Hulk Hogan Dies at 71 – The End of a Wrestling Era | Full Life Story, Career Highlights & Reactions
Date: July 24, 2025
By: TreeNews Staff Writer
> BREAKING NEWS: Hulk Hogan, the legendary face of professional wrestling, has passed away at the age of 71. Fans around the world are in shock, and tributes are pouring in from every corner of the WWE Universe.
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Who Was Hulk Hogan?
Terry Gene Bollea, famously known as Hulk Hogan, was more than just a wrestler. He was a global phenomenon, a pop culture icon, and the heart of WWE’s golden era in the 1980s and 1990s. Born on August 11, 1953, in Augusta, Georgia, Hogan was the man who made professional wrestling a household topic.
He was easily recognized by his massive frame, handlebar mustache, blonde hair, red-and-yellow gear, and trademark slogans like:
“Whatcha gonna do, brother!”
“Say your prayers, take your vitamins!”
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Hulk Hogan’s Wrestling Career: A Journey to Immortality
Early Days & Rise to Fame
Hogan began his wrestling career in the late 1970s but rose to fame after joining World Wrestling Federation (WWF)—now WWE—in 1983. He instantly connected with fans through his larger-than-life charisma, unmatched energy, and unbeatable spirit.
In 1984, Hogan defeated The Iron Sheik to win his first WWF Championship, launching Hulkamania, a cultural movement that turned wrestling into a global sensation.
WrestleMania & Pop Culture Fame
Hogan headlined the first WrestleMania in 1985 alongside Mr. T. His battles with stars like:
Andre the Giant (WrestleMania III – body slamming him was a historic moment)
Macho Man Randy Savage
Ultimate Warrior
Ric Flair
cemented his status as the face of wrestling for over a decade.
He wasn’t just a ring icon—Hogan also starred in movies, TV shows, commercials, and even had his own cartoon. He was everywhere.
WCW & The nWo Era
In 1996, Hulk Hogan shocked the world by turning heel (villain) and forming the New World Order (nWo) in WCW with Kevin Nash and Scott Hall. It was one of the most iconic moments in wrestling history and led WCW to dominate WWE in ratings for 83 consecutive weeks.
Return to WWE & Retirement
Hogan returned to WWE in the early 2000s, feuding with The Rock, Shawn Michaels, and others. His 2002 WrestleMania match vs. The Rock is considered one of the greatest ever.
Though he officially retired several times, he kept making appearances—always receiving thunderous ovations.
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Hulk Hogan’s Personal Life
Hogan’s life outside the ring was filled with ups and downs. He married Linda Claridge in 1983, and they had two children: Brooke and Nick Hogan. He later remarried Jennifer McDaniel.
He faced many challenges including a public divorce, legal battles, and serious health problems including multiple back surgeries. Yet, he always bounced back, symbolizing strength and resilience.
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Hulk Hogan’s Health Struggles Before Death
In recent years, Hogan had been dealing with:
Multiple surgeries (back, knees, and hips)
Nerve damage
Walking difficulties
Despite that, he remained active in the wrestling world, occasionally attending WWE events, podcasts, and fan conventions. Fans admired his strength to keep going despite physical pain.
Today, on July 24, 2025, Hogan’s management confirmed he passed away peacefully in Florida surrounded by family. The cause of death has not been officially announced.
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WWE & Fans React to Hulk Hogan’s Death
The WWE Universe is devastated.
John Cena:
> “Without Hulk Hogan, there would be no me. He inspired millions. Rest in power, brother.” 💔
The Undertaker:
> “The locker room leader, the ultimate draw. We lost a real one today.”
Triple H:
> “WWE lost its biggest legend. Hulkamania will live forever.”
The Rock:
> “Hulk Hogan paved the way. Icon, inspiration, friend. I’ll miss you, brother.”
Social media has been flooded with hashtags like:
#RIPHulkHogan
#ThankYouHogan
#HulkamaniaForever
WWE has announced a special tribute show to air on Friday Night SmackDown, with a 10-bell salute in his honor.
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Hulk Hogan’s Legacy: Forever Immortal
Hulk Hogan’s contributions to wrestling are unmatched:
6-time WWE Champion
6-time WCW Champion
2-time WWE Hall of Famer (Solo and with the nWo)
WrestleMania main-eventer
TV & movie star
But more than titles, it was his impact on people that defined his legacy. Kids wore his shirts, mimicked his poses, and believed in his message to “never give up.”
He inspired a generation of superstars, including John Cena, Batista, Randy Orton, and more.
Even during controversies and setbacks, Hogan’s popularity never faded. From WWE arenas to internet memes, from lunchboxes to action figures—Hulk Hogan was everywhere.
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Famous Hulk Hogan Moments That Live Forever
1. Body-slamming Andre the Giant (WrestleMania III)
2. “I am a real American…” entrance theme hitting the arena
3. Turning heel to form nWo
4. WrestleMania match vs. The Rock
5. Legendary promos with Mean Gene Okerlund
These moments are not just part of wrestling—they’re part of history.
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Final Words: “Whatcha Gonna Do…”
As the world says goodbye to the Immortal Hulk Hogan, we remember a man who gave his heart and soul to entertain millions. A warrior, a hero, and a cultural icon.
He made us cheer, laugh, and believe. He taught generations to train, say their prayers, and eat their vitamins.
> “Whatcha gonna do, when Hulkamania runs wild on you?”
Now, Hulkamania runs wild in Heaven.
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