Legendary wrestler Hulk Hogan dies at 71: How rich was he? Net worth, income, career, controversies, love life and more

Hulk Hogan's net worth & controversies: Legendary wrestler and pop culture icon Hulk Hogan died at the age of 71. Known for transforming the wrestling world and entertaining millions around the globe, Hogan leaves behind a legacy filled with massive success, wealth, high-profile relationships, and headline-making controversies. Here’s everything you need to know about Hulk Hogan’s net worth, income, career, relationships and the many controversies that followed him throughout his life.


According to sources close to the family, Hulk Hogan had recently undergone neck surgery and was recovering at home. His wife, Sky Daily, had mentioned that he was doing well and in good spirits. However, things sadly took a turn for the worse. Emergency services were called after Hogan suddenly collapsed.

Despite their best efforts, he could not be revived. As reported by The Sun, it’s believed that he suffered a cardiac arrest, although full details are still being confirmed. For many fans who had been following updates on his health, the news has come as a complete shock, especially after hearing he was getting better.


Born as Terry Gene Bollea on 11 August 1953 in Augusta, Georgia, Hogan and his family later settled in Tampa, Florida. As a child, Hogan showed promise in baseball and even attracted scouts from major league teams. However, an injury cut short his athletic dreams, eventually leading him to discover professional wrestling at age 16, a move that changed his life forever.

Hulk Hogan began his wrestling journey in 1977 with Championship Wrestling from Florida (CWF), where he wrestled under a mask as "The Super Destroyer". His strong build and commanding presence quickly made him stand out. A comparison to Lou Ferrigno, who played The Incredible Hulk, inspired the nickname that would make him a global star—Hulk Hogan.


Hogan’s career truly took off in 1979 when he joined Vince McMahon Sr.’s World Wrestling Federation (WWF). After a brief hiatus in 1981, he returned in 1983 under Vince McMahon Jr., who was planning to nationalise wrestling. Hogan became the face of this transformation, launching the "Hulkamania" phenomenon that swept through the 1980s.

He won his first WWF Championship in 1984, defeating The Iron Sheik. Hogan headlined the first nine WrestleMania events, becoming a household name with feuds against legends like André the Giant and The Ultimate Warrior. At its peak, Hulk Hogan's income soared as WWF events drew in global audiences.

In the 1990s, Hogan moved to WCW, where he made waves by turning villain and founding the New World Order (nWo). This bold shift reignited his popularity and helped WCW compete fiercely with WWF.


Hogan rejoined WWE (formerly WWF) in 2002, engaging in memorable matches, including an iconic bout against The Rock at WrestleMania X8. He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005.

Despite a setback in 2015 due to racially insensitive comments, he was reinstated in 2018. His final appearances included hosting WWE events and showing up during special anniversaries.



At the time Hulk Hogan died in July 2025, his net worth was estimated at approximately $25 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth. This figure includes his high-profile lawsuit settlement with Gawker Media and takes into account the financial losses from his divorce and luxurious lifestyle.

In his prime, Hogan earned millions through wrestling contracts, pay-per-view shares, merchandise, and film roles. In the early 2000s, during divorce proceedings with his first wife, Linda, Hogan’s net worth was revealed to be around $30 million, equal to about $45 million today.

However, lavish spending and personal setbacks, including legal costs and business losses, significantly impacted his finances. He once admitted to squandering "hundreds of millions" during the peak of his career.

Film and Television: Building a Pop Culture Legacy

Hogan used his wrestling fame to venture into acting. His first major film role came in 1982’s Rocky III as "Thunderlips", bringing him mainstream fame. He later starred in family-friendly films like Suburban Commando, No Holds Barred, and Mr. Nanny.

From 1993 to 1995, he headlined the TV series Thunder in Paradise, which became a cult favourite. Hogan further expanded his celebrity status with the reality show Hogan Knows Best, offering a glimpse into his relationships with his then-wife Linda and their children.

Hulk Hogan’s Relationships and Love Life

Hogan’s personal life was often in the spotlight. He married Linda Claridge in 1983, and the couple had two children—Brooke and Nick Hogan. Their relationship ended in 2007 amid rumours of Hogan’s infidelity. The divorce cost Hogan dearly, with Linda reportedly receiving 70% of their liquid assets and a large stake in his businesses.

In 2010, he married Jennifer McDaniel, but they divorced in 2022. A year later, Hogan tied the knot with Sky Daily, a yoga instructor, in September 2023.

Lavish Properties and Financial Setbacks

In 1992, Hulk Hogan bought a waterfront property in Belleair, Florida, where he built a massive 17,000-square-foot mansion. The home featured prominently on Hogan Knows Best. In 2006, the house was listed for $26 million but eventually sold for just $6.2 million in 2012 following the real estate crash and his divorce.

He later invested in properties in Clearwater, Florida, spending millions on his primary and adjacent homes.

Gawker Lawsuit: The Controversy That Shook the Internet

One of the most well-known controversies in Hulk Hogan's life came in 2012 when a private sex tape involving Hogan was leaked and published by Gawker.com. Hogan filed a lawsuit claiming invasion of privacy, and in 2016, a Florida jury awarded him $140 million. The case eventually settled for $31 million, but it led to the bankruptcy of Gawker and its founder, Nick Denton.

It was later revealed that billionaire Peter Thiel had secretly funded Hogan's lawsuit, seeking revenge for Gawker's earlier articles outing him as gay. This lawsuit had a profound impact on media law and online privacy rights.

WWE releases statement after Hulk Hogan’s passing

Shortly after the news of his death became public, WWE issued a statement mourning the loss of one of their biggest legends. “WWE is deeply saddened to learn that WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has passed away,” the statement read. “A hugely recognisable figure in pop culture, Hogan played a key role in helping WWE gain global fame during the 1980s. WWE sends its heartfelt sympathies to Hogan’s family, friends, and loyal fans.”


Even though Hulk Hogan died in 2025, his influence on wrestling and pop culture remains unmatched. He was a pioneer in bringing professional wrestling into mainstream entertainment. His charisma, iconic red-and-yellow attire, and larger-than-life personality turned him into one of the most recognised celebrities in the world.

From his soaring net worth and high-profile relationships to infamous controversies and courtroom battles, Hogan lived a life that was nothing short of legendary.

Hulk Hogan may have died, but his legacy lives on. With a colourful career, immense income, unforgettable controversies, and a turbulent personal life, he remains one of the most talked-about figures in wrestling history. Whether admired for his achievements or criticised for his actions, Hulk Hogan left a lasting mark on sports entertainment.

Disclaimer: The information above is based on public records, media reports, and financial disclosures. Figures such as Hulk Hogan’s net worth and income are approximate and may vary based on updated reports.

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