Wrestling legend Hulk Hogan, one of the most influential figures in the history of professional wrestling, has died at the age of 71.

According to TMZ Sports, emergency medical personnel responded to Hogan’s Clearwater, Florida, home early Thursday morning following a reported cardiac arrest.

Several police cars and EMTs were seen at the scene, and the WWE Hall of Famer was reportedly transported via stretcher into an ambulance.

Hogan’s passing comes just weeks after his wife, Sky Daily, denied online rumours that he was in a coma, insisting that his heart was “strong” as he recovered from multiple surgeries. Concerns had mounted in recent months following a neck procedure in May, which led to speculation that he was in declining health.

Born Terry Eugene Bollea, Hulk Hogan rose to superstardom in the 1980s, becoming the face of the then-World Wrestling Federation (WWF, now WWE). With his charisma, towering frame, and iconic catchphrases, Hogan helped transform professional wrestling from a niche athletic contest into a mainstream entertainment spectacle that captured the hearts of millions.

His appearances in movies, television, and commercials made him a global cultural icon. “Hulkamania” became a phenomenon, especially among children, positioning Hogan as a hero figure in and out of the ring.

In 1996, Hogan shocked the wrestling world by turning heel, transforming from a fan favourite to a villain, when he co-founded the New World Order (NWO) in World Championship Wrestling (WCW).

Adopting the persona “Hollywood Hogan”, the move revitalized his career and propelled professional wrestling into one of its most commercially successful eras.

Over a career spanning decades, Hogan held multiple world titles, headlined WrestleMania events, and was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame twice, once individually, and again as a member of the NWO.