Hulk Hogan died 'surrounded by loved ones' as family issue emotional statement
Hulk Hogan's family have issued a statement after the legendary wrestler died this morning at the age of 71.
It was confirmed on July 24 that the celebrity star, who was born Terry Gene Bollea, had passed away after suffering a cardiac arrest in his home, just weeks after his wife Sky Daily denied rumours that he was in a coma, as rumours of his ill health first began to spread.
Hogan was one of the WWE’s first and most popular ever stars after joining WWF, the predecessor to WWE, back in 1979.
He became something of a national icon, famously walking out to 'Real American' before his wrestling shows, while he also inspired Hulkamania after defeating Iron Sheik to become the world heavyweight champion back in 1984, something which catapulted him to superstardom.
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Posting on his official Instagram page, his family wrote: "It is with a heavy heart and deep sadness that we confirm we have lost a legend.
"Our beloved Terry Bollea, known worldwide as Hulk Hogan, passed away today surrounded by his loved ones. At this time of grief, we ask that everyone please respect the privacy of his family and friends.
"May we all take solace in the wonderful memories he left behind for the millions of fans worldwide whose lives he touched for more than four decades. He will be missed, but never forgotten."
The WWE also paid tribute to the American wrestler after news of his death first broke.
They said: "WWE is saddened to learn WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has passed away. One of pop culture’s most recognisable figures, Hogan helped WWE achieve global recognition in the 1980s. WWE extends its condolences to Hogan’s family, friends, and fans."
Fellow icons from the wrestling world also joined in with the tributes for the 71-year-old, with The Undertaker writing: "The wrestling world has lost a true legend. His contributions to our business are immeasurable and for that I am appreciative.
"Thank you, Hulk Hogan."
Hogan's career was somewhat tarnished by racism accusations, with a sexual video capturing him repeatedly using the N word, as well as him admitting that he'd be disgusted if his daughter was dating a black man.
Although the wrestling legend was able to sue Gawker, the company who leaked the video, for $31 million, he was removed from the WWE Hall of Fame in 2015 and dropped entirely, although his lawyer claimed he quit of his own volition.
Donald Trump also paid tribute 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. 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!"
Topics: WWE
James Moorhouse