Hulk Hogan Dies at 71: Remembering the Wrestling Legend Who Defined a Generation
- Hulk Hogan, one of the most recognizable figures in the history of professional wrestling and a pop culture icon for decades, has died at the age of 71.
- The legendary performer, whose real name was Terry Gene Bollea, passed away Thursday morning at his home in Clearwater, Florida, following reported cardiac arrest.
- Just weeks after his return, he won the WWF Championship by defeating The Iron Sheik in January 1984, sparking what would come to be known as “Hulkamania.” With his ripped T-shirts, handlebar mustache, and signature red and yellow gear, Hogan’s larger-than-life persona helped launch professional wrestling into the mainstream.
Hulk Hogan, one of the most recognizable figures in the history of professional wrestling and a pop culture icon for decades, has died at the age of 71. The legendary performer, whose real name was Terry Gene Bollea, passed away Thursday morning at his home in Clearwater, Florida, following reported cardiac arrest. His death marks the end of an era for fans who grew up watching his electrifying presence both in and out of the ring.
From the moment he burst onto the scene in the early 1980s, Hogan captured the imagination of fans around the world. After signing with the World Wrestling Federation (now WWE) in late 1983, Hogan quickly became the face of the company. Just weeks after his return, he won the WWF Championship by defeating The Iron Sheik in January 1984, sparking what would come to be known as “Hulkamania.” With his ripped T-shirts, handlebar mustache, and signature red and yellow gear, Hogan’s larger-than-life persona helped launch professional wrestling into the mainstream.
He went on to headline eight of the first nine WrestleMania events and held the WWF Championship multiple times, often standing as the company’s top draw. His matches weren’t just athletic contests—they were blockbuster events. Hogan’s charisma, paired with his heroic image, drew in audiences far beyond the traditional wrestling fanbase, making him a staple of pop culture throughout the 1980s and early 1990s.
Even as fans became increasingly aware that professional wrestling was scripted and predetermined, Hogan’s popularity endured. He wasn’t just a champion in the ring—he was a symbol. His connection with the audience transcended the question of authenticity. Hogan made it clear that professional wrestling was about storytelling, energy, and larger-than-life characters, and he remained at the center of it all.
An essential part of Hulk Hogan’s appeal was his unforgettable entrance theme, “Real American.” Performed by Rick Derringer, the song was originally written for the tag team U.S. Express before being repurposed for Hogan. Its pounding guitar riff and patriotic lyrics became instantly associated with his character. As Hogan stormed down the aisle, the music blaring, it was more than just a theme—it was an anthem. “Real American” became a rallying cry, not just for Hogan fans, but for an entire generation that saw him as the embodiment of good triumphing over evil. To this day, the song remains one of the most iconic themes in professional wrestling history.
In 1996, Hogan stunned fans by turning heel for the first time in over a decade. Aligning himself with Scott Hall and Kevin Nash to form the New World Order (nWo) in WCW, Hogan embraced a darker persona that helped fuel one of the most successful eras in wrestling history. The move revitalized his career and played a key role in WCW’s ratings dominance during the late 1990s.
Outside of wrestling, Hogan pursued opportunities in film and television. He appeared in movies like Rocky III, Suburban Commando, Mr. Nanny, and starred in the TV series Thunder in Paradise. He also opened up his family life to viewers with the reality series Hogan Knows Best, which aired in the mid-2000s. His status as a household name extended well beyond the squared circle.
In recent years, Hogan continued to stay active in the public eye. Earlier this year, he was named commissioner of Real American Freestyle Wrestling, a promotion aiming to spotlight the legacy of traditional American wrestling. He also launched a new line of beer and made occasional appearances at conventions and fan events, where his influence remained strong.
Hogan is survived by his wife, Sky Daily, and his two children, Brooke and Nick, from a previous marriage. Just days before his death, his wife had spoken out to reassure fans that he was doing well following neck surgery, denying online rumors that he had fallen into a coma. The sudden news of his passing has shocked and saddened millions around the world.
While his personal life drew headlines over the years, Hogan’s place in wrestling history is undisputed. He played a central role in shaping modern professional wrestling and inspired generations of performers who followed. His charisma, resilience, and impact on the industry earned him a place not only in the WWE Hall of Fame but in the hearts of fans across the globe.
The chants of “Hogan! Hogan!” may no longer echo through arenas, but the spirit of Hulkamania—and the legacy of the man behind it—will live on.
