The world of professional wrestling is in mourning following the death of legendary performer Hulk Hogan, who has died aged 71 after a private struggle with cancer and heart disease.
The larger-than-life wrestling star, real name Terry Bollea, passed away on 24 July in Florida. The official cause of death has been confirmed as an acute myocardial infarction—commonly known as a heart attack. It has since emerged that Hogan had also been diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL), a type of blood cancer, and atrial fibrillation, a condition causing irregular heart rhythms.
Hogan's Hidden Health Battle
The devastating news broke on Thursday: the official cause of Hulk Hogan's death was confirmed as an acute myocardial infarction, more widely recognised as a heart attack. This serious event happens when the heart's blood supply is suddenly cut off.
Moreover, it came to light that the wrestling legend had been secretly battling chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL)—this particular form of cancer targets lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell. Page Six obtained a cremation approval report that revealed Hogan had previously received a diagnosis of atrial fibrillation.
This condition, as defined by the Mayo Clinic, is characterised by a rapid and erratic heartbeat. The wrestling icon passed away in Florida on 24 July, at the age of 71. Hogan's passing was officially attributed to natural causes.
Final Arrangements and Lingering Questions
Furthermore, Page Six reported that the Pinellas County Forensic Science Centre provided details concerning his cremation. A spokesperson for the medical examiner's office informed the publication: 'I'm not aware of when Mr. Bollea will be cremated, only that we've received a request for cremation approval.'
According to the Pinellas County Forensic Science Center, Hulk Hogan died of a heart attack, the report also revealed he had been secretly battling chronic lymphocytic leukemia, a form of blood cancer.
— 𝙎𝙖𝙢 (@RhodesKotaEra) July 31, 2025
There was no public knowledge of the blood cancer until this point.
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The confirmation of his official cause of death comes after reports that Hogan felt 'weak' and 'ashamed' in the period leading up to his passing.
Hogan's Final Days: A Friend's Account
Eric Bischoff, a close friend of Hogan's, recounted their final meeting on the 83 Weeks with Eric Bischoff podcast. He described Hogan's state, noting, 'I could tell he was weak. He sounded tired.
'[Hogan] said, 'I want to see you, but I'm kind of embarrassed for you to see me this way because I've been pretty sick.' When I look at you, I don't see the same thing you see when you look in the mirror, so f*** that, I'll be down Monday.'
Even amidst his health battles, Hogan's signature personality still shone through in their talks. Eric shared, 'It was work for him to have a conversation, but he was the same guy.'
Brooke Hogan's Heartfelt Farewell
Earlier this week, Brooke Hogan honoured her father on social media, reflecting on their complex relationship. The 37-year-old star shared on Instagram: 'When he left this earth, it felt like part of my spirit left with him. I felt it before the news even reached us. I know he's at peace now, out of pain, and in a place as beautiful as he imagined. He used to speak about this moment with such wonder and hope. Like meeting God was the greatest championship he'd ever have.'
Brooke also used her post to 'clear a few things up' regarding their estrangement. The reality star wrote: 'It was a series of private phone calls no one will ever hear, know, or understand. My father confided in me about issues weighing on his heart, both personal and professional. I offered to be a life raft in whatever capacity he needed. I told him he had my support. I begged him to rest, to take care of himself.'
Brooke and her husband, Steven Olesky, relocated closer to the wrestler during his fight with health issues. She said: 'We had been through almost 25 surgeries together, and then all of a sudden he didn't want me at surgeries...everything started getting covered in a thick veil. It was like there was a force field around him that I couldn't get through. (sic)'
A Legacy That Won't Be Forgotten
Though his last months were marked by illness, Hulk Hogan's impact on wrestling—and popular culture—remains monumental. Known for his signature leg drop, red-and-yellow ring gear, and larger-than-life persona, Hogan inspired generations of fans across the globe.
His death has left a void in the wrestling world and in the hearts of those who admired the man behind the muscle. But as tributes pour in from family, friends, and fans alike, one thing is clear: Hulk Hogan's legacy will live on long after the final bell.
