- Hulk Hogan died at age 71 after suffering cardiac arrest in his Florida home.
- He had battled ongoing health issues from decades of physical wrestling trauma.
- His last public appearance raised concerns due to visible signs of frailty.
- Hogan revolutionized professional wrestling, headlining the first WrestleMania and becoming a global icon.
- He was married three times and worked to mend family relationships before his death.
- A public tribute is expected, with fans and industry peers already flooding social media with tributes and memories.
The wrestling world is mourning the loss of one of its most iconic figures. Hulk Hogan, born Terry Gene Bollea, has died at the age of 71. His passing was confirmed by his longtime representative, who revealed that the WWE Hall of Famer suffered a fatal cardiac arrest at his Clearwater, Florida home in the early hours of July 24, 2025. Known for his trademark mustache, red-and-yellow ring gear, and electrifying charisma, Hogan’s larger-than-life persona helped transform wrestling into a global phenomenon during the 1980s and beyond. His legacy stretches far beyond the squared circle, as he became a cultural touchstone for millions of fans worldwide.
Hulk Hogan Cause of Death: Wrestling Icon Died After Cardiac Arrest
Despite recent reports, Hogan’s wife, Sky Daily, assured fans last week that the wrestling legend was in good health. On her Instagram Story, she reportedly responded to a fan asking if Hogan was in a coma or dying.
“No, he’s definitely not in a coma!” she said. “His heart is strong, and there was never any lack of oxygen or brain damage. None of those rumors are true.”
Before his tragic passing, Hogan made an appearance on Fox & Friends to promote his new wrestling league, Real American Freestyle. However, his appearance in early May had many viewers commenting that he looked “unwell” during the interview.
On May 15, a representative confirmed to TMZ that Hogan had went through a “little fusion procedure” on his neck and was recovering well. It seems his last public engagement was a photo opportunity with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis on May 25, signaling a return to some public activity.
Hulk Hogan’s Final Public Appearance Raised Health Concerns Before His Death
Just weeks before his passing, Hogan was seen attending a charity fundraiser in Tampa Bay. Though he smiled for photos and greeted fans with his trademark “Brother!”, those close to him noticed something was off. Attendees described the wrestling icon as “frail” and “unsteady on his feet.” He appeared to struggle with mobility despite using a cane for support.
“He was trying his best to stay strong, but you could tell he was tired,” one fan, Marcus Delgado, shared. “He didn’t talk much and leaned heavily on his wife, Sky.” The event marked Hogan’s last known public outing, and many now view it as a silent farewell. Despite his visible struggles, Hogan remained upbeat, sharing with attendees that he was “feeling blessed to still be here.”
Hulk Hogan’s Impact on the WWE and Pop Culture
Long before wrestlers became household names, Hogan broke through the mainstream. With his unforgettable catchphrases, “Hulkamania” brand, and memorable feuds with the likes of André the Giant and Randy Savage, he played a pivotal role in transforming Vince McMahon’s then-WWF into a global entertainment juggernaut. His presence headlined the inaugural WrestleMania in 1985 and continued to draw record-breaking crowds well into the 1990s.
Beyond wrestling, Hogan’s popularity exploded with movies like Suburban Commando and Mr. Nanny, and reality TV shows such as Hogan Knows Best. His brand became synonymous with strength, perseverance, and Americana. Pop culture analysts often compare his influence to that of other sports legends such as Michael Jordan and Muhammad Ali.
Even in retirement, Hogan remained an ambassador for the WWE, occasionally making special appearances and delivering emotionally charged promos that echoed his heyday. “Without Hulk Hogan, there is no WWE as we know it today,” said Paul “Triple H” Levesque in a tribute statement released hours after the news broke.
Inside Hulk Hogan’s Personal Life and Marriages
Hogan’s personal life was filled with triumphs, challenges, and reinvention. He was married twice—first to Linda Claridge, with whom he had two children: Brooke and Nick. Their high-profile divorce in 2009 was heavily covered in the media and revealed the toll that fame had taken on their family dynamic. Later that same year, Hogan married Jennifer McDaniel, a relationship that eventually ended in divorce in 2021.
In 2022, Hogan quietly remarried. His third wife, Sky Daily, was by his side throughout his final years and reportedly played a key role in supporting his physical rehabilitation efforts. Despite past controversies—including a leaked tape scandal and strained family relationships—Hogan made efforts to reconcile and reconnect with loved ones in his later years. “Terry was not perfect, but he had a big heart and always tried to make amends,” a family friend shared.
How Did Hulk Hogan Die?
Hulk Hogan’s death has officially been attributed to cardiac arrest, a condition often triggered by long-term wear and tear on the heart. Medical experts note that Hogan’s years of intense physical performance—coupled with a series of past injuries and surgeries—likely contributed to his heart issues. Hogan had undergone multiple spinal surgeries, two knee replacements, and numerous procedures on his hips and shoulders.
In a 2023 interview on The Joe Rogan Experience, Hogan hinted at his declining health. “My body’s been through hell, brother. But I’m still standing,” he said. Though he maintained a public image of strength and resilience, those close to him admit that he had been in considerable pain and limited mobility over the past year.
While no autopsy has been announced, the family is reportedly considering a private service followed by a public memorial in Tampa, where fans will have a chance to pay their final respects.
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