From Sylvester Stallone to Trump Jr.: Celebrities pay emotional tribute to Hulk Hogan

Hulk Hogan with Jimmy Hart along side address the crowd during RAW at Intuit Dome
Hulk Hogan with Jimmy Hart along side address the crowd during RAW at Intuit Dome

Hulk Hogan, one of the icons of the WWE, has died at the age of 71. The wrestler has been facing a number of health complications in the last few years, and his demise was confirmed to be through a cardiac attack. The wrestling legend was a compelling on-screen personality and contributed to turning WWE into the world giant it is nowadays.

While TMZ first reported the news of Hulk Hogan's demise, WWE has since confirmed the tragic news via a statement, which stated the following:

"WWE is saddened to learn WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has passed away. One of pop culture’s most recognizable figures, Hogan helped WWE achieve global recognition in the 1980s. WWE extends its condolences to Hogan’s family, friends, and fans."

Tributes pour in as Hulk Hogan passes away

Hulk Hogan's impact on WWE as an organization and pop culture as a whole cannot be understated. In the 80s, he captured multiple honors throughout his career and helped put WWE on the map. He drew thousands of people to the stands with his persona when wrestling was still new to the masses, and left a massive impact on the viewers.

His catchphrases (Let Me Tell You Something, Brother) were also etched into history, and he went on to star in several movies as well. His death has brought a wave of emotions from every wrestling enthusiast, as well as those outside the industry. The public figures have expressed touching messages that have summed up the feelings of the fans, who have been dwelling on the death of the wrestling icon.

Sylvester Stallone, who was a dear friend of Hogan's and helped induct him into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005, posted:

"I had the pleasure of meeting this brilliant personality and showman when he was 26 years old. He was absolutely wonderful and his amazing skill made Rocky three incredibly special. My heart breaks. I think that he’s gone"

President Donald Trump, who also made a few sporadic appearances in WWE in the 90s and 2000s, said:

"We lost a great friend today, the “Hulkster.” Hulk Hogan was MAGA all the way — Strong, tough, smart, but with the biggest heart. He gave an absolutely electric speech at the Republican National Convention, that was one of the highlights of the entire week. He entertained fans from all over the World, and the cultural impact he had was massive. To his wife, Sky, and family, we give our warmest best wishes and love. Hulk Hogan will be greatly missed!"

Donald Trump Jr. also shared his tribute in a social media post:

"R.I.P to a legend. HULK HOGAN"

Former WWE chairman Vince McMahon also shared his commiserations by saying:

"Hulk Hogan was the greatest 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. He leaves us with one of his favorite expressions, 'Train, take your vitamins and say your prayers.' Today, we pray for him."

Several wrestling legends have also shared their respect for Hogan, with "The Nature Boy" Ric Flair saying:

"I Am Absolutely Shocked To Hear About The Passing Of My Close Friend @HulkHogan! Hulk Has Been By My Side Since We Started In The Wrestling Business. An Incredible Athlete, Talent, Friend, And Father! Our Friendship Has Meant The World To Me. He Was One Of The First To Visit Me When I Was In The Hospital With A 2% Chance Of Living, And He Prayed By My Bedside. Hulk Also Lent Me Money When Reid Was Sick. Hulkster, No One Will Ever Compare To You! Rest In Peace My Friend!"

The Undertaker posted:

"The wrestling world has lost a true legend. His contributions to our business are immeasurable and for that I am appreciative. Thank you, Hulk Hogan."

The fans are yet to come to terms with the news, and there are scores of other celebrities who have also sent their condolences to the wrestling legend, including Charlie Kirk, Triple H, Diplo, Brittany Aldean, Dale Partridge, Danielle Moinet, and others.

Love movies? Try our Box Office Game and Movie Grid Game to test your film knowledge and have some fun!

Edited by Sohini Biswas