Hulk Hogan, the man who helped turn wrestling into a global phenomenon, has died aged 71. Image source: Getty Images
The world of professional wrestling has lost one of its most iconic figures. Hulk Hogan, the larger-than-life American entertainer who helped turn wrestling into a global spectacle, has passed away at the age of 71.
World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) confirmed the news on Thursday, calling Hogan one of pop culture’s most recognisable faces and a key force behind wrestling’s mainstream success in the 1980s.
Police in Clearwater, Florida, said they were called to Hogan’s home for a medical emergency early Thursday morning. He was taken to the hospital and sadly declared dead on arrival.
Born Terry Bollea in Georgia, Hogan grew up in Florida and first pursued music before stepping into the wrestling ring. Known for his tanned skin, bleached hair, and booming voice, Hogan shot to stardom by lifting the colossal André the Giant at WrestleMania III in 1987, a moment etched in wrestling history.
Though his Hollywood career never quite matched his ring fame, he stayed in the public eye with cameos, reality TV, and headline appearances, including a controversial endorsement of Donald Trump in 2024.With his “24-inch pythons” and unforgettable charisma, Hogan changed the game, both in and out of the ring.
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