Wrestler Hulk Hogan Dies At 71 Following Cardiac Emergency

Hulk Hogan stands among WWE’s most legendary performers.

Professional wrestling icon Hulk Hogan has passed away at the age of 71.

The WWE superstar died on Thursday morning, July 24, after emergency responders were called to his residence in Clearwater, Florida, according to TMZ reports.

Emergency personnel arrived at the property following a report of a “cardiac arrest,” TMZ stated.

Both paramedics and police units were reportedly stationed outside Hogan’s residence Thursday morning.

The wrestling superstar was transported from his residence on a gurney and placed in an ambulance, as reported by TMZ.

Officials have not yet revealed the specific cause of the wrestling icon’s death.

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World Wrestling Entertainment issued a statement confirming Hogan’s passing: “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.”

Born Terry Gene Bollea, Hogan was raised in Florida. The WWE Hall of Fame inductee, famous for his entrance to “Real American,” embodied patriotic values in professional wrestling.

He achieved stardom during the 1980s following his victory over the Iron Sheik, launching the “Hulkamania” phenomenon in what became one of his most culturally significant matches.

This victory earned him the World Wrestling Federation heavyweight championship. He subsequently lost the title to Andre the Giant in 1988.

During the 1990s, Hogan departed from WWF (later renamed WWE) amid steroid-related controversies. The decade also marked his expansion into acting.

Having appeared in 1982’s “Rocky III,” he continued his Hollywood career with performances in “Gremlins 2: The New Batch” (1990), “Suburban Commando” (1991), “Mr. Nanny” (1993), and “Santa With Muscles” (1996).

In 1994, Hogan joined World Championship Wrestling, a WWE rival organization. Two years later, he introduced his villainous Hollywood Hogan character, before returning to WWE in the early 2000s.