The world of professional wrestling is mourning the loss of one of its most iconic figures. Hulk Hogan — born Terry Gene Bollea — passed away at age 71 early Thursday morning following a reported cardiac arrest at his Clearwater, Florida home, according to TMZ Sports.

Emergency medical services were dispatched to the scene shortly after sunrise. Witnesses reported several police vehicles and EMT units outside Hogan’s residence as the wrestling legend was taken out on a stretcher.

Despite life-saving efforts, Hogan was pronounced dead shortly after arriving at a nearby hospital. His sudden passing has left fans and fellow wrestlers stunned and heartbroken.

Rumors had swirled in recent weeks about Hogan’s declining health, with some even falsely claiming he was in a coma. His wife, Sky, recently denied those reports, stating Hogan was doing well and recovering from neck surgery earlier this year.

The news of his unexpected death feels especially cruel given his recent signs of improvement and optimism. Hogan had long been known for his resilience, both inside and outside the ring.

Hogan rose to fame in the 1980s as the face of WWE, transforming professional wrestling into a global phenomenon. His charisma, catchphrases, and signature leg drop made him a household name.

Beyond wrestling, Hogan became a pop culture icon, starring in films, television shows, and commercials, and helping to define an era of American entertainment.

Today, fans across generations remember Hulk Hogan not only as a wrestling legend but as a larger-than-life symbol of strength, showmanship, and perseverance.