Former President Donald Trump paid tribute to wrestling icon Hulk Hogan on Thursday following news of Hogan’s death at age 71. Calling him a “great friend” and “MAGA all the way,” Trump remembered the WWE Hall of Famer as a loyal supporter and a larger-than-life figure who made a lasting cultural impact.
Hogan, born Terry Gene Bollea, was a vocal backer of Trump’s 2024 re-election campaign and made multiple appearances in support of Trump and his running mate, Vice President JD Vance. Most notably, Hogan delivered a passionate speech at the Republican National Convention in July 2024, where Trump was formally nominated as the GOP’s presidential candidate.
“We lost a great friend today—the Hulkster,” Trump wrote in a Truth Social post. “Hulk Hogan was MAGA all the way. Strong, tough, smart, but with the biggest heart.”
Trump praised Hogan’s RNC speech as “absolutely electric” and one of the highlights of the week, adding:
“He entertained fans around the world, and the cultural impact he had was massive. To his wife, Sky, and his family, we send our warmest wishes and deepest condolences. Hulk Hogan will be greatly missed.”
What We Know About Hogan’s Death
Hogan’s death was first reported by TMZ, which stated that emergency services responded to a 911 call from Hogan’s Clearwater Beach, Florida, home early Thursday morning. The call was reportedly related to a cardiac arrest.
A video obtained by TMZ showed paramedics at the scene attempting life-saving measures before transporting Hogan to a local hospital. According to Clearwater Police Major Nate Burnside, Hogan was pronounced dead at 11:17 a.m. The official cause of death will be confirmed by the county coroner in the coming days.
Hogan’s passing marks the end of an era for wrestling fans worldwide. He was one of the most recognized and celebrated athletes of the 1980s and ’90s, credited with helping turn pro wrestling into a mainstream entertainment phenomenon.
