Wrestling Legend Hulk Hogan Dies at 71 from Cardiac Arrest; Had Undergone More Than 25 Surgeries In Last Decade
CLEARWATER, FL – Wrestling legend Hulk Hogan, born Terry Gene Bollea, died Thursday morning at the age of 71 following a reported cardiac arrest at his home in Clearwater Beach. Emergency responders arrived at his residence shortly before 10 a.m. after a 911 call, and he was later pronounced dead at Morton Plant Hospital. Local authorities confirmed that an investigation was standard procedure but noted no signs of foul play.
Hogan had recently undergone a complex four-level neck surgery in May, part of a long history of health issues stemming from decades in professional wrestling. His wife, Sky Daily, had previously reassured the public that he was recovering well and that his heart remained strong. Hogan had battled numerous physical ailments over the years, including multiple back and hip surgeries, and was often seen using a cane in public appearances.
With a career that began in the late 1970s, Hulk Hogan became a global sensation during the 1980s professional wrestling boom, rising to fame through the World Wrestling Federation (now WWE). He headlined the first WrestleMania in 1985 and became one of the most recognizable figures in sports entertainment, capturing six WWE championships and leading the charge for mainstream acceptance of professional wrestling. In the 1990s, he reinvented himself as a heel character in World Championship Wrestling (WCW), founding the infamous New World Order faction and further solidifying his place in wrestling history.
Outside the ring, Hogan was a prominent pop culture figure, starring in films like Rocky III, Mr. Nanny, and Suburban Commando, as well as on television with his reality series Hogan Knows Best. His career, however, was not without controversy. In later years, Hogan faced public backlash over leaked tapes and racial slurs, leading to a temporary suspension from WWE and public apologies. Despite these setbacks, he was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame twice—first as an individual in 2005 and later in 2020 as part of the nWo.
In addition to wrestling and media ventures, Hogan had remained active in business and politics. He recently launched Real American Beer in 2024 and had been preparing to serve as commissioner of a new wrestling promotion called Real American Freestyle. He also made headlines in 2024 for a fiery speech at the Republican National Convention in support of former President Donald Trump, a longtime friend who praised Hogan as a symbol of strength and patriotism.
Hogan is survived by his wife, Sky Daily, whom he married in 2023, and two children, Brooke and Nick, from his first marriage to Linda Hogan. Tributes have poured in from across the world of sports, entertainment, and politics. Fellow wrestling icon Ric Flair described the news as shocking and heartbreaking, while WWE issued a formal statement honoring Hogan’s role in elevating wrestling to global popularity.
Fans around the world have been sharing memories, clips, and messages of appreciation for the man often dubbed “The Immortal.” From his early days tearing off shirts and preaching the values of hard work and loyalty, to his later appearances as a living symbol of professional wrestling’s golden era, Hulk Hogan leaves behind a legacy few can match.
Top Questions and Answers About Hulk Hogan’s Death
Q: How did Hulk Hogan die?
A: Hogan died of cardiac arrest at his home in Clearwater, Florida, on the morning of July 24, 2025. He was later pronounced dead at Morton Plant Hospital. Authorities reported no signs of foul play.
Q: Did Hogan have health problems prior to his death?
A: Yes. Hogan had undergone more than 25 surgeries in the last decade, including back, hip, and knee operations. Most recently, he had a four-level neck fusion surgery in May 2025 but was reportedly recovering well.
Q: What was Hulk Hogan’s impact on wrestling?
A: He was one of the most influential wrestlers in history. Hogan helped launch professional wrestling into mainstream popularity in the 1980s and played a major role in both WWE and WCW’s rise. He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame twice.
Q: What did Hogan do outside of wrestling?
A: Hogan appeared in films and television shows, ran a reality show with his family, endorsed products, launched Real American Beer, and was active in conservative politics.
Q: Who survives Hulk Hogan?
A: Hogan is survived by his wife, Sky Daily, and two children, Brooke and Nick Hogan, from his first marriage to Linda Hogan.
Q: Was Hulk Hogan still active in wrestling?
A: He had retired from in-ring competition but remained involved through appearances, business ventures, and was recently announced as commissioner for a new wrestling promotion set to launch in 2025.
Q: What is his legacy in pop culture?
A: Hulk Hogan is remembered as a cultural icon of the 1980s and 1990s, transcending wrestling through films, TV, merchandise, and public appearances. He remains one of the most recognized figures in sports entertainment history.
