Wrestling legend Hulk Hogan has died at the age of 71 due to cardiac arrest.
Gatekeepers News reports that emergency responders treated Hogan at his Clearwater, Florida home around 10 am local time (3 pm UK time) on Thursday, but he was pronounced dead at the hospital approximately an hour and 15 minutes later.
Hogan, born Terry Gene Bollea, was a household name in the 1980s and 1990s, known for his charismatic personality, distinctive blonde mustache, and colorful headbands. He played a significant role in transforming professional wrestling into a family-friendly entertainment sport.
Throughout his career, Hogan won six WWE championships and was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005 by Sylvester Stallone. He was also known for his iconic feuds with wrestlers like Andre the Giant, Randy Savage, and The Rock.
“Hogan helped WWE achieve global recognition in the 1980s,” WWE said in a statement. “WWE extends its condolences to Hogan’s family, friends, and fans.”
Fellow wrestler Ric Flair paid tribute to Hogan, saying, “I am absolutely shocked to hear about the passing of my close friend @HulkHogan! Hulk has been by my side since we started in the wrestling business. An incredible athlete, talent, friend, and father!”
Hogan’s death has sparked an outpouring of tributes from the wrestling world and beyond.
Clearwater Police Major Nate Burnside confirmed that there were “no signs of foul play or suspicious activity” following Hogan’s death and that his family is being supported.
