Hulk Hogan, 71, is a name that resonates far beyond the wrestling ring. From his unmistakable look - blonde mustache, bandana, and bulging biceps - to his booming catchphrase, "Whatcha gonna do, brother, when Hulkamania runs wild on you?" he is an icon.
Born Terry Gene Bollea on August 11, 1953, Hulk Hogan became one of the most famous faces in wrestling history. His larger-than-life persona and unmatched charisma transformed him into a global superstar.
At 71 years old, he is still talked about today, and for good reason.
Hulk Hogan’s Early Rise to Fame
Hulk Hogan burst onto the wrestling scene in the late 1970s. But it was not until the 1980s that he truly became a household name. Back then, wrestling was evolving from regional shows to a national spectacle. Hogan was the perfect star for the job.
Hulk / IG / With his towering height of 6 feet 7 inches and his magnetic personality, Hulk Hogan captivated audiences back in the 1970s.
However, Hogan’s big break came when he joined WWE, then known as WWF, in 1983. Under Vince McMahon’s guidance, Hogan became the face of the company. His victory over The Iron Sheik for the WWE Championship in 1984 marked the start of Hulkamania.
Fans across the world couldn’t get enough of his high-energy performances and heroic character.
The WrestleMania Legacy
When you think of WrestleMania, you think of Hulk Hogan. The very first WrestleMania in 1985 solidified Hogan’s place as a superstar. He headlined the event alongside Mr. T in a match against Roddy Piper and Paul Orndorff. It was a pop culture milestone, and Hogan was at its heart.
Over the years, Hogan was part of some of WrestleMania’s most memorable moments. From bodyslamming André the Giant at WrestleMania III to his battle with The Rock at WrestleMania X8, Hogan consistently delivered. These iconic matches helped shape WrestleMania into the grand event it is today.
Hulk Hogan in Hollywood
Hulk Hogan’s fame was not confined to wrestling. He ventured into Hollywood, starring in movies like “Rocky III,” where he played the memorable character Thunderlips. This role showcased his natural charisma and opened the door for other wrestlers to follow in his footsteps. Films like “No Holds Barred” and “Suburban Commando” further cemented his status as an entertainer.
His transition from the ring to the big screen was a game-changer for the wrestling industry. Hogan proved that wrestlers could be versatile entertainers, paving the way for stars like Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson and John Cena to dominate Hollywood.
Hulk / IG / Perhaps one of the major reasons why Hulk Hogan is so popular today is his seamless transition from WWE to Hollywood! And now, he is supporting President-elect Donald Trump.
The New World Order Era
By the mid-1990s, Hulk Hogan’s good-guy persona began to lose steam. Fans were craving something fresh, and Hogan delivered. In 1996, he shocked the world by turning heel (becoming a villain) and forming the New World Order (NWO) in WCW alongside Scott Hall and Kevin Nash.
The NWO storyline was revolutionary, breathing new life into Hogan’s career.
This darker, edgier version of Hogan was a huge success. He became Hollywood Hogan, complete with a black beard and cocky swagger. The NWO era was one of the most exciting times in wrestling history, and Hogan was at its center, proving his ability to reinvent himself.
Personal Life & Relationships
Hulk Hogan’s personal life has often made headlines, too. He has been married three times, with his most recent wedding to Sky Daily in 2023. Hogan’s marriages have often drawn public attention, especially his high-profile divorce from Linda Hogan in 2009.
Despite the ups and downs, Hogan remains a family man. He has two children, Brooke and Nick, who also use the Hogan name.
His personal struggles, including a highly publicized lawsuit and health challenges, have not dimmed his star power. Instead, they have added layers to his story, making him more relatable to fans who have followed his journey for decades.