Robert Griffin III Pays Tribute After WWE Legend Hulk Hogan Passes Away at 71

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Dean Koutouratsas | Last updated Jul 24, 2025 2:46 PM ET

WWE icon Hulk Hogan passed away at 71 from a heart attack, according to the WWE and Associated Press.

Hogan, whose real name was Terry Bollea, was pronounced dead at a hospital in Clearwater, Florida, after local police responded to a call on Thursday morning. He is survived by his children Nick and Brooke Hogan.

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

Former NFL quarterback and current college football analyst Robert Griffin III mourned Hogan’s death. “Prayers up for the family, friends and loved ones of Hulk Hogan, who passed away at 71 years old,” Griffin wrote on X.

Prayers up for the family, friends and loved ones of Hulk Hogan who has passed away at 71 years old.
— Robert Griffin III (@RGIII) July 24, 2025

Hogan was once the face of professional wrestling. He competed for multiple companies, including the WWE, formerly known as the WWF; WCW; TNA; and New Japan Professional Wrestling.

He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005 after winning 12 total world championships across the WWE and WCW by defeating superstars such as Andre the Giant, Randy Savage, Yokozuna, Mr. Perfect, Ric Flair and the Undertaker.

On the other hand, Griffin played in the NFL for the Washington Redskins, now known as the Commanders, Cleveland Browns and Baltimore Ravens. He started his career as one of the most talented young quarterbacks because of his electrifying speed and athleticism.

However, his career was derailed an ACL and LCL tear in his knee, which he sustained during the 2012-13 NFC playoffs against the Seattle Seahawks. Washington went on to lose the game 24-14 without their quarterback, and he spent the remainder of his career as a backup for the two AFC North franchises.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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