Hulk Hogan, born Terry Bollea, was a force behind the Hulkamania phenomenon. News of his passing sent shockwaves across the internet and left many fans grappling with grief. Just a day earlier, rumours about his health had been circulating, but his family had consistently denied any serious issues.
There had been speculation about Hogan’s health for months. Many had noticed that he looked frail in recent public appearances. In June, announcer Bubba the Love Sponge reported that Hogan was in critical condition, but his publicist denied the rumors, insisting he was in stable condition. Just a week before his death, Sky Daily attempted to allay fears by reassuring fans that Hogan was recovering from major neck surgery and was in good spirits.
An official statement from WWE was released shortly after the news broke, expressing sadness at the passing of the Hall of Famer. Hogan played a pivotal role in helping WWE achieve global recognition in the 1980s, and his legacy will forever be etched in wrestling history. On the day of his death, Clearwater police and firefighters responded to Hogan's home for cardiac arrest. He was taken to Morton Plant Hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly thereafter. Authorities confirmed there was no evidence of foul play, adding to the tragic nature of his sudden passing.
Hogan's life, especially in his later years, was marked by terrible physical pain. He spoke openly about the toll his 40-plus years in the wrestling ring had taken on his body, undergoing at least 25 surgeries, including multiple back surgeries. Despite his struggles, he remained devoted to his fans, regularly appearing at events to interact with them. Following his death, Hogan's family released an emotional statement expressing their deep sadness and reflecting on his legacy. They asked for privacy during this difficult time and encouraged fans to cherish the wonderful memories he left behind.
Sky Daily, who married Hogan in September 2023, shared a heartfelt message on Instagram expressing their grief. “I was not prepared for this, and my heart is broken,” she wrote. Her words highlighted the deep love they had for each other and the pain of losing him so suddenly. She highlighted Hogan’s dedication to his fans and his unwavering faith. The situation surrounding Hogan’s children adds further complexity to this tragic story. His son, Nick, has yet to make an official statement, while his daughter, Brooke, has had a strained relationship with him for years. Reports say their last conversation was two years ago, when she expressed her love and concern for him.