Former President of the United States, Donald Trump, expressed his deep sorrow over the passing of his close friend and professional wrestling icon, Hulk Hogan. Hogan, aged 71, succumbed to a cardiac arrest at his Clearwater, Florida residence this Thursday.
"We lost a great friend today, the 'Hulkster.' Hulk Hogan was MAGA to the core: strong, tough, smart, yet with the biggest heart," Trump articulated on his social media platform, Truth Social. "His speech at the Republican National Convention was electrifying, one of the most memorable moments of the entire week. He entertained fans worldwide, and his cultural impact was immense. To his wife Sky and family, we send our love and best wishes. Hulk Hogan will be sorely missed!" the former president reminisced.
The White House also shared a brief but meaningful statement on social media platform X: "Hulk Hogan will be deeply missed." Meanwhile, Republican Congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna, representing the district where Hogan resided, posted: “RIP to the great Hulk Hogan, who lived here in FL-13. It was an honor to be your Representative. You are gone, but the legend of the Hulkamania will live on forever.”
Donald Trump Jr. added his condolences on X, simply stating, “R.I.P to a legend. HULK HOGAN.”
Born as Terry Gene Bollea, Hulk Hogan forever transformed the landscape of professional wrestling. With his impressive physique, charisma, and signature yellow bandana, he spearheaded the global surge of the WWE in the 1980s. The "Hulkamania" phenomenon skyrocketed in 1984 following his victory over Iron Sheik, earning him the World Heavyweight Championship.
In 1996, Hogan reinvented his career by adopting the "Hollywood Hogan" persona and co-founding the NWO, cementing his status as a revolutionary icon in sports entertainment. Beyond the wrestling ring, Hogan ventured into film and television, debuting in Rocky III alongside Sylvester Stallone, and starring in titles like Mr. Nanny and Suburban Commando. He also headlined the reality show Hogan Knows Best, showcasing his family life.
In 2025, he launched an amateur wrestling initiative called Real American Freestyle, with its inaugural event scheduled for August 30 on Fox Nation.
The association between Hulk Hogan and Donald Trump dates back to the 1980s, when they both participated in iconic WWE events, including WrestleMania IV and V, held at Trump Plaza in Atlantic City. In 2024, Hogan was a special guest at the Republican National Convention, where his provocative and theatrical speech stood out as one of the event's highlights.
Inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005, Hogan faced temporary removal in 2015 due to racist remarks but made a comeback in 2020. In recent years, he had been dealing with health issues and multiple surgeries. His wife, Sky, whom he married in 2023, had recently dismissed rumors regarding his physical condition. Nevertheless, reports in May indicated a significant decline in his health.
The WWE released an official statement describing Hogan as “one of the most recognizable figures in pop culture,” acknowledging his crucial role in elevating the organization to global prominence.
Understanding Hulk Hogan's Legacy and Impact
What was Hulk Hogan's impact on wrestling?
Hulk Hogan revolutionized professional wrestling by becoming its most recognizable face during the 1980s. His charisma and persona helped propel the WWE to global fame, particularly through the "Hulkamania" movement.
How did Hulk Hogan contribute to pop culture?
Beyond his wrestling career, Hulk Hogan made significant contributions to pop culture through his roles in films and television, such as Rocky III and his reality show Hogan Knows Best. His presence extended beyond the ring, making him a cultural icon.
What was Hulk Hogan's relationship with Donald Trump?
Hulk Hogan and Donald Trump shared a long-standing friendship that began in the 1980s, notably through their collaboration in WWE events at Trump Plaza. Hogan's involvement in the Republican National Convention further highlighted their association.