Hulk Hogan, the WWE icon, breathed his last at his Clearwater home in Florida at the age of 71 on Thursday (July 24) morning. The medics were dispatched to his home after the news of him suffering a cardiac arrest. Soon he was taken to the hospital but was pronounced dead. A six-time WWE champion and a two-time Royal Rumble winner, Hulk Hogan was a household name in the late 80s and early 90s. Hogan went on to feature in a few Hollywood films, came into the headlines for wrong reasons (racist remarks) but was a talismanic figure in the ring.
The wrestling world mourned Hogan's passing, which came out of nowhere while WWE also shared a tribute video, honouring a wrestling legend.
"WWE is saddened to learn WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has passed away," the WWE statement on X (previously Twitter) read. 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," the statement further read.
The 16-time world champion Ric Flair couldn't keep his emotions aside as he stated that he was shocked on learning of Hulk Hogan's death, who was a close friend and was by his side since the start of his wrestling career. "I Am Absolutely Shocked To Hear About The Passing Of My Close Friend @HulkHogan ! Hulk Has Been By My Side Since We Started In The Wrestling Business," Flair wrote on X.
"An Incredible Athlete, Talent, Friend, And Father! Our Friendship Has Meant The World To Me. He Was Always There For Me Even When I Didn’t Ask For Him To Be. He Was One Of The First To Visit Me When I Was In The Hospital With A 2% Chance Of Living, And He Prayed By My Bedside. Hulk Also Lent Me Money When Reid Was Sick. Hulkster, No One Will Ever Compare To You! Rest In Peace My Friend!," he added.
Hogan married thrice and is survived by his current wife, Sky Daily and a son and a daughter, Brooke and Nick.