Wrestling legend and WWE Hall of Fame Hulk Hogan passed away at the age of 71, his manager confirmed Thursday.
Hogan has been a WWE fixture for decades and began his wrestling career in 1977 before retiring in 2012.
He won six WWE Championships, and Sylvester Stallone was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005.
WWE responded to news of the death of one of the organisation’s biggest stars, posting on X, plus a tribute video for Hogan.
“WWE is saddened to learn that Hulk Hogan, the WWE Hall of Fame, has passed away,” WWE wrote.
WWE is sad to learn that WWE Hall of Fame Hulk Hogan has passed away.
One of pop culture’s most famous figures, Hogan helped WWE become globally recognized in the 1980s.
WWE expresses sadness to Hogan’s family, friends and fans.
– WWE (@WWE) July 24, 2025
Other compliments poured from the WWE world, such as former on-screen friends and enemies.
Triple H, Ric Flair, Charlotte Flair, John “Bradshaw” Layfielda and Brutus “The Barber” Beefcake were all posted on X after Hogan’s death.
WWE is not where we are today without bigger characters competing in the ring.
He was the prototype of what it meant to be a “superstar” – a global feeling that went back through millions of jobs… pic.twitter.com/wxpgfvahha
– Triple H (@tripleh) July 24, 2025
I’m absolutely shocked to hear about my best friend’s passing @hulkhogan! Hulk has been by my side ever since starting the wrestling business. Incredible athletes, talents, friends, dads! Our friendship means the world to me. He was always there for me… pic.twitter.com/rowlakmjr4
– ricflair® (@ricflairnatrboy) July 24, 2025
When I lost my father eight years ago, one of the few people there was Hulk Hogan for it all.
My heart breaks for Nick and Brook.
Brothers, rest in peace
– Charlotte Flare (@mscharlottewwe) July 24, 2025
This is one of the reasons I went into wrestling. The Hulk was always very kind to me and a celebrity who wanted to meet all the kids I brought from Bermuda. The legend of RIP. There are never other people. Hulkamania will never die. pic.twitter.com/cpkk68lqjj
– John Rayfield (@jclayfield) July 24, 2025
Throughout the good and bad times, I have always loved my brother Terry! I am devastated by the loss of a friend, so I wish I had time to repair my broken friendship before he died. With a big square circle in the sky until I meet your brother! I love you #hulkhogan #RIP pic.twitter.com/pwhntpy4cz
– Brutus Beefcake (@brutusbeefcake_) July 24, 2025
Named by the name Terry Borea, Hogan was the first-ever WrestleMania attraction in 1985, and he faced everyone from Andre the Giant and Randy Savage to Rock and even Vince McMahon for years at its signature event.
WWE said Hogan was “one of pop culture’s most famous figures” and “helped WWE to become globally recognized in the 1980s.”
“Hulxter’s superhuman size and undeniable charisma set the standard for what a superstar should be. The larger-than-life icon packed 93,173 WWE fans into the Pontiac Silver Dome, starring in films, television shows, his own animated series, and appearing in fans of his son style, appearing in his own animated series. According to the WWE website.
Hogan was a draw for wrestling fans of all ages, and he was immortalized in his heyday as an action figure popular with many young fans.
According to WWE, Hogan returned to the organization in 2014, hosting the WrestleMania 30 and celebrating his 61st birthday live show on Raw. He last appeared on the WWE Show on January 6, 2025, and made his final appearance on Monday Night Raw in Los Angeles.
Hogan passed away in Clearwater, Florida. Clearwater Fire and Rescue responded to the home due to cardiac arrest at 9:51 a.m. Thursday, according to a media release from the city. He was declared dead at the scene, the statement said.
