Donald Trump issues heartfelt tribute to 'friend' Hulk Hogan after WWE legend's death

Donald Trump has issued a heartfelt message following the passing of WWE legend Hulk Hogan.

Hogan - real name Terry Gene Bollea - died on Thursday, aged 71.

Police have said emergency services responders treated him at his home in Clearwater, Florida, for a cardiac arrest at around 10am local time, but died in hospital around an hour later.

Tributes have poured from across the wrestling community and beyond, with US president Trump sharing a statement on social media.

He called him a 'great friend' and hailed his speech at the Republican National Convention last year.

Trump wrote: "We lost a great friend today, the 'Hulkster'. Hulk Hogan was MAGA all the way - Strong, tough, smart, but with the biggest heart. He gave an absolutely electric speech at the Republican National Convention, that was one of the highlights of the entire week. He entertained fans from all over the World, and the cultural impact he had was massive.

"To his wife, Sky, and family, we give our warmest best wishes and love. Hulk Hogan will be greatly missed!"

WWE also penned a statement in the wake of Hogan's death.

A statement 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."

Hulk Hogan during a Republican National Convention last year. Image: Getty

Reflecting on his stellar wrestling career, Triple H said: "WWE would not be where it is today without the larger-than-life characters that compete in the ring... and few, if any, loomed larger than Terry 'Hulk Hogan' Bollea.

"He was the archetype of what it meant to be a 'Superstar' - a global sensation that inspired millions to work hard at whatever it was they wanted to accomplish and a look that made him recognizable to fans around the world.

"Hulk Hogan, clad in red and yellow or nWo black and white, was simply put, iconic. As a Real American or the leader of one of the industry’s biggest factions, he transcended and elevated the entire business to heights never before seen - in every country and on every continent.

"There was no one like The Hulkster and there very well may never be another. My family sends their condolences to his family, friends, and fans."

Fellow WWE icon Ric Flair added: "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!"

Hogan helped WWE achieve global recognition with his performances in the ring. He also transcended the sport with his character and famous Hulkamania craze.

In 2005, he was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame.