Fans across the world are mourning the loss of one of the most recognizable figures in professional wrestling, Hulk Hogan, who has passed away at the age of 71. Hogan, born Terry Bollea, died at his home in Clearwater, Florida, on the morning of July 24, 2025. According to family sources, his passing followed unexpected complications during recovery from recent neck surgery.
Hogan had undergone a multi-level cervical fusion procedure—part of a long history of surgeries from his years in the ring. Friends close to the WWE Hall of Famer said he had recently been in good spirits.
“He was doing phenomenal,” said longtime friend and wrestling manager Jimmy Hart. “None of us saw this coming.”
A Return to the Ring That Never Came
Just weeks before his passing, Hogan had announced his latest venture—a new wrestling promotion called Real American Freestyle, launched in partnership with former WCW executive Eric Bischoff. The debut event was scheduled for August 30 in Cleveland, and fans were hopeful Hogan would make a special appearance, possibly as an on-air figure or mentor.
The news of his passing has left the project and its supporters in shock, as Hogan had seemed eager and energized by the next chapter of his career.
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