What happened to Hulk Hogan? Health issues explored as legendary WWE icon passes away at 71

Wrestling icon Hulk Hogan has passed away at 71. According to TMZ Sports, which first reported the news, emergency services were dispatched to his home in Clearwater, Florida, early morning on Thursday, July 24, 2025. Citing the "operators," the outlet relayed that the dispatch was reportedly regarding a "cardiac arrest."

Per TMZ Sports, there were a bunch of police cars and EMT vehicles parked outside Hogan's home. Further, the former wrestler was taken into an ambulance on a stretcher.

The unfortunate news comes just days after Garrett Gonzales and Dave Meltzer expressed concern for Hulk Hogan's health over his long absence from the public eye. During the July 20 episode of Wrestling Observer Radio, the men commented that the lack of public appearances and the "hush-hushness" after his recent surgery suggested things were "worse" than being told. Gonzales speculated:

"Because of who he is, I do not know that we should know more, but just the hush-hushness about it makes it a little worse than I would think."

In September 2024, Hulk Hogan revealed he underwent twenty-five surgeries in the last decade

Hulk Hogan, real name Terry Gene Bollea, was a professional wrestler. Best recognized by his massive physique and trademark moustache and bandanas, he is one of the greatest in his industry. He rose to fame in the 1980s after signing with the World Wrestling Federation (now WWE). He boasts six WWF Championship trophies and six WCW World Heavyweight Championship belts.

Rumors about Hogan's declining health first made headlines last month. During a June 16 stream, YouTuber Bubba the Love Sponge claimed the wrestler was hospitalized and that things were "not good." Per the internet personality, Hogan "might not make it." Bubba alleged Bollea's family members were being called to "come" and say their goodbyes.

It's not officially confirmed, but Bubba The Love Sponge is saying Hulk Hogan is in the hospital, and "might not make it." pic.twitter.com/YIgCcZAcNR

— James of WebIsJericho.com (@WebGuyJames) June 18, 2025

However, a spokesperson for Hogan denied the claims in a statement given to TMZ Sports. Per the outlet, the WWE icon had been to the hospital to address persistent issues with his neck and back. The rep added that Bollea was "dealing with more of the same ailments he's had for years" and that he was moving around.

In a separate statement, Hogan's wife, Sky Daily, denied rumors of him being in a coma, telling TMZ the wrestler's heart was "strong." Former WCW president Eric Bischoff, too, refuted the speculations in a comment given to Derek Sabato of Wrestling Observer Newsletter. Quoting Bischoff in an X post, Sabato wrote:

"Hulk Hogan had a very successful cervical surgery and is experiencing some adverse reaction. He’s doing well and should be home later today. Doctors expecting a full recovery."

In May 2025, Hulk Hogan underwent neck surgery, reported TMZ Sports. Citing a "rep," the publication relayed that the wrestler required a "little fusion procedure" and was up and running a day later.

 

 

 

 

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It is worth noting that Bollea has undergone several surgeries in the past. During a September 2024 interview with Logan Paul on the latter's IMPAULSIVE podcast, Hogan revealed he had about twenty-five surgeries in the last ten years. He elaborated:

"I’ve had 10 back surgeries, both knees and both hips replaced, shoulders—everything."

The exact circumstances surrounding Hulk Hogan's death remain unclear.

He is survived by his wife and two kids.