WWE Legend Hulk Hogan Dies Suddenly After Alleged Medical Error

Clearwater, Florida, July 24, 2025, 23:30 EDT – Wrestling icon and global pop culture figure Hulk Hogan, whose real name was Terry Gene Bollea, has passed away at the age of 71 at his home in Clearwater, Florida, following a severe medical complication allegedly linked to errors by his medical team, according to unverified sources.

According to TMZ, emergency medical personnel and police were dispatched to Hogan’s residence early Thursday morning, July 24, following a distress call regarding a cardiac arrest. Hogan was transported on a stretcher to Morton Plant Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Initial reports suggested the cause of death was sudden cardiac arrest, but sources close to the family have revealed to the BBC that Hogan’s death may be connected to a medical error during treatment following a recent spinal surgery.

Hogan underwent a cervical fusion surgery in May 2025 to address chronic neck and back issues, a result of decades in the physically demanding world of professional wrestling. The procedure was described as a “minor operation” by Hogan’s team, but anonymous sources claim he experienced severe adverse reactions post-surgery, including tracheal damage and difficulty speaking. A source close to the family stated: “Hogan couldn’t speak after the surgery, and his condition deteriorated rapidly. The doctors seem to have underestimated the severity of the complications.”

Specifically, allegations are emerging that the medical team at Morton Plant Hospital or Hogan’s private physician failed to adequately monitor his post-surgical condition, missing critical warning signs of cardiovascular issues. Some sources suggest that the use of painkillers or other medications may have placed undue strain on Hogan’s cardiovascular system, contributing to the cardiac arrest. However, no official reports from investigators or the Hogan family have yet confirmed these allegations.

Hogan’s family, including his wife, Sky Daily, has requested privacy during this time of grief. Sky, who previously dismissed rumors in June that Hogan was in critical condition, has not commented on the allegations of medical malpractice. In an Instagram Stories post last month, she stated: “He is not in a coma. His heart is fine, and there’s no brain damage or oxygen deprivation.”

WWE, where Hogan rose to global stardom in the 1980s and 1990s, issued a statement expressing their sorrow: “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Hulk Hogan, one of the greatest icons in professional wrestling. His legacy in and out of the ring will live on forever. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and fans.” WWE has not addressed the allegations of medical errors.

Hogan, a six-time WWE Champion and two-time WWE Hall of Famer (inducted in 2005 and 2020), faced numerous health challenges stemming from his grueling wrestling career. In a 2024 interview on Logan Paul’s Impaulsive podcast, he revealed undergoing over 25 surgeries in the past decade, including hip and knee replacements, shoulder surgeries, and multiple back procedures. In 2013, Hogan filed a $50 million lawsuit against the Laser Spine Institute in Florida, alleging the center performed “unnecessary and ineffective” back surgeries in 2009 that severely impacted his career. This lawsuit raised questions about the quality of medical care Hogan received in his later years.

Hogan’s death has shocked fans worldwide, with tributes flooding social media. Donald Trump Jr., a friend of Hogan, wrote on X: “RIP legend. Hulk Hogan was an American icon.” Former wrestler Ric Flair also shared: “Hulk changed wrestling forever. I’ll miss you forever, brother.” However, some posts on X have raised questions about the rumors of medical errors, with fans calling for a thorough investigation into what happened in Hogan’s final days.

Authorities in Clearwater have stated that an investigation into the cause of Hogan’s death is underway, with an autopsy report expected in the coming weeks. Independent medical experts contacted by the BBC noted that if the allegations of medical errors are substantiated, they could involve improper medication management or inadequate monitoring of the patient’s post-surgical condition.

Hogan’s death marks the end of an era in professional wrestling. Known as “Hulkamania,” he was not only a wrestler but also a cultural icon, appearing in films like Rocky III and the reality show Hogan Knows Best. However, questions surrounding his death may overshadow his legacy as the public awaits clearer answers about what transpired.

The BBC will continue to provide updates as further details emerge from the Hogan family or investigative authorities.

BBC News, USA