Wrestling World Mourns the Loss of Hulk Hogan
The world of professional wrestling has lost one of its greatest legends. Terry Bollea, better known to fans across the globe as Hulk Hogan, passed away on 24 July 2025 at the age of 71.
The WWE confirmed the sad news and paid heartfelt tribute to the man who revolutionised the wrestling industry with his charisma, showmanship, and larger-than-life personality.
The Rise of Hulk Hogan – From Musician to Wrestling Icon
Before he became a household name, Terry Bollea was a bass guitarist in a Florida-based band named Ruckus. However, his destiny changed when WWE Hall of Famers Jack and Gerry Brisco discovered him and introduced him to wrestling.
First steps in wrestling began in 1977 with trainer Hiro Matsuda, who tested Hogan’s dedication by breaking his leg during training.
Despite the injury, Hogan returned stronger – a clear sign of his passion and perseverance.
On 10 August 1977, Hogan had his first professional wrestling match against B. Brian Blair in Fort Myers, Florida.
Initially wrestling under the names Super Destroyer and later Terry “The Hulk” Boulder, Hogan got his famous nickname after an appearance on a local TV show next to Lou Ferrigno, star of The Incredible Hulk.
Hulk Hogan’s WWE Debut and the Birth of Hulkamania
Hogan made his official WWE debut in 1979, with Vincent J. McMahon giving him the name “Hulk Hogan”. His early run included:
A fierce bout with Ted DiBiase at Madison Square Garden.
A WWE Championship challenge against Bob Backlund.
A memorable clash with Andre the Giant at Shea Stadium in 1980, years before their iconic WrestleMania III match.
Hogan’s real superstardom began after his appearance in the movie Rocky III. In 1984, he returned to WWE and won the WWE Championship by defeating The Iron Sheik on 23 January – thus launching the global phenomenon known as Hulkamania.
Hulkamania Takes Over the World
Throughout the 1980s, Hogan was the face of WWE’s golden era. He helped WWE:
Expand into national television and pay-per-view events.
Headline major shows such as:
WrestleMania I (tag-teaming with Mr. T)
WrestleMania III, where he famously body-slammed Andre the Giant in front of 93,173 fans at the Pontiac Silverdome.
Highlights from WWE career:
5-time WWE Champion
Main-evented 8 WrestleManias
Sold millions of T-shirts, toys, and other merchandise
Became an international pop culture icon
Hogan left WWE in 1993, but the spotlight never left him.
The WCW Era – Reinventing Wrestling Again
In the mid-1990s, Hogan made a stunning return to wrestling with WCW (World Championship Wrestling).
Made his WCW debut at Bash at the Beach, defeating Ric Flair.
Shocked fans by turning heel (villain) and forming the New World Order (nWo) alongside Scott Hall and Kevin Nash.
This bold move helped WCW dominate the famous Monday Night Wars against WWE.
During his WCW run:
Won 6 WCW World Heavyweight Championships
Redefined his legacy by staying relevant through the 1990s
Return to WWE and Hall of Fame Induction
After WCW folded, Hogan returned to WWE in 2002. His match with The Rock at WrestleMania X8 remains one of the most legendary moments in wrestling history.
Won his 6th WWE Championship at Backlash 2002, defeating Triple H
Inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005, presented by friend and Rocky III co-star Sylvester Stallone
Hosted WrestleMania 30 in 2014, sharing the ring with The Rock and Stone Cold Steve Austin in front of 75,000+ fans
Beyond Wrestling – A Pop Culture Superstar
Hulk Hogan wasn’t just a wrestling icon. He starred in films, TV shows, and commercials, becoming one of the most recognisable figures in global entertainment.
Starred in Thunder in Paradise and several action films
Known for his catchphrases like “Whatcha gonna do when Hulkamania runs wild on you?”
Set the standard for what it means to be a WWE Superstar
Final Goodbye – A Legacy That Will Live Forever
Hulk Hogan’s contribution to sports entertainment is truly unmatched. He turned wrestling into a mainstream global spectacle and inspired generations of fans and future wrestlers.
WWE released an official statement saying:
“There are few names more synonymous with sports-entertainment than Hulk Hogan… The Hulkster’s superhuman size and undeniable charisma helped him reach heights once unthinkable in sports and entertainment.”
Tributes and Condolences
Fans, fellow wrestlers, and celebrities have taken to social media to share their memories and pay their respects to the icon who made professional wrestling a worldwide sensation.
WWE extends its heartfelt condolences to Hulk Hogan’s family, friends, and millions of fans across the globe.
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Final Words
Hulk Hogan was more than just a wrestler. He was a symbol of strength, showmanship, and passion. His impact will never be forgotten.
Rest in peace, Hulkster. You truly ran wild on all of us.