Professional wrestling has lost its most recognisable figure with the passing of Terry Bollea, better known as Hulk Hogan, who died aged 71 at his Florida residence.
Emergency services responded to reports of cardiac arrest at the wrestler's Clearwater home, where paramedics transported him by stretcher to a nearby hospital.
The death comes mere weeks after his wife Sky dismissed speculation about his deteriorating health, insisting his heart remained robust following recent surgery.
News of the wrestling icon's passing prompted an immediate outpouring of grief from the sporting community. The WWE confirmed the death of their Hall of Fame inductee, acknowledging how the moustachioed performer helped transform their organisation into a worldwide entertainment powerhouse during the 1980s.
PA/Reuters
|Donald Trump has paid tribute to Hulk Hogan after his death
US president Donald Trump expressed his sorrow on Truth Social, writing: "We lost a great friend today, the “Hulkster.” Hulk Hogan was MAGA all the way Strong, tough, smart, but with the biggest heart.
"He gave an absolutely electric speech at the Republican National Convention, that was one of the highlights of the entire week.
JUST IN: Hulk Hogan dies at 71 after suffering cardiac arrest at home
"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!"
Donald Trump Jr shared a photograph of himself with the wrestling star on social media, writing simply "R.I.P to a legend".
Wrestling icon Ric Flair expressed shock at his friend's passing, revealing Hogan had visited him during a hospitalisation when doctors gave him merely a two per cent chance of survival. Flair also disclosed that Hogan had provided financial assistance when Flair's son Reid fell ill.
Hogan's ascent to stardom revolutionised professional wrestling, elevating it from regional entertainment to an international spectacle.
His victory over the Iron Sheik in 1984 for the World Heavyweight Championship ignited "Hulkamania", a cultural phenomenon that swept across America and beyond.
The charismatic performer headlined the inaugural WrestleMania in 1985, establishing the event as wrestling's premier showcase.
Throughout his career, he captured at least six WWE championships whilst battling legendary opponents including Andre The Giant, Randy Savage, and The Rock.
EXCLUSIVE: Newcastle move ahead of Man Utd in Nicolas Jackson transfer race amid Alexander Isak update
Reuters
|Hulk Hogan tragically died at the age of 71 after a suspected cardiac arrest
His influence extended beyond the squared circle into mainstream entertainment. Hogan appeared opposite Sylvester Stallone as Thunderlips in Rocky III, though he later claimed the role cost him his position with the WWF, as wrestlers weren't expected to pursue film careers during that era.
However, the wrestler's legacy remains deeply divisive. In 2015, WWE terminated their relationship with Hogan after recordings emerged featuring him using racial slurs, including repeated use of the n-word whilst discussing his daughter Brooke's relationships.
The tapes revealed Hogan stating "I guess we're all a little racist" and making derogatory comments about Black people.
LATEST SPORTS NEWS:
- Emma Raducanu makes 'very difficult' friendship admission ahead of Naomi Osaka Washington Open clash
- Luke Littler explains cocky antics after winning thriller against Jermaine Wattimena at World Matchplay
- Marcus Rashford's move to Barcelona 'has made two players furious' as details from Spain come to light
Reuters
|Hulk Hogan pledged his support to the Republicans in the build-up to the US presidential election
He subsequently apologised on American television, pleading for forgiveness and calling it his "biggest mistake".
Reactions to his death reflected this complicated history. Writer Trevor Dame noted Hogan was "a pretty awful person" despite his wrestling achievements.
Former basketball analyst Travonne Edwards remarked that Hogan "was a fictional hero in my world until he wasn't".
The wrestler leaves behind his third wife Sky, children Brooke and Nick from his first marriage, and two grandchildren.