Hulk Hogan, one of the most iconic and celebrated professional wrestlers in history is dead, WWE confirmed on Thursday.
He was 71 years old.
According to TMZ, a call for “cardiac arrest” was placed and emergency medical personnel were dispatched to Hogan’s residence in Clearwater, Florida. He was transported to the hospital on a stretcher.
“WWE is saddened to learn WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has passed away,” WWE wrote on X. “One of pop culture’s most recognizable figures, Hogan helped WWE achieve global recognition in the 1980s. WWE extends its condolences to Hogan’s family, friends, and fans.”
Hogan, whose real name was Terry Bollea, launched his wrestling journey in Florida during the 1970s.
He became a national sensation in the 1980s through his patriotic “Hulkamania” persona and was instrumental in elevating WWE—then known as WWF—into a dominant entertainment brand.
In recent weeks, speculation about Hogan’s health had intensified following a neck surgery in May, with some reports suggesting he was in a coma or on his deathbed. TMZ reported the rumors, but his wife Sky Daily publicly dismissed them, asserting he was feeling “strong” during recovery.
Rumors about Hogan’s health have been swirling for weeks after he underwent neck surgery in May, with some claiming he was left in a coma and on his deathbed, according to TMZ.
The legendary wrestler endured numerous surgeries throughout his physically demanding career. It is still uncertain whether his death was related to the recent surgery.
A press conference is expected later Thursday to provide more details.
