Wrestling Legend Hulk Hogan Dies Age 71 From Cardiac Arrest

Hulk Hogan, the iconic wrestling superstar and six-time WWF/E champion, died at the age of 71 from cardiac arrest, prompting widespread tributes for his influential career and lasting legacy in professional wrestling. Hogan, who began his career in the late 1970s, became the face of wrestling in the 1980s and was pivotal to the WWF's national expansion under Vince McMahon Jr., with his persona 'Hulkamania' captivating fans worldwide. Despite his success, Hogan endured extensive physical and mental hardships, including over 25 surgeries, chronic pain, steroid use, opioid addiction, and depression, which he openly discussed. His death joins a tragic list of wrestling stars from the 1990s who faced similar struggles with drugs, steroids, and heart issues, such as The Ultimate Warrior, Mr. Perfect, Big Boss Man, Randy Savage, and Davey Boy Smith, many of whom died prematurely from heart attacks or complications related to substance abuse. Hogan's career also included international success, notably becoming the first IWGP Heavyweight Champion in New Japan Pro Wrestling. His complex legacy includes both his achievements in wrestling and the personal battles that highlighted the physical toll of the sport.