The world of professional wrestling has been hit with a seismic loss as legendary icon Hulk Hogan passed away at the age of 71. According to TMZ, emergency responders were called to Hogan’s Clearwater, Florida residence early Thursday morning after the wrestling giant reportedly suffered cardiac arrest.
Hogan’s influence on the wrestling world is unparalleled. Bursting into the mainstream in the early ’80s, Hogan and the phenomenon known as ‘Hulkamania’ catapulted professional wrestling into a new era of popularity. His charismatic presence sent ticket sales, television ratings, and pay-per-view numbers soaring, turning wrestling into a staple of pop culture.
Hogan also left his mark on Hollywood, with a memorable role as Thunderlips in 1982’s Rocky III, where he faced off against Sylvester Stallone’s iconic Rocky Balboa. He continued to take on leading roles in several action comedies, with 1989’s No Holds Barred being a fan favorite.
In 1985, Hogan teamed up with Mr. T, his Rocky III co-star, to headline the inaugural Wrestlemania, setting the stage for what would become the Super Bowl of wrestling events. His partnership with pop sensation Cyndi Lauper as part of the Rock ‘n Wrestling connection further solidified his place in the annals of pop culture.
Sporting his iconic yellow and red attire, coupled with an indomitable spirit, Hogan became a hero to fans, particularly the younger audience. His theme song, 1985’s ‘Real American,’ penned by rock guitar legend Rick Derringer, became a rallying cry for his followers.
As adept at playing the villain as he was the hero, Hogan stunned the wrestling world in 1996 by adopting a ‘heel’ persona, donning black and white to launch the wildly popular New World Order faction. Yet, his charm was undeniable. At Wrestlemania 18, despite his villainous role, the audience’s cheers led to an impromptu role reversal with The Rock, reviving his ‘good guy’ status.
However, Hogan’s later years were marred by controversy. A 2015 scandal involving racist remarks cost him his wrestling contract and endorsements, and tarnished his public image. Though he made sporadic appearances in WWE over the following decade, his reception was mixed, evident during his final live appearance on January 6, 2025.
Hulk Hogan’s death marks the end of an era. His larger-than-life persona and lasting impact on wrestling and pop culture ensure that his legacy will endure.
