Legendary professional wrestler Hulk Hogan, aged 71, passed away on July 24, 2025, in Clearwater, Florida, leaving behind a complex legacy marked both by monumental wrestling achievements and deeply controversial moments[1][2]. Amid widespread mourning and tributes, a notable reaction has come from the individual responsible for leaking his infamous racist rant tape, Florida radio host Mike Calta, who stated on his podcast, The Mike Calta Show, “Eh, who cares?” regarding Hogan’s death—a stark contrast to the public sentiment[3].

Hulk Hogan: Wrestling Icon and Cultural Phenomenon

Terry Bollea, better known as Hulk Hogan, was arguably WWE’s most iconic figure from the 1980s through the early 2000s. Hogan’s charisma helped make professional wrestling a mainstream spectacle, headlining the inaugural WrestleMania in 1985 and racking up at least six WWE Championship reigns[1]. His personas, such as the red-and-yellow-clad Hulkamania figure, captivated millions worldwide and extended his fame beyond wrestling into movies, television series like Hogan Knows Best, and reality TV[1].

WWE officially acknowledged his passing on social media, emphasizing Hogan’s significant role in bringing global attention to professional wrestling: “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”[1]. Hogan was also inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005, solidifying his status in wrestling history[1].

The Racist Rant Controversy and Mike Calta’s Role

Hogan’s public image, however, was tarnished irrevocably by a leaked racist rant in 2015, which led to WWE severing ties with him at the time. The tape, which featured Hogan making highly offensive remarks using racial slurs, shocked fans and the industry alike. The leak originated from Mike Calta, a Florida radio personality, who brought the tape to public attention[3].

On a recent episode of The Mike Calta Show, Calta was asked about Hogan’s death and his reaction to the late wrestler’s legacy. His blunt response, “Eh, who cares?”, was met with mixed reactions from fans and wrestling insiders alike[3]. According to sources close to the situation, Calta maintains that Hogan’s racist comments overshadowed his wrestling contributions, making it difficult to view Hogan with any reverence.

Santino Marella Reacts to WWE Return Amid Hogan’s Passing

As the WWE community grapples with Hogan’s death and divisive legacy, former WWE wrestler Santino Marella has also sparked headlines following reports of a potential WWE in-ring return. Marella, known for his comedic gimmick and crowd-pleasing antics, reacted in an interview with Fightful about his excitement and feelings about returning to WWE action after years away from the squared circle.

“I’m thrilled to step back in the ring and entertain the fans again,” Marella said. “Wrestling has always been my passion, and to do it now while everyone remembers icons like Hogan, with all their complexities, is something special”[4]. This return is seen by many as WWE’s move to bring fresh energy to the roster while honoring past stars in their own unique ways.

Wrestling’s Reckoning With Complex Legacies

Hogan’s death has reignited debates around how WWE and the wrestling world deal with problematic figures who have contributed greatly to the sport but hold controversial pasts. Though Hogan was a trailblazer in propelling wrestling to mainstream popularity, his racist remarks and subsequent dismissal by WWE serve as a reminder of the sport’s ongoing struggle with diversity and accountability.

WWE Legends and current wrestlers alike have offered varied responses. Some emphasize Hogan’s role in wrestling history, while others focus on the necessity of learning from past mistakes. Industry experts, including journalists from ESPN and Wrestling Headlines, note that Hogan’s legacy is a dual narrative: one of undeniable impact mixed with undeniable faults[1][3].

Final Thoughts and WWE’s Future Direction

Hulk Hogan’s passing marks the end of an era for WWE and professional wrestling at large. His in-ring charisma and cultural influence are indisputable, yet his racist rant remains an indelible blot on his legacy. Mike Calta’s candid reaction embodies the divisive nature of Hogan’s memory, highlighting how public figures in wrestling are often judged by both their entertainment contributions and personal conduct.

Meanwhile, the excitement surrounding Santino Marella’s WWE return indicates that the company continues to evolve and present new chapters, even as it honors — and sometimes wrestles with — its past.

According to WWE.com and confirmed by sources like Fightful and TMZ, Hogan’s death was due to cardiac arrest with no suspicious circumstances[1][2]. As WWE fans, insiders, and media reflect on Hogan’s life and career, the wrestling world stands at a crossroads between celebration and reckoning — a dynamic that will shape its story for years to come.

Sources: WWE.com, ESPN, TMZ Sports, Wrestling Headlines, Fightful, The Mike Calta Show podcast