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WWE icon Ric Flair, Piers Morgan and Sly Stallone lead tributes to legend Hulk Hogan

Tributes flooded in from around the globe for the wrestling icon, whose official cause of death was not immediately disclosed, after news of his death broke on Thursday night

Ric Flair tonight bid an emotional farewell to Hulk Hogan as the wrestling world mourned the death of the WWE legend at the age of 71 just weeks after undergoing surgery.

The "Nature Boy" who recently had a brush with death of his own said six-time WWE champ Hogan was an "incredible athlete and friend" as he led tributes to the megastar.

Flair wrote on X: "I am absolutely shocked to hear about the passing of my close friend. Hulk has been by my side since we started in the wrestling business. An incredible athlete, talent, friend, and father!

[Flair and Hogan wrestled each other many times]

Flair and Hogan wrestled each other many times(Image: Getty Images)

"Our friendship has meant the world to me. He was always there for me even when I didnt 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."

He also revealed Hogan had lent him money when Flair's son Reid who died of drug overdose in 2013 was sick. He added: "Hulkster, no one will ever compare to you! Rest in peace my friend!"

Tributes flooded in from around the globe for the wrestling icon, whose official cause of death was not immediately disclosed.

[Hogan died aged 71]

Hogan died aged 71(Image: AFP via Getty Images)

In an Instagram post Hollywood star Sylvester Stallone, who starred with Hulk in Rocky 3, said: "I had the pleasure of meeting this brilliant personality and showman when he was 26 years old. He was absolutely wonderful and his amazing skill made Rocky three incredibly special. My heart breaks."

In a short X post, Donald Trump Jr son of the US president said "R.I.P to a legend". He shared a selfie featuring the pair at the 2024 Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Hogan spoke on stage at the convention and other events in support of Trump's 2024 presidential campaign.

Piers Morgan said: "RIP Hulk Hogan - the most iconic wrestler in history, a wonderful character, and in person, a far gentler, charming, intelligent man far removed from his snarling beast ring (and Rocky movie!) persona. Sad news."

Georgia Smith, daughter of British wrestling legend Davey Boy Smith, said: "Saddened to hear the passing of @hulkhogan. He always spoke very highly of my dad, and was always nice to us when we saw him. My heart goes out to his wife, family, and friends. RIP legend."

Hogan's death comes after weeks of speculation about his health, with ex-friend Bubba the Love Sponge last month suggesting the wrestling megastar was on his death bed. A spokesman for Hogan told TMZ sports that Hogan was dealing with ailments but was "back to moving".

In May, it was widely reported he had underwent neck surgery. Hogan said he had at least 25 operations in the last decade. Long-time friend Eric Bischoff said earlier this week: Hulk Hogan had a very successful cervical surgery and is experiencing some adverse reaction."

[Hulk Hogan]

Hulk Hogan, whose death has prompted global tributes(Image: Getty Images)

Hogan's representative Linda Bose told CBS: "Unfortunately we must confirm that Terry Bollea, aka Hulk Hogan passed away this morning. We are heartbroken. He was such a great human being and friend."

The World Wrestling Entertainment said in a statement "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."

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