WWE legend Hulk Hogan, born Terry Bollea, passed away on Thursday, April 24, at the age of 71, prompting an outpouring of tributes across the wrestling community. Prominent figures like John Cena, Ric Flair, The Undertaker, Triple H, and many others honored Hogan’s lasting legacy in professional wrestling and pop culture through social media and public statements.
The widespread respect reflects Hogan’s impact on the sport and the bonds he formed with peers, demonstrating why the news has deeply affected fans and athletes worldwide.
Fellow Wrestlers Reflect on Hogan’s Impact and Friendship
Ric Flair, a fellow wrestling icon from the 1980s and 1990s, expressed heartfelt admiration for Hogan’s multifaceted role as an athlete, talent, friend, and father. Flair highlighted Hogan’s unwavering support during some of his darkest moments, including a time when Flair faced a critical health battle and Hogan visited him in the hospital and offered financial help.
“I Am Absolutely Shocked To Hear About The Passing Of My Close Friend @HulkHogan! Hulk Has Been By My Side Since We Started In The Wrestling Business. An Incredible Athlete, Talent, Friend, And Father! Our Friendship Has Meant The World To Me. He Was Always There For Me Even When…” — Ric Flair® (@RicFlairNatrBoy)
Ric Flair’s daughter, Charlotte Flair, also shared her sorrow while recognizing Hogan’s supportive presence during her father’s health crisis eight years earlier. Her tribute extended condolences to Hogan’s family and fans.
“When I nearly lost my dad 8 years ago, one of the few people who was there for all of it was Hulk Hogan. My heart breaks for Nick and Brooke. Rest in peace, brother” — Charlotte Flair (@MsCharlotteWWE)
Kevin Nash, Hogan’s NWO stablemate and fellow WWE Hall of Famer, described Hogan as more than an icon, calling him a brother and emphasizing his enduring influence on the wrestling world and their personal bond.
Shawn Michaels, who faced Hogan at SummerSlam 2005 in one of Hogan’s final major WWE singles matches, remembered him as a transformative figure in wrestling who elevated the industry with his charisma and presence.
Sting, Hogan’s former rival and WWE Hall of Famer, praised Hogan as “the greatest of all” and expressed deep gratitude for his contributions, calling Hogan a beloved friend and a source of inspiration for wrestling fans globally.
Kurt Angle, famously the first to make Hogan submit in WWE, credited Hogan for opening doors in the wrestling business that shaped his own success, offering condolences to Hogan’s family and acknowledging the loss of a true icon.
Industry Leaders and Celebrities Join in Remembering Hogan’s Legacy
Triple H, WWE’s Chief Content Officer, honored Hogan’s role as a foundational superstar who helped make WWE a global phenomenon. He emphasized Hogan’s larger-than-life character and the inspiration he provided to millions striving to reach their goals.
“WWE would not be where it is today without the larger-than-life characters that compete in the ring … and few, if any, loomed larger than Terry ‘Hulk Hogan’ Bollea. He was the archetype of what it meant to be a ‘Superstar’ – a global sensation that inspired millions to work hard at whatever it was they wanted to accomplish and a look that made him recognizable to fans around the world.” — Triple H (@TripleH)
The Undertaker, who won his first WWE Championship from Hogan at Survivor Series 1991, acknowledged Hogan’s immeasurable contributions to wrestling and expressed his gratitude and sorrow for the passing of a true legend.
“The wrestling world has lost a true legend. His contributions to our business are immeasurable and for that I am appreciative. Thank you, Hulk Hogan.” — Undertaker (@undertaker)
Chris Jericho, now an AEW star, recalled his experience meeting Hogan early in his WCW career and later working together in WWE, paying tribute to how Hogan paved the way for many wrestlers to succeed in the industry.
“When I started in WCW, I had the pleasure of meeting one of my childhood heroes, then years later in WWE, I had a blast with him entertaining millions…the same way he had entertained me for many years. Thank you for everything Hulkster…you paved the way for all of us.” — Chris Jericho (@IAmJericho)
Sylvester Stallone, who co-starred with Hogan in Rocky III, shared a moving tribute highlighting Hogan’s skill as a performer and his impact beyond wrestling into show business.
“I had the pleasure of meeting this brilliant personality and showman when he was 26 years old. He was absolutely wonderful and his amazing skill made Rocky three incredibly special.” — Sylvester Stallone
John Cena’s Visual Tribute to Hulk Hogan’s Wrestling Legacy
John Cena, the current Undisputed WWE Champion, chose to honor Hogan through a powerful visual tribute, posting a historic photo from WrestleMania III that captured Hogan’s iconic clash with Andre The Giant. Though Cena did not release a public statement, this image symbolized Hogan’s enduring influence on WWE and the wider wrestling community.
“John Cena has paid tribute to Hulk Hogan following his passing, sharing a picture of the iconic WWE WrestleMania 3 match between Hogan and Andre The Giant pic.twitter.com/WTglcbWd6m” — WrestleTalk (@WrestleTalk_TV)
Former WWE Chairman Vince McMahon also commented on Hogan’s passing, reflecting on his significance in wrestling’s history and sending condolences to Hogan’s loved ones.
Hogan’s Legacy: A Lasting Impact on Wrestling and Pop Culture
Hulk Hogan’s death marks the end of an era for wrestling and entertainment, where his larger-than-life persona, vibrant charisma, and boundary-breaking success redefined the industry. From his red-and-yellow “Real American” image to his role as NWO leader, Hogan transcended wrestling’s traditional reach and inspired multiple generations of performers and fans.
The heartfelt tributes from peers such as Ric Flair, The Undertaker, Triple H, John Cena, and many others underscore Hogan’s significant contributions, not only as an athlete but as a friend and mentor to many in wrestling. Their reflections show how Hogan’s presence helped shape the course of professional wrestling and created an enduring legacy that will continue to inspire.
As the wrestling world continues to reflect on Hogan’s career, his influence remains visible in the passion and dedication of current wrestlers and fans who honor his memory. Moving forward, Hogan’s legacy serves as a symbol of perseverance, showmanship, and the global power of wrestling entertainment.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What is John Cena diagnosed with?
A. Famous wrestler John Cena has been diagnosed with skin cancer. Doctors discovered melanoma on his chest and back, about a year apart. Cena shared with USA Today that this news altered his perspective on life. He encourages men to pay more attention to skincare.
Q. What is John Cena’s terminal illness?
A. John Cena, a famous WWE wrestler, has been diagnosed with skin cancer on two different occasions. He is 48 years old and did not use sunscreen regularly. Now, John is promoting a new campaign encouraging everyone to use sunscreen for protection against the sun.
Q. Has John Cena ever had surgery?
A. John Cena recently talked about his decision to get a hair transplant to cover a bald spot. During an interview, the WWE star criticized wrestling critics for pressuring him into it, calling their comments a form of “bullying.”
Q. What is John Cena’s biggest fear?
A. 1. John Cena is afraid of heights. He mentioned in an interview with WWE’s website that he has Acrophobia, which means fear of heights.
