The wrestling world mourned the loss of WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan, who died at age 71 following cardiac arrest at his Clearwater, Florida residence.
Emergency responders performed CPR for thirty minutes before transporting the wrestling icon to Morton Plant Hospital, where he was declared deceased.
Hogan’s health had deteriorated significantly in his final weeks, with close associates noting his weakened physical state.
The legendary performer had endured extensive medical procedures in recent years, including multiple back surgeries and joint replacements, which had taken a considerable toll on his body and left him feeling vulnerable about his condition.
This week, Bischoff shined a light on Hogan’s final days.
“I could tell he was weak,” Bischoff said.
“He sounded tired. (Hulk) said, ‘I really want to see you, but I’m kind of embarrassed for you to see me this way because I’ve been pretty sick.
“When I look at you, I don’t see the same thing you see when you look in the mirror, so f**k that, I’ll be down Monday.”
Hulk Hogan & Eric Bischoff Put WCW On The Map In The ’90s
The wrestling industry experienced a seismic shift when Hogan made his controversial move from WWE to WCW in 1994. Bischoff played the pivotal role in securing this landmark signing that would redefine professional wrestling.
WCW transformed from a regional competitor into a legitimate threat to WWE’s dominance. The partnership between Hogan and Bischoff reached its peak at Bash at the Beach 1996, where Hogan’s shocking heel turn created the foundation for the New World Order faction.
This strategic move forced WWE to evolve their programming and presentation. The Monday Night Wars intensified as both promotions battled for television ratings and fan loyalty. Stars like Goldberg, Sting, Kevin Nash, and Scott Hall joined the WCW roster, creating compelling storylines.
The competition ultimately benefited the entire wrestling industry. WWE responded by developing new main event stars and innovative programming concepts. While WWE eventually acquired WCW, the impact of Hogan and Bischoff’s collaboration permanently changed sports entertainment’s landscape and elevated wrestling’s mainstream popularity.
A graduate from the University of Texas, Anthony Amador has been credentialed to cover the Houston Texans, Dallas Cowboys, San Antonio Spurs, Dallas Mavericks and high school games all over the Lone Star State. Currently, his primary beats are the NBA, MLB, NFL and UFC.
