Wrestling legend Hulk Hogan has died.
This icon of sports entertainment passed away on July 24, 2025, at the age of 71 following a cardiac arrest at his home in Clearwater, Florida.
He and his daughter Brooke were no longer in contact with each other.
BROOKE AND HULK HAD A STRAINED CONNECTION
Hogan and his daughter, Brooke, were not on speaking terms at the time of his passing. Brooke had publicly lamented how she felt forced to cut her father off as well as her mother after allegedly enduring verbal and mental abuse throughout her childhood.
Reports revealed that Brooke made the decision she felt would ensure her healing and peace of mind, and that she had longed for a regular family life but felt disrespected.
Sources close to the family say Hogan did not fully understand the reasons for this but that he was saddened by the distance between himself and Brooke.
THE HOGAN HIGHS CAME WITH A FEW LOWS
The adoration his talents garnered him was one thing, but Hogan’s life was not without controversy. Leaked recordings and legal battles did mar some of his achievements. He had a highly publicised lawsuit against Gawker Media.
HULK HOGAN AND HIS LIFE BETWEEN THE ROPES
Born Terry Gene Bollea, he was best known for his brash charisma and hallmark bandana. His legendary catchphrase, “Whatcha gonna do when Hulkamania runs wild on you?”, saw this man become more than simply an adored figure in the wrestling ring, but a fixture in global pop culture.
HOW HULK HOGAN GOT STARTED
Hogan’s career blossomed in the late 1970s, but the 80s are when things really took flight for him. He became the face of the World Wrestling Federation, now called World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), and elevated sports entertainment and saw it become a part of mainstream consciousness.
Hogan headlined eight WrestleMania events and claimed six WWE Championships and was adored by fans across generations.
HULK HOGAN BEYOND THE RING
Wrestling may have been a love of his and the launching pad of his career, but he also took his talents to the big screen on occasion. He starred in films like Rocky III and Mr. Nanny,
Hogan was also the main drawcard on the reality TV show Hogan Knows Best. He continued to carve out success in a variety of ways. Before he died, Hogan had been working on a few business ventures, including a brand of craft beer as well as promoting amateur wrestling.
Hogan was always a patriot and passionate about politics. President Donald Trump has already expressed his emotions around the passing of a man he considered a friend. Hogan’s passing comes a few months after his appearance at the Republican National Convention.
WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR BEST HULK HOGAN MEMORIES?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 11.
Subscribe to The South African website’s newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.