On what would have been Hulk Hogan’s 72nd birthday, his former wife Linda Hogan opened her heart to fans, sharing a tender remembrance of the man she once loved — and still misses deeply.
On Monday, August 11, Linda posted a throwback photo of herself and Hulk — born Terry Bollea — from 1981, capturing a moment from their early years together.
“Me and Hulkster… 1981. Happy Birthday, Terry,” she wrote in the caption. “I love and miss you so much.”
The bittersweet post comes just two weeks after the wrestling legend’s sudden passing on July 24 at his home in Clearwater, Florida. Hulk, one of the most iconic figures in professional wrestling history, died from acute myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack. Medical records revealed that he had been living with leukemia and atrial fibrillation, a heart condition that causes irregular beats.
A Marriage in the Spotlight
Linda and Hulk married in 1983, building a life together in the public eye. They raised two children — Brooke, now 37, and Nick, 35 — and invited fans into their home through the hit reality series Hogan Knows Best.
But fame brought its challenges. The couple separated in 2007 and finalized their divorce in 2009, closing the chapter on a relationship that had been both glamorous and turbulent.
Grief Beyond the Divorce
Despite the breakup, Linda’s love and connection to Hulk never truly faded. In an emotional Instagram post on July 28, just days after his passing, she revealed the depth of her sorrow.
“I had no idea he would pass away this soon,” she wrote. “We all really thought he would make a comeback! Big surprise. We are all devastated. It’s hitting me so hard.”
She spoke candidly about the wounds of their past and the love she still carried.
“I loved Hulkster more than he loved me,” she admitted. “It hurt when he cheated. But he was sooo famous. I sort of understood, but it was crushing. I never got over him or started a real relationship with anyone… I missed HIM! I’ve been weeping all day. The finality. It’s just shocking.”
A Farewell Wrapped in Love
Linda ended her tribute with words that felt like a final embrace:
“It’s so hard to know he’s just gone. I tried to stay strong for Nick… but I’m melting down now. It’s very sad. I love you, Hulkster.”
Even after years apart, her message was clear — the man who had once been her world still held a piece of her heart.
For Linda, and for millions of fans, Hulk Hogan’s larger-than-life presence will forever remain etched in memory. The cheers may have faded, but the love, the pain, and the legacy of “The Hulkster” live on.