Hulk Hogan's family issue tearjerking tribute as they vow to 'cherish' memories

Hulk Hogan's family have spoken out for the first time since the WWE legend died. The wrestling icon's death aged 71was announced on Thursday after reports of a cardiac arrest.

Reports have suggested medics rushed to his home in Clearwater, Florida just days after Hulk's pal revealed he was unable to talk. Hulk's health had caused concern among fans in recent weeks as a representative for the WWE icon denied speculation he was gravely ill.

Following his death, Hulk's family took to his official Instagram page to announce the news themselves. Their heartbreaking statement read: "It is with a heavy heart and deep sadness that we confirm we have lost a legend.

READ MORE: Hulk Hogan's troubled relationships and affair with daughter Brooke's friend

READ MORE: Hulk Hogan feud with ex Linda and daughter Brooke devastated WWE star before death

"Our beloved Terry Bollea, known worldwide as Hulk Hogan, passed away today surrounded by his loved ones. At this time of grief, we ask that everyone please respect the privacy of his family and friends.

"May we all take solace in the wonderful memories he left behind for the millions of fans worldwide whose lives he touched for more than four decades. He will be missed, but never forgotten."

Hulk tied the knot with Sky in 2023 after the breakdown of his marriage to Jennifer McDaniel in 2021. He was married to Linda Claridge, 65, for 26 years before they split in 2009.

They welcomed two children together - Brooke, 36, and Nick, 34. Hulk and Linda suffered a family falloutwith daughter Brooke, who skipped his wedding to Sky.

The couple said 'I do' in a "small affair" in Florida after getting engaged two months prior. Hulk went all out and bought a six carat diamond engagement ring worth $100,000 for the yoga instructor.

A friend revealed that Hulk was "the happiest he's ever been" with his new wife and claimed that she "changed his life." The source confirmed that unfortunately, his daughter Brooke did not turn up.

This year, Hulk's health has hit the headlines as in May, it was announced he'd undergone a small "fusion procedure" on his neck. A month later, a YouTuber claimed that things were "not looking good" for him.

Denying the speculation, a representative said that Hulk's surgery had been "successful" and there were "no reasons to panic." However, he was taken to hospital due to complications and he was later transferred home.

On an episode of ex-pal Bubba The Love Sponge's YouTube channel, co-host Lummy claimed: "Hogan's not doing well. He he can't speak. His trachea or whatever was damaged and he's having problems and it does not look good. It does not look at all."

Bubba, who was once sued by Hogan for leaking a sex tape of his wife and the wrestler, told the channel he had heard from a hospital security guard. "He was transported to his house but he's still in his hospital bed. It's just like he's at the hospital," he said.

"They've gone as far as they can go at the hospital now. They just they're keeping him comfortable at his house in a hospital bed." Sky denied rumours he was in a coma after concerns grew over the star's health.

A statement from World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), on X said: “WWE is saddened to learn WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has passed away.

“One of pop culture’s most recognisable figures, Hogan helped WWE achieve global recognition in the 1980s. WWE extends its condolences to Hogan’s family, friends, and fans.”

Like this story? For more of the latest showbiz news and gossip, follow Mirror Celebs on TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and Threads.