Hulk Hogan, the wrestling icon who defined an era, passed away on July 24, 2025, at the age of 71 from cardiac arrest at his home in Clearwater, Florida. His death sent shockwaves through the worlds of sports and entertainment, but also struck a deeply personal chord with longtime friend Donald Trump. In a heartfelt post on Truth Social, Trump remembered Hogan as “strong, tough, smart, but with the biggest heart.” Donald Trump Jr. echoed the sentiment with a tribute reflecting their decades-long friendship.

The bond between Trump and Hogan began over 35 years ago at a wrestling event in Atlantic City. From then on, they shared a genuine friendship beyond the spotlight. Hogan often appeared at Trump-hosted wrestling events, including WrestleMania at Trump Plaza, where he celebrated one of his most iconic victories. Their relationship became a symbol of loyalty in an industry known for fleeting alliances.

Hogan’s passing comes shortly after reports of a promising recovery from neck surgery in May. Though some rumors surfaced in June about his declining health, his wife, Sky Hogan, reassured fans that he was doing well. Unfortunately, the truth behind the scenes proved more fragile than public updates suggested.

His death also casts uncertainty over his recent ventures, including the Real American Freestyle wrestling league and Real American Beer. Just weeks before his passing, promotional content showed Hogan in high spirits, celebrating the ideals of strength and brotherhood he so often championed.

Hogan’s impact extended far beyond wrestling. In the 1990s, he transitioned into television and film, starring in Thunder in Paradise and co-founding the New World Order (nWo). Later, he opened up his personal life in Hogan Knows Best, displaying a softer, more relatable side as a father and husband.

To his fans, he was more than a wrestler—he was a hero. To his family, he was a loving husband and father. And to friends like Donald Trump, he was a loyal confidant. Though the man is gone, the legacy of Hulk Hogan—his booming voice, iconic mustache, and unbreakable spirit—will live on. He wrestled his way into the hearts of millions, and there, he’ll never lose.