The wrestling world lost one of its most iconic figures with the passing of Hulk Hogan at the age of 71.
As tributes continue to pour in from fans and loved ones, new details have emerged about the health struggles he faced and the cause of his death.
Cause of Death Confirmed as Heart Attack
According to official records released on Thursday, Hulk Hogan—born Terry Bollea—died of acute myocardial infarction, more commonly known as a heart attack.
This condition typically occurs when the blood flow to the heart muscle is blocked, leading to sudden and serious complications.
Reports also noted that Hogan had been living with atrial fibrillation (AFib), a condition where the heart beats irregularly and often faster than normal.
It can significantly increase the risk of heart-related issues, including stroke.
Alongside this, Hogan had a known history of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), a form of cancer that affects white blood cells.
His Death Deemed Natural
Hogan passed away on July 24 in Florida.
The Pinellas County Forensic Science Center officially ruled his death as natural.
Page Six reported that their findings were included in a cremation summary approval document.
A spokesperson from the medical examiner’s office added that while cremation had been requested, no timeline had been confirmed for the procedure.
Close Friend Shares Final Conversation
Eric Bischoff, a longtime friend and collaborator of Hogan’s, offered an emotional look into their last encounter.
On his podcast 83 Weeks with Eric Bischoff, he opened up about how Hogan was feeling in his final days.
“He sounded really tired,” Eric recalled.
“He told me he wanted to see me, but he was embarrassed because of how sick he’d been.
I told him I didn’t care what he looked like—that I’d be there Monday.”
Even in a weakened state, Hogan’s personality hadn’t changed, according to Bischoff.
“Talking was clearly an effort, but deep down, he was still the same guy I’ve always known,” he said.
Daughter Brooke Shares Heartfelt Tribute
Brooke Hogan, his daughter, took to Instagram to express her grief and reflect on their complicated but meaningful relationship.
She revealed that she felt something was wrong even before hearing the news of his passing.
“When he left this earth, it felt like part of my spirit went with him,” Brooke wrote.
“I know he’s finally at peace, without pain, and in a place he used to dream about.
He talked about meeting God like it was the biggest title he could ever win.”
Opening Up About Their Estrangement
Brooke also used her post to address the distance that had grown between her and her father over the years.
While many had speculated about a rift, she clarified that it stemmed from deeply personal matters.
“There were private phone calls no one else knew about.
He opened up to me about things that weighed on him—both personally and professionally,” she shared.
“I wanted to be there for him in whatever way he needed. I begged him to rest and take care of himself.”
To be closer and more supportive during his health battles, Brooke and her husband Steven Olesky even relocated.
But despite their efforts, she said something changed.
“We went through nearly 25 surgeries together. Then suddenly, he didn’t want me at the hospital anymore.
It was like something was blocking me out—a barrier I couldn’t break through,” she explained.
Looking Ahead: Honoring a Legend
As fans, friends, and family continue to process his passing, there’s no doubt that Hulk Hogan’s legacy will live on—not just in the ring, but in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
Whether it was through his iconic wrestling moments or the quiet conversations with his daughter, he left an indelible mark on the world.
What comes next for his family and how his legacy will be celebrated remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—Hogan’s presence won’t be forgotten.