President Donald Trump honored the life and legacy of his longtime friend Hulk Hogan following news of the wrestling legend’s death at age 71, calling the WWE icon “MAGA all the way” in a heartfelt tribute shared on Truth Social.
“We lost a great friend today, the ‘Hulkster,’” Trump wrote Thursday. “Hulk Hogan was MAGA all the way — Strong, tough, smart, but with the biggest heart.”
The president reflected on their decades-long friendship, which began in the 1980s when Hogan headlined WrestleMania IV at Trump Plaza. Trump recalled the wrestler’s fiery speech during the 2024 Republican National Convention, calling it “absolutely electric” and “one of the highlights of the entire week.”
“He entertained fans from all over the world, and the cultural impact he had was massive,” Trump continued. “To his wife, Sky, and family, we give our warmest best wishes and love. Hulk Hogan will be greatly missed!”
Hogan, born Terry Gene Bollea, died after suffering a reported cardiac arrest at his Florida home. TMZ first broke the news, stating that emergency crews arrived at the residence and transported Hogan on a stretcher.
A WWE statement confirmed the loss, describing Hogan as “one of pop culture’s most recognizable figures” who helped propel professional wrestling into a global phenomenon during the 1980s. A 12-time world champion and two-time WWE Hall of Fame inductee, Hogan headlined eight of the first nine WrestleMania events.
The bond between Hogan and Trump spanned more than 35 years. During a campaign rally at Madison Square Garden in October 2024, Hogan recalled his legendary bout against André the Giant at Trump Plaza and spoke passionately in support of Trump’s re-election bid.
“I was bleeding like a pig, and I won the world title right in front of Donald J. Trump,” Hogan said at the time. “He’s going to win in November, and we’re all going to be champions again when he wins.”
In January, on Inauguration Day, Hogan posted a photo of himself with Trump, promoting his Real American beer line with the caption: “Two Real American Legends.”
Despite some controversies in his later years, including past leaked audio and a sex tape scandal, Hogan remained a cultural icon and a fierce supporter of President Trump until the end.
Trump’s tribute reflected not just on Hogan’s influence in wrestling, but on the loyalty and friendship they shared: “He was a true champion in and out of the ring.”
