Donald Trump and son Trump Jr. pay tribute to WWE legend Hulk Hogan after his death at 71

Hulk Hogan, the legendary WWE superstar and pop culture icon whose charisma helped catapult professional wrestling into the mainstream, has died at the age of 71. WWE confirmed the news on Thursday(July 24), sparking an outpouring of tributes from fans, politicians, and fellow wrestlers across the world.

According to TMZ Sports, emergency services responded to a cardiac arrest call at Hogan’s Clearwater, Florida, home earlier Thursday. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Trump pays tribute on Truth Social

US President Donald Trump, a longtime friend and admirer of Hogan, shared a heartfelt message on Truth Social:

"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, which was 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!"

Trump and Hogan had maintained a close relationship since the 1980s, when Trump hosted multiple WrestleMania events. Hogan made headlines by appearing at the Republican National Convention in full support of Trump’s presidential bid in 2024, declaring:

“Let Trumpamania rule again, brother!”

The moment, accompanied by Hogan ripping off his shirt to reveal a Trump tank top, became one of the most viral political spectacles of the year.

Among the first to publicly honor the Hall of Famer were Donald Trump Jr., who posted on X

“R.I.P. to a legend. HULK HOGAN.”

WWE also released a statement mourning the loss:

“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.”

Wrestling community in mourning

Fellow wrestling legend Ric Flair posted an emotional tribute, sharing memories of their deep bond:

“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 world to me. He was always there for me, even when I didn’t ask for him to be. He was one of the first to visit me when I was in the hospital with a 2 percent 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. ����”

A legendary wrestler

Hogan, born Terry Bollea, became the face of professional wrestling in the 1980s, headlining the first WrestleMania in 1985 and going on to win at least six WWE championships. Known for his unmatched charisma, signature moves like the “Leg Drop,” and larger-than-life persona, Hogan was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005.

He remained a central figure in the wrestling industry for decades, including stints in WCW during the Monday Night Wars and later appearances in WWE programming and reality television.

Hogan’s death marks the end of an era, a final bell toll for one of the most iconic figures in sports entertainment history.