Tampa, FL – July 24, 2025 — Terry Gene Bollea, better known to the world as Hulk Hogan, the iconic professional wrestler whose charisma, strength, and larger-than-life persona helped redefine sports entertainment, died today of a heart attack at his home in Clearwater, Florida. He was 71.
Born on August 11, 1953, in Augusta, Georgia, and raised in Tampa, Bollea became the face of professional wrestling during the 1980s and early 1990s. With his red-and-yellow gear, 24-inch pythons, and booming voice, Hogan became a cultural phenomenon, inspiring a generation of fans with his messages of perseverance, belief, and the power of “Hulkamania.”
Hogan’s meteoric rise began in the World Wrestling Federation (now WWE), where he headlined the first nine WrestleMania events and clashed with icons like André the Giant and “Macho Man” Randy Savage. His unforgettable presence in and out of the ring helped turn WWE into a global entertainment powerhouse.
In the mid-1990s, Hogan reinvented himself as “Hollywood Hogan” in World Championship Wrestling (WCW), forming the New World Order (nWo) and revolutionizing the industry once again. His heel turn shocked fans and reinvigorated his career, proving his versatility and showmanship.
Outside the ring, Hogan appeared in movies (Rocky III, Mr. Nanny) and television, most notably starring in the reality series Hogan Knows Best. Despite personal controversies and health setbacks, he remained a resilient and deeply beloved figure in pop culture.
He is survived by his children, Brooke and Nick Bollea, and a legacy that stretches across generations of wrestling fans and pop culture devotees.
A private funeral service will be held by the family, with a public celebration of life expected in the coming weeks.
Terry “Hulk Hogan” Bollea’s heart may have stopped, but the spirit of Hulkamania will live forever.
Whatcha gonna do, brother… now that the strongest arms in the world have finally found rest?
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