WWE Icon Hulk Hogan Dies at 71 After Cardiac Arrest
Professional wrestling legend Hulk Hogan has died at the age of 71, according to TMZ Sports. Emergency services were called to Hogan’s home in Clearwater, Florida, early Thursday morning after a report of cardiac arrest. Witnesses reported a heavy emergency presence at the scene as Hogan was transported from the residence on a stretcher.
His death comes just weeks after his wife, Sky Daily Hogan, publicly shut down online rumors that the WWE star was in a coma, insisting that he was recovering well from recent surgeries and that his heart was “strong.” Sadly, those reassurances proved short-lived.
From Hulkamania to Hollywood: A Wrestling Pioneer
Born Terry Bollea, Hulk Hogan was more than just a wrestler, he was a movement. He was the catalyst that took professional wrestling from niche entertainment to global spectacle during the 1980s and 1990s. With his ripped physique, handlebar mustache, and iconic “Hulkamania” brand, Hogan became the face of WWF (now WWE), pulling in millions of fans with his charisma and energy.
Hogan’s reinvention in 1996 into the “Hollywood Hogan” persona with the New World Order (NWO) faction marked a cultural shift. The move redefined his career and helped usher in wrestling’s “Attitude Era,” contributing to record-breaking ratings during the Monday Night Wars between WCW and WWE.
Scandals, Redemption, and Second Acts
Hogan was first inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005, but his legacy took a hit in 2015 after a leaked tape revealed him making racist remarks. WWE swiftly removed him from their Hall of Fame and scrubbed much of his presence from the brand. However, in 2020, WWE reinstated Hogan, granting him a second induction, this time as part of the NWO.
Beyond the ring, Hogan made a cultural imprint in Hollywood. He played Thunderlips in Rocky III, and starred in several family-oriented films like Mr. Nanny, Suburban Commando, and 3 Ninjas: High Noon at Mega Mountain. His VH1 reality show Hogan Knows Best offered fans a look into his personal life and helped revive his public image in the 2000s.
Read More: The Best Heel Turns in WWE Wrestling History
Hulk Hogan’s Net Worth at Death: $25 Million
According to Celebrity Net Worth, Hulk Hogan was worth an estimated $25 million at the time of his death. While much of that came from wrestling, Hogan also had income from acting, endorsements, and business ventures.
At the height of his fame, he was among the highest-paid wrestlers in the world, reportedly earning millions per year during the 1980s and 1990s. His licensing deals and a legends contract with WWE added to his income even in later years.
One major financial moment came from his 2016 lawsuit against Gawker Media, which had published a private sex tape without his consent. Though the initial award was $140 million, Hogan reportedly received about $31 million after taxes and settlements.
However, he suffered major financial losses due to his divorce from Linda Hogan. He handed over 70% of the couple’s liquid assets, 40% ownership in several businesses, and $3 million in cash.
Business Ventures, Endorsements, and a Complex Legacy
Hogan also ventured into business with projects like Hogan’s Beach Shop and Hogan’s Hangout. Despite losing endorsement deals during the 2015 scandal, he continued to operate and expand his Florida-based retail outlets. Over the years, he endorsed brands like Honey Nut Cheerios, 1-800 LoanMart, and even launched the infamous Hulk Hogan’s Pastamania during his WCW days.
Though controversies and personal challenges shadowed parts of his career, Hulk Hogan’s impact on sports entertainment remains unmatched. His charisma, memorable promos, and ability to transcend wrestling made him a household name — and a cultural icon.
Wrestling Bids Farewell to an Era
As tributes pour in from fans, wrestlers, and celebrities around the world, it’s clear that Hulk Hogan was more than a superstar, he was a symbol of wrestling’s golden age. From the red and yellow to the black and white of the NWO, Hogan’s image is imprinted on generations of fans.
His passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy, like his famous catchphrase, will live on forever: “Whatcha gonna do when Hulkamania runs wild on you?”
Thanks for the Childhood Memories. Rest In Peace Legend.
Read More: The 20 Best WWE Wrestlers of the 1980s
