In a moment that left the world stunned, professional wrestling legend Hulk Hogan has died at the age of 71, marking the end of an era for fans of entertainment, sports, and pop culture alike. As tributes continue to pour in from around the world, one of the most emotional and unexpected messages came from Bukayo Saka, the English football star, who referred to Hogan as his “greatest inspiration.”
The news of Hogan’s passing broke early this morning, sending shockwaves across social media and sparking a global outpouring of grief. The iconic figure—born Terry Eugene Bollea—was more than just a wrestler. For millions, he was a symbol of strength, perseverance, and charisma. And for Saka, it was deeply personal.
“He was my greatest inspiration. His passing is a huge loss not only to his family and loved ones but also to the millions of fans around the world who grew up with his indomitable, strong, and inspiring image. My deepest condolences to Hulk Hogan’s family and loved ones. His legacy will live on in our hearts forever,” Saka wrote in a heartfelt message on Instagram.
Saka’s tribute took many by surprise—not because Hogan didn’t have global reach, but because it bridged two worlds that rarely intersect: wrestling entertainment and elite European football. For the 22-year-old Arsenal and England winger, however, Hulk Hogan’s presence growing up went far beyond wrestling rings and catchphrases.
Sources close to Saka revealed that during his youth, he would often watch recordings of classic WWE matches, imitating Hogan’s signature poses and even quoting his legendary line: “Whatcha gonna do when Hulkamania runs wild on you?” Hogan’s blend of physical strength, larger-than-life personality, and unyielding optimism resonated with Saka, particularly during challenging moments in his early career.
While Hogan’s life was not without controversy—from legal battles to public missteps—there’s no denying his impact. In the 1980s and 1990s, he transcended wrestling, becoming a cultural icon. His image was plastered on lunch boxes, action figures, movies, and television shows. He headlined WrestleMania multiple times, helped launch the WWE into the mainstream, and inspired a generation to believe in heroes—even if they were clad in yellow spandex and feather boas.
Following Saka’s tribute, fans across both sports and wrestling communities began sharing their own memories of Hogan. Some praised the heartfelt nature of the footballer’s words, while others shared how Hogan had impacted their own lives growing up.
“Saka showing love to Hulk Hogan is the most unexpected crossover we didn’t know we needed,” one fan tweeted.
“You know someone was special when their influence reaches even the top athletes in completely different sports,” another posted.
WWE also released a statement mourning the loss of their Hall of Famer, calling Hogan “one of the greatest icons of our time” and promising a special tribute episode during their next broadcast.
Meanwhile, tributes from former wrestlers, actors, and public figures continue to flood in. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, John Cena, and Stone Cold Steve Austin all posted personal reflections on what Hogan meant to them—both in the ring and as human beings navigating fame, family, and adversity.
Back in the UK, Arsenal Football Club also shared Saka’s message on their official social platforms, expressing solidarity with their player and acknowledging Hogan’s broad influence.
“As a club, we stand with Bukayo during this emotional moment. We recognize the power of icons beyond football—and Hulk Hogan was certainly that,” the club wrote.
Hogan’s family has not yet released a public statement beyond confirming his peaceful passing at his Florida residence surrounded by loved ones. Plans for a memorial service have not yet been announced, but fans have already begun placing flowers and memorabilia outside his Hollywood Walk of Fame star and WWE headquarters in Stamford, Connecticut.
In a world increasingly defined by temporary fame, Hulk Hogan’s impact endures—not only through wrestling history but through the personal lives of millions he inspired, including global athletes like Bukayo Saka. His larger-than-life persona may be gone, but his legacy of strength, belief, and never giving up lives on in the hearts of many.
As Saka poignantly said, “His legacy will live on in our hearts forever.”