3 Wrestling Legends Who Tragically Passed Away in 2025 – Hulk Hogan, Sabu & More
The year 2025 started with blockbuster WWE events, thrilling matches, and surprising storylines. But amid the excitement, the wrestling universe was shocked by the deaths of some iconic figures—legends who shaped generations of fans with their unforgettable personas and ring skills. These tragic losses have left a huge void in professional wrestling ft Hulk Hogan.
Here, we pay tribute to three wrestling legends who passed away in the first seven months of 2025, shocking millions of fans around the globe.
Sabu – The ECW Hardcore Icon
Passed Away: May 11, 2025 | Age: 60
Terrence Michael Brunk, known to the world as Sabu, was a fearless performer who revolutionized hardcore wrestling. A veteran of ECW, WWE, NJPW, FMW, TNA, and WCW, Sabu was known for pushing his body to the limit in every match.
Sabu’s last match took place at WrestleMania 41, a fitting farewell for someone who lived and breathed wrestling. His shocking passing just weeks later on May 11 devastated the industry.
His most iconic WWE moment? The Lumberjack Match against John Cena in 2006, which still lives on in highlight reels and fan memories. Though his WWE career was short, his influence in ECW made him a hardcore legend.
He was not just a wrestler—he was a symbol of chaos, passion, and no-holds-barred action.
Kevin Nickel – The Unsung Warrior of Developmental Wrestling
Passed Away: July 11, 2025 | Age: 41
Another heartbreaking news came when Kevin Nickel, known in WWE developmental circuits as Knuckles Madsen, was shot dead at just 41 years old. His 18-year wrestling career was filled with sweat, grit, and backstage leadership.
Nickel was active in NXT during 2012–2013 and mentored many young talents during his time. Outside WWE, he wrestled in numerous independent promotions, gaining respect from peers and fans alike for his raw strength and solid ring presence.
While he might not have reached the main roster spotlight, his contributions behind the scenes made him a cornerstone of the developmental system.
Hulk Hogan – The Immortal Falls
Passed Away: July 24, 2025 | Age: 71
Perhaps the most shocking news of 2025: Hulk Hogan died of a heart attack at the age of 71. One of the biggest names in sports entertainment history, Hogan defined the golden era of WWE in the 1980s and 90s.
WWE is saddened to learn WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has passed away.
— WWE (@WWE) July 24, 2025
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.
Born in Georgia on August 11, 1953, Hulk Hogan wasn’t just a wrestler—he was a pop culture phenomenon. From his red and yellow attire to his blonde handlebar mustache, Hulkamania swept the globe for decades.
Also Read: Top 5 WrestleMania shocking moments That Shocked the WWE Universe Forever!
He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame twice, a rare honor, and remained involved in WWE even after retirement. Hulk Hogan’s charisma, crowd connection, and larger-than-life persona made him a true global icon.
His passing left fans and superstars alike in disbelief, as tributes poured in from every corner of the wrestling and entertainment world.
A Heartbreaking Few Months for Wrestling Fans
Wrestling is not just about matches; it’s about stories, emotions, and people who become larger than life. The loss of Sabu, Kevin Nickel, and Hulk Hogan has been devastating. They each left their unique mark on the industry—through hardcore matches, backstage mentorship, and global superstardom.
As fans, we mourn—but we also celebrate their lives, legacies, and the unforgettable moments they gave us in the squared circle.
Rest in peace, legends. You will never be forgotten. 🙏
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