Hulk Hogan dead: WWE legend dies aged 71 as Ric Flair leads tributes
It's been reported that paramedics were summoned to Hulk's residence in Clearwater, Florida in the early hours of Thursday morning.
Hogan served as the headline attraction for the inaugural WrestleMania in 1985 and remained a mainstay for years in the company's flagship event, taking on everyone from Andre The Giant and Randy Savage to The Rock.
He also battled company chairman Vince McMahon.
He secured six WWE championships during his career and was enshrined in the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005 by Sylvester Stallone, reports the Mirror.
A statement from the organisation read: "WWE is saddened to learn WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has passed away. One of pop culture's most recognizable figures, Hogan helped WWE achieve global recognition in the 1980s. WWE extends its condolences to Hogan's family, friends, and fans."
Ex-WWE owner and supremo Vince McMahon said: "The world lost a treasure today. Hulk Hogan was the greatest WWE Superstar of ALL TIME, someone who was loved and admired around the world. He was a trailblazer, the first performer who transitioned from being a wrestling star into a global phenomenon.
"His grit and unbridled thirst for success were unparalleled - and made him the consummate performer. He gave everything he had to the audience whom he appreciated, respected and loved.
"He leaves us with one of his favorite expressions, "Train, take your vitamins and say your prayers." Today, we pray for him."
Ric Flair who, like Hogan, was a champion of the sport, paid his respects as he said: "I Am Absolutely Shocked To Hear About The Passing Of My Close Friend @HulkHogan!
"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. He Was Always There For Me Even When I Didn't Ask For Him To Be.
"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 Reid Was Sick. Hulkster, No One Will Ever Compare To You! Rest In Peace My Friend!"
One of the sport's best known figures, The Undertaker, said: "The wrestling world has lost a true legend. His contributions to our business are immeasurable, and for that, I am appreciative. Thank you, Hulk Hogan."
Fellow legend Kurt Angle added: "R.I.P Hulkster, thank you for opening up doors for so many people in the business including myself. There would not be a Kurt Angle, without the American Made, Hulk Hogan. My heart and prayers go out to his family. We lost a real icon today."
Hogan's stature saw him become a celebrity outside the wrestling world, appearing in numerous movies and television shows, including a reality show about his life on VH1, "Hogan Knows Best".
Former wrestler Brutus Beefcake said: "Through the good times and the bad, I always loved my brother Terry! I am devastated by the loss of my friend, I only wish we had time to mend our broken friendship before his passing. Until I see you Brother, in the big squared circle in the sky! I love you". Hulk Hogan fans are paying tribute to the star online (Image: WireImage) Hulk Hogan has died at the age of 71 (Image: Getty Images)
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