Wrestling World Reacts To Hulk Hogan's Death (WWE News)

The entire pro wrestling world is in mourning after news spread on the sad passing of WWE legend Hulk Hogan on Thursday 24 July 2025. Aged 71, the Hulkster left an imprint like no other on the industry after exploding in popularity as part of Vince McMahon's WWF expansion in the 1980s. His success continued into the 90s and 00s, and Hulk became a household name almost everyone outside the biz recognised.

He was a pop culture icon.

WWE has already posted a tribute via their official website and various social media platforms, but top names have joined in to pay homage to Hogan individually. There are far too many to gather in the one place, so some notable ones from those closely tied to Hulk's legacy, life and career have been chosen here.

First up, Eric Bischoff. He remained close friends with Hogan right up until his passing, and had recently announced the launch of a brand new company called Real American Freestyle alongside Hulk and others. Keeping things fairly short and sweet (he'll surely have much more to say once things digest), Bischoff posted: "Thanks for the house, Hulkster" on X.

Brutus Beefcake was one of Hulk's best friends, but had become estranged in recent years. He posted: "I am devastated by the loss of my friend, I only wish we had time to mend our broken friendship before his passing. Until I see you, brother, in the big squared circle in the sky! I love you".

Sting, a classic opponent of Hogan's in WCW, said on X: "Can’t thank you enough for all that you did for me and for wrestling fans all over the world. I loved you and I will miss you. My friend, Terry Bollea, RIP".

Another old friend and foe Ric Flair told TMZ that he's "absolutely shocked" by Hulk's death. He then went on to reveal that Hogan "was one of the first to visit [him] in hospital when [he] had only a 2% chance of living", and had been generous when helping the Flair family out throughout his life.

Posting via Instagram, Steve Austin added: "Hulk Hogan was born to be a professional wrestler. Larger than life. Charisma for days. He was in a stratosphere all on his own. His contributions are immense. His influence will be forever. Hulkamania lives on. My condolences to his family and loved ones".

Vince McMahon's Special Tribute To Hogan

Vince McMahon handpicked Hogan as his poster boy in the 1980s. The 'Hulkamania' craze ran in tandem with his national then global WWF expansion. They didn't always see eye to eye, of course, but both men were constantly linked by fans and industry critics - at their peak, they were an excellent team who understood the power of proper marketing and how to maximise Hulk's popularity.

Former WWE boss McMahon posted via his official X account with a special message to Hulk:

"The world lost a treasure today. Hulk Hogan was the greatest WWE superstar of ALL TIME, someone who was loved and admired around the world. He was a trailblazer, the first performer who transitioned from being a wrestling star to a global phenomenon.

His grit and unbridled thirst for success were unparalleled - and made him the consummate performer. He gave everything he had to the audience whom he appreciated, respected and loved.

He leaves us with one of his favourite expressions, "Train, take your vitamins and say your prayers". Today, we pray for him".

There are countless other tributes to Hogan on platforms such as X and Instagram. More are expected to come in over time as the wrestling world continues to mourn his recent death.