The world of professional wrestling and pop culture was rocked on July 24, 2025, when news broke that Terry Gene Bollea, better known as Hulk Hogan, passed away at the age of 71. The larger-than-life superstar, whose charisma, theatrics, and signature “Hulkamania” movement transformed wrestling into a global phenomenon, left behind a legacy that spans decades.
This blog post dives deep into Hulk Hogan’s life, his monumental impact on wrestling, his controversies, his health struggles, and the details surrounding his passing. We’ll also explore his family, his net worth, and the tributes that poured in from fans, wrestlers, and political figures alike.
The Rise of Hulk Hogan: From Terry Bollea to Global SuperstarBorn on August 11, 1953, in Augusta, Georgia, Terry Gene Bollea grew up in Tampa, Florida, where he developed a love for music and sports. Before stepping into the wrestling ring, Bollea was a musician, playing bass in local rock bands, and a bodybuilder with an imposing physique. Standing at 6’7” and weighing over 300 pounds in his prime, Bollea’s size and charisma caught the attention of wrestling promoters in the late 1970s.Hogan’s wrestling career began in 1977 under various ring names like Terry Boulder and Sterling Golden. His big break came when he joined the World Wrestling Federation (WWF, now WWE) in 1979. Inspired by comic book hero The Incredible Hulk and bodybuilder Lou Ferrigno, Bollea adopted the moniker “Hulk Hogan,” a name that would become synonymous with professional wrestling.Hogan’s rise to fame exploded in the 1980s, fueled by his partnership with WWF chairman Vince McMahon. With his red and yellow gear, handlebar mustache, and “24-inch pythons” (his biceps), Hogan became the face of “Hulkamania,” a cultural movement that captivated millions. His signature entrance music, “Real American,” and catchphrases like “Whatcha gonna do when Hulkamania runs wild on you?” resonated with fans of all ages.Hogan’s feuds with iconic wrestlers like Andre the Giant, “Macho Man” Randy Savage, and The Iron Sheik drew record-breaking audiences. His body slam of the 520-pound Andre the Giant at WrestleMania III in 1987, in front of 93,173 fans at the Pontiac Silverdome, remains one of the most iconic moments in wrestling history. Hogan’s charisma and storytelling ability helped elevate wrestling from a niche sport to a mainstream entertainment juggernaut.
Hulk Hogan’s Impact on Pop CultureHulk Hogan wasn’t just a wrestler; he was a pop culture icon. His influence extended far beyond the ring, making him a household name in the 1980s and 1990s. Hogan starred in films like Rocky III (1982), where he played the villainous Thunderlips, and later appeared in movies such as No Holds Barred (1989), Suburban Commando (1991), and Mr. Nanny (1993). While his acting career never reached the heights of his wrestling fame, Hogan’s larger-than-life persona made him a natural fit for Hollywood.Hogan also ventured into television, hosting Saturday Night Live in 1985 alongside Mr. T and starring in the animated series Hulk Hogan’s Rock ‘n’ Wrestling. From 2005 to 2007, he gave fans a glimpse into his personal life with the VH1 reality show Hogan Knows Best, featuring his then-wife Linda Hogan and their children, Brooke and Nick Hogan. The show highlighted Hogan’s role as a family man, though it also foreshadowed the personal challenges that would later unfold.Hogan’s crossover appeal helped professional wrestling gain legitimacy in mainstream media. He appeared on talk shows like The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson and even teamed up with celebrities like Muhammad Ali and Liberace to promote wrestling events. His ability to connect with audiences made him a trailblazer, paving the way for future wrestling stars like Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and John Cena to transition into Hollywood.
Hulk Hogan’s Controversies: The Highs and LowsWhile Hulk Hogan’s contributions to wrestling are undeniable, his career was not without controversy. Over the years, Hogan faced criticism for his actions both in and out of the ring, which at times tarnished his legacy.Steroid Use in WrestlingIn the 1980s and 1990s, steroid use was rampant in professional wrestling, and Hogan was no exception. He openly admitted to using anabolic steroids during his career, particularly in the 1980s, when the pressure to maintain his physique was intense. In 1994, Hogan testified in Vince McMahon’s case, receiving immunity in exchange for his testimony about steroid distribution in WWE. While his testimony helped McMahon’s acquittal, some viewed it as a betrayal of his mentor, damaging his reputation among peers.The Gawker Lawsuit and Racist RemarksOne of the most significant controversies in Hogan’s career came in 2015 when a video surfaced from a 2007 sex tape, in which Hogan used racial slurs while discussing his daughter Brooke’s dating life. The tape, which also featured Hogan with Heather Dubow, the wife of his friend Bubba “The Love Sponge” Clem, was published by Gawker Media. The fallout was swift: WWE terminated Hogan’s contract, removed him from the WWE Hall of Fame, and distanced itself from the star.Hogan sued Gawker Media for invasion of privacy, with the lawsuit backed by tech billionaire Peter Thiel, who had his own grievances against Gawker. In 2016, Hogan won a $140 million judgment, which forced Gawker into bankruptcy and led to its closure. While the lawsuit was a legal victory, it sparked debates about First Amendment rights and the ethics of publishing private material.Hogan was reinstated into the WWE Hall in 2018 after issuing apologies and engaging in community outreach. However, his return was met with mixed reactions, and at his final WWE appearance in January 2025, he was booed by fans, signaling that some had not forgiven him.Political AffiliationsIn his later years, Hogan became a vocal supporter of Donald Trump and the “Make America Great Again” (MAGA) movement. His appearance at the 2024 Republican National Convention, where he ripped off his shirt to reveal a Trump-Vance campaign shirt, was a polarizing moment. Hogan’s political involvement drew criticism from fans who preferred their wrestling heroes to remain apolitical, but it also cemented his status as a cultural figure beyond the ring.
Hulk Hogan’s Health Struggles and Final DaysHogan’s physical health had been a concern for years, a consequence of the toll his wrestling career took on his body. Over the course of his career, he underwent over 25 surgeries, including 10 back surgeries, knee and hip replacements, shoulder procedures, and eye and abdominal surgeries. The physical demands of wrestling, coupled with his high-risk moves like the leg drop, left him with chronic pain and mobility issues.In May 2025, Hogan underwent neck surgery, which his representatives described as successful. However, rumors about his declining health persisted. In June 2025, Florida radio host Bubba Ray Dudley claimed that Hogan was in poor health, prompting Hogan’s wife, Sky Daily, to deny reports that he was in a coma and affirm that his heart was “strong.” Just two days before his death, Hogan’s longtime friend and on-screen manager Jimmy Hart posted on social media that Hogan was in “phenomenal” health, attempting to quell speculation.On July 24, 2025, emergency responders were called to Hogan’s home in Clearwater, Florida, at 9:51 a.m. following a report of cardiac arrest. Despite efforts to revive him, Hogan was pronounced dead at Morton Plant Hospital at 11:17 a.m. Clearwater Police Major Nate Burnside stated there were “no signs of foul play or suspicious activity,” and the death was attributed to cardiac arrest, though an official investigation is ongoing.Hogan’s health struggles were compounded by his history of heart issues and recent surgeries. His manager, Chris Volo, confirmed that Hogan was surrounded by family at the time of his passing, including his wife Sky Daily and children Brooke and Nick Hogan.
Hulk Hogan’s Family and Personal LifeHogan’s personal life was as colorful as his wrestling career. He was married three times and had two children, Brooke and Nick Hogan, from his first marriage to Linda Claridge (1983–2007). His second marriage to Jennifer McDaniel lasted from 2010 to 2021, and in 2023, he married Sky Daily, a yoga instructor 25 years his junior. Hogan and Daily were baptized together in December 2023, an event Hogan called the “greatest day of my life.”Brooke Hogan, a singer and reality TV star, and Nick Hogan, who faced legal troubles following a 2007 car accident that left a friend permanently injured, were featured alongside their parents on Hogan Knows Best. In recent years, Brooke revealed she was estranged from both parents, citing personal reasons unrelated to their divorce. Despite these challenges, Hogan remained a devoted father, and Nick paid tribute to him on Father’s Day 2025 with a heartfelt social media post.Hogan’s third wife, Sky Daily, played a significant role in his final years. The couple often shared glimpses of their life together, including their support for Trump at political events. Daily’s three children from a previous relationship also became part of Hogan’s extended family.
Hulk Hogan’s Net Worth in 2025At the time of his passing, Hulk Hogan’s net worth was estimated to be around $25 million, a figure built through his wrestling career, endorsements, acting roles, and business ventures. Hogan earned significant sums during his WWF and WCW runs, with his peak earnings in the 1980s and 1990s reportedly reaching millions per year. His Gawker lawsuit settlement, which netted him approximately $31 million after legal fees, bolstered his wealth.In recent years, Hogan invested in entrepreneurial ventures like Real American Beer and Real American Freestyle, a new wrestling promotion focused on traditional, Olympic-style wrestling. He also owned a memorabilia shop in Florida and planned to open a bar opposite Madison Square Garden in New York City. Despite his wealth, Hogan’s numerous surgeries and legal battles, including a $50 million malpractice lawsuit against the Laser Spine Institute in 2013, took a financial toll.
Tributes to Hulk Hogan: A Wrestling Legend RememberedFollowing Hogan’s passing, tributes poured in from the wrestling world, Hollywood, and political spheres. WWE issued a statement mourning the loss of “one of pop culture’s most recognizable figures,” crediting Hogan with helping the company achieve global recognition in the 1980s. Vince McMahon called Hogan “the greatest WWE Superstar of ALL TIME,” praising his grit and unbridled passion.Wrestling legends like Ric Flair, Triple H, and Jake “The Snake” Roberts shared heartfelt messages. Flair wrote, “Hulkster, no one will ever compare to you,” while Triple H noted that Hogan was the archetype of a global superstar. Sylvester Stallone, who worked with Hogan in Rocky III, called him “absolutely wonderful” and credited him with making the film “incredibly special.”Political figures, reflecting Hogan’s MAGA affiliation, also paid tribute. President Donald Trump called Hogan a “great friend” and praised his “electric speech” at the 2024 RNC. Vice President JD Vance, House Speaker Mike Johnson, and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis all expressed their condolences, with DeSantis noting that Hogan’s passing would strike an emotional chord for Generation X.Fans, known as “Hulkamaniacs,” flooded social media with memories of Hogan’s iconic matches and larger-than-life persona. Posts on X highlighted his impact, with one user writing, “Hulk Hogan was wrestling for me as a kid. RIP to a legend.”
The Legacy of HulkamaniaHulk Hogan’s legacy is complex, marked by unparalleled achievements and undeniable controversies. He was the face of professional wrestling during its golden age, a pioneer who brought the sport to new heights. His creation of the New World Order (NWO) in WCW, his reinvention as “Hollywood Hogan,” and his role in the Monday Night Wars demonstrated his ability to evolve and stay relevant.Yet, Hogan’s flaws—his steroid use, racist remarks, and backstage politics—cast a shadow over his accomplishments. As Slate noted, “Hogan was loathed long before he supported Donald Trump,” with some peers like Bret Hart and Jesse Ventura never forgiving him for past betrayals.Despite these challenges, Hogan’s impact on wrestling and pop culture is undeniable. He headlined eight WrestleManias, won six WWE championships, and inspired generations of wrestlers. His catchphrases, bandanas, and shirt-ripping theatrics remain etched in the collective memory of fans worldwide.
Conclusion: The Immortal Hulk HoganHulk Hogan’s passing on July 24, 2025, marked the end of an era. His journey from a small-town kid in Florida to a global icon is a testament to his charisma, work ethic, and showmanship. While his controversies sparked debate, his contributions to wrestling and entertainment are unmatched.
As we reflect on Hogan’s life, we remember the man who told kids to “eat their vitamins and say their prayers,” the performer who body-slammed giants, and the flawed human who faced his share of struggles. In the words of Hogan himself, “Hulkamania will live forever.” Rest in peace, Hulkster.
Hulk Hogan
This blog post dives deep into Hulk Hogan’s life, his monumental impact on wrestling, his controversies, his health struggles, and the details surrounding his passing. We’ll also explore his family, his net worth, and the tributes that poured in from fans, wrestlers, and political figures alike.
The Rise of Hulk Hogan: From Terry Bollea to Global SuperstarBorn on August 11, 1953, in Augusta, Georgia, Terry Gene Bollea grew up in Tampa, Florida, where he developed a love for music and sports. Before stepping into the wrestling ring, Bollea was a musician, playing bass in local rock bands, and a bodybuilder with an imposing physique. Standing at 6’7” and weighing over 300 pounds in his prime, Bollea’s size and charisma caught the attention of wrestling promoters in the late 1970s.Hogan’s wrestling career began in 1977 under various ring names like Terry Boulder and Sterling Golden. His big break came when he joined the World Wrestling Federation (WWF, now WWE) in 1979. Inspired by comic book hero The Incredible Hulk and bodybuilder Lou Ferrigno, Bollea adopted the moniker “Hulk Hogan,” a name that would become synonymous with professional wrestling.Hogan’s rise to fame exploded in the 1980s, fueled by his partnership with WWF chairman Vince McMahon. With his red and yellow gear, handlebar mustache, and “24-inch pythons” (his biceps), Hogan became the face of “Hulkamania,” a cultural movement that captivated millions. His signature entrance music, “Real American,” and catchphrases like “Whatcha gonna do when Hulkamania runs wild on you?” resonated with fans of all ages.Hogan’s feuds with iconic wrestlers like Andre the Giant, “Macho Man” Randy Savage, and The Iron Sheik drew record-breaking audiences. His body slam of the 520-pound Andre the Giant at WrestleMania III in 1987, in front of 93,173 fans at the Pontiac Silverdome, remains one of the most iconic moments in wrestling history. Hogan’s charisma and storytelling ability helped elevate wrestling from a niche sport to a mainstream entertainment juggernaut.
Hulk Hogan’s Impact on Pop CultureHulk Hogan wasn’t just a wrestler; he was a pop culture icon. His influence extended far beyond the ring, making him a household name in the 1980s and 1990s. Hogan starred in films like Rocky III (1982), where he played the villainous Thunderlips, and later appeared in movies such as No Holds Barred (1989), Suburban Commando (1991), and Mr. Nanny (1993). While his acting career never reached the heights of his wrestling fame, Hogan’s larger-than-life persona made him a natural fit for Hollywood.Hogan also ventured into television, hosting Saturday Night Live in 1985 alongside Mr. T and starring in the animated series Hulk Hogan’s Rock ‘n’ Wrestling. From 2005 to 2007, he gave fans a glimpse into his personal life with the VH1 reality show Hogan Knows Best, featuring his then-wife Linda Hogan and their children, Brooke and Nick Hogan. The show highlighted Hogan’s role as a family man, though it also foreshadowed the personal challenges that would later unfold.Hogan’s crossover appeal helped professional wrestling gain legitimacy in mainstream media. He appeared on talk shows like The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson and even teamed up with celebrities like Muhammad Ali and Liberace to promote wrestling events. His ability to connect with audiences made him a trailblazer, paving the way for future wrestling stars like Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and John Cena to transition into Hollywood.
Hulk Hogan’s Controversies: The Highs and LowsWhile Hulk Hogan’s contributions to wrestling are undeniable, his career was not without controversy. Over the years, Hogan faced criticism for his actions both in and out of the ring, which at times tarnished his legacy.Steroid Use in WrestlingIn the 1980s and 1990s, steroid use was rampant in professional wrestling, and Hogan was no exception. He openly admitted to using anabolic steroids during his career, particularly in the 1980s, when the pressure to maintain his physique was intense. In 1994, Hogan testified in Vince McMahon’s case, receiving immunity in exchange for his testimony about steroid distribution in WWE. While his testimony helped McMahon’s acquittal, some viewed it as a betrayal of his mentor, damaging his reputation among peers.The Gawker Lawsuit and Racist RemarksOne of the most significant controversies in Hogan’s career came in 2015 when a video surfaced from a 2007 sex tape, in which Hogan used racial slurs while discussing his daughter Brooke’s dating life. The tape, which also featured Hogan with Heather Dubow, the wife of his friend Bubba “The Love Sponge” Clem, was published by Gawker Media. The fallout was swift: WWE terminated Hogan’s contract, removed him from the WWE Hall of Fame, and distanced itself from the star.Hogan sued Gawker Media for invasion of privacy, with the lawsuit backed by tech billionaire Peter Thiel, who had his own grievances against Gawker. In 2016, Hogan won a $140 million judgment, which forced Gawker into bankruptcy and led to its closure. While the lawsuit was a legal victory, it sparked debates about First Amendment rights and the ethics of publishing private material.Hogan was reinstated into the WWE Hall in 2018 after issuing apologies and engaging in community outreach. However, his return was met with mixed reactions, and at his final WWE appearance in January 2025, he was booed by fans, signaling that some had not forgiven him.Political AffiliationsIn his later years, Hogan became a vocal supporter of Donald Trump and the “Make America Great Again” (MAGA) movement. His appearance at the 2024 Republican National Convention, where he ripped off his shirt to reveal a Trump-Vance campaign shirt, was a polarizing moment. Hogan’s political involvement drew criticism from fans who preferred their wrestling heroes to remain apolitical, but it also cemented his status as a cultural figure beyond the ring.
Hulk Hogan’s Health Struggles and Final DaysHogan’s physical health had been a concern for years, a consequence of the toll his wrestling career took on his body. Over the course of his career, he underwent over 25 surgeries, including 10 back surgeries, knee and hip replacements, shoulder procedures, and eye and abdominal surgeries. The physical demands of wrestling, coupled with his high-risk moves like the leg drop, left him with chronic pain and mobility issues.In May 2025, Hogan underwent neck surgery, which his representatives described as successful. However, rumors about his declining health persisted. In June 2025, Florida radio host Bubba Ray Dudley claimed that Hogan was in poor health, prompting Hogan’s wife, Sky Daily, to deny reports that he was in a coma and affirm that his heart was “strong.” Just two days before his death, Hogan’s longtime friend and on-screen manager Jimmy Hart posted on social media that Hogan was in “phenomenal” health, attempting to quell speculation.On July 24, 2025, emergency responders were called to Hogan’s home in Clearwater, Florida, at 9:51 a.m. following a report of cardiac arrest. Despite efforts to revive him, Hogan was pronounced dead at Morton Plant Hospital at 11:17 a.m. Clearwater Police Major Nate Burnside stated there were “no signs of foul play or suspicious activity,” and the death was attributed to cardiac arrest, though an official investigation is ongoing.Hogan’s health struggles were compounded by his history of heart issues and recent surgeries. His manager, Chris Volo, confirmed that Hogan was surrounded by family at the time of his passing, including his wife Sky Daily and children Brooke and Nick Hogan.
Hulk Hogan’s Family and Personal LifeHogan’s personal life was as colorful as his wrestling career. He was married three times and had two children, Brooke and Nick Hogan, from his first marriage to Linda Claridge (1983–2007). His second marriage to Jennifer McDaniel lasted from 2010 to 2021, and in 2023, he married Sky Daily, a yoga instructor 25 years his junior. Hogan and Daily were baptized together in December 2023, an event Hogan called the “greatest day of my life.”Brooke Hogan, a singer and reality TV star, and Nick Hogan, who faced legal troubles following a 2007 car accident that left a friend permanently injured, were featured alongside their parents on Hogan Knows Best. In recent years, Brooke revealed she was estranged from both parents, citing personal reasons unrelated to their divorce. Despite these challenges, Hogan remained a devoted father, and Nick paid tribute to him on Father’s Day 2025 with a heartfelt social media post.Hogan’s third wife, Sky Daily, played a significant role in his final years. The couple often shared glimpses of their life together, including their support for Trump at political events. Daily’s three children from a previous relationship also became part of Hogan’s extended family.
Hulk Hogan’s Net Worth in 2025At the time of his passing, Hulk Hogan’s net worth was estimated to be around $25 million, a figure built through his wrestling career, endorsements, acting roles, and business ventures. Hogan earned significant sums during his WWF and WCW runs, with his peak earnings in the 1980s and 1990s reportedly reaching millions per year. His Gawker lawsuit settlement, which netted him approximately $31 million after legal fees, bolstered his wealth.In recent years, Hogan invested in entrepreneurial ventures like Real American Beer and Real American Freestyle, a new wrestling promotion focused on traditional, Olympic-style wrestling. He also owned a memorabilia shop in Florida and planned to open a bar opposite Madison Square Garden in New York City. Despite his wealth, Hogan’s numerous surgeries and legal battles, including a $50 million malpractice lawsuit against the Laser Spine Institute in 2013, took a financial toll.
Tributes to Hulk Hogan: A Wrestling Legend RememberedFollowing Hogan’s passing, tributes poured in from the wrestling world, Hollywood, and political spheres. WWE issued a statement mourning the loss of “one of pop culture’s most recognizable figures,” crediting Hogan with helping the company achieve global recognition in the 1980s. Vince McMahon called Hogan “the greatest WWE Superstar of ALL TIME,” praising his grit and unbridled passion.Wrestling legends like Ric Flair, Triple H, and Jake “The Snake” Roberts shared heartfelt messages. Flair wrote, “Hulkster, no one will ever compare to you,” while Triple H noted that Hogan was the archetype of a global superstar. Sylvester Stallone, who worked with Hogan in Rocky III, called him “absolutely wonderful” and credited him with making the film “incredibly special.”Political figures, reflecting Hogan’s MAGA affiliation, also paid tribute. President Donald Trump called Hogan a “great friend” and praised his “electric speech” at the 2024 RNC. Vice President JD Vance, House Speaker Mike Johnson, and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis all expressed their condolences, with DeSantis noting that Hogan’s passing would strike an emotional chord for Generation X.Fans, known as “Hulkamaniacs,” flooded social media with memories of Hogan’s iconic matches and larger-than-life persona. Posts on X highlighted his impact, with one user writing, “Hulk Hogan was wrestling for me as a kid. RIP to a legend.”
The Legacy of HulkamaniaHulk Hogan’s legacy is complex, marked by unparalleled achievements and undeniable controversies. He was the face of professional wrestling during its golden age, a pioneer who brought the sport to new heights. His creation of the New World Order (NWO) in WCW, his reinvention as “Hollywood Hogan,” and his role in the Monday Night Wars demonstrated his ability to evolve and stay relevant.Yet, Hogan’s flaws—his steroid use, racist remarks, and backstage politics—cast a shadow over his accomplishments. As Slate noted, “Hogan was loathed long before he supported Donald Trump,” with some peers like Bret Hart and Jesse Ventura never forgiving him for past betrayals.Despite these challenges, Hogan’s impact on wrestling and pop culture is undeniable. He headlined eight WrestleManias, won six WWE championships, and inspired generations of wrestlers. His catchphrases, bandanas, and shirt-ripping theatrics remain etched in the collective memory of fans worldwide.
Conclusion: The Immortal Hulk HoganHulk Hogan’s passing on July 24, 2025, marked the end of an era. His journey from a small-town kid in Florida to a global icon is a testament to his charisma, work ethic, and showmanship. While his controversies sparked debate, his contributions to wrestling and entertainment are unmatched.
As we reflect on Hogan’s life, we remember the man who told kids to “eat their vitamins and say their prayers,” the performer who body-slammed giants, and the flawed human who faced his share of struggles. In the words of Hogan himself, “Hulkamania will live forever.” Rest in peace, Hulkster.
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