It’s a somber day for the world of professional wrestling and beyond, as we mourn the passing of an undeniable titan, Terry Bollea, famously known to millions as Hulk Hogan. At 71, the man who roared, flexed, and inspired an entire generation of “Hulkamaniacs” took his final bow this morning, July 24, 2025. His representative, Linda Bose, shared the heartbreaking news with CBS News, stating, “Unfortunately, we must confirm that Terry Bollea, aka Hulk Hogan, passed away this morning. We are heartbroken. He was such a great human being and friend.”
The WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment), the organization he helped launch into mainstream pop culture prominence, responded quickly with a tribute calling Hogan “one of pop culture’s most recognizable figures.” They credited him with being instrumental in elevating the sport during its 1980s boom period and concluded their message with condolences to his family, friends, and legions of fans.
Born in 1953 in Augusta, Georgia, and raised in Florida, Bollea began his wrestling career in 1977, quickly attracting attention for his size, strength, and undeniable charisma. After a brief stint in the then-World Wrestling Federation in 1979, it was his return in 1981 that set the stage for a seismic shift in the wrestling landscape. Donning bright red and yellow, a bandana, and a handlebar mustache, Hogan became the face of the WWF’s expansion into global superstardom. His energetic entrances, theme music (Real American), and inspirational catchphrases turned him into more than just a performer—he became a cultural phenomenon.
He headlined the first-ever WrestleMania in 1985 alongside Mr. T, an event that not only legitimized wrestling as mainstream entertainment but also redefined the possibilities of sports entertainment. Throughout the ’80s and early ’90s, Hogan became a household name, an embodiment of heroic Americana, urging fans to say their prayers, eat their vitamins, and believe in themselves.
But his influence didn’t stop at the squared circle. Hogan’s charisma translated to Hollywood, where he starred in a number of family-friendly films like Mr. Nanny and Suburban Commando. One of his most iconic roles came in Rocky III, portraying Thunderlips opposite Sylvester Stallone. Stallone, paying tribute today, said, “He was absolutely wonderful and his amazing skill made Rocky III incredibly special. My heart breaks.
The mid-1990s brought a bold transformation as Hogan shocked fans by turning heel and founding the villainous New World Order (nWo) in World Championship Wrestling (WCW). This reinvention breathed new life into his career and helped WCW dominate wrestling ratings during the infamous Monday Night Wars. His ability to evolve and remain relevant was a rare feat in an industry where longevity is elusive. Hogan would later be inducted twice into the WWE Hall of Fame—once in 2005 as an individual and again in 2020 as a member of the nWo.
However, Hogan’s legacy was not without blemish. In 2015, the release of a private recording containing racist remarks led to his removal from WWE and public fallout. Though he was reinstated in 2018, the incident sparked deep debates about accountability, forgiveness, and celebrity redemption.
Despite undergoing multiple surgeries, including several back and neck operations, Hogan remained an enduring presence in wrestling circles. Earlier this year, he made a brief appearance at a WWE event, prompting both cheers and controversy—a sign of his complex, lasting imprint on the industry.
Tributes have poured in from around the world. U.S. Vice President JD Vance called him “a great American icon,” and longtime rival Ric Flair said, “He was an incredible athlete, talent, friend, and father.” John “Bradshaw” Layfield summed it up poignantly: “There will never be another. Hulkamania never dies.”
Terry Bollea is survived by his children, family, and a sprawling fan base that spans generations. More than just a wrestler, he was a symbol of belief, bravado, and entertainment in its purest form. His legacy is etched into the DNA of professional wrestling and pop culture at large.
Rest in power, Hulkster. Your impact, brother, will never be forgotten.
