Hulk Hogan, who passed away on July 24, 2025, at the age of 71, left an indelible mark on professional wrestling. Born in Augusta, Georgia, Hogan moved to Tampa, Florida, as a child, where he grew up and eventually launched his wrestling career in 1977. Over nearly five decades, he became one of the most recognizable and influential figures in sports entertainment history. His charisma, signature look, and catchphrases helped shape WWE’s global popularity during the 1980s and 1990s—and his impact continued well into the modern era[1][2].
Governor DeSantis highlighted Hogan’s larger-than-life personality in his official announcement, calling him “a true Floridian through and through” and reflecting on how the Hulkster was “an icon for many who grew up in the 80s and 90s as well as today.” The governor’s declaration not only honors Hogan’s achievements in the ring but also recognizes his contributions to the Tampa Bay region’s culture and identity[1][2].
The announcement follows the public disclosure of Hogan’s cause of death earlier this week. According to medical records made available, Hogan died of a heart attack, a consequence of atrial fibrillation—a heart condition that causes irregular heartbeat—and chronic lymphocytic leukemia, though the details regarding the cancer have not been fully clarified. Hogan had reportedly battled these health issues prior to his passing[1].
The wrestling community has paid tribute extensively since Hogan’s death. WWE honored their Hall of Fame inductee—who was twice inducted, once individually in 2005 and again as a member of the New World Order faction in 2020—with 10-bell salutes during Friday Night SmackDown, Monday Night RAW, and NXT episodes following his passing. All Elite Wrestling (AEW) also recognized Hogan on their recent “AEW Collision” broadcast, underscoring his cross-promotional influence and respect throughout the industry[1].
WWE Hall of Fame commentator Michael Cole and other insiders shared on popular wrestling podcasts that Hogan’s influence transcended wrestling. “He was a cultural phenomenon who brought millions of fans to WWE, and even those outside wrestling admired his work ethic and personality,” one source noted. According to Fightful, backstage sentiments from WWE talent revealed deep admiration and gratitude for Hogan’s trailblazing role in popularizing professional wrestling on an international scale.
August 1 will now serve as an annual reminder in Florida of Hulk Hogan’s life and legacy. The state government’s decision to lower flags symbolically marks a rare honor befitting Hogan’s status as an iconic figure not just in wrestling but in Florida’s entertainment history.
As Hogan would have celebrated his 72nd birthday on August 11, 2025, the timing of “Hulk Hogan Day” offers fans and Floridians alike a chance to reflect on his remarkable journey from Tampa’s local gyms to global superstardom.
Sources close to WWE confirmed there will be additional tributes and commemorative events throughout Florida, particularly in the Tampa Bay area, further cementing Hogan’s legacy as a beloved son of the Sunshine State and wrestling legend[1][2].
In the wake of this announcement, fans across social media have expressed their appreciation, flooding hashtags like #HulkHoganDay and #ThankYouHulkster with memories and tributes to the wrestling giant. Florida’s official recognition highlights not just Hogan’s impact in the ring but also his enduring place in the hearts of wrestling fans worldwide.
Governor DeSantis’s proclamation stands as a historic moment celebrating one of professional wrestling’s most legendary figures, ensuring that Hulk Hogan’s name will be remembered not only for his decades-long WWE career but also as a proud representative of Florida’s rich sporting heritage[2][3].
This article is based on official announcements from the Florida Governor’s Office and reporting from TMZ Sports, Tampa Bay Times, ABC Action News, and Wrestling Headlines, with additional context from WWE, Fightful, and industry podcasts.