The world of professional wrestling is in mourning following the death of Hulk Hogan, real name Terry Bollea, at the age of 71. The larger-than-life icon, whose career helped shape and globalise the wrestling industry, passed away after suffering a cardiac arrest at his Florida home.
TMZ was first to break the news in the early hours of 25 July 2025 (Singapore time). Paramedics responded to an emergency call at Hogan’s Clearwater residence and transported him to hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after.
Hogan, known for his signature handlebar moustache, trademark bandana, and the unforgettable catchphrase “Whatcha gonna do when Hulkamania runs wild on you?”, was instrumental in catapulting the World Wrestling Federation (WWF, now WWE) into mainstream popularity in the 1980s and 1990s.
From Hero to Villain: Hogan’s Career Evolution
Rising to fame in the WWF, Hogan headlined numerous WrestleManias and feuded with wrestling legends such as Randy “Macho Man” Savage, Yokozuna, and the Ultimate Warrior. His charisma and showmanship made him one of the most recognisable athletes of his generation.
In a bold career move during the mid-1990s, Hogan joined World Championship Wrestling (WCW) and shocked fans by turning heel—adopting a villainous persona as “Hollywood” Hogan in the infamous New World Order (nWo) faction. The change revitalised his career and sparked a ratings war that helped redefine the wrestling industry.
He later appeared in other wrestling promotions, including Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA), before returning to WWE for occasional appearances. His contributions earned him a place in the WWE Hall of Fame, although his legacy would later be marred by controversy.
Controversies, Lawsuit, and Final Years
Despite his achievements in the ring, Hogan’s later life was clouded by a highly publicised legal battle against Gawker Media, which had leaked a private tape involving the wrestling icon. The case ended with a multi-million dollar payout in his favour. However, the footage also revealed him using racial slurs, leading to widespread backlash and temporary removal from the WWE Hall of Fame.
After issuing multiple public apologies and engaging in outreach efforts with youth organisations, Hogan was reinstated and made sporadic appearances in WWE events in recent years. In 2024, he publicly endorsed Donald Trump’s presidential campaign, even speaking at a campaign convention.
Just before his death, Hogan had reportedly been preparing to launch a new wrestling project titled Real American Freestyle Wrestling alongside longtime collaborator and former WCW executive Eric Bischoff.
Remembering Hulkamania
In Singapore and around the world, wrestling fans are mourning the loss of a childhood hero. For many, Hulk Hogan was more than just a wrestler—he was a symbol of strength, determination, and over-the-top entertainment. His larger-than-life persona helped shape wrestling into the global entertainment juggernaut it is today.
Whether remembered as the all-American hero clad in red and yellow or as the rebellious leader of the nWo, Hulk Hogan’s impact on pop culture and professional wrestling is undeniable. Hulkamania may have ended, but the legacy of Terry Bollea will continue to inspire generations of fans and wrestlers to come.