Hulk Hogan Dies of Cardiac Arrest at 71, WWE Confirms Passing of Wrestling’s Most Influential Star

A 1980s pop culture juggernaut who headlined WrestleMania and entered millions of homes on screen, Hogan’s death comes after years of surgeries, scandal, and a public struggle to reshape a once-unshakable legacy.

Hulk Hogan, the charismatic wrestler who transformed professional wrestling into a global spectacle, died Thursday, July 24 at his home in Clearwater, Florida, at the age of 71. The cause of death was cardiac arrest, according to TMZ, which first reported the news, with emergency responders dispatched to his residence at 9:51 a.m. following a 911 call.

Hogan, born Terry Gene Bollea, was a towering figure in sports entertainment, whose “Hulkamania” phenomenon redefined wrestling in the 1980s and left an indelible mark on American culture. His passing, confirmed by WWE, has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans, wrestlers, and public figures. Hogan’s legacy—marked by triumphs, controversies, and resilience—continues to spark reflection on his enduring influence.

Hogan’s rise to fame began in 1977, but it was his 1983 signing with the World Wrestling Federation (WWF, now WWE) that launched him into stardom. With his signature yellow bandana, red-and-yellow gear, and catchphrase, “Whatcha gonna do when Hulkamania runs wild on you?”, Hogan became the face of wrestling’s golden era.