WWE kicked off its July 25 edition of SmackDown with a heartfelt tribute to the legendary Hulk Hogan, who passed away on July 24, 2025, at age 71. In a touching ceremony led by Triple H, the WWE community came together to honor Hogan’s unparalleled legacy with the traditional 10‑bell salute.
What Is a 10‑Bell Salute in Wrestling?
In professional wrestling, the 10‑bell salute is a solemn ritual reserved for deceased wrestlers. It’s the grappling world’s equivalent of a military salute rings bell ten times while everyone stands in silence. It’s not just symbolic; it signifies that the performer didn’t answer the “ten count.” Legends such as André the Giant, Eddie Guerrero, and Roddy Piper have received this honor in the past.
SmackDown’s Tribute: How It Unfolded
SmackDown opened with Triple H taking the center stage, flanked by current stars and past legends. His words resonated with sorrow and reverence:
“Please help us honor him now as we give a 10‑bell salute to Terry Bollea, the one and the only, The Immortal Hulk Hogan.”
The audience erupted in applause and chanted “Hogan!” before the bell was rung ten times in unison. After the solemn moment, WWE aired a video montage narrated by Triple H, highlighting Hogan’s rise from his WrestleMania glory years to global superstardom. It drove home the message: “Hulkamania will live forever.”
Why This Tribute Matters
Hulk Hogan real name Terry Gene Bollea was a superstar whose charisma and flair defined the wrestling boom of the 1980s and 1990s. He headlined eight of the first nine WrestleManias and propelled WWE into pop‑culture prominence. His passing hit the wrestling world like a tidal wave.
The tribute wasn’t just about nostalgia it was closure. Hogan inspired generations, both inside and outside the ring. Watching his peers and younger stars honor him illustrated how deeply his impact spread across decades.
Remembering “The Immortal” Hulk Hogan
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Terry Gene Bollea |
| Age at Death | 71 (born August 11, 1953 – died July 24, 2025) |
| Key Moments | WrestleMania headliner, WWF Champion, pop‑culture icon |
| Tribute Highlight | 10‑bell salute, video montage, emotional speeches |
| Legacy Message | “Hulkamania will live forever” |
Conclusion
WWE’s tribute to Hulk Hogan was more than just a TV opening it was a collective farewell. The 10‑bell salute, powerful speeches, and career retrospective reminded fans why Hogan was more than a wrestler he was an era, a movement, and a legend. As WWE and the wrestling world move forward, Hulkamania’s spirit remains alive in every cheer, every flex, and every yellow bandana.