Hulk Hogan rose to fame in the 1980s, becoming the face of the WWE|Megan Elice Medows|CC BY-SA 2.0
Professional wrestling superstar Hulk Hogan, who turned the sport into a global pop culture phenomenon, has died at 71. WWE confirmed his death Thursday but shared no cause.
Born Terry Gene Bollea in Augusta, Georgia, Hogan rose to fame in the 1980s, becoming the face of the WWE with his massive biceps, blond hair and colorful bandannas.
His signature move—cupping his hand to his ear and tearing his pre-ripped shirt—sent fans into a frenzy.
At 6-foot-8 and 300 pounds, Hogan helped shape the era of larger-than-life wrestlers.
He began wrestling in 1977 and adopted the name “Hulk” after comparisons to the TV character in The Incredible Hulk. He later starred in films like Rocky III and briefly had a reality show.
Beyond wrestling, he remained politically active, famously revealing a shirt supporting Donald Trump and JD Vance at the 2024 Republican National Convention.
His charisma, old-school wrestling style, and cultural influence made him a beloved icon across generations.