Terry Gene Bollea, was known to the world as Hulk Hogan. He was a professional wrestler and actor born August 11, 1953, in Augusta, GA. As a child, Hogan was a Little League baseball pitcher. He began watching professional wrestling at the age of 16 and collecting wrestling cards as a hobby. Hogan discovered wrestler Billy Graham and was inspired by his image, and wanted to match his “inhuman” look.
As a young man, Hogan was a talented bassist and played for numerous rock bands for a decade. He attended Hillsborough Community College and the University of South Florida, but eventually dropped out of school when it began to interfere with his music gigs. He and two friends then formed the group “Rukus,” and became widely known in the Central Florida area.
During his spare time, Hogan began working out and lifting weights. Many wrestlers frequented bars where “Rukus” performed. The legendary Briscoe brothers saw Hogan in a bar performing and were impressed by his size. They asked him to try wrestling, and his career began in 1977.
Hogan ultimately gained recognition after signing with the WWF in 1983. He was also in the World Championship Wrestling, making him one of the most recognized professional wrestlers worldwide. Known for his signature blonde mustache and massive physique, the 12-time champion and Hall of fame inductee was a WWE icon.
Wrestling was not Hogan’s only talent. He also had an extensive film and TV career. He made appearances in the movies “Rocky III”, “No Holds Barred”, and “Mr. Nanny,” just to name a few. Proven to be a jack of all trades, Hogan went on to release an album titled “Hulk Rules.”
Hogan did spark controversy in 2015 after an audio tape was released of him making racial comments about a man his daughter was dating. This led to the WWE cutting ties with Hogan, and he was removed from the Hall of Fame. After numerous public apologies and stating, “that was the biggest mistake of his life,” Hogan was given a second chance and reinstated to the Hall of Fame in 2018.
Hulk Hogan reportedly suffered from many health issues due to years of steroid use. He experienced shortness of breath, rapid weight loss, and a weakened heart. The wrestling icon reportedly died of cardiac arrest at his Florida home. Hogan leaves behind a daughter and son. He was 71 years old.