AFCON 2025
The world of professional wrestling is mourning the loss of one of its most iconic figures. Hulk Hogan (Terry Gene Bollea), whose charisma and “Hulkamania” persona helped catapult wrestling into the mainstream during the 1980s and 1990s, died today, July 24, 2025, at the age of 71.
According to reports, Hogan suffered cardiac arrest at his home in Clearwater, Florida, and was pronounced dead after emergency efforts failed to revive him.
Here are three key things to know about Hogan’s life, career, and lasting legacy:
1. The Face of “Hulkamania” and Wrestling’s Boom Era
Hogan’s rise in the 1980s transformed wrestling from a niche sport into a global spectacle. He became the face of the World Wrestling Federation (now WWE), headlining eight of the first nine WrestleMania events and winning multiple world championships.
His catchphrases — “Train, say your prayers, and eat your vitamins” — and trademark leg drop cemented him as a household name. Hogan’s popularity helped usher wrestling into pop culture, setting the stage for the WWE’s golden era.
2. Hollywood Crossover and Controversial Reinventions
Beyond wrestling, Hogan crossed over into film and television with appearances in Rocky III, Thunder in Paradise, and his reality show Hogan Knows Best.
In the mid-1990s, he reinvented himself as the villainous “Hollywood Hogan” in WCW’s New World Order (nWo) storyline — a move widely credited with revitalizing his career and WCW’s fortunes.
However, his later years were marked by controversies, including public legal battles and strained relationships within the wrestling industry.
3. Tributes Pour In From Wrestling and Beyond
Following his passing, tributes flooded social media. WWE released a statement calling him “the greatest Superstar of all time,” while fellow legends like Ric Flair and The Undertaker shared emotional tributes.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump, a longtime friend and ally, also honored Hogan, saying he was “more than a wrestler — he was an American icon.”
Fans worldwide have been sharing memories of watching Hulkamania run wild.
