Hulk Hogan, the wrestling superstar whose towering persona helped define an era of sports entertainment, has died at the age of 71.
Emergency responders were called to Hogan’s home in Clearwater, Florida, on Thursday following a report of cardiac arrest. Despite efforts to revive him, Hogan was pronounced dead at the scene.
With a career that spanned decades, Hogan became one of the most recognizable figures in professional wrestling and pop culture. Known for his charisma, catchphrases, and larger-than-life presence, he helped bring wrestling into the mainstream during the 1980s and beyond.
“Woven into the fabric of Americana”
Aron Stevens, a veteran pro wrestler now performing in the National Wrestling Alliance and formerly known as Damien Sandow in WWE, paid tribute to Hogan in a statement to Fox News Digital.
“Hulk Hogan is somebody that’s woven into the fabric of Americana,” Stevens said. “He embodied every principle and ideal that was good about America. When he rose to prominence in the ’80s, it was a time when the country felt more united. Everyone was proud to be an American, and Hulk personified that.”
Stevens reflected on Hogan’s legendary rivalries—from the Iron Sheik to Sgt. Slaughter—and how his persona captured the patriotic spirit of a generation.
Impact Beyond the Ring
Stevens also recalled Hogan’s appearances at high-profile events, including a Republican National Convention and a Madison Square Garden rally, where he received thunderous applause.
“He had this ability to lift people’s spirits. Every sick child he gave hope to, every young fan he inspired to do the right thing—those are the things that don’t get talked about enough,” Stevens said. “He wasn’t just an icon in the ring. He changed lives.”
Hogan’s influence extended far beyond wrestling. He was preparing to launch Real American Freestyle, a new project aimed at promoting freestyle wrestling, at the time of his death.
A Legacy That Will Never Be Forgotten
President Donald Trump, a longtime friend and collaborator, honored Hogan after his passing, calling him a “great friend” and “MAGA all the way.”
Stevens echoed those sentiments.
“Hogan was a pioneer. He was the first of his kind, and I don’t think we’ll ever see someone quite like him again in the wrestling world,” Stevens said. “Rest in peace, Hulk. Your legacy is forever.”
