Clearwater, Florida — Major Nate Burnside from the Clearwater Police Department shared updates during a Thursday afternoon press conference regarding the passing of wrestling legend Hulk Hogan. Hogan, whose real name was Terry Jean Borea, died at Morton Factory Hospital at 11:17 a.m., following a cardiac arrest at his home earlier that morning.
“Just before 10 a.m., the Clearwater Police Department responded to a medical emergency at a residence on the 1000 block of Eldorado Avenue. It was confirmed that Terry Borea, famously known as Hulk Hogan, was suffering from severe medical issues,” stated Major Burnside.
The police stressed that there is no evidence suggesting any foul play. “We are conducting the usual medical investigations typical in these circumstances, and so far, no suspicious activity has been noted in connection with this call,” Burnside assured during the briefing. Emergency services confirmed that the initial call was for cardiac arrest, with the first responders arriving at the scene by 9:51 a.m.
Hogan, aged 71, had recently been recovering from significant spinal surgery involving a four-level anterior cervical discectomy and fusion procedure. Despite widespread rumors over the past month about his critical health condition, Hogan’s family, including his wife Sky Daily who married him in September 2023, have consistently denied such reports, affirming that his heart remains strong and he was on the mend.
Major Burnside requested privacy for Hogan’s family and mentioned that no police records related to this incident would be released at this time. Fans and wrestling communities worldwide have expressed sorrow over the loss of a figure who played a vital role in bringing professional wrestling into mainstream popularity during the 1980s “Hulkamania” era.
Hogan, a WWE Hall of Famer, was instrumental in elevating professional wrestling’s profile globally. Known for his larger-than-life persona, iconic “24-inch pythons,” and signature ripped shirt entrance, he became one of the most recognizable figures in sports entertainment history. WWE released an official statement mourning his death, acknowledging his pivotal role in WWE’s worldwide acclaim during the 1980s.
The investigation into Hogan’s death remains ongoing but is purely routine, with no suspicion of foul play.
Fan Take: Hulk Hogan’s passing marks the end of an era for WWE fans, as he was a trailblazer who helped transform wrestling into the global phenomenon it is today. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations, reminding us why sports entertainment holds a special place in so many hearts.
