Behind The Bandana: Hulk Hogan's Tragic Health Battles Before His Sudden Cardiac Arrest Death

Legendary wrestler Hulk Hogan was reportedly battling serious health issues before his sudden death after a cardiac arrest.

Over the years, he underwent multiple surgeries and hospitalizations to manage chronic neck and back pain, according to reports.

In 2023, fellow wrestler Kurt Angle claimed Hogan had lost feeling in parts of his body after a procedure. Hulk Hogan's representative later denied this statement.

In the wake of Hulk Hogan's death, reports have emerged revealing that the WWE star's health had significantly deteriorated in the years prior to his passing.

According to The U.S. Sun, the retired wrestler had endured multiple surgeries and hospitalizations for chronic neck and back pain.

These injuries were reportedly lasting effects from his years in the wrestling industry and the heavy weight training he did to maintain his massive physique.

In June, the wrestler was hospitalized to address lingering neck and back issues. At the time, a representative told TMZ that he was "dealing with more of the same ailments he's had for years."

It was also previously reported that Hogan underwent neck surgery in May, further confirming that the wrestler was indeed battling health issues.

A representative for the legend claimed that Hogan had undergone a "little fusion procedure," according to TMZ.

The representative also revealed that the surgery was performed to help Hogan "feel a little better" and that the wrestler had a "quick turnaround."

Aside from the neck and back surgeries, Hogan has also had both of his knees and hips replaced.

"I've had 10 back surgeries," the WWE star said during an appearance on Logan Paul's "Impaulsive" podcast, adding that, "both knees and both hips replaced, shoulders—everything."

Further back, in 2023, details of how Hogan's physical abilities had deteriorated were shared by his friend and fellow wrestler, Kurt Angle, during an episode of his eponymous show.

Angle told his listeners that Hogan "had the nerves cut from his lower body" during a surgery, leading to a loss of sensation in his lower body.

"So [he] uses his cane to walk around," Angle added at the time, per The U.S. Sun. "I thought he was using the cane because he had pain in his back. He doesn't have any pain. He has nothing at all. He can't feel anything."

This claim, however, was debunked by a rep for Angle, who told Entertainment Tonight that "everything is OK with" Hogan.

At 9:51 a.m. on Thursday, responders arrived at Hogan's home in Clearwater, Florida, following a 911 call about a cardiac arrest.

The WWE Hall of Famer was first treated at the scene before being transported to the hospital, where he was ultimately pronounced dead.

While the official cause of death remains undisclosed, tributes have poured in from around the world to honor the wrestler.

This includes a heartfelt tribute from the WWE, where Hogan spent the majority of his legendary career.

"WWE is saddened to learn WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has passed away," the company wrote in a statement, per The U.S. Sun.

"One of pop culture's most recognizable figures, Hogan helped WWE achieve global recognition in the 1980s. WWE extends its condolences to Hogan's family, friends, and fans."

Since news of Hulk Hogan's passing went viral, fans from around the world have paid tributes to him, highlighting his impact on the world of wrestling.

In his final post on Instagram, a person wrote, "Still trying to believe this is real… Hulk Hogan wasn't just a wrestler — he was a childhood hero, a larger-than-life icon who made us believe in strength, loyalty, and saying our prayers."

The fan continued, "The red and yellow didn't just stand for colors — they stood for heart. He made arenas shake, changed lives, and inspired generations of fans to never give up. Hulkamania will never die, because legends like him never truly leave us. Rest easy, brother — and thank you for everything."

Another person commented, "Rest easy, brother!! Grew up watching you, Hulk. You were the best to do it."