
“WWE is saddened to learn of the passing of Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan. One of pop culture’s most recognisable figures, Hogan played a vital role in taking WWE to a global stage. Our condolences go out to his family, friends, and fans.”
Tributes poured in from wrestling greats, including Ric Flair, who called Hogan “an incredible athlete, talent, friend, and father”, and The Undertaker, who said: “The wrestling world has lost a true legend. His contributions to the business are immeasurable.”
Hogan’s career was not without controversy. In 2012, he successfully sued gossip site Gawker for privacy invasion over a leaked tape, winning a $140 million judgement. He was briefly suspended by WWE in 2015 after a recording surfaced of him using a racial slur, though he was reinstated three years later.
Despite the ups and downs, Hulk Hogan remains one of the most influential figures in sports entertainment history. For South African fans who grew up watching him tear his shirt, flex his “24-inch pythons,” and tell kids to “train, take your vitamins, and say your prayers,” his legacy is unforgettable.
Clearwater Police have confirmed there was no foul play in his death. Hogan is survived by his wife, Sky, and two children.
Photo: Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images
