Newly released forensic documents have confirmed that wrestling icon **Hulk Hogan** (Terry Bollea), who died at 71 on **July 24, 2025**, succumbed to an **acute myocardial infarction (heart attack)**. The postmortem report also disclosed a previously undisclosed diagnosis of **chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)** and a long-standing history of **atrial fibrillation**—health details that had never been shared publicly People’s explanation of the pathology findings and Entertainment Weekly’s medical summary.
The medical examiner reported that Hogan collapsed from a heart rhythm disorder at his Clearwater, Florida home and was unresponsive before being taken to Morton Plant Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. The documents described his passing as “natural,” confirming that despite his public image, Hogan had been quietly battling serious cardiovascular and blood-related illnesses Page Six’s coverage of the cremation summary and The Guardian’s obituary roundup.
Friends and family had downplayed concerns over Hogan’s health leading up to his death—even after he underwent neck surgery in **May** and is said to have experienced **mobility problems and fatigue** in June. Despite these red flags, no public disclosures were made about the leukemia diagnosis or other chronic conditions E! News report on private cancer battle and **ABC News** health update sharing examiner details.
“His heart gave out—but his cancer only quietly lingered.”
Tributes poured in from across the wrestling world and beyond. WWE released a statement honoring Hogan’s impact in bringing pro wrestling to the global stage. Fellow legends like **Ric Flair**, **John Cena**, and **Charlotte Flair** paid tribute, while fans shared grief and nostalgia online. Hogan is survived by his wife **Sky Daily**, two children—**Brooke and Nick Hogan**—and ex-wives **Linda Hogan** and **Jennifer McDaniel** People tribute coverage and **Economic Times** summary of reactions on family statements.
In a social media post shared shortly after his passing, Sky wrote: “He had health issues, but I believed we would overcome them. I thought we had more time.” She also spoke of her faith in Christ and the heartbreak of sudden loss—even as doctors warned that Hogan at times minimized his symptoms according to medical examiner notes.
Hogan’s daughter Brooke paid her own intimate tribute, acknowledging their emotional estrangement in recent years. She emphasized their spiritual connection, stating that “a piece of my spirit left with him,” and described Hogan’s presence as embedded in her children’s lives per family messages shared.
Medical experts note that chronic lymphocytic leukemia is often slow-growing and can remain undetected for years. Paired with **atrial fibrillation**, the condition significantly raises the risk for cardiac events. Hogan’s case highlights how well-known figures can quietly manage life-threatening conditions behind the scenes as E! explained CLL details and **ABC News** clarified fatal mechanism with medical context.
As fans reflect on Hogan’s legacy, his death underscores a tragic blend of private illness and public persona—a reminder that despite fame and strength, health vulnerabilities can remain hidden until it’s too late.
