In Memoriam: Hulk Hogan, The Immortal Icon of Wrestling (1953–2025)

On July 24, 2025, the world lost a towering figure in sports entertainment, Terry Gene Bollea, better known as Hulk Hogan, who passed away at the age of 71 in his Clearwater, Florida home.

With his larger-than-life persona, unmistakable charisma, and unrelenting passion, Hogan transformed professional wrestling into a global phenomenon, leaving an indelible mark on pop culture. As fans across the globe mourn the loss of the man who embodied “Hulkamania,” we reflect on his extraordinary life, career, and enduring legacy.

Early Life: From Tampa to the Ring 

Born on August 11, 1953, in Augusta, Georgia, Terry Bollea grew up in Port Tampa, Florida, where his love for physicality and performance took root. A talented baseball player and musician in his youth, Bollea’s path to wrestling began after a chance encounter with wrestlers Jack and Gerald Brisco, who recognized his potential. Standing at 6’7” and weighing over 300 pounds, Bollea’s imposing physique and magnetic presence made him a natural fit for the squared circle. Adopting the ring name “Hulk Hogan” in 1977, inspired by his resemblance to the comic book character, he embarked on a career that would redefine wrestling.

The Rise of Hulkamania

Hogan’s breakthrough came in 1983 when he signed with the World Wrestling Federation (WWF, now WWE) under Vince McMahon’s visionary leadership. With his signature red-and-yellow gear, blond mustache, and bandana, Hogan became the face of the WWF’s national expansion. His mantra—“train, say your prayers, eat your vitamins”—resonated with fans, particularly children, who saw him as a real-life superhero. Hogan’s charisma and in-ring intensity made him a star, culminating in his first WWF Championship win in 1984 against The Iron Sheik, a reign that lasted over four years.

The pinnacle of Hogan’s early career came at WrestleMania III in 1987, where he faced Andre the Giant in front of 93,173 fans at the Pontiac Silverdome—a record-breaking event. Hogan’s iconic bodyslam of the 520-pound Andre remains one of wrestling’s most legendary moments, solidifying “Hulkamania” as a cultural juggernaut. He headlined eight of the first nine WrestleManias, winning the WWF Championship six times and becoming the sport’s biggest draw.

Reinvention and the nWo Era

In 1994, Hogan joined World Championship Wrestling (WCW), where he reinvented himself as “Hollywood” Hogan, a villainous leader of the New World Order (nWo). This heel turn in 1996, alongside Scott Hall and Kevin Nash, shocked the wrestling world and sparked the “Monday Night Wars” between WCW and WWF. The nWo’s rebellious attitude captivated audiences, and Hogan’s ability to adapt his persona showcased his versatility. His WCW tenure included six world championships and cemented his status as a pop culture icon.

Hogan returned to WWE in 2002, where his nostalgic comeback as the red-and-yellow hero was met with thunderous ovations. Later stints with Total Nonstop Action (TNA) Wrestling and a controversial return to WWE in 2014 highlighted his enduring appeal, though personal and legal challenges occasionally overshadowed his in-ring achievements.

Beyond Wrestling: A Pop Culture Titan

Hogan’s influence extended far beyond wrestling. He appeared in films like Rocky III (1982) as Thunderlips, No Holds Barred (1989), and family-friendly movies like Mr. Nanny (1993).

His reality show, Hogan Knows Best (2005–2007), offered a glimpse into his personal life, introducing fans to his then-wife Linda, daughter Brooke, and son Nick. Hogan also made waves as a pitchman, endorsing products from energy drinks to karaoke machines, and even hosted American Gladiators in 2008.

Despite his fame, Hogan faced significant controversies, including a 2015 scandal involving a leaked video with racist remarks, leading to his temporary ban from WWE. He later expressed remorse and was reinstated in 2018, though the incident sparked debates about his legacy. Legal battles, including a high-profile lawsuit against Gawker Media, also marked his later years, but Hogan’s resilience kept him in the public eye.

Personal Life and Legacy 

Hogan is survived by his wife, Sky Daily, whom he married in 2023, and his children, Brooke and Nick, from his first marriage to Linda Claridge. Known for his devotion to his fans, Hogan often credited “Hulkamaniacs” for his success, staying active on social media and at fan events until his final days. His philanthropy included support for children’s charities, reflecting the positive message he championed in his prime.

Read More: WWE legend Hulk Hogan dead at 71

WWE issued a statement calling Hogan “one of pop culture’s most recognizable figures,” crediting him with helping the company achieve global prominence in the 1980s. Fans and peers, from John Cena to Ric Flair, have flooded social media with tributes, recalling his infectious energy and unmatched impact. Posts on X describe him as “the Babe Ruth of wrestling” and “a hero who made us believe in dreams.”

The Immortal Hulk Hogan 

Hulk Hogan’s legacy is not just in championships or sold-out arenas but in the inspiration, he provided to millions. He turned wrestling into a mainstream spectacle, blending athleticism, storytelling, and charisma in a way few could match. From “Hulkamania” to the nWo, Hogan adapted to every era, leaving an imprint that will endure for generations. As he once famously asked, “Whatcha gonna do when Hulkamania runs wild on you?” Today, we answer: we’ll remember, celebrate, and honour the immortal Hulk Hogan.

Rest in peace, Hulkster. Your pythons will forever flex in the hearts of fans worldwide. 

Share your favourite Hulk Hogan memories below, and let’s keep Hulkamania running wild forever. 💪❤️