Hulk Hogan, born Terry Bollea, passed away at the age of 71 following a cardiac arrest, leaving behind a complex legacy in the world of professional wrestling. While his image suffered in his final years, it’s undeniable that Hogan was a pivotal figure who shaped the wrestling industry. He became the face of wrestling during the 1980s, captivating audiences with his charisma and athleticism.
Hogan began his career in the late 1970s, gaining attention in regional territories before joining WWE under Vince McMahon Sr. His early success included a stint in New Japan Pro Wrestling, where he won the IWGP Heavyweight Title. His ascent to stardom truly accelerated after McMahon Jr.’s takeover, as Hogan became the central figure in the company’s national expansion. He won his first WWF title in January 1984, defeating The Iron Sheik, and the iconic term “Hulkamania” was born.
As the spotlight shone on him, Hogan effectively turned wrestling into a pop culture phenomenon. He headlined the inaugural WrestleMania alongside Mr. T and maintained captivating rivalries with notable figures such as Andre the Giant and Randy Savage, propelling his popularity through the 80s and early 90s. His larger-than-life persona often overshadowed his wrestling ability, as he frequently leveraged his political clout to remain at the forefront of the industry.
Following a decline in his WWF tenure, Hogan shifted to WCW where he helped launch the legendary New World Order with Kevin Nash and Scott Hall. This faction played a crucial role in WCW’s success during the “Monday Night Wars,” although eventually, WWE reclaimed the top spot, leading to WCW’s demise.
Hogan’s influence diminished over time, despite notable comebacks, including a WrestleMania match against The Rock in 2002. His later years were marred by scandal, including a highly publicised steroid trial in the 90s and his involvement in a reported racism scandal that surfaced in 2015, resulting in a long period away from WWE. Despite his return, public perception remained divided, with wrestlers expressing discomfort regarding his past actions and statements.
His passing leaves a conflicted legacy, reflecting both his monumental impact on wrestling and the controversies that accompanied his story. While many recognise his contributions to the industry’s growth, the shadows cast by his personal scandals complicate how he will be remembered. For fans and fellow wrestlers alike, Hogan’s death represents the loss of a childhood icon, yet also raises challenging questions about race and integrity within professional wrestling.
Ultimately, Hulk Hogan’s life embodies the highs and lows of wrestling, ensuring his unique mark on the sport will not be forgotten—underscoring that there may never be another figure quite like him.