Hulk Hogan: A Legendary Career and Lasting Legacy
The wrestling world is mourning the loss of Terry Gene Bollea, better known as Hulk Hogan, who passed away on July 24, 2025, at the age of 71. Hogan’s death was due to cardiac arrest at his home in Clearwater, Florida.
A Career Defined by Iconic Moments
Hogan’s career in the WWF/WWE spanned over four decades, during which he became a global phenomenon and an iconic figure in professional wrestling. He joined the WWF in 1983 and quickly rose to fame with his charismatic persona and impressive in-ring performances.
Hogan’s most notable moments include his first WWF Championship win in 1984, where he defeated The Iron Sheik, and his legendary match against Andre the Giant at WrestleMania III. He headlined eight of the first nine WrestleManias and was a key figure in the WWF’s national expansion.
Physical Stats & Personal Life
- Height & Vitals:
- Listed at approximately 6 ft 7 in (2.01 m), with a towering athletic physique often exceeding 300 lbs in peak shape
- Family & Relationships:
- First marriage with Linda Hogan (née Claridge) produced two children: Brooke (daughter) and Nick (son); divorced in 2007
- Second marriage to Jennifer McDaniel (2010–2022); later married Sky Daily in 2023
- Family Dynamics & Lifestyle:
- His reality series showcased life with Linda and their kids. Later family disputes included estrangement from daughter Brooke, who last spoke to him two weeks before his passing
- Wife Sky Daily was an active public presence, frequently addressing rumors and praising his recovery efforts post-surgery
- Hogan embraced Christian faith later in life, and underwent holistic lifestyle changes, especially after chronic injuries took a toll on his body
The nWo Era and Beyond
In the 1990s, Hogan joined WCW and formed the iconic New World Order (nWo) with Scott Hall and Kevin Nash. The nWo era was a defining period in professional wrestling, and Hogan’s heel turn shocked the world and cemented his status as a wrestling legend.
A Lasting Legacy
Hogan’s impact on professional wrestling extends beyond his in-ring performances. He was a pioneer in merchandising and branding, and his iconic bandana and mustache have become synonymous with the sport.
Hogan was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame twice, first in 2005 for his solo career and again in 2020 as part of the nWo. He also appeared in various films and TV shows, including Rocky III and Hogan Knows Best.
Tributes and Condolences
The wrestling community and fans around the world are paying tribute to Hogan’s legacy. WWE has confirmed his passing, and tributes have come in from Donald Trump, Sylvester Stallone, Ric Flair, and many others.
Hogan’s family, including his wife Sky Daily and children Brooke and Nick, are mourning his loss. His daughter Brooke had reportedly last spoken to him two weeks before his passing, and his wife Sky Daily has been addressing rumors and praising his recovery efforts.
A Life Well-Lived
Hogan’s life was marked by both triumph and challenges. He underwent multiple surgeries throughout his career and faced health issues in his later years. Despite these challenges, Hogan remained a beloved figure in the wrestling world and continued to be involved in various projects until his passing.
Hogan’s legacy will live on through the countless fans he inspired and the impact he had on professional wrestling. He will be deeply missed by the wrestling community and his fans around the world.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Terry Gene Bollea |
| Born | August 11, 1953, Augusta, Georgia |
| Height | ~6 ft 7 in (2.01 m) |
| WWF/WWE Career | Debuted 1977, joined WWF 1983, Hulkamania era, WCW, returns |
| Championships | 6× WWE Champion, multiple WCW titles |
| Hall of Fame | Inducted 2005 (solo), 2020 (nWo) |
| Marriages | Linda Hogan (two kids), Jennifer McDaniel, Sky Daily |
| Health | Multiple surgeries; final neck fusion in May 2025 |
| Death | July 24, 2025—cardiac arrest at home in Florida |
