Wrestling icon Hulk Hogan, one of the most recognisable figures in global sports entertainment, has died at the age of 71, according to a statement by WWE.

The company described the Hall of Famer as a central figure in its rise to worldwide fame in the 1980s, saying, “Hogan helped WWE achieve global recognition.” WWE added, “WWE extends its condolences to Hogan’s family, friends, and fans.”

Born Terry Boella in 1953, Hogan dominated the professional wrestling scene during the 1980s and 1990s, eventually becoming a household name far beyond the ring.

His popularity extended into Hollywood with roles in films such as Mr Nanny and Suburban Commando, and later in reality television.

Hogan’s presence in the wrestling world was transformative. His bodyslam of Andre the Giant and his record-breaking title reigns defined the wrestling boom of the 80s.

He was widely credited with turning wrestling into mainstream entertainment and was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005. He was later inducted again in 2020 as part of the wrestling faction nWo.

However, his career was not without controversy. In 2015, WWE terminated Hogan’s contract after a recording surfaced of him using a racial slur.

This led to his removal from the Hall of Fame. Though reinstated in 2018, the incident continued to shadow his legacy. “It would be difficult to simply forget,” said WWE superstars the New Day and Titus O’Neil at the time.

In more recent years, Hogan remained in the public eye through appearances at political rallies and during the US election campaign.

His final appearance on WWE programming came in January 2025, during the first episode of Raw on Netflix, where he was met with loud boos from the crowd.

Wrestling legend Ric Flair paid tribute to Hogan following news of his passing. “Absolutely shocked,” he said on X. “An incredible athlete, talent, friend and father. Our friendship has meant the world to me.”

Despite the controversies in his later years, many fans and wrestling historians will remember Hogan for his in-ring charisma, larger-than-life personality, and the unforgettable moments he delivered to millions.

From leading the wrestling boom to reinventing himself with the nWo, Hogan left an indelible mark on the sport.

Hogan had faced health issues in recent years. He underwent neck surgery earlier this year and had previously revealed in an interview with Logan Paul that he had endured at least 25 surgeries in the past decade.

“Ten back surgeries, both knees and both hips replaced, shoulders,  everything,” he said.

In June, his representative told TMZ Sports that while he had been unwell, he was “back to moving.” His death now closes a dramatic and storied chapter in professional wrestling history.