Hulk Hogan, WWE Legend and Christian Icon of Strength and Redemption, Dies at 71

Clearwater, FL — The world of professional wrestling—and the broader American cultural landscape—has lost one of its boldest icons. Hulk Hogan, the legendary wrestler known to millions as the red-and-yellow clad embodiment of strength, faith, and patriotism, has passed away at the age of 71, according to TMZ Sports. Emergency services responded early Thursday morning to a cardiac arrest call at Hogan’s Clearwater, Florida residence. Witnesses reported a heavy presence of EMT and law enforcement vehicles. Hogan was taken from his home on a stretcher, marking the final earthly chapter of a man who once stood as a larger-than-life hero to generations.

Just weeks earlier, Hogan’s devoted wife, Sky, had dismissed false online rumors that her husband was in a coma, boldly declaring that his heart was “strong” and that he was recovering well from recent surgeries. It is now clear that his mortal body could no longer carry the weight of a life lived with unmatched intensity.

The Rise of a Cultural Giant

Born Terry Bollea, Hogan wasn’t just a wrestler—he was a movement. A clean-cut, all-American figure who brought professional wrestling out of smoky local arenas and into the living rooms of God-fearing American families, Hulk Hogan helped transform what was once seen as fringe entertainment into a mainstream, family-friendly spectacle.

With his trademark “Say your prayers, take your vitamins, and believe in yourself” motto, Hogan was a rare pop culture figure who openly encouraged faith, discipline, and personal responsibility—values that today’s culture so often mocks or disregards. He didn’t just play a character; he lived a testimony of traditional American ideals.

Reinvention and Redemption

In 1996, Hogan surprised the world by turning heel and creating the now-famous New World Order (NWO), donning black and turning villain in the ring. It was a bold, strategic reinvention that speaks to the American story of change, grit, and resilience. Yet, for all the theatrics of wrestling, it was his real-life struggles that most clearly reflected the human condition.

After a private tape containing offensive language was leaked in 2015, Hogan was swiftly cast out by many in the same industry he helped build. But he didn’t remain in exile. He apologized. He sought forgiveness. And eventually, in 2020, he was welcomed back into the WWE Hall of Fame—not just as a man, but as a humbled warrior who had stumbled, confessed, and stood back up.

That’s not just a wrestling arc—that’s a Christian arc.

More Than Muscles: A Family Man and Patriot

Outside the ring, Hogan brought his charisma to Hollywood and American television, starring in films like No Holds Barred, Suburban Commando, and Mr. Nanny. Many Americans also came to know the Hogan family more intimately through Hogan Knows Best, which offered a glimpse into his role as a father and husband.

Though not without family struggles—like so many of us—Hogan was fiercely protective of his children and continued to affirm his belief in God, redemption, and the strength of the American family.

A Legacy of Strength, Faith, and Freedom

In a world where modern celebrities increasingly denounce the very values this nation was built on, Hulk Hogan stood firm—imperfect but unyielding. His life was a testament to traditional values: courage, perseverance, forgiveness, and faith.

As Christians, we know that even our greatest heroes are still human. But we also know that God uses flawed vessels for His purpose. Hulk Hogan inspired millions not only to cheer louder and live bolder, but to believe in something greater than themselves.

As we mourn his passing, we celebrate a life that—despite its ups and downs—remained a bold proclamation of American grit and Christian redemption.

Rest in power, Hulk Hogan. The real fight is over. May you now receive your eternal reward.