Hulk Hogan, the professional wrestling legend whose real name was Terry Gene Bollea, has died at the age of 71, according to multiple reports. The World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) Hall of Famer reportedly suffered a cardiac arrest at his home in Clearwater, Florida, on Thursday morning.
Emergency services were dispatched to Hogan’s residence following a call about a cardiac arrest, US media outlets including TMZ reported. Paramedics and police were seen outside the property, and Hogan was transported to a hospital by ambulance. No official cause of death has been confirmed.
Hogan, a towering figure in professional wrestling, rose to global fame in the 1980s as the face of the World Wrestling Federation (now WWE). Known for his larger-than-life persona, trademark bandana, and the catchphrase “Whatcha gonna do when Hulkamania runs wild on you?”, he headlined multiple WrestleMania events and played a pivotal role in transforming wrestling into a mainstream entertainment phenomenon.
Born on 11 August 1953 in Augusta, Georgia, Hogan began his wrestling career in 1977 and became a cultural icon, appearing in films such as *Rocky III* and starring in the reality show *Hogan Knows Best*. His career was not without controversy, including a 2015 scandal involving racist remarks, which led to a temporary removal from the WWE Hall of Fame. He was reinstated in 2018 after an apology and community work.
Hogan is survived by his wife, Sky Daily, whom he married in 2023, and his two children, Brooke and Nick, from his first marriage to Linda Claridge. His death marks the end of an era for professional wrestling, with fans and peers mourning the loss of one of its most iconic figures.
The WWE said in a statement: “We are saddened to learn of the passing of Hulk Hogan, a true legend whose impact on sports entertainment will never be forgotten.”
This is a developing story, and further details are awaited.
