Wrestling legend Hulk Hogan has died at the age of 71, just days after his wife, Sky Daily Hogan, publicly dismissed rumors about his declining health. Emergency responders were called to Hogan’s Florida home following reports of a possible cardiac arrest, according to the Associated Press.
Paramedics and police arrived on the scene and transported Hogan to a local hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. The sudden death of the WWE icon has sent shockwaves through the wrestling world and beyond.
Health Rumors and Denials
Just prior to his passing, speculation had swirled online about Hogan’s health, with some outlets falsely claiming he had fallen into a coma. Sky Daily addressed those rumors in an Instagram Story—now no longer available—insisting Hogan was doing well and recovering from recent surgeries.
Despite her reassurances, the unexpected nature of his death has left fans stunned.
A Legacy Larger Than Life
Born Terry Gene Bollea, Hogan became the face of professional wrestling in the 1980s, transforming into a global superstar with his unmistakable charisma, trademark mustache, and “24-inch pythons.” He was the first wrestler to host Saturday Night Live, the only one to appear on the cover of Sports Illustrated, and famously portrayed the flamboyant Thunderlips opposite Sylvester Stallone in Rocky III.
Hogan made history in 1985 by competing in the main event of the very first WrestleMania, helping launch WWE into the pop culture stratosphere. Over the next decade, he battled—and usually defeated—a parade of larger-than-life villains, becoming the centerpiece of WWE’s golden era.
From Wrestling Ring to Hollywood—and Back
Although his foray into Hollywood brought mixed results—with roles in films like Santa with Muscles and Suburban Commando—Hogan always returned to the wrestling ring. His popularity endured for decades, despite multiple injuries and surgeries.
Political Endorsement
In 2024, Hogan made headlines once again when he appeared at the Republican National Convention to endorse Donald Trump’s presidential campaign. The two had a long history, with Trump hosting several WrestleMania events in the 1980s that featured Hogan as the marquee attraction. Hogan said his support was solidified after witnessing Trump’s reaction to a failed assassination attempt during a campaign event.
