Remembering Hulk Hogan's 7 Unforgettable Moments That Made Him a Wrestling Legend

Hulk Hogan’s legacy in WWE spans decades, shaping not just the company but the very identity of modern professional wrestling. With his passing on July 24, 2025, at age 71, it’s fitting to remember the seven most historic moments that defined “The Hulkster” and memorialize the man behind the legend.Hulk Hogan (Terry Gene Bollea) died at his Clearwater, Florida, home following a reported cardiac arrest, with emergency responders arriving for a serious medical issue in the morning. He was transported to a local hospital and pronounced dead at 11:17 a.m. His death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans, fellow wrestlers, and cultural figures worldwide. Hogan is survived by his wife Sky Daily and two children, Brooke and Nick.In January 1984, Hogan defeated The Iron Sheik at Madison Square Garden to capture his first WWF Championship. The victory didn’t just earn him a title—it ignited the fire of “Hulkamania,” bringing professional wrestling into the mainstream spotlight and establishing Hogan as the face of the industry.WrestleMania III witnessed one of WWE’s most unforgettable moments: Hogan body-slamming André the Giant before over 93,000 fans in Pontiac, Michigan. The sight of Hogan lifting the 520-pound giant became a defining image in wrestling history.Forming the “Mega Powers” alongside “Macho Man” Randy Savage, Hogan left his fans amazed with one of the most iconic partnerships in wrestling. The duo’s alliance and eventual betrayal set the stage for their classic clash at WrestleMania V, making for one of WWE’s most compelling storylines.At WrestleMania VI, Hogan squared off against The Ultimate Warrior in a rare Champion vs. Champion match. After a hard-fought battle, Hogan handed Warrior the title in a moment of rare humility and sportsmanship—cementing both men as legends.Hogan’s back-to-back Royal Rumble victories in 1990 and 1991 further asserted his dominance during wrestling’s surge in global popularity. He became the first man to win the annual event consecutively, a record that stood as a benchmark for future stars.During his emotional storyline with Earthquake in 1990, Hogan’s fictional injury led to an unprecedented fan response. WWE received thousands of letters from concerned fans, highlighting just how emotionally connected the audience was to their hero.Returning to WWE at WrestleMania X8 as part of the nWo, Hogan faced off against The Rock in a generational clash. The roar of the crowd reminded everyone that Hulkamania still ran wild. Just a month later, he captured the Undisputed WWE Championship—his final title reign—proving that age couldn’t dim his star power.Hogan’s influence reached far beyond the squared circle. He starred in movies like Rocky III, led television shows, and even entered political discussions. While his personal life and career were not without controversy, including legal battles and public missteps, Hogan’s imprint on professional wrestling is indelible.Also read: Remembering Hulk Hogan: Early WWE career highlights, legacy, and controversiesAs fans reflect on his career, it’s clear that Hulk Hogan wasn’t just a wrestler—he was a symbol of a generation. From his unmatched charisma to the red-and-yellow persona that inspired millions, Hogan’s legacy lives on through the countless wrestlers he influenced and the fans who still believe in the power of Hulkamania.