Trump Honors “Great Friend” Hulk Hogan After Wrestling Legend Passes Away at 71

Former President Donald Trump has issued a heartfelt tribute to wrestling legend Hulk Hogan, who passed away Thursday morning at the age of 71. Hogan, whose real name was Terry Gene Bollea, died of cardiac arrest at his home in Clearwater, Florida.

Trump Remembers a “Great Friend” and MAGA Icon

In a statement shared on Truth Social, Trump honored Hogan as a close friend and a cultural force. “We lost a great friend today, the ‘Hulkster,’” Trump wrote. “Hulk Hogan was MAGA all the way — Strong, tough, smart, but with the biggest heart. He gave an absolutely electric speech at the Republican National Convention, that was one of the highlights of the entire week.”

Trump, 79, spoke warmly of Hogan’s influence, both inside and outside the wrestling ring. “He entertained fans from all over the world, and the cultural impact he had was massive,” Trump added. “To his wife, Sky, and family, we give our warmest best wishes and love. Hulk Hogan will be greatly missed!”

Donald Trump and Hulk Hogan at Wrestlemania Vl Convention Hall in Atlantic City, New Jersey on March 29, 1987.Getty Images

A Showman’s Support for Trump

Hogan’s support for Trump was no secret. The six-time WWE champion made headlines at last July’s Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, just days after Trump narrowly survived an assassination attempt. In a dramatic moment, Hogan tore off his shirt to reveal a Trump-Vance tank top, rallying the crowd with his trademark bravado.

“What happened last week when they took a shot at my hero and they tried to kill the next president of the United States? Enough was enough!” Hogan roared. “And I said, let Trump-o-mania run wild, brother! Let Trump-o-mania rule again! Let Trump-o-mania make America great again!”

Hogan also campaigned vigorously for Trump ahead of the November 5th election, including a high-profile appearance at Madison Square Garden. “Usually when I’m in Madison Square Garden, I’m body-slamming giants, I’m winning world heavyweight titles, and I’m cracking people over the head with chairs,” he told the crowd, showing off his signature biceps and sporting a hot-pink bandana and yellow sunglasses.

Outspoken to the End

Never one to shy away from controversy, Hogan took aim at Trump’s Democratic opponent, then-Vice President Kamala Harris, during the campaign. “When I hear ‘Ka’mala’ speak, it sounds like a script from Hollywood with a really, really bad actress,” he said, drawing both cheers and criticism.

A WWE Family Remembers

Hogan’s legacy also drew tributes from longtime friends and colleagues. Linda McMahon, former WWE executive and Trump’s Education Secretary, wrote on X (formerly Twitter): “I had the privilege of knowing and working with [Hulk Hogan] for over 40 years. Hulk was a dear friend and member of our WWE family. His legacy in and out of the ring will always be remembered. He was one of a kind!”

The End of an Era

Hulk Hogan rose from humble beginnings as the son of a Georgia construction worker to become one of the most recognizable figures in sports entertainment. With his larger-than-life persona, signature moves, and iconic catchphrases, the Hulkster captivated generations of fans and left an indelible mark on American pop culture.

As tributes pour in from across the worlds of wrestling, politics, and entertainment, Hogan’s legacy as both a champion and a showman is assured. For Trump and many others, the loss of Hulk Hogan is not just the passing of a wrestling legend, but the farewell to a true friend and American original.