CLEARWATER, Fla. – Hulk Hogan’s death on Thursday hit wrestlers, wrestling fans and Bay Area residents hard and it wasn’t long before tributes came pouring in honoring the life of the legendary wrestler.
One of the first to publicly mourn the loss of the 71-year-old wrestling icon whose real name was Terry Bollea was his friend and fellow wrestler ‘Nature Boy’ Ric Flair, who also has a home in the Bay Area.
Ric Flair reaction
“I am absolutely shocked to hear about the passing of my close friend @HulkHogan. Hulk has been by my side since we started in the wrestling business. An incredible Athlete, talent, friend and father: Our friendship has meant the worked to me. He was one of the first to visit me when I was in the hospital with a 2% chance of living. And he prayed by my bedside. Hulk also lent me money when Reid was sick. Hulkster, no one will ever compare to you! Rest in Peace my friend!
Charlotte Flair pays tribute to Hulk Hogan
Ric Flair’s daughter, a WWE star, commented on his death, saying: “When I nearly lost my dad 8 years ago, one of the few people who was there for all of it was Hulk Hogan. My heart breaks for Nick and Brooke. Rest in peace, brother.”
Clearwater Mayor reacts
Clearwater Mayor Bruce Rector said the following: “Terry, known to the world as Hulk Hogan, was an inspiration to our entire Clearwater community and millions around the world. He was so proud of his home city and was very active in our community. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and his memory will forever have a presence and legacy in Clearwater.”
WWE remembers Hulk Hogan
The WEE wrote, “WWE is saddened to learn legendary WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has passed away. One of pop culture’s most recognizable figures, Hogan helped WWE achieve global recognition in the 1980s. WWE extends its condolences to Hogan’s family, friends, and fans.”
President Trump reacts to Hogan’s death
President Donald Trump took to social media to remember Hogan, saying: “We lost a great friend today, the “Hulkster.” Hulk Hogan was MAGA all the way — Strong, touch, smart, but with the biggest heart. He gave an absolutely electric speech at the Republican National Convention, that ws one of the highlights of the entire week. He entertained fans from all over the World, and the cultural impact he had was massive. To his wife, Sky, and family, we give our warmest best wishes and love. Hulk Hogan will be greatly missed.”
“Jake the Snake” remembers Hogan
Professional wrestler Jake “the Snake” Roberts reacted to the news of Hogan’s death, saying: “It’s hard to put into words what Terry “Hulk Hogan” Bollea meant to professional wrestling and entertainment. He may be gone, but his memory and legacy will live forever. RIP Hulkster”
Manager denied reports of ill health
Two days before his death, his longtime manager denied reports that Hogan was in poor health.
“Hulk is doing great, doing phenomenal!” Hart wrote in a post on X on July 22. “Last night at karaoke with Nick was absolutely fantastic, baby!!!”
Hulk Hogan’s legacy
Hogan, who was 71, entertained generations of wrestling fans. His flamboyant style, hulking size, and white mustache made him instantly recognizable. He was wrestling’s biggest name throughout the 1980’s and 90’s when he headlined WestleMania, Saturday Night’s Main Event, and the Main Event.
His match with Andre the Giant in 1988 drew 33 million viewers and remains the most watched wrestling event ever. He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005, and then again in 2020.
Hogan also enjoyed a television and film career. He appeared in Rocky III in 1982. Other film credits include “Suburban Commando” and “Mr. Nanny.”
In 2005,he and his family appeared in a VH1 reality series called “Hogan Knows Best” which centered around his family’s life and the raising of his children.
Hulk Hogan attends a New Era In Florida Gaming Event at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa on December 08, 2023 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images)
Hogan’s long career in wrestling inspired hundreds of action figures. He was featured in numerous video games. He also had many business ventures around the country, and at home in Florida, where he owned Hogan’s Hangout, in Clearwater Beach.
Clearwater police are conducting an investigation into Hogan’s death, but say they do not suspect foul play.
The Source: Information for this story was gathered from a news conference from the Clearwater Police Department and from posts on social media.
