Hulkamania Forever: How Old Was Hulk Hogan When He Passed Away In 2025?

The wrestling world was stunned on July 24, 2025, with the news that the biggest icon in professional wrestling history, Hulk Hogan, had passed away. The question "how old is Hulk Hogan" shifted from a simple query about a living legend to a retrospective on a life lived large. As of today, December 10, 2025, the legacy of Terry Gene Bollea—the man behind the red and yellow—continues to dominate wrestling discussions, cementing his status as a cultural phenomenon.

Hulk Hogan, born Terry Gene Bollea, died on his 72nd birthday, July 24, 2025, at the age of 71. His passing marked the end of an era, but also brought to light his final health battles, including a long-term fight with cancer and a recent heart condition, which ultimately led to his death at his Florida home. The details surrounding his final months and the official cause of death provide a poignant final chapter to the story of the man who coined the phrase "Hulkamania."

Terry Gene Bollea: A Complete Biography and Profile

Hulk Hogan's life story is one of relentless ambition, unparalleled stardom, and cultural impact that transcended the world of professional wrestling. His persona, characterized by the trademark handlebar mustache, bandanas, and the "Hulk Up" routine, became a global brand.

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• Ring Name: Hulk Hogan
• Real Name: Terry Gene Bollea
• Date of Birth: July 24, 1953
• Date of Death: July 24, 2025
• Age at Death: 71
• Birthplace: Augusta, Georgia, U.S.
• Residence: Clearwater, Florida, U.S.
• Height: 6 ft 7 in (201 cm)
• Spouse: Sky Daily (m. 2023)
• Children: Brooke Hogan, Nick Hogan
• Career Highlights: 12-time World Champion, 2-time WWE Hall of Fame Inductee (as Hulk Hogan and as part of the nWo)
• Signature Moves: Atomic Leg Drop

Bollea began his wrestling career in the late 1970s and quickly rose to prominence. His initial run as "Hulk Hogan" in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF, now WWE) in the early 1980s launched the "Hulkamania" movement, turning professional wrestling from a niche sport into a mainstream entertainment spectacle. He was the face of the WWF's Golden Era.

In the mid-1990s, he shocked the world by turning heel and forming the villainous New World Order (nWo) stable in World Championship Wrestling (WCW). This move, where he became "Hollywood Hogan," is widely credited with igniting the "Monday Night Wars," one of the most competitive and lucrative periods in wrestling history. He later returned to the WWE, continuing his legendary career and cementing his status as a two-time WWE Hall of Famer.

The Final Chapter: Health Battles and Cause of Death

The final years of Hulk Hogan’s life were marked by a series of significant health challenges, a grim reality for many professional wrestlers after decades of physical punishment. The official reports released after his passing provided clarity on the underlying issues that contributed to his death.

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The official cause of death for the wrestling icon was acute myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack. This event occurred at his home in Florida. However, the medical examiner's report also revealed a private battle with a serious illness that the public was largely unaware of.

Underlying Conditions: CLL and Atrial Fibrillation

Medical records revealed that Terry Bollea had been battling Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL), a type of cancer that affects the white blood cells. CLL is a form of blood cancer that primarily affects older adults. This private health struggle added a layer of tragedy to his passing, highlighting the quiet fight he was undertaking away from the spotlight.

In addition to his cancer diagnosis, Hogan also had a documented history of atrial fibrillation (A-fib). A-fib is a heart condition characterized by an irregular and often rapid heart rate, which can increase the risk of stroke, heart failure, and, ultimately, heart attack. Furthermore, in the months leading up to his death, Hogan had undergone a major cervical neck surgery in March 2025, which, while initially successful, contributed to a period of fragile health.

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A Legacy That Lives On: The Impact of Hulkamania

The death of Hulk Hogan at 71 prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans, peers, and even political figures, underscoring the depth of his impact. His career was not just about wrestling; it was about pop culture, merchandising, and the creation of a positive, larger-than-life superhero character that inspired millions of "Hulkamaniacs" to "say your prayers and take your vitamins."

The WWE paid tribute to the legendary figure with a 10-bell salute and extensive coverage across its platforms, acknowledging his role as the single most important figure in the company's global expansion.

Honors and Tributes After His Passing

A notable tribute came from the state of Florida, where Hogan resided. Governor Ron DeSantis officially proclaimed August 1, 2025, as "Hulk Hogan Day in Florida." The proclamation was made in honor of his monumental legacy and his contributions to the state's cultural landscape. This public acknowledgment solidified his status as a global icon with deep local roots.

Hogan’s influence extends far beyond the ring. His appearances in films like Rocky III and Suburban Commando, along with his reality television show Hogan Knows Best, introduced him to non-wrestling audiences, making him a household name. The phrase "Hulkamania is running wild" became an international slogan, and his merchandising, from t-shirts to action figures, set unprecedented records in the entertainment industry.

Ultimately, the answer to "how old is Hulk Hogan" is a simple number—71 at the time of his passing on July 24, 2025. However, the true measure of his life, Terry Bollea, is the timeless legacy he leaves behind. He was a pioneer, a pop culture icon, and a generational superstar who truly changed the face of sports entertainment forever. His spirit, like the red and yellow, will remain a vibrant memory for fans worldwide.