Wrestling legend Hulk Hogan dies at 71

Professional wrestling icon Hulk Hogan has died at the age of 71, World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) has confirmed.

In a statement released on Thursday, WWE expressed its condolences, saying it was “saddened to learn WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has passed away.” The company described Hogan as “one of pop culture’s most recognizable figures” who played a major role in helping WWE achieve global prominence during the 1980s.

Born Terry Bollea in 1953, Hogan rose to fame as one of the most influential figures in professional wrestling history. He joined the then-World Wrestling Federation (WWF) in 1979, briefly left in 1981, but made a triumphant return to become the face of the company. Hogan headlined the inaugural WrestleMania in 1985 at Madison Square Garden, teaming up with actor Mr. T to defeat Paul Orndorff and Roddy Piper a match that helped cement wrestling’s mainstream popularity.

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Hogan became a household name, expanding his career beyond wrestling into Hollywood films such as Mr. Nanny and Suburban Commando. His crossover appeal made him one of the most iconic personalities in both sports and entertainment.

Hogan was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005 and again in 2020 as part of the New World Order (NWO) faction. However, his legacy took a hit in 2015 when WWE terminated his contract after a leaked tape revealed him using a racial slur. The company reinstated him in 2018, stating he deserved a second chance, though several wrestlers, including The New Day and Titus O’Neil, publicly expressed discomfort over his return.

In his later years, Hogan made headlines for his appearances at political events, including rallies in support of former U.S. President Donald Trump. His most recent appearance on WWE’s Monday Night Raw was met with boos from fans, as he attempted to promote his beer brand.

Despite controversies, Hulk Hogan remains a towering figure in professional wrestling history, widely credited with shaping the industry into a global spectacle.

WWE said it extends its condolences to Hogan’s family, friends, and millions of fans worldwide.