Legendary American professional wrestler Hulk Hogan, whose real name was Terry Bollea, passed away on Thursday at the Morton Plant Hospital in Florida at the age of 71. The World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) expressed deep sorrow over his death, remembering him as a cultural icon who helped shape WWE into a global sensation during the 1980s.
Hulk Hogan was hailed as one of the greatest professional wrestling stars in history, earning immense popularity in the 1980s and 1990s. He played a pivotal role in transforming WWE into a multi-billion dollar entertainment industry, showcasing extraordinary charisma that captivated audiences worldwide.
Despite his illustrious career, Hogan faced controversies, notably in 2015 when he was recorded using racist language, tarnishing his reputation. Additionally, he won a $115 million lawsuit against Gawker for releasing a “sex tape” without his consent, leading to the website’s bankruptcy and setting a significant legal precedent in media law.
One of the most recent memories of Hogan was his appearance at the 2024 Republican National Convention, where, at the age of 70, he donned his classic attire and performed his signature shirt-tearing move to show unwavering support for Donald Trump.
During his speech, Hogan dramatically ripped off his suit jacket to reveal a red shirt underneath, emblazoned with slogans supporting Trump and his running mate J.D. Vance. He passionately declared, “I’ve had enough!” igniting the crowd with his energetic presence.
Reflecting on his long-standing friendship with Trump, Hogan recounted how they supported each other through thick and thin, comparing Trump’s current challenges to his own battles in the wrestling ring. Hogan emphasized how the events surrounding Trump compelled him to speak out, breaking his silence on political matters.
The passing of Hulk Hogan marks the end of an era, as his influence extends beyond the realm of professional wrestling into American popular culture. His legacy will continue to resonate with fans and fellow wrestlers, perpetuating his impact for generations to come.