All Elite Wrestling broadcaster Tony Schiavone shared an emotional reaction to the sudden death of WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan, revealing how deeply the news impacted him both personally and professionally. Hogan, a towering figure in professional wrestling, passed away recently from a sudden cardiac arrest at the age of 71, leaving the wrestling world in shock and mourning.
On the July 30, 2025 episode of his podcast What Happened When, Schiavone recounted the moment he learned of Hogan’s passing. “I first got the news from you, Conrad, when you sent me a text. Then I immediately went online and saw the reports on several sites including TMZ,” Schiavone said. “I let some of the people I work with know what had happened, and it just absolutely floored me.” He reflected on Hogan’s health struggles late in life, mentioning “I knew he had some back and neck problems” but the heart attack came as a sudden shock.[2]
Schiavone, who has called matches alongside Hogan during their time in WCW, expressed how Hogan’s death triggered introspection about life and mortality: “When something like that happens, somebody that you work with, you kind of think about your own mortality. You think about how fragile life is.” He emphasized that Hogan’s legacy transcended any controversies, stating, “What he meant to pro wrestling, it’s undeniable.”[2]
Multiple respected voices in wrestling also paid tribute, including WWE legends Ric Flair and Kane, as well as TNA President Carlos Silva. Silva commented publicly, saying, “Hulk Hogan’s name was synonymous with professional wrestling, transcending the industry to become an American pop culture fixture. My condolences go out to his fans, friends and family. Rest in peace.”[1]
While Schiavone’s initial social media tribute to Hogan — “Say what you want about Hulk Hogan, but his impact on pro wrestling is undeniable. RIP Hulkster. The end of an era.” — was met with some harsh criticism and trolling, he responded with candor and dignity. When fans questioned whether he and Hogan had a close relationship, Schiavone clarified, “Long time friend? No. Co-worker? Yes.” Their mutual respect as professionals was evident despite not being close personally.[1]
During the July 26th AEW Collision broadcast, Schiavone also made a heartfelt on-air acknowledgement of Hogan’s passing, adding to the growing tributes within AEW.[4] Fans and wrestling insiders alike recognized the significance of Schiavone’s remarks given his decades-long career calling some of wrestling’s most historic moments alongside Hogan and others.
Industry watchers highlight Schiavone’s words as a sobering reminder of the fragility behind the larger-than-life personas in wrestling. According to Fightful and wrestling news sources, Schiavone’s reflection on mortality resonated with fans and fellow wrestling professionals who have admired Hogan’s pioneering role in bringing pro wrestling to a mainstream audience.[2]
Backstage sources close to AEW revealed that Schiavone felt compelled to speak openly on his podcast to share the genuine impact Hogan had on his life and career, separating personal feelings from the public controversies that often surrounded the wrestling icon. “Tony wanted to honor the positive legacy — the influence Hogan had on the industry and on announcers like himself who witnessed wrestling’s evolution firsthand,” an insider said.[2]
Hogan’s death marks the end of an era in professional wrestling, with WWE.com celebrating his enduring contributions, from his iconic persona in the 1980s and 1990s to his role as a trailblazer who helped popularize wrestling globally. Schiavone’s poignant reflections add a deeply personal layer to the broader wrestling community’s mourning and remembrance.[2][1]
As wrestling fans worldwide continue to process the loss, Tony Schiavone’s solemn tribute serves as a powerful acknowledgment from one of the industry’s most experienced voices — one who both witnessed and shaped wrestling history alongside Hulk Hogan.
Key Takeaways:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Cause of Death | Sudden cardiac arrest |
| Tony Schiavone’s Reaction | “Absolutely floored,” reflected on mortality and legacy |
| Relationship with Hogan | Co-workers with mutual respect, not close friends |
| Industry Reactions | Ric Flair, Kane, TNA’s Carlos Silva also paid tribute |
| AEW Tribute | On-air remembrance during Collision broadcast |
| Legacy Emphasized | Hogan’s undeniable impact on professional wrestling |
Sources close to Tony Schiavone say he intends to continue honoring Hogan’s legacy by sharing stories and educating newer wrestling audiences about the Hall of Famer’s significance beyond controversy.
This heartfelt response from AEW’s Tony Schiavone and the wider wrestling community underscores Hulk Hogan’s lasting imprint on wrestling history and the personal connections beneath the spectacle of sports entertainment.
All information derived from confirmed reports on Wrestling Inc., ITR Wrestling, 411mania, WWE.com, podcasts, and videos airing July 2025.