The wrestling and entertainment world was left in shock on July 24, when WWE legend Terry Gene Bollea, better known as Hulk Hogan, passed away due to cardiac arrest. He was rushed to the hospital after a 911 call was made from his residence in Clearwater, Florida, but was declared dead on arrival. WWE recently paid tribute to Hogan during an episode of Monday Night Raw.
Wrestlers, ring announcers, and members of the front office gathered in front of the audience as CCO Triple-H started the proceedings with a short speech. He said, “Ladies and gentlemen, we lost one of the biggest and most globally recognised icons in the world. A man I grew up watching, was fortunate enough to share the ring with, and like so many of us, was honoured to call a friend. The truth is, he captivated millions of people and inspired them around the globe. We would not be standing here if it were not for him. So please help us honour him now, as we give a 10-bell salute to Terry Bollea, the one and only, the immortal Hulk Hogan.”
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Wrestlers stood with their heads down and hands tied as the bell from ringside was rung 10 times, and the entire arena was filled with fans holding placards honouring the legendary wrestler. Hulk Hogan’s son Nick Hogan stood there with the wrestlers as well, as a heart-wrenching video of ‘The Real American’s’ career played on the big screen. The video had clips from Hogan’s legendary matches, pictures from his childhood, his NWO days, and his several championship reigns. Nick had previously posted a message for his father on Instagram, which described his relationship with him, while thanking all the fans for their support.
He wrote, “Thank you to everyone who has reached out to me and comforted me over the last few days. It truly means a lot. I’m sorry to everyone I have not responded to yet. This has been overwhelming and extremely difficult. My dad was the most incredible person I’ve ever known and will always be my hero. He was the kindest, most loving, and most amazing father anybody could ask for. I feel so blessed to have had the greatest dad in the world. He was not only the best dad but also my mentor and my best friend. He has always been my best friend, and I love him and miss him more than I could ever explain.”
Hulk Hogan is often credited for taking wrestling from a small-time attraction to a global sport; as with every championship, every gimmick, and every segment, his legend grew to unimaginable heights, and the wrestling entertainment business grew with it.
