Hulk Hogan Dead At 71 After Cardiac Arrest Call: Latest Updates

Hulk Hogan’s health battles and multiple surgeries

Hulk Hogan’s medical history reflects the tough physical toll decades of professional wrestling had on his body.

Over the course of his career and retirement, he underwent more than 25 major surgeries, including extensive work on his back, neck, hips, shoulders, and knees.

As a result, Hogan struggled with nerve damage and chronic pain, which led to an extended battle with addiction to prescription painkillers and alcohol. He later spoke candidly about overcoming these addictions, crediting CBD use and total sobriety for his improved health and mental clarity.

“There was a period of time, about five or six years ago, where I was in crazy pain to the extent I couldn’t even function. When you have back surgery, it takes a good year for your body to recover, yet they were cutting on me every four months,” Hogan told People magazine in 2023.

He said that while he needed the pain medication then, once things started to get better, he was still taking the drugs.

“Once things started to wind down, they continued giving me the same meds. It got to a point where I’d recovered from the tenth back surgery, and the pharmacy would call me and say, ‘Your prescription’s ready,’ and like a dog chasing a bone, I’d go pick it up,” he said.

He said that he finally had a reckoning with himself and said, ” ‘I’m not in pain. I don’t need this. My body hurts from all the wrestling injuries, but I’m not in this excruciating pain that I can’t live with.'”

Hogan said he’d also given up drinking at the end of 2022 for his health.

In early 2025, he had a four-level cervical spine fusion procedure to address chronic neck pain and nerve issues. While this surgery led to temporary mobility concerns—reportedly requiring a cane—Hogan continued to make public appearances and remained active in media engagements.

Hogan passed away from cardiac arrest at his home in Clearwater, Florida, on Thursday at the age of 71.

Charlotte Flair honors Hulk Hogan’s support during family crisis after news of his death

WWE superstar and daughter of Ric Flair, Charlotte Flair, paid tribute to Hulk Hogan following his passing at the age of 71, sharing a personal memory of his kindness during a difficult time. In a heartfelt post on X, Flair recalled Hogan’s support when her father, wrestling legend Ric Flair, nearly died eight years ago.

JD Vance, Pete Hegseth remember the wrestling icon

Vice President JD Vance, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth are among the high ranking politicians paying tribute to Hulk Hogan after his death at 71 on Thursday.

“Hulk Hogan was a great American icon,” Vance wrote in his post on X.

“One of the first people I ever truly admired as a kid. The last time I saw him we promised we’d get beers together next time we saw each other. The next time will have to be on the other side, my friend! Rest in peace.”

Hegseth posted a picture of the WWE star in the ring with a simple “RIP” alongside an American flag and bicep emojis.

Earlier today, Trump Jr. also paid tribute, writing, “R.I.P to a legend.”

Hulk Hogan third celebrity to die this week following Ozzy Osbourne and Malcolm-Jamal Warner

Hulk Hogan is the third celebrity to die this week since Monday.

Social media platforms also lit up this week with tributes to Ozzy Osbourne and Malcolm-Jamal Warner, both of whom tragically passed away within days of each other.

Osbourne died on July 22 at age 76, just weeks after his final performance with Black Sabbath. Warner, best known for his role as Theo Huxtable on The Cosby Show, drowned off the coast of Costa Rica on July 20 at age 54.

JD Vance pays tribute: ‘A great American icon’

Vice President JD Vance shared a post on X, paying tribute to Hulk Hogan.

Piers Morgan reveals real person behind Hulk Hogan’s bombastic persona

British journalist Piers Morgan has honored the “most iconic wrestler in history” as he revealed a little of the real life Hulk Hogan, behind his bombastic wrestling persona.

“RIP Hulk Hogan – the most iconic wrestler in history, a wonderful character, and in person, a far gentler, charming, intelligent man far removed from his snarling beast ring (and Rocky movie!) persona. Sad news,” he wrote on X.

Jake The Snake pays tribute to Hogan

Aurelian Smith Jr., better known by his wrestling ring name Jake “The Snake” Roberts, has paid tribute to Hulk Hogan.

“It’s hard to put into words what Terry “Hulk Hogan” Bollea meant to professional wrestling and entertainment,” he wrote on Instagram, next to a photo of himself and Hogan.

“He may be gone, but his memory and legacy will live forever.”

Hulk Hogan’s family life spanned three marriages and two children

Wrestling legend Hulk Hogan, born Terry Bollea, was married three times throughout his life. His first and longest marriage was to Linda Bollea from 1983 to 2009, during which they welcomed two children—Brooke and Nick—who later appeared alongside him in the VH1 reality series Hogan Knows Best.

In 2010, Hogan married Jennifer McDaniel, but the couple divorced in 2021. He found love again with yoga instructor Sky Daily, whom he married in a private ceremony in Clearwater, Florida, in 2023.

Sky, Brooke, and Nick survive Hogan.

Inside Hulk Hogan and Donald Trump’s lengthy friendship

Hulk Hogan and Donald Trump have shared a long-standing public association dating back to the 1980s, when Trump hosted WrestleMania IV and V at his Trump Plaza in Atlantic City.

Hogan was the headliner at both events, and the partnership helped elevate WWE’s mainstream appeal. The two men, both larger-than-life showmen, developed a mutual admiration, frequently appearing together in media and promoting each other’s ventures. Their relationship reflected a blend of wrestling spectacle and business glamor.

In the 2000s, both transitioned into reality television—Hogan with Hogan Knows Best and Trump with The Apprentice—further cementing their status as household names. Though Hogan didn’t participate in Trump’s famous “Battle of the Billionaires” match at WrestleMania 23, he supported Trump’s involvement in WWE, which culminated in Trump being inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2013. Hogan himself had been inducted in 2005, and both were seen as symbols of Americana in the entertainment world.

Politically, Hogan flirted with support for Trump during the 2016 presidential campaign, even joking about being his running mate.

In 2024, during Trump’s presidential campaign, Hogan appeared at the RNC where he called Trump a “hero” and “gladiator.”

“Let Trump-a-mania run wild, brother,” he said before ripping off his shirt off in an unforgettable moment.

There were rumors in the early 1990s and again in the 2010s, that Hogan might try to run for public office—particularly Governor of Florida, where he resides. These never materialized, and Hogan himself usually dismissed them as media speculation or fan chatter.

Lee Greenwood reacts: ‘Our hearts are with the Hogan family’

Singer Lee Greenwood said on X: “Our hearts are with the Hogan family, the millions of fans, and friends across the world as we mourn this heartbreaking loss.”

WATCH: Hulk Hogan’s last post on X

Hulk Hogan’s final post on X was on April 30 of this year, captioned, “Our Third Man.”

Hogan’s manager ‘heartbroken’ over his loss

Hulk Hogan’s manager, Linda Bose, told Newsweek Thursday that she was “heartbroken” over the loss of the star.

“Unfortunately we must confirm that Terry Bollea, aka Hulk Hogan passed away this morning,” she said.

“We are heartbroken. He was such a great human being and friend.”

Medics called out to Hulk Hogan for cardiac arrest, star rushed to hospital before pronounced dead

Police confirmed that medics had been responding to calls about a cardiac arrest at Hulk Hogan’s house on Thursday.

Clearwater Police Department said that emergency crews responded to the 9.51 a.m. 911 call at Hogan’s home in Clearwater Beach.

“The nature of the call was for a cardiac arrest. A 71-year-old resident, Terry Bollea, also known as Hulk Hogan, was treated by Clearwater Fire & Rescue crews before being taken by Sunstar to Morton Plant Hospital, where he was pronounced deceased,” a spokesperson said.

WWE: ‘Hogan helped WWE achieve global recognition in the 1980s’

In a statement posted to social media, WWE paid tribute to and called Hogan “one of pop culture’s most recognizable figures,” crediting him with helping the company achieve global recognition in the 1980s. The organization extended condolences to Hogan’s family, friends, and fans.

Hulk Hogan’s relationship with Donald Trump

Wrestling legend Hulk Hogan made headlines at the 2024 Republican National Convention with a fiery endorsement of Donald Trump. Taking the stage in Milwaukee, Hogan ripped off his shirt to reveal a Trump-Vance 2024 tee, drawing cheers from the crowd.

“I’ve known that man for over 35 years, and he’s always been the biggest patriot,” Hogan said. “No matter the odds, he always finds a way to win.”

The six-time WWE champion called Trump a “gladiator” and urged Americans to “let Trumpamania run wild.”

Hulk Hogan’s biggest controversies

Hulk Hogan’s long wrestling and acting career was not without major controversies.

While beloved for decades as a wrestling icon and pop culture figure, his legacy has been complicated by scandals involving racism, lawsuits, personal conduct, and financial missteps.

Some of the biggest controversies include:

• Racist Remarks (2015): Caught using racial slurs in a leaked sex tape, leading to WWE cutting ties.
• Sex Tape Lawsuit: Sued Gawker for posting a sex tape, winning $140 million and bankrupting the site.
• Divorce Scandal: Messy split from Linda Hogan revealed alleged infidelity and financial disputes.
• Son’s Car Crash: Nick Hogan caused a crash that left a friend brain-damaged, drawing public backlash.
• Financial Troubles: Faced lawsuits, business failures, and financial strain after years of lavish spending.

List of Hulk Hogan’s awards and honors

Throughout his decades-long career, Hulk Hogan—born Terry Gene Bollea—earned accolades across wrestling, entertainment, and philanthropy. His influence extended far beyond the ring, making him one of the most decorated and polarizing figures in sports entertainment.

• WWE Hall of Fame: Inducted twice—individually in 2005 and as part of the New World Order in 2020
• Championships:
  • 6-time WWE Champion
  • 6-time WCW World Heavyweight Champion
  • 2-time Royal Rumble winner (1990, 1991)
  • IWGP Heavyweight Champion (original version) in New Japan Pro-Wrestling
  • WWE Tag Team Champion with Edge
• Pro Wrestling Illustrated Awards:
  • Wrestler of the Year (1987, 1991, 1994)
  • Match of the Year (1985, 1988, 1990, 2002)
  • Most Popular Wrestler (1985, 1989, 1990)
  • Inspirational Wrestler (1983, 1999)
  • Comeback of the Year (1994, 2002)
• Other Wrestling Honors:
  • Inducted into the Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame (2003)
  • International Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame (2021)
  • Wrestling Observer Newsletter Hall of Fame (1996)
• Entertainment Awards:
  • Kids’ Choice Award for Favorite Male Athlete (1988)
  • Teen Choice Award nominee for “Hogan Knows Best” (2006)
• Public Recognition:
  • Named 2008 King of the Krewe of Bacchus in New Orleans, honoring his popularity among Make-A-Wish children
  • Inducted into the Boys and Girls Club Alumni Hall of Fame (2018)
  • Honored at Madison Square Garden’s “Hulk Hogan Appreciation Night” in 2015
  • Ranked No. 2 on Sports Illustrated‘s list of Greatest WWE Wrestlers of All Time

Donald Trump Jr. shares tribute: ‘R.I.P. to a legend’

Donald Trump Jr. shared a tribute to Hulk Hogan after learning of his death.

Life In Photos: Hulk Hogan’s wrestling legacy spans decades and promotions

Hulk Hogan’s career in professional wrestling began in 1977 and evolved into one of the most influential runs in sports entertainment history. From his early days as Terry “The Hulk” Boulder to becoming the face of the WWF’s “Hulkamania” era, Hogan helped transform wrestling into a global phenomenon.

He dominated the WWF throughout the 1980s, winning multiple championships and headlining nearly every major event. In 1994, Hogan joined WCW and reinvented himself as a villain, forming the New World Order (nWo) and ushering in a new era of edgy storytelling. His heel turn became a defining moment in wrestling history.

Hogan returned to WWE in the 2000s, capturing the Undisputed Championship and earning a Hall of Fame induction in 2005. He also appeared in TNA and NJPW, expanding his influence across promotions. Outside the ring, Hogan starred in films, launched businesses, and remained a pop culture icon despite personal controversies.

Fellow wrestling great Ric Flair pays tribute to ‘close friend’ Hogan

Fellow WWE legend Ric Flair has paid tribute to his “close friend” Hulk Hogan is a touching X post.

“Hulk Has Been By My Side Since We Started In The Wrestling Business,” he wrote. “An Incredible Athlete, Talent, Friend, And Father! Our Friendship Has Meant The World To Me.

“He Was Always There For Me Even When I Didn’t Ask For Him To Be. He Was One Of The First To Visit Me When I Was In The Hospital With A 2% Chance Of Living, And He Prayed By My Bedside. Hulk Also Lent Me Money When Reid Was Sick.

“Hulkster, No One Will Ever Compare To You! Rest In Peace My Friend,” he added.

Hogan’s Hollywood career: From Rocky III to Mr Nanny

Hulk Hogan was one of the first wrestling to make the jump from WWE to Hollywood.

Hogan’s first major film role came in “Rocky III” in 1982, where he played the character Thunderlips, a flamboyant wrestler who takes on Sylvester Stallone’s Rocky Balboa in a charity bout. The role was brief but memorable, launching Hogan into mainstream film consciousness and opening doors in Hollywood.

He went on to star in a number of films throughout the late ’80s and ’90s, typically in action-comedy roles tailored to his all-American strongman image.

Among his most famous works was “No Holds Barred” (1989), produced by WWE (then WWF), in which he starred as Rip, a wrestling champion standing up to corruption. Though critically panned, the film developed a cult following and became a quintessential example of Hogan’s brand of over-the-top heroism.

In the 1990s, Hogan leaned heavily into family films. Notable entries include “Suburban Commando” (1991), where he played an intergalactic warrior stranded on Earth, and “Mr. Nanny” (1993), where he portrayed a former wrestler turned childminder. These roles, while often met with lukewarm reception from critics, contributed to Hogan’s status as a beloved figure among younger audiences. He also starred in “Santa with Muscles” (1996), a holiday-themed film that has since become infamous for its campy charm.

Television was another platform where Hogan maintained a presence. He starred in the action series “Thunder in Paradise” (1994), playing a former Navy SEAL piloting a high-tech boat while battling crime. Though the show was short-lived, it enjoyed reruns and VHS success and became a cult favorite among Hogan’s fans.

In the 2000s, Hogan’s Hollywood relevance shifted more toward reality TV with “Hogan Knows Best” (2005–2007), a VH1 series that followed his family life and introduced viewers to his children, Brooke and Nick. The show became a hit and reignited interest in his public persona, leading to various spin-offs and appearances.

While he was never a critically acclaimed actor, Hogan’s Hollywood legacy is characterized by his larger-than-life presence, wholesome (albeit exaggerated) screen roles, and his ability to maintain crossover fame between wrestling and entertainment. His films, often kitschy and formulaic, nonetheless became part of the cultural fabric for a generation who saw Hulk Hogan not just as a wrestling icon, but as a bona fide movie star.

Charlie Kirk reacts: ‘An American icon’

American conservative political activist, author and media personality Charlie Kirk shared a post, paying tribute to Hulk Hogan, calling him “an American icon.”

Hulk Hogan survived by wife Sky, children Brooke and Nick

Hulk Hogan is survived by his wife, Sky Daily, whom he married in September 2023. Sky, a certified yoga instructor, had been a supportive partner during his later years and was reportedly with him when he passed.

Hogan also leaves behind two children from his previous marriage to Linda Claridge, which lasted from 1983 to 2009.

His daughter, Brooke Hogan, born in 1988, is a singer and television personality who gained fame through their reality show Hogan Knows Best. His son, Nick Hogan, born in 1990, also appeared on the show and is known for his involvement in motorsports and a highly publicized legal issue in the late 2000s.

In addition to his immediate family, Hogan is survived by stepchildren from Sky Daily’s prior relationships, though their identities have not been made public. Brooke Hogan gave birth to twins in January 2025, making them his first known grandchildren.

His brother, Allan Bollea, died in 1986, and no other living siblings have been reported. Hogan’s death marks the end of an era in both wrestling and pop culture. He leaves behind a complex legacy, shaped by both triumphs and controversies, and is remembered by millions of fans worldwide.

Hulk Hogan’s net worth revealed

At the time of his death, wrestling icon Hulk Hogan had an estimated net worth of $25 million, a figure shaped by decades of fame, legal battles, and extravagant living.

Hogan’s fortune included a $31 million settlement from his privacy lawsuit against Gawker.com, which was initially awarded $140 million before being reduced. His divorce from Linda Hogan in 2007 also took a significant toll—he surrendered 70% of their liquid assets, $3 million in cash, and 40% ownership in several business ventures.

Despite earning millions during his peak in the 1980s and 90s—including $1 million per WrestleMania appearance and $13 million from WCW between 1996 and 2000—Hogan admitted to spending “hundreds of millions” on a lavish lifestyle.

His legacy extends beyond the ring: Hogan helped transform pro wrestling into a global entertainment powerhouse and became a household name through film, television, and endorsements.

Hulk Hogan’s final post revealed

Hulk Hogan’s final post on Instagram has been revealed after his death on Thursday aged 71.

The iconic wrestler shared a post featuring a towel with two images of Hogan on in his wrestling prime.

In the foreground photo, Hogan, wearing a “Hulk Rules” shirt is holding a can of Real American Beer who also shared the post.

The post has already been inundated by fans posting tribute messages after news broke of his death.

Wrestling icon Hulk Hogan dies at 71 following reported cardiac arrest

Hulk Hogan, one of the most recognizable figures in professional wrestling, has died at age 71, TMZ reported. Emergency responders were dispatched to his Clearwater, Florida home early Thursday morning after a reported cardiac arrest. Hogan was transported to a hospital by stretcher, but efforts to revive him were unsuccessful.

The WWE Hall of Famer had recently undergone neck surgery and was recovering at home. Despite rumors of declining health, his wife Sky had publicly denied claims that he was in a coma, assuring fans that his heart remained strong.