Legendary Wrestler, 76, Issues Statement on ‘Close Friend’ Hulk Hogan’s Death originally appeared on Parade.
Hulk Hogan, the wrestling icon best known for his lengthy tenures in World Wrestling Entertainment throughout the ’80s, ’90s and 2000s, has passed away at the age of 71-years-old.
In response, numerous figures within the wrestling world have issued their heartfelt tributes to the legendary leader of Hulkamania, including Hogan’s longtime on-screen rival, Ric Flair.
Reeling from the news of his ‘close friend’s death, the 76-year-old Flair took to social media to mourn the loss of the famous wrestling personality, pointing to their four decade-long relationship as one of the highlights of his career.
“I Am Absolutely Shocked To Hear About The Passing Of My Close Friend, Hulk Hogan!” Flair wrote on X. “Hulk Has Been By My Side Since We Started In The Wrestling Business. An Incredible Athlete, Talent, Friend, And Father! Our Friendship Has Meant The World To Me.”
As Flair mentioned in his post, the two WWE Hall of Famers began their careers around the same time as one another, with Flair first lacing up his boots in 1972 and Hogan entering the squared circle in 1976.
Throughout their individual careers, the two men routinely crossed paths, maintaining an intense on-screen rivalry during their time in WWE, WCW and TNA from the late 1980s up until the early 2010s.
Though frequently paired as fierce competitors on television, Flair maintained that he and Hogan were the best of friends behind the curtains, with Hogan regularly supporting Flair through a variety of personal crises.
“He Was Always There For Me Even When I Didn’t Ask For Him To Be,” Flair continued to say. “He Was One Of The First To Visit Me When I Was In The Hospital With A 2% Chance Of Living, And He Prayed By My Bedside. Hulk Also Lent Me Money When [Flair’s son] Reid Was Sick. Hulkster, No One Will Ever Compare To You! Rest In Peace My Friend!
Legendary Wrestler, 76, Issues Statement on ‘Close Friend’ Hulk Hogan’s Death first appeared on Parade on Jul 24, 2025
This story was originally reported by Parade on Jul 24, 2025, where it first appeared.
