Emotional Reaction to a Shocking Loss

Just hours after news of Hulk Hogan’s d**th broke, wrestling icon Ric Flair was overwhelmed with emotion. Though they were fierce rivals in the ring, Flair said they were true brothers in real life. Speaking to TMZ, the two-time WWE Hall of Famer struggled through tears while remembering the man he called one of his closest friends.

“I just talked to Jimmy Hart yesterday. He said Hulk was fine,” Flair shared, still in disbelief.

More Than Rivals—True Friends

Although fans remember their intense wrestling matchups, Flair made it clear their bond was much deeper.

“We were very, very close,” he explained. “We kept in touch regularly.”
As tears flowed, Flair admitted, “To have this happen is just horrible.”

A Shared History of Magic in the Ring

Reflecting on their time together, Flair described the chemistry they brought to the wrestling world.

“We had magic,” he said, referencing unforgettable moments like their Hulkamania Tour in 2009.

A Friendship That Extended Beyond Wrestling

Their connection didn’t end when the cameras stopped rolling.

“We did signings, Hard Rock appearances. I’ve even been to his bar for karaoke,” Flair said with a heavy heart.

One memory stood out. Hogan once lent Flair money and refused repayment. Another time, Hogan visited Flair in the hospital after a life-threatening health scare.

“How do you forget things like that?” Flair asked, voice trembling.

Hulk Hogan’s Sudden Passing

Hulk Hogan d**d at age 71 on July 24, 2025, after going into cardiac ar*est at his home in Clearwater, Florida. Emergency responders arrived at dawn, but he could not be revived.

His d**th came just months after a successful neck fusion surgery. In May, Hogan was said to be recovering quickly. Still, rumors about his health persisted.

Conflicting Reports Before His Death

In June, radio host Bubba the Love Sponge claimed Hogan’s health was critical and that loved ones were being called in. However, TMZ Sports quickly denied this, citing a rep who said Hogan was managing chronic issues and not near d**th. His wife, Sky Daily Hogan, also dismissed coma rumors, insisting he was doing well.

A Legacy Larger Than Life

Despite health concerns, Hogan stayed active. He planned to launch the Real American Freestyle wrestling league this summer and had ongoing partnerships, including Real American Beer.

From his larger-than-life WWE persona to his roles in Thunder in Paradise, Hogan helped turn wrestling into a global family-friendly spectacle. He reached new audiences through Hollywood, the New World Order, and even reality TV with Hogan Knows Best.

Final Words

As tributes continue to pour in, Ric Flair’s heartfelt breakdown reminds us of the strong bonds formed in the wrestling world—bonds that last far beyond the spotlight.

We extend our deepest condolences to Hulk Hogan’s loved ones, friends, and fans around the globe.