Hulu Hogan passes away at 71 on 24th July 2025
The world of professional wrestling has lost one of its greatest legends. Hulk Hogan, the man who turned wrestling into a global phenomenon, passed away on July 24, 2025, at his home in Clearwater, Florida, at the age of 71. The news has sent shockwaves through the sports entertainment industry, with fans and fellow wrestlers paying tribute to the man who defined an era.
The Rise of Hulkamania
Born Terry Gene Bollea on August 11, 1953, in Augusta, Georgia, Hogan rose to fame in the 1980s as the face of WWE (then WWF). His victory over Iron Sheik in 1984 for the WWF Championship marked the birth of "Hulkamania"—a cultural movement that turned wrestling into must-see television.
With his blonde handlebar mustache, bandana, and signature yellow-and-red attire, Hogan became an instant superstar. His larger-than-life persona, combined with his famous catchphrases like "Whatcha gonna do, brother?" and "Train, say your prayers, and eat your vitamins!", made him a hero to millions of young fans.
A Career That Transcended Wrestling
Hogan wasn’t just a wrestler—he was a pop culture icon. He appeared in films like "Rocky III" (1982) alongside Sylvester Stallone and starred in his own wrestling-themed movie, "No Holds Barred" (1989). He also ventured into television with shows like "Thunder in Paradise" and the reality series "Hogan Knows Best," which gave fans a glimpse into his family life.
In the 1990s, Hogan shocked the world when he turned heel (villain) in WCW, forming the New World Order (nWo)—one of the most revolutionary factions in wrestling history. This move revitalized his career and helped WCW dominate WWE in the Monday Night Wars.
Controversies and Comebacks
Hogan’s career wasn’t without controversy. A high-profile lawsuit against Gawker Media in 2016 exposed private details of his life, but he ultimately won the case, setting a legal precedent for celebrity privacy rights.
Despite the ups and downs, Hogan remained a beloved figure. He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame twice —first as a solo star in 2005 and again as part of the nWo in 2020. His final WWE appearance was at WrestleMania 37, where he made a surprise cameo, proving that Hulkamania would never truly die.
Tributes from the Wrestling World
As news of his passing spread, tributes poured in from wrestlers, celebrities, and fans:
- Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson: "Hulk Hogan paved the way for all of us. Without him, there’d be no Rock, no Stone Cold, no WWE as we know it. Rest easy, brother."
- John Cena: "He was the reason I became a wrestler. The ultimate showman. Thank you, Hulk."
- Triple H (WWE Chief Content Officer): "Hogan changed the game. His impact will be felt forever."
What Was Hogan’s Cause of Death?
While official details are still pending, sources close to Hogan say he had been battling chronic back pain and heart issues in recent years. He underwent multiple spinal surgeries and had been in and out of rehabilitation centers.
The End of an Era, But the Legacy Lives On
Hulk Hogan wasn’t just a wrestler—he was a revolutionary force who turned sports entertainment into a billion-dollar industry. From WrestleMania III’s record-breaking crowd (93,173 fans) to his epic rivalries with André the Giant, The Ultimate Warrior, and Ric Flair, Hogan’s matches are etched in wrestling history.
As the wrestling world mourns, one thing is certain: Hulkamania will never die. His influence will continue to inspire future generations of wrestlers, and his legacy will live on in every body slam, leg drop, and "Hell yeah, brother!"
Final Thought: A Hero Remembered
Hulk Hogan gave fans hope, excitement, and unforgettable moments. Whether as a heroic face or a dastardly heel, he knew how to captivate an audience. His passing marks the end of an era, but his spirit will forever be part of wrestling’s DNA.
Rest in Power, Hulk Hogan (1953–2025).
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