Social media reacts to Hulk Hogan’s death
Hulk Hogan, professional entertainer and wrestler, rips his shirt while speaking on Day 4 of the RNC, at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, US, July 18, 2024. PHOTO:REUTERS
Social media has erupted with tributes, memories, and mixed reactions following the death of WWE Hall of Famer and pop culture icon Hulk Hogan, who died aged 71, World Wrestling Entertainment confirmed on Thursday.
Hogan, born Terry Bollea, was one of the most influential figures in the history of professional wrestling, helping elevate the sport to global prominence during the 1980s and 1990s.
Read: WWE legend Hulk Hogan dead at 71
News of his death has prompted an outpouring of grief and remembrance across social media platforms.
Hogan’s death comes after weeks of speculation about his health. Last month, unconfirmed reports suggested he had been placed on life support or was in a coma.
Read more: No cause for concern: Hulk Hogan’s deathbed rumours dismissed
His wife, Sky Daily, dismissed the rumours, stating he was recovering from neck surgery and that his heart remained strong.
He passed away weeks later, surrounded by family, though the cause of death has not yet been officially released.
WWE shared its sadness over the death of Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan in a statement posted on its official X account, describing him as one of the most iconic figures in pop culture.
The company credited Hogan with helping propel WWE to international fame during the 1980s and extended heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and fans.
WWE is saddened to learn WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has passed away.
One of pop culture’s most recognizable figures, Hogan helped WWE achieve global recognition in the 1980s.
WWE extends its condolences to Hogan’s family, friends, and fans.Ric Flair, a longtime friend and fellow wrestling legend, wrote: “I am absolutely shocked to hear about the passing of my close friend @HulkHogan… An incredible athlete, talent, friend, and father!”
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… pic.twitter.com/rOWLakMjr4
Further tributes are listed below:
Hulk Hogan was a great American icon. One of the first people I ever truly admired as a kid.
— JD Vance (@JDVance) July 24, 2025
The last time I saw him we promised we’d get beers together next time we saw each other.
The next time will have to be on the other side, my friend! Rest in peace.R.I.P to a legend. 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸 HULK HOGAN pic.twitter.com/Hjt7ncnhvO
— Donald Trump Jr. (@DonaldJTrumpJr) July 24, 2025Through the good times and the bad, I always loved my brother Terry! I am devastated by the loss of my friend, I only wish we had time to mend our broken friendship before his passing. Until I see you Brother, in the big squared circle in the sky! I love you #hulkhogan #RIP pic.twitter.com/pwhntPY4Cz
— Brutus Beefcake (@brutusbeefcake_) July 24, 2025WWE 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.
— Triple H (@TripleH) July 24, 2025
He was the archetype of what it meant to be a “Superstar” - a global sensation that inspired millions to work… pic.twitter.com/wXpgFvAhHA— Vince McMahon (@VinceMcMahon) July 24, 2025I am saddened to learn of the passing of pro wrestling icon Hulk Hogan. Hogan's name was synonymous with professional wrestling, transcending the industry to become an American pop culture fixture. My condolences go out to his fans, friends and family. Rest in peace.
— Carlos… pic.twitter.com/BYNS6YeA6CNot all reactions were positive, as some recalled the controversies linked to him.