Byline: Jamie Styles, Senior WWE Correspondent

In the world of professional wrestling, few names resonate like Hulk Hogan. But since late May 2025, fans have been gripped by uncertainty as the WWE Hall of Famer vanished from the public eye following a major neck surgery. Rumors, wild speculation, and even reports of Hogan being in a coma have run rampant. For the first time, a former WWE star and longtime confidant of Hogan has stepped forward to set the record straight—offering clarity, hope, and a dose of reality about the Hulkster’s condition.

Hulk Hogan’s Health Scare: Timeline of Events

Concerns about Hogan’s health began in earnest after his appearance on Fox & Friends in early May, during which fans noted he appeared “unwell”[1]. Days later, it was confirmed Hogan had undergone a “little fusion procedure” on his neck, with a TMZ representative initially describing it as minor and his recovery as swift[1]. His final public appearance came later that month with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, and since then, Hogan has not been seen in public[1].

The situation took a dramatic turn in mid-June when radio host Bubba the Love Sponge—a controversial figure in Hogan’s orbit—claimed the wrestling icon was in a Florida hospital and that “family members were being called to say your goodbyes”[1]. Bubba went further, suggesting Hogan had suffered “permanent damage” to his back, vocal cords, and esophagus as a result of surgery, and even hinted at possible brain damage[1]. This sparked a wave of concern, confusion, and conspiracy online, with fans demanding updates from Hogan’s inner circle.

Hogan’s camp quickly pushed back, asserting he was hospitalized for lingering neck and back issues but was “by no means on his deathbed”[1]. Former WCW president and Hogan’s business partner Eric Bischoff clarified that Hogan’s procedure—a four-level Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF)—was successful, but he suffered an “adverse reaction” to anesthesia, complicating his recovery[1][2]. Despite this, doctors expected a “full recovery”[1].

Behind the Scenes: A Close Friend Speaks Out

For this story, WWEInsider.com spoke with a former WWE star, a close friend of Hogan’s for over three decades, who requested anonymity to speak freely. Their update paints a picture of a legend facing a serious but surmountable health challenge.

“He’s not in a coma. He doesn’t have brain damage. But let’s be real—this surgery was major, and recovery is slow,” the source told WWEInsider.com. “He’s got a tough road ahead, but Hulk’s a fighter. He’s got a great support system, and everyone’s pulling for him.”

This sentiment echoes a recent Instagram post from Hogan’s wife, Sky Hogan, who addressed the rumors directly: “No, he’s definitely not in a coma. His heart is strong, and there was never any lack of oxygen or brain damage… none of those rumors are true”[2][3]. She confirmed Hogan underwent a major four-level ACDF surgery—a complex procedure with a lengthy rehabilitation—and is taking each day as it comes[2].

What Exactly Is a Four-Level ACDF Surgery?

To understand Hogan’s situation, it’s important to clarify the nature of his surgery. ACDF—Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion—is a procedure that involves removing damaged discs in the cervical spine and fusing vertebrae together with a bone graft[2]. A “four-level” ACDF means four discs were involved, indicating significant spinal wear-and-tear, likely accumulated over decades in the wrestling ring.

Recovery from such a procedure is measured in months, not weeks. Patients often experience lingering pain, restricted movement, and require extensive physical therapy. However, when successful, the surgery can significantly improve quality of life—especially for someone like Hogan, who has lived with chronic pain for years.

The Rumor Mill – Why So Wild?

The wrestling world is no stranger to speculation, but Hogan’s case has been particularly susceptible to misinformation. With his last public appearance in late May and no major updates since, fans and media have filled the void with theories—some plausible, others sensational[1][4]. Hogan’s absence from social media for weeks has only fueled the fire[4].

Adding to the drama, wrestling journalist Dave Meltzer recently acknowledged the lack of concrete updates, stating, “He’s obviously been in and out of the hospital. It’s probably not good. We have not seen any public appearances or anything in weeks. It’s probably not good”[3]. Meltzer and others note that the silence itself is concerning, leading some to suspect Hogan’s condition may be more serious than publicly admitted[3].

However, according to a WWE insider with direct knowledge of Hogan’s status, “The silence is more about respecting Hogan’s privacy than hiding anything catastrophic. He’s dealing with a tough rehab, and the family wants to focus on his recovery, not the rumor mill.”

Professional Wrestling’s Care for Its Legends

Hogan’s health scare has sparked a broader conversation about how the wrestling industry cares for its aging stars. The physical toll of a career like Hogan’s—countless bumps, brutal matches, and high-profile returns—can lead to chronic pain and complex medical needs later in life.

According to sources close to Cody Rhodes, WWE has stepped up its efforts in recent years to provide better healthcare and support for retired legends, but “there’s still a long way to go.” The insider added, “Guys like Hogan paved the way. They deserve the best care, but too often, the damage is already done by the time they retire.”

Hulkamaniacs, Take Heart: What’s Next for Hogan?

Despite the uncertainty, there is reason for optimism. Hogan’s wife, Sky, has been clear: her husband is healing, not fighting for his life[2][3]. He is reportedly surrounded by loved ones and receiving top-tier medical care. According to our WWE insider, “He’s joking with nurses, watching old matches, and talking about getting back to work when he’s ready.”

In fact, Hogan and Eric Bischoff are still planning to launch their new wrestling promotion, “Real American Freestyle Wrestling,” with the first show targeted for August[2]. While it’s unclear if Hogan will be physically present, the project remains a priority for his team—a sign that his spirit and business acumen remain intact.

Hulk Hogan Health Update 2025: The wrestling world has been on edge since Hulk Hogan’s disappearance from public life after major neck surgery in May 2025. Conflicting reports—including wild claims from Bubba the Love Sponge—have been debunked by Hogan’s wife and close friends, who confirm he is recovering from a four-level ACDF procedure and is not in a coma or suffering brain damage[2][3]. While recovery is slow and Hogan remains out of the public eye, insiders emphasize his resilience and the support of his family.

Hulk Hogan Surgery Details: Hogan’s major neck fusion surgery is among the most complex spinal procedures, with a recovery that can take months. Fans should expect Hogan to remain private as he focuses on rehabilitation.

WWE Legends Health Concerns: Hogan’s situation highlights the ongoing need for better healthcare and support for wrestling’s retired superstars. WWE has made strides, but more can be done to honor the sacrifices of icons like Hogan.

Hulk Hogan Comeback Rumors: Despite the challenges, Hogan’s passion for wrestling remains. Plans for “Real American Freestyle Wrestling” are still in motion, offering hope for fans eager to see the Hulkster back in action—even if only behind the scenes for now[2].

Final Word from the Locker Room

According to a WWE insider, “Hulk’s legacy is safe. He’s one of the toughest guys in the business. This is a setback, not the end. When he’s ready, he’ll let the world know—in true Hogan fashion.”

For now, the wrestling world waits, hopes, and—above all—respects the privacy of a true legend. Stay tuned to WWEInsider.com for all the latest updates on Hulk Hogan’s health and future in professional wrestling.

Jamie Styles is a Senior WWE Correspondent with over 15 years covering the wrestling industry. Follow him for breaking news, exclusives, and in-depth features on your favorite WWE Superstars.