Hulk Hogan, Wrestling Icon and Pop Culture Legend, Dies at 71 Clearwater, FL — Terry Gene Bollea, better known to the world as Hulk Hogan, the larger-than-life professional wrestling superstar who helped catapult the sport into mainstream entertainment during the 1980s and beyond, died Thursday, July 24, 2025, at his home in Clearwater, Florida. He was 71. Emergency responders were called to Hogan’s residence early Thursday morning, where he was pronounced dead of cardiac arrest, according to officials. With his trademark handlebar mustache, bandana, and booming charisma, Hogan became the face of professional wrestling’s golden era. His appeal transcended the ring, turning him into a global icon whose catchphrases — “Whatcha gonna do, brother?” — and heroic persona inspired a generation of fans. Rising to fame in the World Wrestling Federation (now WWE), Hogan headlined multiple WrestleMania events and was instrumental in making professional wrestling a household fixture in the 1980s. His rivalry with André the Giant, and later with stars like Randy “Macho Man” Savage and The Ultimate Warrior, defined a cultural moment in American entertainment. After leaving WWE in the early 1990s, Hogan had a high-profile run in World Championship Wrestling (WCW), where he reinvented himself as a villain in the New World Order (nWo), again changing the industry and captivating fans. Beyond the squared circle, Hogan appeared in television shows, movies, and endorsements, expanding his brand to mainstream audiences. He starred in films like Suburban Commando and Mr. Nanny, and had his own reality series, Hogan Knows Best. Though his career was marked by extraordinary highs, Hogan also faced personal and legal controversies, including a well-publicized legal battle over privacy rights. In later years, he worked to rebuild his public image and remained a revered figure among many wrestling fans. Hogan was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame twice — once in 2005 as an individual and again in 2020 as a member of the nWo.