Wrestling legend Hulk Hogan passed away, leaving his family, WWE and wrestling fans around the world grieving. He was 71.
He died of cardiac arrest
Hulk Hogan, whose real name is Terry Bollea, suffered a cardiac arrest that took his life on July 24, according to reports from the incident.
He had recently undergone heart surgery but had been recovering well, a source close to him revealed about his health.
They explained he had been getting better
A source close to Hogan spoke to US Weekly about the wrestler’s health in the weeks prior to his death.
They said, “Hulk had pretty serious heart surgery a few weeks ago and was doing well afterward. It wasn’t a near-death thing.”
Hogan’s family released a statement
After news broke of the wrestler’s death, tributes started rolling in from fans across the world as Hogan contributed to the shaping of wrestling as a sport.
His family also released a statement, saying, “It is with a heavy heart and deep sadness that we confirm we have lost a legend.”
He died ‘surrounded by his loved ones’
“Our beloved Terry Bollea, known worldwide as Hulk Hogan, passed away today surrounded by his loved ones,” his family’s statement went on.
“At this time of grief, we ask that everyone please respect the privacy of his family and friends.”
They extended their grievances to fans
Hogan’s family added, “May we all take solace in the wonderful memories he left behind for the millions of fans worldwide whose lives he touched for more than four decades. He will be missed, but never forgotten.”
WWE also released a statement
Hogan, who influenced wrestling and became one of the most well-known names in the sport, also received a tribute statement from WWE.
It said in a statement, “WWE is saddened to learn WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has passed away. One of pop culture’s most recognizable figures, Hogan helped WWE achieve global recognition in the 1980s.”
“WWE extends its condolences to Hogan’s family, friends, and fans.”
Hogan had a big influence on wrestling fans
On social media, fans posted about their grief towards Hogan, with many recalling how he was a notable icon of their childhood.
One person wrote, “Whether you liked him or hated him as a person, professional wrestling wouldn’t be what it is today without Hulk Hogan. Truly the end of an era. RIP.”
Another person expressed their love for him
Another user said, “I grew up watching Hulk Hogan, first in the wrestling ring, then in movies like 3 Ninjas, Mr. Nanny, and Suburban Commando. He was a true character and one of the first wrestlers I saw make the leap into Hollywood. A larger-than-life icon. RIP, Champ.”