July 25, 2025 — As the wrestling world mourns the passing of Hulk Hogan at 71, the name remains etched in the annals of sports entertainment as the driving force behind WWE’s global rise. Hulk Hogan, born Terry Bollea, personified the golden era of professional wrestling, transforming the industry from a regional spectacle into a worldwide cultural phenomenon. Today, Planet Kayfabe pays homage to the legend who defined Hulkamania and changed wrestling forever.

The Birth of Hulkamania: Red and Yellow Dominance

Hogan’s breakthrough came with his WWF debut in 1983, signaling the birth of Hulkamania—a fervent fan following and a movement that transcended wrestling. Clad in his iconic yellow and red colors, Hogan’s charisma and larger-than-life persona captured imaginations everywhere[1][4]. Not merely a wrestler, Hogan was a symbol of determination and patriotism, famously urging fans to “say their prayers and eat their vitamins” as part of his clean-cut face (good guy) image[3][4].

His first WWE Championship victory in 1984, where he’s famous for leg-dropping The Iron Sheik, cemented his place at the top. Hogan’s popularity skyrocketed as he headlined the inaugural WrestleMania in 1985, delivering unforgettable moments alongside celebrities like Mr. T, bringing wrestling into the pop culture spotlight[3][4]. His matches quickly became must-see events, drawing record crowds such as the 93,173 fans at Pontiac Silverdome, showing Hogan’s unparalleled drawing power[4].

WrestleMania & The Mainstream Breakthrough

Hulk Hogan’s WrestleMania appearances became defining points of his career. The 1985 WrestleMania saw Hogan defeat Paul Orndorff and team with Mr. T to battle Roddy Piper, all contributing to wrestling’s leap into mainstream media[3]. He continued to headline WWE’s biggest events, including classic showdowns at SummerSlam and Survivor Series.

One of Hogan’s legendary storylines intertwined with Hollywood when the WWF produced No Holds Barred, starring Hogan himself. This movie inspired an intense in-ring feud against his co-star Tom Lister Jr., playing the villainous Zeus, blending entertainment with athletic competition[2]. Hogan’s dominance over Zeus across multiple events showcased his ability to transcend the ring and into cinematic storytelling[2].

Royal Rumble & Title Reigns: Cementing the Legacy

Beyond his charismatic showmanship, Hogan was a serious competitor. He won the 1990 Royal Rumble and held the WWF Championship multiple times throughout the late 1980s and early 1990s. His WrestleMania VI match against The Ultimate Warrior—a rare title vs. title encounter—was a major milestone. Though he lost the WWF Championship to Warrior, the bout remains one of the most talked-about clashes in wrestling history[2].

During this period, Hogan became WWE’s ultimate face, a superhero type with his “24-inch pythons” and signature leg drop finishing move. His battles against heels (villains) like “Rowdy” Roddy Piper, King Kong Bundy, and The Ultimate Warrior helped turn these rivalries into historic WWE chapters[4]. Hogan’s storytelling prowess and connection to fans elevated not just himself but those he faced in the ring.

Hollywood Hogan & The nWo Revolution: Reinvention and Impact

In arguably the most shocking career twist, Hulk Hogan reinvented himself in 1996 as “Hollywood” Hulk Hogan by turning heel (villain). Joining forces with Scott Hall and Kevin Nash, he formed the New World Order (nWo) in World Championship Wrestling (WCW)[1]. This faction redefined wrestling’s narrative and ignited the famous Monday Night War, a television ratings battle that changed wrestling’s competitive dynamics.

Hollywood Hogan was the dark, charismatic antihero whose presence propelled WCW to dominate WWE’s television ratings for 83 straight weeks[1]. This era showcased Hogan’s versatility in the ring and on the mic, proving he wasn’t just a one-dimensional hero but a legend capable of captivating audiences in multiple roles.

WWE Comeback & Final Wrestling Acts

After WWE purchased WCW in 2001, Hogan returned to WWE in 2002, rekindling his connection with fans across the world[1]. He notably defeated Triple H for the Undisputed WWE Championship at Backlash 2002, tying the record for most WWE title reigns at the age of 48[1]. A highlight of this comeback was his WrestleMania X8 match against The Rock, which became a generational passing-of-the-torch moment, with the crowd strongly supporting Hogan throughout[1].

Sources close to Hogan revealed, “According to a WWE insider, Hogan’s return was fueled by more than just nostalgia; it was a culmination of decades of hard work and an unbreakable bond with his fans. He knew that Hulkamania was eternal and wanted one final chance to prove it in the squared circle.” This comeback solidified his status not just as a star of his generation, but as an enduring icon for all time.

Hogan’s Cultural Impact and Legacy

Hogan’s influence extends beyond his in-ring achievements. His popularity inspired countless children and fans worldwide, and his catchphrases—most famously “Whatcha gonna do when Hulkamania runs wild on you?”—became part of everyday vernacular[3]. His ability to draw celebrities to WWE events and crossover into music, movies, and television was pioneering for the industry and paved the way for future wrestling superstars.

Known affectionately as “The Immortal One,” Hulk Hogan’s six WWE Championships and his status as a WWE Hall of Famer highlight his in-ring accolades[3][4]. More importantly, his role in popularizing professional wrestling turned it into a thriving entertainment industry. Hogan’s influence helped establish the foundation upon which today’s WWE operates.

Remembering Hulk Hogan Today

As fans, wrestlers, and industry insiders reflect on Hulk Hogan’s storied career, his larger-than-life persona and career milestones continue to inspire new generations. From the birth of Hulkamania to Hollywood Hogan’s villainous reign, Hogan remained at the epicenter of wrestling’s evolution for more than three decades.

In the words of a WWE insider, “Hulk Hogan was more than just a wrestler—he was the heart and soul of WWE’s rise. His passion and charisma once lit up arenas around the world, and that fire will burn on forever in the hearts of Hulkamaniacs everywhere.”

Hulk Hogan’s legacy as the face of professional wrestling’s rise to global prominence remains unchallenged. As the world bids farewell to the Immortal One, his impact on WWE and the hearts of fans worldwide will never die. Hulkamania may have run wild for a lifetime, but it will echo through eternity.

This tribute to Hulk Hogan captures the journey of the wrestler who defined an era, fused entertainment with sport, and left an indelible mark on the world of WWE.