Pro wrestling legend Hulk Hogan dead at 71

Hulk Hogan died Thursday at age 71, Florida police say.

TMZ reported that Hogan, real name Terry Bollea, was treated by Clearwater Fire & Rescue after a morning call was made to his home. The professional wrestler and actor was pronounced dead at a nearby hospital shortly thereafter.

Hogan was one of the biggest stars in the professional wrestling industry, helping propel the organisation then known as WWF to mainstream status in the 1980s. He headlined seven WrestleManias, starting with the first edition in 1985, as that event grew into the biggest date on the pro wrestling calendar.

Hogan's popularity allowed him to cross over into movies and television, with notable or starring roles in Rocky III, Mr. Nanny, Suburban Commando and Thunder in Paradise.

Inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005 as an individual inductee and again in 2020 as part of the seminal "New World Order" faction, Hogan's influence on the industry reached well outside the ring.

"WWE is saddened to learn WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has passed away," a statement from WWE read. "One of pop culture’s most recognizable figures, Hogan helped WWE achieve global recognition in the 1980s.

"WWE extends its condolences to Hogan’s family, friends, and fans."