On July 24, 2025, the wrestling world stood still as news broke of the passing of Hulk Hogan, whose real name was Terry Gene Bollea. The legendary wrestler, cultural icon, and larger-than-life figure succumbed to cardiac arrest at the age of 71 at his Clearwater, Florida home. His death marked the end of an era for professional wrestling, but what followed turned into one of the most controversial moments in sports entertainment history. Newly surfaced bodycam footage capturing Hogan’s final moments has gone viral, revealing shocking details that have ignited debates across social media platforms.

The Final Bell: Hulk Hogan’s Last Morning

The morning of July 24 began like any other at Hogan’s Florida residence. By 9:51 a.m., however, everything had changed. Emergency responders rushed to his home following a 911 call reporting cardiac arrest. Despite their best efforts, Hogan was pronounced dead at Morton Plant Hospital at 11:17 a.m. The man who had bodyslammed giants and inspired millions was gone.

But the tragedy didn’t end there. Shortly after Hogan’s passing, a neighbor or bystander reportedly filmed the emergency response outside his home. The footage, shaky and handheld, shows paramedics desperately performing chest compressions on Hogan as they wheel him on a stretcher toward the ambulance. His massive frame is unmistakable even in his final moments, partially covered by a blanket. The video, estimated to be between 10 and 30 seconds long, quickly surfaced on social media, sparking outrage and sorrow.

A Viral Controversy

The footage first emerged on TikTok and was later picked up by major outlets such as TMZ, OK Magazine, and the New York Post. While many fans expressed heartbreak over witnessing Hogan’s final moments, others condemned the video as an invasion of privacy. Social media users criticized the person who filmed the clip, calling them “scumbags” for recording such a deeply personal and tragic scene.

Adding to the controversy, the 911 dispatch audio was also released, capturing the real-time emergency response. In the approximately 20-second clip, dispatchers can be heard directing paramedics to Hogan’s address for cardiac arrest. The audio and footage together created a haunting snapshot of the wrestling legend’s final moments, leaving fans divided over whether such content should have been made public.

Tributes From Wrestling Legends and Beyond

As news of Hogan’s death spread, tributes poured in from all corners of the wrestling world. WWE issued an official statement mourning the loss of one of its most iconic figures, calling Hogan “a pioneer of sports entertainment” and “a global sensation who helped WWE achieve worldwide recognition in the 1980s.”

Ric Flair, Hogan’s longtime friend and rival, shared a deeply emotional tribute. “Hulk has been by my side since we started in the wrestling business. An incredible athlete, talent, friend, and father. Our friendship has meant the world to me. Rest in peace, my friend,” Flair said.

Triple H, now the head of WWE creative, reflected on Hogan’s immeasurable impact on the industry. “Few, if any, loomed larger than Terry ‘Hulk’ Hogan. He was the archetype of a superstar, inspiring millions around the world,” he said.

Shawn Michaels and The Rock also shared heartfelt messages, with The Rock recalling Hogan’s words of encouragement early in his career: “You’ve got something special, brother.”

Tributes extended far beyond the wrestling ring. President Donald Trump, a longtime friend of Hogan, issued a statement praising him as “a great American hero” and recalling their decades-long friendship. Sylvester Stallone, who worked with Hogan in Rocky III, described him as “an incredible personality and showman” who brought unforgettable energy to the film.

A Legacy of Triumph and Controversy

Hogan’s death has sparked renewed interest in his extraordinary life—a journey filled with triumphs, controversies, and redemption. From his humble beginnings as a self-conscious teenager in Clearwater, Florida, to becoming the face of professional wrestling, Hogan’s story reads like the ultimate wrestling storyline.

After debuting in the late 1970s, Hogan skyrocketed to fame in the 1980s, becoming the WWF (now WWE) champion and launching the phenomenon known as Hulkamania. His all-American persona, complete with red and yellow attire and his iconic mustache, made him a global superstar. Hogan’s victory over the Iron Sheik in January 1984 marked a turning point for professional wrestling, cementing his status as a cultural icon.

But Hogan’s career wasn’t without controversy. His shocking heel turn in 1996, when he became Hollywood Hulk Hogan and led the villainous New World Order (NWO), revolutionized the wrestling industry. Fans cheered him even as he spray-painted championship belts and embraced his darker persona, proving his unparalleled ability to captivate audiences.

Beyond wrestling, Hogan’s crossover appeal led to roles in Hollywood films like Rocky III and Suburban Commando, as well as appearances in TV shows and commercials. He even ventured into politics, delivering theatrical speeches at Trump rallies and endorsing the former president.

The Scandals That Shook Hulk Hogan’s World

Despite his professional success, Hogan’s personal life was riddled with scandals. His first marriage to Linda Claridge ended in a messy divorce in 2009, with allegations of infidelity and financial disputes. His second marriage to Jennifer McDaniel was overshadowed by the infamous 2012 sex tape scandal, which led to a landmark legal battle against Gawker Media. Hogan won a $140 million verdict, bankrupting the media outlet, but the scandal left lasting damage to his public image.

The most devastating blow came in 2015, when leaked audio revealed Hogan using racial slurs during a private conversation. The remarks, made while discussing his daughter Brooke’s dating life, led to his temporary removal from the WWE Hall of Fame and strained his relationship with Brooke. Hogan publicly apologized, calling his comments “unacceptable,” but the fallout was severe.

Redemption and Faith

In his later years, Hogan sought redemption through faith and charity. He was baptized alongside his third wife, Sky Daily, in December 2023, publicly dedicating his life to Jesus Christ. Hogan also supported numerous charitable causes, including the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Special Olympics, and educational programs for Native American children.

The Final Goodbye

Hogan’s funeral was a private affair, attended only by close family and friends. Brooke Hogan, who had been estranged from her father for years, remained silent in the wake of his passing. Her husband shared glimpses of her grief, describing her quiet strength and the deep love she still carried for her father.

As fans continue to mourn the loss of the wrestling legend, one thing is clear: Hulk Hogan’s legacy will endure. Whether remembered as the ultimate good guy, the villainous Hollywood Hogan, or the man behind the mustache, Hogan’s impact on professional wrestling and popular culture is immeasurable.

In the words of his longtime rival Ric Flair, “No one will ever compare to you, Hulkster. Rest in peace, my friend.”