Hulk Hogan, the iconic face of professional wrestling who helped transform the WWE into a global phenomenon, died Thursday in Florida at the age of 71. Hogan, born Terry Bollea, was pronounced dead at a hospital following a cardiac arrest at his home in Clearwater, police said. Authorities confirmed there were no signs of foul play. A towering figure with a signature bandana, handlebar mustache, and "24-inch pythons," Hogan was a household name by the mid-1980s. He headlined the first WrestleMania in 1985 and became the face of "Hulkamania," captivating audiences with his charisma and powerful ring presence. He won six WWE championships and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2005, later reinstated in 2018 after a suspension. Beyond the ring, Hogan expanded his influence into pop culture, starring in movies, TV shows, and even reality television with Hogan Knows Best. In recent years, he made headlines for his vocal support of U.S. President Donald Trump and was a high-profile guest at the 2024 Republican National Convention. Despite a scandal-ridden second act—including a racially charged controversy and a privacy lawsuit against Gawker Media—Hogan remained a beloved figure for many fans, symbolizing an era of wrestling superstardom. WWE co-founder Vince McMahon described him as "the first performer who transitioned from being a wrestling star into a global phenomenon." In his final months, Hogan was set to become the commissioner of the Real American Freestyle league, promoting it as the "first unscripted pro wrestling" venture, with its debut scheduled for August 30. He is survived by his legacy in sports entertainment and a generation of fans who grew up chanting his name. — Agencies
