American actor and professional wrestler, Dwayne Johnson, AKA, The Rock, said, Hulk Hogan was a “childhood hero to millions of little kids”.
Hulk Hogan passed on Thursday 24 July, 2025 at the age of seventy-one (71).
In his tribute, The Rock wrote: “Rest in Peace, Terry Bollea aka The Immortal Hulk Hogan
“To millions of little kids you were a childhood hero – myself included.In 1984, I gave you your “HULKSTER” headband back, in the locker room in Madison Square Garden – I was the lucky kid caught it when you threw it in the crowd. You were wrestling “Mr Wonderful”, Paul Orndorff that night in the main event. You were shocked and so happy after the match because you told me that was your very last headband and if it weren’t for me, you’d have no way of getting that exact one made again. You promised me that you would get more made and give me a Hulkster headband of my own as a thank you gift.
“A month later in Madison Square Garden, you did just that. You kept your word, with a handshake and a “thanks kid”.And that meant the world to that little 12 year old boy.
“Just 17 years later, and still a kid at the age of 29 years old — I’m standing in the middle of the ring and facing you – one of my wrestling heroes in the main event of WRESTLEMANIA.
“The match was to decide who would go down in history, as The Greatest of All Time.
“When you kick out of my Rock Bottom finisher – just listen and FEEL that crowd go ELECTRIC…all for you. I’ve never felt anything like that in my entire wrestling career. It takes two to tango, but that historic crowd reaction was all for you.
“You may have “passed the torch” to me that night, but you, my friend….
“… you “drew the house” meaning you sold out every arena and stadium across the country in your prime as Hulk Hogan, on your way of becoming the greatest of all time.
“From deep in my bones, and on behalf of this wild and crazy world of professional wrestling that we love, I say to you now, and forever…
“Thank you for the house, brother…
“Thank you, for the house.
“RIP Terry Bollea aka Hulk Hogan”
More Tributes to Hulk Hogan
Shawn Michaels via X: “A legend. A larger-than-life presence.Hulk Hogan didn’t just work in this business… he transformed it.
“Rest in peace, Hulkster.”
Vince McMahon, former Chairman and CEO of WWE via X: “The world lost a treasure today. Hulk Hogan was the grestest WWE superstar of ALL TIME, someone who was loved and admired around the world. He was a trailblazer, the first performer who transitioned from being a wrestling star into a global phenomenon.
“His grit and unbridled thirst for success were unparalleled – and made him the consummate performer. He gave everything he had to the audience whom he appreciated, respected and loved.
“He leaves us with one of his favorite expressions, “Train, take your vitamins and say your prayers.”
“Today, we pray for him.”
Kurt Angle via X: “R.I.P Hulkster, thank you for opening up doors for so many people in the business including myself. There would not be a Kurt Angle, without the American Made, Hulk Hogan. My heart and prayers go out to his family. We lost a real icon today.”
Kane via X: “Hulk Hogan was a true legend. I was fortunate to work with him a couple of times, including this memorable one. It was easy to do a Hulkster impersonation when, like millions of guys my age, I’d practiced it in the mirror a thousand times growing up. #RIPHULKHOGAN “
Logan Paul via X: “Talk about a legacy. Hulk’s existence will leave an everlasting ripple effect on sports & culture… he’s shaped the universe that I now call home and I’m so grateful for the time I got to spend with him. RIP Legend”
Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario, via X: “Hulk Hogan was one of the best entertainers with millions of fans around the world. I’ll never forget his arm wrestle with my brother Rob. Rest in peace, Hulk.”
