Hulk Hogan (real name: Terry Gene Bollea), is an American wrestler, entrepreneur, and television personality. He rose to fame in the 80s and 90s as a wrestler for the World Wrestling Federation. He drew in a huge amount of crowds and often headlined pay per view events on television. While he went to college, he never finished. His heart remained in wrestling. He spent most of his time working out and he was discovered by legendary wrestling promoter Vince McMahon Jr./.
Because he stood at 6’8″ and weighed 303 pounds, he was compared to the Hulk (hence his stage name). His first match against Andre the Giant was immensely successful. In fact, his entry into the wrestling world was so impressive that Sylvester Stallone asked him to be part of Rocky III, which he agreed to. In 1984, he beat the Iron Sheik and won the WWF championship belt. The resulting fandom surrounding his success was called “Hulkamania.” This fandom only grew as he held on to his title for three more years. He excited the interest of thousands of people, garnering more attention for the sport of wrestling than ever before. His image helped sell a plethora of wrestling products and toys, and he even starred in some films, including Mr. Nanny and Santa with Muscles.
However, this success waned in the early 90s with the highly publicized trial against Vince McMahon and the use of anabolic steroids in the WWF. Hogan testified against him, claiming he had used anabolic steroids. This forced him to terminate his career as a wrestler and entertainer. Fortunately, in 1996, Hogan made a triumphant return to the wrestling world in 1996, reestablishing himself as “Hollywood Hulk Hogan”, a villain. His performances during this time secured his career as a wrestler and returned him to his former glory.
via imdb.com
These days, Hulk Hogan is primarily known as a reality tv star and television host.
