Hulk Hogan, the iconic professional wrestler, passed away on Thursday at the age of 71 in his home in Clearwater, Florida. Following his death, tributes poured in from across the sports world, highlighting his influence and contributions to professional wrestling. Known as Terry Bollea in real life, Hogan’s legacy is irreplaceable in the industry, characterized by a career that spanned several decades and numerous championships. His passing comes just as a documentary about his life and career is in the works, which was previously announced through a collaboration between Netflix, Words + Pictures, and WWE.
This much-anticipated documentary features over 20 hours of interviews with the wrestling legend himself, affirming the depth of coverage and insight it aims to provide. Puck Media initially reported on the film, stating that it had been in development since last year. The project reflects Hogan’s remarkable journey and lasting impact on wrestling, celebrating his status as a pioneering figure. While Netflix has not yet provided further details or a release date, the film aims to offer fans an intimate look at Hogan’s life and legacy.
In addition to the documentary, Netflix has been exploring various avenues within sports content, such as producing documentaries and hosting live broadcasts of significant sporting events. The platform’s investment in sports storytelling indicates a strategic move to capture audiences’ attention in diverse genres, situating Hogan’s documentary within a broader trend of programming that resonates with fans of wrestling and sports history alike.
Hogan’s career began in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), where he became its most recognizable face, drawing massive crowds and elevating the brand. He achieved remarkable success, winning multiple world championships and earning inductions into the WWE Hall of Fame twice – first in 2005 and again in 2020 with the New World Order. His popularity and charisma helped shape the wrestling industry, inspiring countless athletes and fans and solidifying WWE’s position on the global stage.
In 2024, Hogan launched Real American Beer, reflecting his enduring legacy through branding associated with his wrestling persona. The following year, he also founded Real American Freestyle, a wrestling promotion aimed at nurturing emerging talent and further contributing to the sport. Hogan’s commitment to the industry continued until his later years, during which he made sporadic appearances, with his final WWE appearance recorded in January 2025, indicating his lasting connection to the world he helped build.
In summary, Hulk Hogan’s passing marks a significant moment in wrestling history, as fans and colleagues honor his memory and contributions to the sport. The forthcoming documentary is set to provide invaluable insights into his life, presenting a comprehensive portrait of a figure who transcended wrestling and became a cultural icon. As tributes continue to flow, the legacy of Hulk Hogan remains firmly entrenched in the annals of professional wrestling.
