The world of professional wrestling is mourning the loss of one of its most iconic figures. Hulk Hogan, the legendary WWE superstar whose charisma and larger-than-life persona helped catapult professional wrestling into mainstream pop culture, has died at the age of 71, TMZ Sports has confirmed.

Emergency responders were called to Hogan’s Clearwater, Florida home early Thursday (July 24) morning after a report of cardiac arrest. Multiple police cars and EMT vehicles were spotted outside the residence, and Hogan was transported from his home on a stretcher.

His death comes as a shock to fans, especially after weeks of conflicting reports about his health. Earlier this month, rumors circulated that Hogan was in a coma or on his "deathbed," but his wife, Sky, quickly denied the claims.

She insisted that his heart was "strong" as he recovered from a neck procedure he underwent in May. While fans were concerned, many remained hopeful given Hogan’s fighting spirit and history of overcoming physical setbacks.

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Born Terry Bollea, Hulk Hogan became the face of wrestling during the 1980s and 1990s, ushering in what’s now known as the Golden Era of the WWE. His signature look – blonde handlebar mustache, bandana, and red-and-yellow ring gear – became instantly recognizable symbols of "Hulkamania," a movement that transformed him from athlete to global superstar.

His catchphrases, such as “Whatcha gonna do when Hulkamania runs wild on you?” became household quotes, and his ability to connect with audiences of all ages turned him into a cultural icon.

Hogan headlined the first several WrestleMania events, engaging in legendary rivalries with the likes of André the Giant, Randy "Macho Man" Savage, and The Ultimate Warrior. His match against André at WrestleMania III – where he famously body-slammed the 520-pound giant in front of over 93,000 fans is considered one of the most iconic moments in wrestling history.

Outside the ring, Hogan expanded his reach with appearances in films like Rocky III and Suburban Commando, and even had his own reality TV show, Hogan Knows Best. He wasn’t just a wrestling star, he was a mainstream celebrity, helping bridge the gap between sports entertainment and pop culture.

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Hogan’s legacy is etched deep into the foundation of professional wrestling. He inspired generations of future wrestlers with his charisma, storytelling, and unmatched connection with the crowd. His influence helped make WWE a household name and paved the way for wrestlers to become international stars in and out of the ring.

For fans, Hogan wasn’t just a wrestler, he was a superhero come to life. Many grew up idolizing his strength, integrity, and larger-than-life energy. Social media has already been flooded with tributes, memories, and emotional messages from fans, wrestlers, and celebrities alike.

Photo Credit: @hulkhogan on Instagram.