By Kennedy Nalyanya
The wrestling world, and indeed the entire entertainment landscape, is mourning the loss of a true titan. Hulk Hogan, the larger-than-life figure with the iconic mustache, signature headscarf, and bulging biceps who transcended professional wrestling to become a global pop culture phenomenon, passed away on Thursday at the age of 71. Police confirmed that Hogan, whose real name was Terry Bollea, was pronounced dead at a hospital after medics responded to a cardiac arrest call at his home.
The Man Who Built an Empire
For millions, "Hulkamania" wasn't just a catchphrase; it was a movement. Hogan was arguably the biggest star in WWE's illustrious history, the undeniable main event draw for the very first WrestleMania in 1985. For years, he captivated audiences with legendary feuds against icons like Andre The Giant, "Macho Man" Randy Savage, The Rock, and even WWE co-founder Vince McMahon himself. He wasn't just a wrestler; he was a showman who turned the sport into a mainstream juggernaut, paving the way for the massive stadiums and global TV deals we see today, including WWE's "Raw" now streaming on Netflix.
A Life Beyond the Ring: Triumphs and Troubles
Hogan's influence stretched far beyond the squared circle, into television, movies, and even reality TV. He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005, a testament to his unparalleled impact, and later reinstated in 2018.
However, Hogan's journey wasn't without its controversies. In 2015, WWE famously cut ties with him for three years, removing him from the Hall of Fame after a recording surfaced of him using racial slurs. He publicly apologized, calling his words "unacceptable."
"Trumpamania" and a Legacy Remembered
In recent years, Hogan also stepped into the political arena, bringing his signature flair to conservative causes. At the 2024 Republican National Convention, he famously merged his classic WWE theatrics with then-candidate Donald Trump's rhetoric to deliver a passionate endorsement.
"Let Trumpamania run wild brother! Let Trumpamania rule again! Let Trumpamania make America great again!" Hogan roared to the ecstatic crowd, tearing off a T-shirt to reveal a bright red campaign shirt underneath, much to Trump's visible delight.
Donald Trump himself paid tribute to the "Hulkster" on Truth Social, stating, "We lost a great friend today... Hulk Hogan was MAGA all the way — Strong, tough, smart, but with the biggest heart."
Hulk Hogan's passing marks the end of an era. He was, as Vince McMahon put it, "a trailblazer, the first performer who transitioned from being a wrestling star into a global phenomenon." His impact on entertainment and pop culture will undoubtedly be felt for generations to come.
What's your favorite Hulk Hogan memory, brothers and sisters? Share it in the comments below!
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