Ric Flair, Donald Trump, Sexyy Red, and More React to Hulk Hogan’s Death

The storied and controversial WWE hall of famer passed away this week at age 72.

July 24, 2025
Hulk Hogan attends a game between the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Dallas Mavericks.
Jeff Haynes via Getty Images

Hulk Hogan passed away on Thursday (July 24) aged 71, in Florida, and the reactions to the storied and controversial WWE hall of famer's death have been pouring in from fellow wrestlers and fans.

Hogan's family confirmed his death on Thursday, as did the WWE in a post shared on social media. "WWE is saddened to learn WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has passed away," read the statement, which can be seen below. "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."

Ric Flair, who previously faced off against Hogan in the ring, shared a tribute following the news of the late wrestler's passing.

"I am absolutely shocked to hear about the passing of my close friend," he wrote. "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 always there for me even when I didn't ask for him to be. 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!

Donald Trump also posted a message on Truth Social.

Hogan was a big supporter of Trump's presidency, and spoke at the most recent RNC, as Trump pointed out.

John Layfield also shared a tribute to Hogan, whom he called "one of the reasons" he got into wrestling in the first place. "There will never be another," he added.

Brutus Beefcake, who faced off against Hogan as part of the Starrcade 1994 event, shared a series of photos of them over the years and described Hogan as his "brother."

"I only wish we had time to mend our broken friendship before his passing," he wrote. "Until I see you brother, in the big squared circle in the sky!"

Hogan was one of the most recognizable faces in wrestling, helping to bring it to the mainstream with his larger-than-life persona in the '80s and '90s. Outside of wrestling, he also acted in a few films, including Gremlins 2 and Rocky III. His public image changed for the worse in the 2010s, however, after a leaked sex tape included a racist rant from him in which he said the N-word. He later apologized for his comments, but he lost his contract with the WWE in light of the leak.

Check out more reactions to Hogan's death below.

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