Hulk Hogan, the enduring face {of professional} wrestling within the Eighties who parlayed his prowess within the ring into an appearing profession, has died on the age of 71, US media reported on Thursday.
Hogan — a Corridor of Fame expertise recognized for his towering 6’7” (200cm) physique, bandana and distinctive blond handlebar mustache — died at his residence in Florida, NBC Information reported, citing his supervisor Chris Volo.
TMZ additionally reported the information, citing unnamed sources and an emergency personnel dispatch name a couple of “cardiac arrest” at his residence.
Hogan’s magnetic character — his ring character was a heroic all-American — and wrestling expertise reworked the game into mainstream household leisure, attracting tens of millions of viewers and turning the league right into a income juggernaut.
Hogan — actual title Terry Bollea — first competed in 1979 within the World Wrestling Federation (WWF, now generally known as WWE) however grew to become a mainstay and fan favourite within the mid-Eighties alongside others like Andre the Big and “Rowdy” Roddy Piper.
His model of “Hulkamania” transferred to the small and large display screen, with roles in movies reminiscent of “Rocky III,” “No Holds Barred” and TV’s “Baywatch.” He was inducted into the WWE Corridor of Fame in 2005.
“WWE is saddened to be taught WWE Corridor of Famer Hulk Hogan has handed away. One of popular culture’s most recognisable figures, Hogan helped WWE obtain world recognition within the Eighties,” World Wrestling Leisure stated on social media.
“WWE extends its condolences to Hogan’s household, associates, and followers.”
The wrestler was embroiled in controversy greater than a decade in the past after an intimate video of him leaked, after which once more a couple of years later for his use of racist language, together with a slur referring to Black Individuals.
The latter brought about him to be fired from WWE in 2015. He later apologised for his actions and was reinstated to the WWE Corridor of Fame.
In recent times, Hogan grew to become an avid supporter of US President Donald Trump. He memorably appeared on the 2024 Republican Nationwide Conference that may seal Trump’s nomination — tearing his shirt off to disclose a Trump-Vance tank high.
“With our chief up there, my hero, that gladiator, we’re gonna convey America again collectively,” Hogan stated on stage in July 2024.
Hogan suffered quite a few well being issues in later years, stemming from the years of abuse his physique took within the ring.
He was married 3 times, and had two youngsters along with his first spouse Linda.
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