Wrestling Icon Hulk Hogan Dies at 71 After Cardiac Arrest

Wrestling legend and pop culture icon Hulk Hogan has died at the age of 71.

The WWE Hall of Famer, born Terry Gene Bollea, passed away early Thursday morning, July 24, after suffering a cardiac arrest at his home in Clearwater, Florida, TMZ reports.

Emergency responders were dispatched to Hogan’s residence following a 911 call about a suspected cardiac incident. Paramedics and police were seen outside the property, and Hogan was reportedly transported from the home on a stretcher.

While the official cause of death has not yet been disclosed, his passing has been confirmed by World Wrestling Entertainment.

“WWE is saddened to learn WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has passed away,” the organization said in a statement. “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 rose to superstardom in the 1980s with his patriotic persona and unforgettable theme song, “Real American.” He gained widespread fame after defeating the Iron Sheik to become the WWF Heavyweight Champion, sparking the era known as “Hulkamania.”

Despite losing the title to Andre the Giant in 1988 and later stepping away from the WWF amid controversy, Hogan remained a dominant force in professional wrestling. He transitioned to acting, with roles in films such as Rocky III, Mr. Nanny, and Santa With Muscles.

In 1994, Hogan joined WWE rival World Championship Wrestling (WCW), where he introduced the villainous “Hollywood Hogan” character. He later returned to WWE in the early 2000s.

Hogan’s legacy spans decades, and he remains one of the most influential figures in the history of professional wrestling.