The wrestling universe is in mourning following the death of Hulk Hogan, born Terry Gene Bollea in 1953, who passed away at the age of 71 from cardiac arrest at his Clearwater, Florida home. Hogan had recently undergone multiple surgeries on his neck and heart and had faced escalating health challenges in recent years.

Hogan’s name became synonymous with the explosion of wrestling’s popularity in the 1980s. His signature persona—bright yellow and red attire, bold catchphrases like “Hulkamania is running wild!” and “Whatcha gonna do, brother?”—defined an era. From headlining the inaugural WrestleMania in 1985 to body-slamming André the Giant in 1987, he created some of the most unforgettable moments in sports entertainment.

Over his career, Hogan won six WWE World Championships and was inducted twice into the WWE Hall of Fame. He was central to the rise of the nWo in WCW, reshaping the wrestling landscape. Beyond the ring, he expanded into Hollywood with roles in “Rocky III”, “No Holds Barred”, and starred in the reality show “Hogan Knows Best”, solidifying his status as a pop culture figure.

Immediately after confirmation of his death, tributes poured in—from WWE stars like Triple H, Seth Rollins, and Ric Flair—who hailed him as a “giant of the sport” and "a voice for multiple generations." Social media overflowed with memories of his electrifying entrances and his signature term “brother.”

Despite controversies and scandals in later years, Hogan’s legacy remains towering. His larger-than-life charisma and persona created lifelong fans across generations.

As the wrestling world lays a legend to rest, it honors the man who helped transform WWE into a global phenomenon and inspired countless fans and athletes. Hulk Hogan may be gone, but Hulkamania lives forever.