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The state of Florida is preparing to pay one of its most legendary residents a sendoff fit for a head of state. WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan, born Terry Gene Bollea, will be honored posthumously on August 1—now officially declared as Hulk Hogan Day—by order of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. The tribute will include lowering flags at the state capitol and in Pinellas County, a rare distinction typically reserved for political leaders and national heroes.
A tribute to a true Floridian
Hogan passed away at the age of 71 on July 24 due to a heart attack at his home in Clearwater, Florida. Though he had been dealing with health issues such as leukemia and atrial fibrillation, his death was ruled as natural. Hogan had long been a Florida fixture and cultural icon, making the Sunshine State a central part of his personal and professional identity.
“In honor of a great Floridian, Hulk Hogan, we are lowering the flags at the capitol and in Pinellas County tomorrow,” Governor DeSantis posted on X. “Rest in peace, brother. He was a true Floridian through and through.”
From the ring to the national stage
Best known for being the face of professional wrestling in the 1980s and 1990s, Hulk Hogan’s influence went far beyond the squared circle. The man behind the yellow mustache and iconic "Hulkamania" persona headlined the very first WrestleMania in 1985, helping shape WWE into the global brand it is today.
Later in life, Hulk Hogan entered the political spotlight. In a headline-grabbing appearance at the 2024 Republican National Convention, he took the stage to deliver a fiery speech endorsing Donald Trump, even performing his signature shirt-ripping move, to the roaring approval of party members and fans alike.
His death was mourned by many prominent figures in politics and entertainment, including President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and House Speaker Mike Johnson, all of whom expressed their condolences publicly.
Hulk Hogan: A legend remembered by all
Following Hogan's passing, his wife Sky Daily shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram:
“He had been dealing with some health issues, but I truly believed we would overcome them. This loss is sudden and impossible to process. To the world, he was a legend… but to me, he was my Terry.”
With August 1 officially marking Hulk Hogan Day, Florida ensures that the memory of its hometown hero—arguably the biggest superstar in WWE history—will live on in both legacy and law. For fans around the world and Floridians alike, it's a powerful moment to reflect on the impact of a man who inspired generations with his energy, charisma, and larger-than-life presence.
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