Bollywood
WWE Icon Hulk Hogan Dies at 71: Varun Dhawan, Arjun Kapoor Lead Emotional Tributes from India
Hulk Hogan Passes Away at 71 — The Wrestling World and Bollywood in Mourning
the world bid farewell to Hulk Hogan, arguably the most iconic figure in professional wrestling history. Born Terry Eugene Bollea, Hogan died at the age of 71 after suffering cardiac arrest at his home in Clearwater, Florida. News of his passing was confirmed by his family and WWE, and has since triggered an outpouring of tributes from around the globe — including from Bollywood stars such as Varun Dhawan and Arjun Kapoor, who grew up watching the Hulkster dominate both the ring and pop culture.
A Sudden Loss — What Happened?
According to reports, Hogan experienced a massive cardiac arrest and was rushed to a local hospital. Despite attempts to revive him, the former wrestling superstar was declared dead upon arrival. It was revealed that Hogan had recently undergone back and neck surgery, and had been facing health issues over the past few years.
The WWE released a heartfelt statement: WWE is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Hulk Hogan. One of the most recognized figures in sports-entertainment history, he defined an era.
Varun Dhawan’s Emotional Tribute
Bollywood actor Varun Dhawan, a known wrestling enthusiast, expressed his grief through an Instagram Story. Sharing the official WWE announcement, he added:
You inspired an entire generation, Hulkster. RIP.
The tribute resonated with thousands of fans across India, a country with a massive WWE following. Varun has previously mentioned in interviews that he grew up watching WWF tapes and idolized stars like Hogan, The Rock, and Stone Cold Steve Austin.
His emotional message was one of the first Indian celebrity tributes to go viral, reflecting the cross-cultural impact Hogan had beyond wrestling and the Western world.
Arjun Kapoor and More Bollywood Stars Remember Hogan
Actor Arjun Kapoor, another lifelong wrestling fan, also took to social media to share his sentiments. He posted: A part of my childhood just went with you, Hulkster… Thank you for the memories. You slammed giants and made us believe in superheroes.
Kapoor even shared a childhood photo wearing a Hulk Hogan t-shirt, symbolizing how Hogan’s brand extended into the lives of fans from all parts of the world.
Other celebrities including Siddhant Chaturvedi, Shaan, and even retired cricketer Suresh Raina shared posts recalling their favorite Hogan matches and moments.
Hulk Hogan — The Legend Behind “Hulkamania”
Hulk Hogan wasn’t just a wrestler — he was a pop culture revolution. Emerging as the face of WWF (now WWE) during the 1980s, Hogan brought wrestling into the mainstream with charisma, intensity, and unmatched showmanship.
His contributions include:
- Multiple-time WWE Champion
- Headliner of the first WrestleMania
- Starred in films such as Rocky III, Suburban Commando, and Mr. Nanny
- Known for his catchphrases like: “Whatcha gonna do when Hulkamania runs wild on you?!”
He later rejuvenated his career in WCW as a heel (villain) through the New World Order (nWo), proving his versatility and mass appeal.
His career spanned four decades, and he was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame twice — once individually and again as a member of the nWo.
Global Tributes Pour In — From Wrestling to Hollywood
The wrestling community and Hollywood were quick to honor Hogan’s legacy.
- Ric Flair, his longtime friend and rival, wrote: “You were one of a kind. We traveled the world and made magic. Miss you, brother.”
- Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson said: “You made me believe. Thank you for kicking down the doors for all of us.”
- Sylvester Stallone, who cast Hogan in Rocky III, posted a vintage photo and captioned: “Rest easy, my brother in the ring and on screen. A giant of a man.”
- Even Donald Trump, former US President, tweeted his condolences, calling Hogan: “A loyal friend and patriot who loved his country and fans.”
The Indian Connection — Why Hogan Was Loved in India
In the 90s and early 2000s, WWE (then WWF) programming was a cultural phenomenon in India. With limited English entertainment on TV, shows like WWE RAW and SmackDown dominated Indian households. Hogan, with his loud persona, colored bandanas, and signature leg drop, became an instant favorite among Indian youth.
He even visited India once in the late 90s for promotional events. Fans still recall his larger-than-life presence and his ability to connect with crowds even across language barriers.
His influence led to a generation of Indian boys wearing yellow t-shirts, practicing the “Hulk flex,” and dreaming of becoming professional wrestlers.
Personal Life and Last Moments
Hogan was married to Sky Daily, his second wife, whom he married in 2023. He had two children — Brooke and Nick Hogan — from his first marriage to Linda Claridge.
In the last few years, Hogan lived a relatively quiet life, focusing on wellness, spiritual growth, and fan interactions. He was frequently spotted at Tampa-area charity events and fan expos.
According to sources, Hogan’s daughter Brooke was reportedly trying to reach him before his passing and later shared a tearful message: You weren’t just my father — you were a superhero in my eyes.
The Future of “Hulkamania” and Final Farewell
WWE has announced a week-long tribute to Hogan, including special editions of RAW, SmackDown, and archived content on WWE Network. A special “Legends Never Die” segment is expected during SummerSlam.
Fans around the world, including in India, are organizing local tribute screenings and fan gatherings.
Summary
Hulk Hogan’s death at 71 marks the end of an era — not just for wrestling but for global entertainment. From Hollywood to India, from political leaders to Bollywood stars like Varun Dhawan, the world united in grief and celebration of a life that truly “ran wild.”