Wrestling legend Hulk Hogan still not laid to rest
Hogan who contributed to wrestling becoming a mainstream sport passed away last month.
Two-time WWE Hall of Famer and former world champion Hulk Hogan (real name Terry Gene Bollea), died over a month ago. His wife, Sky Daily told TMZ Sports an autopsy has been carried out but confirmed Hogan’s body has not yet been been laid to rest.
Daily dismissed conspiracy theories surrounding the 71 year old’s death, calling for fans to be ‘patient’ while the Clearwater Police conduct an investigation. But his estranged daughter Brooke has raised concerns about medical malpractice and has asked for footage captured by first responders body cameras to be released.
The Clearwater Police Department said in a statement last week that the “unique nature of this case has required us to interview multiple witnesses and seek medical records from a variety of providers, and our detectives continue to do that”.
On July 24, the Clearwater Florida Police Department and Fire Department responded to a call for a cardiac arrest just before 10 am (EST) on Thursday and took Hogan to Morton Plant Hospital, where he was pronounced dead, police said.
World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) also confirmed Hogan’s death in a statement on X, “WWE is saddened to learn 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.”
Instantly recognisable by his bleach-blonde hair, mustache and bandanas. Hulk Hogan was one of the most popular wrestling stars in the 1980s. He was credited for helping professional wrestling from a regional attraction to a mainstream sport which is still being enjoyed by people today. Famous for his catchphrase, “Whatcha Gonna Do When Hulkamania Runs Wild On You!” then Hogan would put a hand behind his ear to hear the roar of the crowd.
Being famous in the 80s, Hogan also went into show business appearing in “Saturday Night Live” along with Mr. T in 1985 and roles in movies like “Rocky III”, “Santa With Muscles” and many more.
In 2024, he appeared at the Republican National Convention to support presidential candidate at that time, Donald Trump in Hulk Hogan fashion by ripping his shirt off by revealing a Trump Vance t-shirt.
One local said, “He is a known wrestler and he will always be remembered. It’s not shocking about his recent political views because Trump has been a guest on WWE a long time ago.”
Wrestling legend Ric Flair posted on X, “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!”
Despite his controversial career choices in recent times, he will be remembered as a wrestling icon, ‘Hulkamania’, ‘The Hulkster’, a father and friend.
Ronella Felizardo is a year 3 Bachelor of Communication student at Wintec.
