My Final Goodbye to the Immortal Hulk Hogan: A Legacy of Triumph, Betrayal, and Controversy

When Terry Gene Bollea, better known as Hulk Hogan, passed away on July 24, 2025, at the age of 71, the world felt a seismic shift.

For millions of fans across generations, Hogan wasn’t just a wrestler—he was a cultural juggernaut, a larger-than-life icon who redefined professional wrestling and became a global phenomenon.

His death hit hard, not only because of his unparalleled contributions to wrestling and pop culture but also because of the complex emotions tied to his legacy, marred by a racist rant that left so many fans feeling angry, sad, heartbroken and betrayed.

Yet, despite the controversies, Hogan’s monumental career and his ability to transcend generations cement him as the Babe Ruth of professional wrestling—a title he will likely hold forever.

A Titan in the Squared Circle: The Biggest Star in Wrestling History

Hulk Hogan’s career is the gold standard by which all professional wrestlers are measured. Born on August 11, 1953, in Augusta, Georgia, and raised in Tampa, Florida, Hogan transformed wrestling from a niche spectacle into a mainstream entertainment empire.

His charisma, 6 foot seven physiche, outsized personality, and signature red-and-yellow persona made him a household name in the 1980s and beyond. Hogan’s impact on wrestling is comparable to Babe Ruth’s on baseball—he didn’t just play the game; he changed how it was perceived and consumed.

Hogan’s legendary career spanned decades and promotions, leaving an indelible mark on the industry. His defining moment came at WrestleMania III in 1987, when he body slammed the 550-pound André the Giant in front of over 93,000 fans at the Pontiac Silverdome. The image of Hogan hoisting André aloft is one of wrestling’s most iconic moments, a feat that symbolized his superhuman strength and cemented “Hulkamania” as a pop culture phenomenon.

The match at WrestleMania wasn’t just telling of how impactful Hogan had become, but the match against Andre the Giant in the rematch wasn’t just a wrestling spectacle; it was a cultural event, drawing 33 million viewers for the rematch on NBC, showcasing Hogan’s ability to captivate a global audience.

In 1996, Hogan reinvented himself by turning heel and forming the New World Order (NWO) in World Championship Wrestling (WCW). As “Hollywood” Hulk Hogan, he traded his heroic red-and-yellow for black-and-white villainy, sparking a wrestling renaissance in the 1990s.

The NWO’s rebellious edge made wrestling cool for a new generation, and Hogan’s ability to pivot from hero to villain demonstrated his versatility and business acumen. This move revitalized WCW and fueled the Monday Night Wars, proving Hogan’s influence extended beyond the ring.

Hogan’s return to WWE in 2002 further showcased his enduring appeal. At WrestleMania 18, he faced The Rock in a dream match that pitted two generational titans against each other.

The Toronto crowd’s electric reaction—cheering Hogan despite his heel persona—forced a mid-match shift, with Hogan and The Rock improvising to give fans a heroic Hulkster. This moment underscored Hogan’s ability to connect with audiences across eras.

A year later, at WrestleMania 19, Hogan’s brutal, bloody street fight with Vince McMahon captivated fans, proving that even in his 50s, he could deliver a main-event performance. These matches highlighted Hogan’s knack for creating unforgettable moments that resonated with both longtime fans and newcomers.

Beyond the Ring: A Pop Culture Icon

Hogan’s fame transcended wrestling, making him a global pop culture icon. In the 1980s, he appeared on magazine covers like Sports Illustrated, TV Guide, and People, and starred in films like Rocky III (1982) as Thunderlips, alongside Sylvester Stallone.

His crossover appeal extended to television, with guest spots on The Tonight Show, co-hosting Saturday Night Live in 1985, and his own animated series, Hulk Hogan’s Rock ‘n’ Wrestling. Hogan’s larger-than-life persona made him a marketing juggernaut, with over 170 action figures, a 900-number hotline that was the biggest of its kind from 1991 to 1993, and endorsements for brands like Right Guard and Honey Nut Cheerios.

In 2005, Hogan brought his family into the spotlight with the VH1 reality show Hogan Knows Best, which ran for four seasons and introduced his then-wife Linda and children Brooke and Nick to a new generation. The show, while showcasing a sometimes dysfunctional family dynamic, humanized Hogan and made him relatable to viewers who knew him only as a wrestling legend. It also aimed to launch Brooke’s music career and Nick’s racing ambitions, further extending the Hogan brand.

For younger audiences, Hogan Knows Best was their first exposure to the Hulkster, solidifying his relevance in the 2000s.

Hogan’s commitment to charity also endeared him to fans. He held the record for the most Make-A-Wish Foundation wishes granted in the 1980s, reportedly visiting up to 20 sick children a week. His mantra of “train, say your prayers, and eat your vitamins” inspired countless kids to believe in themselves, making him a real-life superhero. The Make-A-Wish record, later broken, underscored Hogan’s impact beyond entertainment, as he brought joy to children facing life-threatening illnesses.

A Political Powerhouse: The RNC Promo

In his later years, Hogan entered the political arena, leveraging his charisma to support Donald Trump at the 2024 Republican National Convention. At 70, he delivered a promo that electrified the Milwaukee crowd, ripping off his shirt to reveal a Trump-Vance 2024 tank top and declaring, “Let Trumpamania run wild, brother!”

The speech, blending his wrestling theatrics with political rhetoric, was a highlight of the convention, with Trump himself calling it “electric.”

Many argued it was a better promo than most modern wrestlers could deliver, proving Hogan’s showmanship remained unmatched. His endorsement, rooted in a 35-year friendship with Trump, resonated with MAGA supporters but alienated some fans, adding another layer to his polarizing legacy.

The Betrayal: The Racist Rant That Shattered Trust

For all his achievements, Hogan’s legacy was deeply tarnished by a 2015 scandal that left many fans, particularly Black fans, feeling betrayed.

Leaked audio from a 2007 sex tape, part of his lawsuit against Gawker Media, captured Hogan using the N-word multiple times while discussing his daughter Brooke’s relationship with a Black man. He infamously stated, “I am a racist, to a point,” a comment that shocked fans who had idolized him as a hero.

The fallout was swift: WWE terminated his contract, removed him from its Hall of Fame, and erased him from its website. Hogan issued an apology to People, saying, “Eight years ago I used offensive language during a conversation. It was unacceptable for me to have used that offensive language; there is no excuse for it; and I apologize for having done it.”

Yet, many felt the apology lacked genuine remorse, with some wrestlers noting that his backstage address focused more on avoiding recordings than addressing his words.

For Black wrestling fans, the scandal was a gut punch.

Kazeem Famuyide, a Black WWE writer and podcast host, recalled idolizing Hogan as a child, only to grapple with the contradiction of his hero’s racism. “You never really got the feeling that Hulk Hogan truly felt remorse,” Famuyide told NBC News, echoing sentiments that Hogan’s actions overshadowed his contributions for many. The scandal forced fans to reconcile their love for Hogan’s in-ring persona with his real-life failings, leaving a permanent stain on his legacy.

The Controversy Surrounding His Death

Hogan’s death on July 24, 2025, from an acute myocardial infarction (heart attack) at his Clearwater, Florida, home was met with shock and grief.

Medical records revealed he had been battling chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and atrial fibrillation, conditions not widely known before his passing. First responders attempted to revive him for 30 minutes before he was pronounced dead at Morton Plant Hospital.

However, controversy soon emerged, fueled by his daughter Brooke Hogan.

Brooke, estranged from her father since 2023 and absent from his funeral, questioned the official cause of death. Posts on X suggested she believed there might have been a cover-up, citing tips from nurses and police about 911 calls and body cam footage that could “change the narrative.”

She reportedly pushed for an autopsy, casting doubt on the heart attack ruling. Some X posts claimed Hogan’s death might be linked to medical malpractice, alleging his phrenic nerve—vital for breathing—was severed during a recent neck surgery, though these claims remain unverified and inconclusive.

Brooke’s husband, Steven Olesky, noted they were “privately processing” the loss, highlighting the family’s turmoil. The dispute added a final layer of complexity to Hogan’s story, leaving fans and observers questioning the circumstances of his passing.

Why It Hit So Hard

Hogan’s death was monumental because he was more than a wrestler—he was a symbol of hope, resilience, and Americana.

His “Hulkamania” mantra inspired generations to believe in themselves, while his ability to reinvent himself kept him relevant for over four decades. From slamming André to leading the NWO, from facing The Rock to starring in Hogan Knows Best, Hogan’s career bridged eras and mediums, making him a constant in fans’ lives. His Make-A-Wish record and tireless charity work made him a hero to the most vulnerable, amplifying the sense of loss when he died.

Yet, the racist rant left an indelible scar. Fans who grew up chanting “Hulkamania” felt betrayed, as the man who urged them to “say their prayers” revealed a side that clashed with his all-American image.

For Black fans, the pain was acute, as Hogan’s words contradicted the inclusive values he once preached. The duality of his legacy—unmatched success paired with undeniable flaws—made his death a moment of reflection, forcing fans to grapple with both love and disappointment.

The Eternal Babe Ruth of Wrestling

Hulk Hogan will always be the Babe Ruth of professional wrestling. His charisma, showmanship, and ability to draw audiences transformed WWE into a global empire, paving the way for modern stars like John Cena and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson.

His matches, from WrestleMania III all the way to WrestleMania 19, are etched in wrestling history, while his pop culture footprint—through films, TV, and politics—ensured his influence spanned generations.

Despite the controversies, Hogan’s contributions to wrestling’s mainstream success and his record-breaking charity work make him an enduring figure. His death, like his life, was a global event, marked by tributes from Donald Trump, Sylvester Stallone, and John Cena, but also by debates over his flaws and the mysteries surrounding his passing. Hulk Hogan’s legacy is one of triumph, betrayal, and complexity—a story that will resonate for generations to come.

FINAL TAKE

First and foremost, I would like to address the critics who view professional wrestling as a predetermined spectacle. While it is true that the outcomes are scripted, the emotional investment and sense of community that fans experience is genuine.

Much like our engagement with movies, soap operas, or television series, professional wrestling provides an opportunity for bonding with loved ones over a shared interest.

For many fans, including myself, the appeal of professional wrestling extends beyond mere entertainment. It represents a cherished aspect of our personal histories, a nostalgic reminder of time spent with family and friends.

I can attest that Hulk Hogan, in particular, had a profound impact on my life and the lives of countless others. Growing up, I spent hours watching him with my cousins, brother, and father, and we would often engage in playful banter, quoting his iconic phrases.

The news of his passing was met with a mix of sadness and reflection, as I looked back on the memories I shared with loved ones who are no longer present in my life. I think about the times that my friends and my family attended wrestling events whether it was for WWE or WCW.

The first time I saw Hulk Hogan, I was struck by his enormous size, standing 6’7 in a hallway entrance at Kemper Arena in Kansas City, Missouri. People flocked to him, expressing admiration, praise, and adoration, to which he graciously responded before returning to the locker room to prepare for his match. These moments have remained etched in my memory, as I had never seen anyone of such magnitude in person prior to that point in my adolescence.

The only individual I could probably liken that to, given my Kansas City roots, is when I first witnessed Joe Montana arriving in Kansas City and observed how people flocked and were in awe of him. The same can be said about the greatness of George Brett. Their personalities, stardom, and greatness transcend all of their predecessors. They were different!

Engaging in a podcast discussion with my friend Cameron Creal, who is black, highlighted the complexities of Hogan’s legacy, including his controversial racist comments. Despite his flaws, it is clear that Hogan’s positive contributions to the world of professional wrestling and the lives of his fans outweigh his mistakes.

As I reflect on his passing, I am reminded of the profound impact that one individual can have on others. Rest in peace, Hulk Hogan. You will forever be remembered as the biggest star in the history of professional wrestling. May God bless you and grant you his grace in the afterlife.