Hulk Hogan, born Terry Gene Bollea, became an emblem of professional wrestling, captivating audiences with his mix of athleticism and theatrical flair during the explosive era of the 1980s. He started off in Florida in the 1970s, earning his famous "Hulk" nickname after a memorable encounter with Lou Ferrigno, the actor known for portraying The Incredible Hulk. Entering the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), he adopted the name Hogan, strategically chosen by Vince McMahon to enhance his marketability.
As wrestling gained momentum as a television spectacle, Hogan emerged as the quintessential hero, thrilling fans with his good versus evil showdowns. His charm wasn't limited to the ring; he showcased his acting chops in films like Rocky III, where he faced off against Sylvester Stallone's character, Thunderlips. Hogan featured in various roles in movies and TV shows, extending his reach beyond wrestling.
Throughout the years, Hogan's career saw him battle a new generation of wrestling stars, including Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, and even team up with John Cena at award shows. Having captured six WWF/WWE championships and headlining WrestleMania eight times, Hogan's wrestling credentials are undisputed. His life took a downturn in 2015 when he was suspended from WWE for racial slurs in a leaked video, prompting a public apology.
In the political arena, Hogan stirred controversy as a prominent supporter of Donald Trump, displaying his trademark theatrics at various events, which further polarized his fanbase. As tributes pour in following his death, Hulk Hogan's legacy remains a mixture of dominance, drama, and divisive politics in the world of entertainment.
