Rumors spread like wildfire this week suggesting WWE legend Hulk Hogan (real name Terry Bollea, aged 71) was on his deathbed in a hospital in Florida. The speculation originates from radio personality Bubba “The Love Sponge” Clem, who claimed on his show that Hogan is “in the hospital” and even implied that family members were receiving calls to “come say your goodbyes.”
Bubba described his sources as “pretty reliable” and “rock solid,” stating:
> “If you did some sniffing around, you might find him in a hospital… I got some pretty reliable information… phone calls are being made… come say your goodbyes.”
These alarming remarks immediately sparked concern across social media and in wrestling circles. But nearly immediately, Hogan’s representatives, along with major outlets, moved to quash the narrative.
Reps: Not Life‑Threatening, Just Routine Care
Multiple sources—including TMZ Sports, E! News, Gray Media, and Valley News Live—confirmed Hogan was indeed hospitalized this week, but only for treatment of chronic neck and back issues, not because he was near death.
According to his representative:
Hogan underwent a neck “fusion” surgery last month, aimed at alleviating pain from pinched nerves.
He’s already mobile and recovering well post-op, with no signs of critical decline.
Gray Media added the procedure was “successful” and emphasized, “there’s no reason to panic.” Similarly, E! News quoted his rep noting there are “no reasons to panic,” and that the surgery “has indeed been successful.”
Eric Bischoff Confirms, No Cause for Alarm
WWE executive and Hogan friend Eric Bischoff further echoed this sentiment. He told eWrestlingNews that while Hogan is experiencing some “adverse reaction” post-surgery, he is doing fine and expected to be discharged later today, with doctors forecasting a full recovery.
A Legacy of Surgeries, Not Surprises
Hulk Hogan is no stranger to the operating room—he’s shared publicly that he’s had 25 surgeries between 2014 and 2024 alone, including ten back surgeries, knee and hip replacements, and shoulder work. This latest hospitalization fits his well-documented history of treating chronic orthopedic issues, not signaling any dramatic or terminal decline.
Media Misinformation & Social Media Frenzy
This incident serves as another example of how online panics can escalate quickly, only to be smothered by facts. Sensational claims made by individuals—even those with past headlines—should be treated with caution until confirmed through official statements. Hogan’s team moved swiftly to clarify the situation, reaffirming the importance of relying on verified sources over hearsay.
Bottom Line
Hulk Hogan is not on his deathbed. He was hospitalized to address lingering neck and back issues and is already moving around post-surgery. Doctors anticipate a full recovery and today’s hysteria appears to have been sparked by sensationalist commentary, n
ot any genuine medical emergency.
