The sudden death shook the world of sports and entertainment
On July 24, 2025, the sports community and fans around the world were shocked by the news that WWE legend Hulk Hogan (Terry Gene Bollea) had breathed his last at his home in Clearwater, Florida, at the age of 71.
According to a local police report, Hogan suffered a sudden cardiac arrest at approximately 9:51 AM. Despite being taken to Morton Plant Hospital and hours of resuscitation efforts, he did not survive and was pronounced dead at 11:17 AM. Authorities confirmed that there were no signs of foul play or suspicious circumstances.
Sky Daily’s wife choked up: “I still thought we had time…”
Hogan’s wife Sky Daily, who married him in 2023, shared an emotional farewell on social media:
“I wasn’t ready for this… my heart is broken. He had a lot of health issues, but I always believed we would get through it. I had so much faith in his strength. I still thought we had time…”
Sky also sent a message to his fans:
“He loved you all so much. Even though his body was weak, he still tried to show up, sign autographs, take pictures and connect with everyone who supported him over the years. He is gone but his love for his fans will never be gone.”
She said Hogan always believed in God and she believes his soul has been welcomed to a peaceful place.
Health declines after neck surgery
Before his death, Hulk Hogan underwent serious neck surgery in May 2025. Although his family repeatedly assured him that he was recovering, sources close to him revealed that Hogan faced many complications: heart failure, difficulty breathing, rapid weight loss and dependence on oxygen support.
However, no one expected this condition to lead to a sudden cardiac arrest that caused him to pass away so quickly.
An immortal icon of WWE and popular culture
Hulk Hogan was not just a wrestler, he was an icon of a generation. With the image of an “American superhero”, Hogan made WWE explode in the 1980s with the Hulkamania movement.
Outside the ring, Hogan also appeared in movies and television and became the face of the American spirit. Despite his many controversies, he remains one of the most beloved and memorable figures in the history of professional wrestling.
Tributes from all over
Just hours after the news broke, social media was flooded with condolences:
Ric Flair called Hogan “the greatest friend in the ring.”
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson wrote: “Without Hulk Hogan, there would be no Rock today.”
Sylvester Stallone called Hogan “an immortal warrior in our hearts.”
Even former President Donald Trump posted a farewell message: “Hulk Hogan was a legend, a warrior, and a friend.”
An unforgettable shock
The passing of Hulk Hogan left fans choked up. He left with a full schedule and just a few weeks ago was still appearing healthy on a TV show, inspiring as he had done for decades.
Hulk Hogan has ended his journey, but Hulkamania will live on forever.
Farewell, Hulk Hogan – the man who turned the WWE stage into a legend.