WORLD Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) iconic wrestler Hulk Hogan has passed away at the age of 71, according to reports from US media on Thursday night (Friday in the Philippines).
NBC News reported that Hogan died at his home in Florida, according to his manager Chris Volo, while a separate report from TMZ stated that Hogan’s death could be due to a cardiac arrest.
Hogan, whose real name was Terry Bollea, rose to fame in the 1980s as the face of the World Wrestling Federation or WWF (now WWE).
Known for his 6-foot-7 frame, trademark blond handlebar mustache, and red-and-yellow attire, Hogan became one of the most recognizable figures in professional wrestling.
“WWE is saddened to learn WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has passed away. One of pop culture’s most recognizable figures, Hogan helped WWE achieve global recognition in the 1980s,” WWE said on social media. “WWE extends its condolences to Hogan’s family, friends, and fans.”
Hogan debuted in the WWF in 1979 and became a fan favorite during the mid-1980s, performing alongside iconic figures such as Andre the Giant and “Rowdy” Roddy Piper.
His popularity helped usher professional wrestling into mainstream entertainment, boosting television ratings and merchandise sales.
Beyond the ring, Hogan enjoyed a successful crossover into acting, appearing in films like Rocky III and No Holds Barred, as well as television shows including Baywatch. He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005.
In later years, Hogan faced controversies, including the leak of an intimate video and backlash for his use of racist language. WWE cut ties with him in 2015 following the latter incident. He later apologized and was reinstated into the WWE Hall of Fame.
He had suffered various health issues in recent years, attributed to decades of physical strain in the wrestling ring. He was married three times and had two children with his first wife, Linda./PN
