Wrestling legend Hulk Hogan dies aged 71 ‘after suffering cardiac arrest’
RIP.
Wrestling icon Hulk Hogan has died at the age of 71.
The former world champion, real name Terry Bollea, was one of the biggest names in the sport, and most recently worked as a WWE brand ambassador.
His family confirmed the news to Us Weekly, but did not share any further details.
According to TMZ, emergency services were sent to his home in Clearwater, Florida, earlier this morning, after receiving a call about a ‘cardiac arrest’.
He was reportedly carried out of his property on a stretcher and taken to hospital in an ambulance.
His cause of death has not yet been confirmed.
Hulk was reportedly rushed to hospital earlier this morning (Picture: Getty) He is regarded as one of the best in the sport (Picture: Reuters)Shortly after the news was confirmed, Hogan’s co-stars rushed to social media to share pay tribute.
In a lengthy message, Ric Flair tweeted: ‘I am absolutely shocked to hear about the passing of my close friend @HulkHogan! Hulk has been by my side since we started in the wrestling business.
‘An incredible athlete, talent, friend, and father! Our friendship has meant the world to me. He was always there for me even when I didn’t ask for him to be.
‘he was one of the first to visit me when I was in the hospital with a 2% chance of living, and he prayed by my bedside. Hulk also lent me money when Reid was sick.
‘Hulkster, no one will ever compare to you! Rest in peace my friend!’
Tributes poured in on social media (Picture: Shutterstock)The official WWE Twitter account issued a statement, which read: ‘WWE is saddened to learn WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has passed away.
‘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.’
WWE is saddened to learn WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has passed away. 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.
— WWE (@WWE) July 24, 2025Hogan’s death comes just a month after it was revealed that he underwent a major heart operation in June, and was recovering.
‘Hulk had pretty serious heart surgery a few weeks ago and was doing well afterward,’ an insider told US Weekly at the time.
The Georgia-born star began his wrestling career in the 70s and made his debut against Brian Blair in August 1977.
Hogan went on to claim his first professional championship two years later, but his life took a huge turn shortly after, when he was introduced to Vince McMahon, promoter of the then-World Wrestling Foundation – which was renamed in 2002.
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Previous Page Next PageHe made his debut as ‘Hulk Hogan’ in a November episode of Championship Wrestling – where he beat Harry Valdez – and performed in front of the delighted crowds at Madison Square Garden the following month.
In 1983, he shot to worldwide fame after signing with the WWE and headlined the first WrestleMania events, before he succeeded in becoming a five-time champion.
He ushered in a new era for the sport, as millions tuned in to watch his battles – he delighted crowds as he stormed into the ring, ripping his shirt off and flexing as the cheers grew.
Metro has contacted Hogan’s reps for a comment.
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