The world said goodbye to one of professional wrestling’s most iconic legends today as Hulk Hogan, born Terry Bollea, was honored in a private yet emotional memorial service in his hometown of Largo, Florida. The service took place at the very same church where Hogan was baptized in 2023, just over a year before his untimely passing.
On July 24, 2025 the world of professional wrestling was changed forever, Hogan died at the age of 71 after suffering a heart attack. According to the Pinellas County medical examiner, the cause of death was natural, and was linked to Hogan’s ongoing battle with leukemia and atrial fibrillation. These medical issues were unknown to the public—and kept completely silent as it would possibly have negative effects for ongoing business endeavors Hogan was involved in.
Hulkamania’s Final Ride Was Personal, Political, and Powerful - Wrestling.news Staff
🏛️ Inside the Private Memorial
Held under tight security, the ceremony featured dozens of invited guests, including friends, fellow legends, and political figures. Largo police officers and K-9 units ensured no uninvited attendees could access the church grounds, where bold “Private Event” signs made the tone crystal clear.
Adding a jarring moment to the service, a Donald Trump sticker was seen placed on Hogan’s casket. Trump also shared an arm-wrestling photo with Hogan on his Truth Social account, writing:
“They are having the ‘Hulkster’s’ funeral today, and I thought everybody would enjoy seeing this picture.” - Donald Trump/President of The United States of AmericaPictured: President Trump and Hulk Hogan arm wrestling
The gesture went viral and instantly sparked mixed reactions online.
Also in attendance and speaking at the service was ex-WWE Chairman Vince McMahon, who reportedly gave a powerful speech remembering Hogan’s contributions not only to WWE, but to global pop culture.
🕊️ Hogan Honored Statewide
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis previously declared July 26 as “Hulk Hogan Day”, ordering flags flown at half-staff at all state buildings. “Hogan was more than a wrestler — he was a Florida icon,” DeSantis said in a press release.
🎥 A Legacy That Transcended the Ring
Hogan was WWE’s biggest attraction through the '80s, '90s, 2000s, and even through the very end everywhere he went, headlining the very first WrestleMania and delivering classic feuds with Andre the Giant, Macho Man Randy Savage, The Rock, and even McMahon himself. Outside the squared circle, he made his mark in pop culture with roles in films, commercials, and his hit VH1 reality series “Hogan Knows Best.”
💔 Brooke Hogan’s Absence and Private Goodbye
Perhaps the most surprising note from the day: Brooke Hogan was not present at her father’s funeral. She instead honored her dad’s memory privately at the beach — a place she says was closest to his heart.
In an emotional Instagram post, Brooke explained:
“I am so grateful I knew the real version of him. Not just the one the world viewed through a carefully curated lens.”“He hated funerals. So I honored him the way I know he’d want — by being at the beach with my family, remembering the sun, waves, and all the memories we made together.” - Brooke Hogan
🔥 Wrestling.news | Backstage Take
Hogan’s final farewell was exactly what you’d expect from the man who defined spectacle: powerful, polarizing, and unforgettable. From a Trump sticker on the casket to Vince McMahon sharing emotional words, and Brooke Hogan choosing peace over paparazzi, it was a memorial as layered as the man himself.
While the ceremony marked the physical end of Hulkamania, his legacy in wrestling, entertainment, and Americana — is and forever will be, immortal. And whether fans remember the superhero in red and yellow, or the complex man behind the mustache, one thing is for sure: Hogan’s impact will live forever, brother.
