A Bond That Preceded the Spotlight
Before Hulk Hogan became a wrestling icon, he had already earned a place in Donald Trump’s inner circle. Their decades-long friendship is now the subject of heartfelt tributes, especially from Trump himself.
On July 24, 2025, Hogan d**d of cardiac ar*est at his home in Clearwater, Florida. President Trump quickly honored the WWE legend, calling him a “great friend” and recalling their shared history.
“We lost a great friend today, the ‘Hulkster.’ Hulk Hogan was strong, tough, smart, but with the biggest heart,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “To his wife, Sky, and family, we give our warmest best wishes and love. Hulk Hogan will be greatly missed!”
A Friendship Forged in the Ring
Trump and Hogan met in the late 1980s at a wrestling event in Atlantic City. Their bond grew stronger when Hogan won the wrestling world title at WrestleMania in Trump’s Plaza Hotel. Since then, their friendship spanned over 35 years, blending public appearances with private trust.
Trump Jr. also shared a tribute, keeping it brief but heartfelt.
A photo posted on Instagram by Sky Hogan last year shows the couple with Trump and another friend, highlighting how close the families remained over the years.
R.I.P to a legend. 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸 HULK HOGAN pic.twitter.com/Hjt7ncnhvO
— Donald Trump Jr. (@DonaldJTrumpJr) July 24, 2025
The Final Days: Rumors, Surgeries, and a Sudden Goodbye
Although Hogan had survived numerous surgeries—25 in the past decade, including both knees, hips, shoulders, and ten back surgeries—he remained active. Just this May, he underwent a minor neck fusion procedure, which was said to be successful with a quick recovery.
However, concern mounted in June after radio host Bubba the Love Sponge claimed Hogan’s condition was dire. His claims were dismissed by TMZ Sports, citing Hogan’s rep, who confirmed the wrestling legend was mobile and not “close to death.”
His wife, Sky, also denied rumors of a coma, stating that despite several heart surgeries, Hogan was doing well.
Emergency responders were called to his home early Thursday morning, and he was taken to the hospital but could not be saved.
A Legend Who Transcended Wrestling
Hogan didn’t just dominate the wrestling ring—he helped redefine it. With his flamboyant personality, he turned wrestling into family entertainment and became a household name across generations.
His popularity carried over into Hollywood with roles in Thunder in Paradise and its sequels. In 1996, he co-founded the New World Order, adding another chapter to his already explosive career.
The 2000s saw Hogan on reality TV with Hogan Knows Best, starring alongside his then-wife Linda and their children, Brooke and Nick. He even appeared in Brooke’s music video, showing the world his softer, fatherly side.
Still Building Dreams Until the End
Even in his final months, Hogan kept pushing forward. He had recently launched the Real American Freestyle wrestling league and partnered with Real American Beer, which promoted a now-bittersweet “Beach Day” photo featuring the legend himself.
An Irreplaceable Loss
The news of Hogan’s death sent shockwaves through the wrestling world and beyond. Fans, celebrities, and close friends continue to mourn the man who brought energy, charisma, and heart to every ring he entered.
While Trump’s tribute captures the personal loss felt by those closest to Hogan, millions remember him as more than a wrestler—he was a symbol of strength, resilience, and entertainment.
For those who grew up chanting his name and living by his motto, Hulk Hogan will forever remain the champion of hearts.
