Hulk Hogan, the legendary wrestler and media personality, has passed away at the age of 71. Known as one of the most iconic figures in professional wrestling, Hogan's career spanned decades, marked by both immense success and significant controversy. Hogan, whose real name was Terrence Gene Bollea, was born on August 11, 1953, in Augusta, Georgia, and grew up in Tampa. He began his journey in wrestling after a career in baseball was cut short by an elbow injury. His path to fame was paved through hard work, determination, and a unique charisma that made him a household name. Hogan's rise to fame began in the 1970s when he started wrestling under the name 'Hulk' and later became known as 'Hogan,' a name that would become synonymous with wrestling excellence. In the WWE, Hogan became a global icon, winning multiple world titles and becoming a staple of the sport. His induction into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005 was a testament to his lasting impact on the world of wrestling. Despite his success in the ring, Hogan's life was not without its share of turmoil. His personal life was often in the spotlight, with a highly publicized divorce from his first wife, Linda Claridge, and a subsequent legal battle with the media over a leaked sex tape. The case, Bollea v. Gawker, was a landmark moment in the ongoing debate about privacy rights and the First Amendment. Hogan's lawsuit against Gawker led to a massive settlement and had far-reaching implications for media and free speech in the United States. In 2015, Hogan faced another major controversy when a leaked tape was published by the National Enquirer, revealing him using racist language. This led to WWE cutting ties with Hogan, though he was eventually reinstated after a three-year suspension. Hogan publicly apologized for his remarks and expressed regret over his actions. Throughout his life, Hogan faced personal struggles, including depression and contemplated suicide. However, he credited a chance encounter with boxer Laila Ali for helping him find a new sense of purpose. Hogan's resilience and ability to bounce back from adversity were hallmarks of his life, both in and out of the ring. Hogan's legacy extends beyond his wrestling career. He was a reality TV star, appearing on shows such as 'Hogan Knows Best,' and was known for his larger-than-life personality. He was also a father to two children, actor and singer Brooke Hogan and Nick Hogan, and had a second marriage to makeup artist Jennifer McDaniel, which ended in divorce in 2021. In 2023, Hogan announced his engagement to Sky Daily, a yoga instructor. As the world mourns the passing of Hulk Hogan, his impact on wrestling and popular culture will not be forgotten. His story is one of triumph, controversy, and resilience, and his legacy will continue to be remembered by fans and critics alike.