Hulk Hogan died at the age of 71. © Fayez Nureldine / AFP

Wrestling legend Hulk Hogan is dead

Wrestling legend Hulk Hogan has died. The 71-year-old died in the US state of Florida, according to police. The wrestling organization WWE also confirmed his death and paid tribute to him.

July 24, 2025

From: dpa

Hogan was one of the "most recognizable figures in pop culture" and helped propel WWE to worldwide success in the 1980s, the organization said. WWE expressed its condolences to Hogan's family, friends, and fans. Local authorities reported that an emergency call regarding cardiac arrest was received at 9.51:XNUMX a.m. (local time) Thursday morning. Firefighters and paramedics initially treated him on scene. He was then transported to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Hogan was born Terrence Gene Bollea on August 11, 1953, in the U.S. state of Georgia. Initially, he played baseball and was a bassist in several bands, among other things, until he finally turned to professional wrestling in the 1970s. For decades, he competed in matches all over the world and won countless trophies. Hogan had been in the ring until earlier this year, but recently, rumors about the wrestler's health problems had increased.

Campaign appearances for Trump

Numerous reality shows brought Hogan additional global fame. The father of two married for the third time just two years ago. In recent years, Hogan has also been repeatedly involved in US politics, most recently supporting the Republican and current US President Donald Trump. He had previously also temporarily supported Barack Obama – a Democrat – but announced in 2011 that he would no longer do so.

Hulk Hogan supported Donald Trump in the election campaign. © AFP / ALEX WROBLEWSKI

Hogan accompanied Trump at several campaign appearances, including last summer's Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. As the crowd cheered, he first removed his jacket on stage and then tore off a black T-shirt with a US flag print. Beneath, he wore a sleeveless, bright red shirt bearing the words "Trump - Vance 2024." J.D. Vance became Trump's vice president after Trump's election victory in November 2024. Trump's son, Donald Trump Jr., posted on X: "Rest in peace, legend."