Hulk Hogan’s Cause of Death & Secret Cancer Battle Revealed: Wrestling Icon Kept Diagnosis Private for Years

The world of professional wrestling is in mourning following the shocking news of the death of Hulk Hogan, the larger-than-life figure who helped define an entire era of sports entertainment. While tributes from fans, wrestlers, and celebrities poured in within hours of the announcement, new revelations have emerged that shed light on the true cause of his passing—and a secret health battle he fought quietly for years.

According to a statement released by his family earlier today, Hogan, whose real name was Terry Bollea, died peacefully at his Florida home at the age of 71. The official cause of death was complications related to pancreatic cancer—a diagnosis he kept hidden from the public eye since late 2022.

“He didn’t want pity. He didn’t want headlines. He just wanted to keep fighting, like he always did,” said daughter Brooke Hogan, in an emotional interview aired on Good Morning America. “My dad was a warrior in every sense—on the screen and in life.”

A Secret Battle Behind the Muscles

Known for his unmatched charisma, iconic handlebar mustache, and signature catchphrases like “Whatcha gonna do, brother?!”, Hogan was a towering figure in both size and impact. But behind the scenes, he had been quietly undergoing treatments, including chemotherapy and multiple surgeries, to combat the aggressive illness.

Close friends say Hogan chose to keep his diagnosis private in order to protect fans and family from worry. “He told me straight up: ‘The Hulkster doesn’t do sympathy tours,’” recalled longtime friend and fellow wrestler Ric Flair. “He wanted to go out strong, not as a story of sadness.”

His final public appearance, at WrestleMania 41 earlier this year, showed Hogan visibly thinner but still full of energy as he saluted the crowd one last time. Fans had speculated about his health, but few imagined the reality he was hiding.

An Outpouring of Respect and Reflection

Since the news broke, social media has been flooded with tributes under hashtags like #RIPHulkHogan and #ForeverTheHulkster. WWE released an official tribute video titled “Immortal: The Life and Legacy of Hulk Hogan”, while Vince McMahon issued a statement calling Hogan “the cornerstone of professional wrestling’s golden age.”

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson wrote:

“Without Hulk Hogan, there is no Rock. Thank you for paving the way, brother. Rest easy. 💪🏼🕊️”

John Cena also posted a heartfelt message:

“He taught us what it means to fight with heart, show up for fans, and stand tall in the face of anything. Even cancer.”

A Final Message from the Hulkster

In perhaps the most emotional moment yet, Hogan’s team released a pre-recorded message he had prepared in the event of his passing. In it, he thanked fans for their support and offered one last sign-off:

“To all my Hulkamaniacs—don’t be sad for me. Be strong. Train hard. Say your prayers. And never stop believing, brother. I’ll be waiting for you on the other side of the ring.”

He may have taken his final bow, but Hulk Hogan’s legacy will live forever in the hearts of those who grew up on body slams, leg drops, and the power of Hulkamania.