Donald Trump Pays Tribute to Hulk Hogan: "We lost a great friend today, the 'Hulkster'"

President Donald Trump paid tribute to wrestling legend Hulk Hogan,calling him "a great friend" and "MAGA all the way," following news that the iconic WWE superstar had died at the age of 71.

"We lost a great friend today, the 'Hulkster,'" Trump wrote on Truth Social. "Hulk Hogan was MAGA all the way. Strong, tough, smart, but with the biggest heart." Trump added that Hogan's speech at the Republican National Convention had been "absolutely electric" and "one of the highlights of the entire week."

The heartfelt message capped a wave of tributes that poured in after Hogan—born Terry Gene Bollea—was found unresponsive in his home in Clearwater, Florida early Wednesday. According to initial reports, the wrestling icon suffered a cardiac arrest and was transported to a nearby hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

The Death of a Cultural Powerhouse

News of Hogan's passing sent shockwaves through both the sports entertainment world and conservative circles where Hogan had become an unlikely hero. Known for his red and yellow gear, handlebar mustache, and catchphrase "Whatcha gonna do when Hulkamania runs wild on you?"—Hogan was more than a wrestler. He was a cultural phenomenon.

The Florida native became a fixture in the 1980s and '90s as the face of WWE, headlining the first WrestleMania and launching professional wrestling into mainstream popularity. But in recent years, Hogan had reinvented himself as a staunch supporter of Donald Trump and the MAGA movement.

Hogan's relationship with Trump stretches back decades. The two men famously appeared together at WrestleMania IV and V, both held at Trump Plaza in Atlantic City. That bond only deepened over time, with Hogan praising Trump's leadership and even suggesting in 2020 that Trump should receive a WWE-style championship belt "for saving America."

In 2024, Hogan made headlines when he appeared at the Republican National Convention, ripping off his jacket and delivering a fiery endorsement of Trump and his base. "I'm here for the real Americans," he shouted, as red, white, and blue fireworks went off behind him. The moment instantly went viral and solidified his place as a political symbol for many Trump supporters.

Don Jr. Also Speaks Out

Donald Trump Jr. joined his father in mourning Hogan's death, calling him a "true American badass" on X (formerly Twitter). "Hulk Hogan wasn't just a childhood hero—he was the real deal. Loyal to his people. A fighter. And yeah, a legend. Rest in peace, brother."

The younger Trump had previously hosted Hogan on his podcast, Triggered, where the two discussed the parallels between the WWE and American politics. "Wrestling teaches you to play to the crowd," Hogan said at the time. "Trump gets it. He knows how to be a heel when he has to, but he's always fighting for the good guys."

Controversy and Redemption

While Hogan's career had remarkable highs, it was not without scandal. In 2015, a leaked tape revealed Hogan using racist language, leading to his suspension from WWE and removal from the Hall of Fame. Hogan apologized publicly, calling his words "inexcusable," and after a three-year hiatus, WWE quietly reinstated him in 2018.

Despite the backlash, Hogan found renewed support among conservative circles, many of whom saw him as a victim of cancel culture. His pro-Trump views only boosted his popularity with the MAGA base, turning him into an unlikely political influencer in his late career.

Remembering Hulk Hogan

Fans around the world are mourning the loss of a man who transcended the ring. From body-slamming André the Giant to becoming a pop culture icon with action figures, movies, and even a Saturday morning cartoon, Hulk Hogan was a symbol of American bravado.

In recent years, he had been recovering from multiple surgeries and was reportedly planning a return to the spotlight with a podcast and possible WWE cameo. His last public appearance was at a Fourth of July event in Tampa, where he waved the American flag alongside other conservative celebrities.

He is survived by his wife, Sky Daily Hogan, and his children, Brooke and Nick.

Trump complete message:

We lost a great friend today, the "Hulkster." 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. He entertained fans from all over the World, and the cultural impact he had was massive. To his wife, Sky, and family, we give our warmest best wishes and love. Hulk Hogan will be greatly missed!