End of an Era: Wrestling Icon Hulk Hogan Dies at 71

From Hulkamania to Hollywood, the man who defined a generation of wrestling has passed away

The wrestling world has lost one of its biggest icons. Hulk Hogan, the superstar who transformed professional wrestling into a pop culture juggernaut in the 1980s, has died at the age of 71.

His death was confirmed by NBC News, citing his manager Chris Volo, and further reported by TMZ, which revealed emergency responders were called to Hogan’s Florida home for a suspected cardiac arrest.

The larger-than-life legend

Born Terry Bollea, Hogan was more than just a wrestler. With his 6’7″ frame, signature blond handlebar mustache, bandanas, and booming catchphrases like “Whatcha gonna do, brother?”, he became a household name.

Hogan burst onto the scene in the late ’70s, but it was the 1980s where he skyrocketed to superstardom. He helped redefine the World Wrestling Federation (now WWE), transforming it into mainstream entertainment. Alongside wrestling giants like Andre the Giant and “Rowdy” Roddy Piper, he was the face of a wrestling revolution, a true American hero in the ring.

His brand of entertainment, dubbed “Hulkamania,” became a global phenomenon.

More than the ring

Hogan’s charisma wasn’t limited to the squared circle. He became a crossover star, appearing in movies like Rocky III and No Holds Barred, and made TV appearances in shows like Baywatch. By the mid-2000s, he was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame, solidifying his place as one of the greatest entertainers in wrestling history.

Controversies and comebacks

Despite his fame, Hogan’s legacy wasn’t without controversy. A leaked private video and the use of racist language led to a highly publicized fall from grace in 2015. WWE severed ties with him, and he was removed from the Hall of Fame. But after a public apology and years out of the spotlight, he was eventually reinstated, with WWE acknowledging his influence while urging growth and reconciliation.

A Trump-era patriot

In recent years, Hogan was back in the spotlight, but in political arenas. He made waves with his enthusiastic endorsement of Donald Trump, even appearing at the 2024 Republican National Convention, where he famously tore off his shirt to reveal a Trump-Vance tank top.

“With our leader up there, my hero, that gladiator, we’re gonna bring America back together,” he declared on stage to a roaring crowd, proving that Hulkamania, though changed still had impact.

A legacy remembered

WWE released a statement saying, “WWE is saddened to learn WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has passed away. One of pop culture’s most recognisable figures, Hogan helped WWE achieve global recognition in the 1980s. WWE extends its condolences to Hogan’s family, friends, and fans.”

Fans and fellow wrestlers took to social media to pay tribute. “RIP to the real face of wrestling,” one user wrote on X. “Say what you want, no one packed arenas like Hogan did,” said another.

Hogan is survived by his two children from his first marriage to Linda Hogan. He was married three times and battled several health issues over the years, a reminder of the physical toll decades in the ring took on his body.

Whether you loved him, cheered him, or questioned his choices, Hulk Hogan was undeniably one of the most influential figures in modern wrestling and entertainment. His roar, his pose, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of millions who once believed in the power of Hulkamania.

{Source: IOL}

Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram

For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com