Wrestling icon Hulk Hogan, 71, passed away due to a heart attack, as confirmed by the Pinellas County Forensic Science Center. Hogan, whose real name was Terry Bollea, had a history of atrial fibrillation, a common cardiac arrhythmia, and acute myocardial infarction, also known as a heart attack. The records also revealed that Hogan had been battling chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), a type of cancer that affects white blood cells.
Hogan’s struggle with cancer was not previously known to the public. His death was deemed natural, as stated in the cremation summary approval report. A representative from the medical examiner’s office confirmed the receipt of a request for cremation approval but did not provide further details.
On July 24, Hogan was rushed from his home in Clearwater, Florida, to the hospital following a 911 call citing “cardiac arrest.” He later died at the hospital. His wife, Sky Daily, described his death as “sudden” in a social media post.
Eric Bischoff, a close friend of Hogan and fellow WWE Hall of Famer, shared on his “83 Weeks” podcast that Hogan had seemed “tired” and “weak” during a visit a few weeks prior to his death. Bischoff recounted a phone conversation with Hogan, who expressed embarrassment about his condition but was eager to see his friend.
Bischoff also mentioned that Hogan had a nurse who was providing him with oxygen due to issues with his CO2 levels. Despite his health struggles, Hogan remained focused on his work, showing enthusiasm and energy during their discussions.
Rumors about Hogan’s deteriorating health had been circulating in the weeks leading up to his death. Bubba the Love Sponge, a Tampa-based radio show host and former friend of Hogan, had reported that Hogan was critically ill. However, these reports were denied by Hogan’s representative, his wife, and Bischoff.
In early July, Daily refuted rumors that Hogan was in a coma and had suffered brain damage. She stated that Hogan was recovering from a neck surgery he had undergone in May and assured that his heart was strong.
Following Hogan’s death, WWE’s “Monday Night Raw” paid tribute to the wrestling legend with a 10-bell salute and a video tribute. Hogan’s son Nick Hogan and Bischoff were in attendance.