Hulk Hogan’s Cause of Death Confirmed as Heart Attack, but Undisclosed Cancer Diagnosis Raises New Questions
Legendary WWE wrestler Hulk Hogan, whose real name was Terry Gene Bollea, died on July 24, 2025, at age 71 following a sudden cardiac arrest at his home in Clearwater, Florida.
Medical records recently released by the Pinellas County Forensic Science Center confirm the cause of death as acute myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack. However, the documents also disclosed a previously unknown diagnosis of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)—a slow-progressing form of cancer that affects white blood cells.
Until now, Hogan’s battle with cancer had never been publicly acknowledged. This revelation has stunned fans and brought renewed focus to the Hulk Hogan cancer battle that took place privately in his final years.
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Autopsy Reveals Hulk Hogan Was Living With Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia, a Type of Blood Cancer Found in Older Adults
According to information obtained by Us Weekly and confirmed by Mayo Clinic references, chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a cancer that originates in the bone marrow and affects the blood and immune system. It typically advances slowly and is most common in adults over the age of 60.
Hogan had reportedly been diagnosed at an undisclosed time, but neither Hogan nor his family made this public prior to his passing. The cancer was found during the post-mortem examination and appears to have contributed significantly to his declining health.
This previously undisclosed Hulk Hogan cancer battle suggests he was managing multiple severe health conditions behind closed doors.
Compounding Health Issues Included Heart Arrhythmia and Post-Surgical Complications Leading Up to the Star’s Final Days
In addition to leukemia, the autopsy listed a history of atrial fibrillation, a condition that causes an irregular heartbeat and increases the risk of heart attacks. According to medical experts, atrial fibrillation can trigger life-threatening cardiovascular events, especially when paired with other major illnesses.
Hogan had undergone neck surgery just months before his death and was reportedly suffering complications including renal failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and fluid overload. Following surgery, he experienced mobility issues, relied on supplemental oxygen, and was frequently hospitalized.
This series of health emergencies came in the final chapter of a life marked by intense physical strain and sacrifice.
Wrestling Took a Significant Toll on Hulk Hogan’s Body After Decades in the Ring
A source close to Hogan shared with Us Weekly that the WWE legend had been “in and out of the hospital for years.” Despite wrestling being scripted in terms of outcomes, the physical demands are very real.
“He was always in pain. Wrestling did so much damage to his body. He paid a price for his legacy,” the insider said.
Hogan underwent numerous surgeries throughout his career, including procedures on his back, knees, and hips. These chronic injuries undoubtedly exacerbated the already serious effects of his heart and cancer conditions.
The Hulk Hogan cancer battle is now seen as part of a broader picture of physical deterioration caused by decades in professional wrestling.
Paramedics Responded to a 911 Call for Cardiac Arrest at Hogan’s Florida Home on the Morning of July 24
On the morning of July 24, emergency services responded to a 911 call regarding a cardiac arrest at Hogan’s Florida residence. Paramedics performed CPR and other life-saving measures for nearly 30 minutes before transporting him to Morton Plant Hospital.
Despite their efforts, Hogan was pronounced dead shortly after arriving. The death was ruled as natural, stemming from a fatal heart attack likely triggered by a combination of underlying conditions including leukemia, heart disease, and respiratory complications.
This ending to the Hulk Hogan cancer battle came swiftly and tragically, surprising fans who had no knowledge of his full medical situation.
Hulk Hogan’s Family Members and WWE Colleagues Pay Tribute to the Wrestling Icon
In the days following his passing, tributes poured in from fans, colleagues, and family members. His wife, Sky Daily, who had previously downplayed rumors about Hogan’s declining health, later posted a heartfelt message saying she believed they would beat the health issues together.
His daughter, Brooke Hogan, expressed sorrow over their recent estrangement but remembered her father fondly. Nick Hogan, his son, described his father as a best friend, a teacher, and a hero. WWE honored Hogan with a 10-bell salute during Monday Night Raw, where long-time friend Eric Bischoff stood alongside Hogan’s family in mourning.
This moment marked the end of a historic career and a life that impacted millions.
The Legacy of Hulk Hogan: Wrestling Superstar, Pop Culture Icon, and a Man Who Suffered in Silence
Hogan is credited with transforming professional wrestling into a mainstream spectacle during the 1980s and 1990s. From headlining WrestleMania events to starring in films and TV shows, he helped shape an era of entertainment.
Yet, behind the fame and muscle was a man enduring a private war with cancer, degenerative injuries, and heart failure. His death has sparked discussions not just about his career, but about how physical careers can mask private health struggles.
The Hulk Hogan cancer battle, now public, reminds the world that even the strongest heroes are still human.
