Wrestling icon Hulk Hogan has died at the age of 71 following an apparent cardiac arrest at his Florida residence.

Just a year and a half before his passing, Hogan participated in a public baptism with his wife, Sky Daily, as a reaffirmation of his lifelong Christian beliefs, the New York Post reported.

Reports indicate that Hogan died on a Wednesday in his Florida home, with early accounts suggesting cardiac arrest as the cause. Known globally for his decades-long wrestling career, Hogan's death marks the end of an era in sports entertainment.

Before his passing, Hogan had been increasingly open about his personal life, particularly regarding his religious convictions. In December 2023, the wrestling legend shared a video on social media showing a significant personal moment: his baptism alongside his wife, Sky Daily.

The footage captured Hogan emerging from a baptismal pool, grinning and outfitted in his trademark bandana. Immediately afterward, those present, including Hogan and Daily, joined together in a moment of prayer.

Public Baptism Shared Months After Wedding

Hogan and Sky Daily had tied the knot in September 2023, only a few months earlier. Their baptism came shortly after their wedding and was a shared display of their Christian devotion.

The former pro wrestler posted about the ceremony on his X account, calling the experience a turning point in his spiritual journey. “Total surrender and dedication to Jesus is the greatest day of my life," he wrote, adding, "No worries, no hate, no judgment… only love!”

The post resonated with fans who followed Hogan not just for his wrestling fame, but also for his outspoken beliefs. Hogan's description of the baptismal moment reflected a culmination of personal reflection and renewed commitment to his faith.

Faith Roots Date Back to Teenage Years

Hogan, who was born in 1953, had spoken previously about finding faith at a young age. He said he first accepted Jesus Christ as his savior when he was just 14 years old.

That early decision shaped the rest of his personal and professional trajectory. In a 2023 social media post, he wrote, “I accepted Christ as my savior at 14 years old, and the training, prayers, and vitamins kept me in the game.”

His reference to “training, prayers, and vitamins” echoed a catchphrase from his wrestling days, but Hogan infused it with deep spiritual meaning later in life.

Final Message Emphasized Surrender and Strength

In the baptism post, Hogan offered a spiritual perspective on life’s challenges. “But now that I am one with God,” he wrote, “the main event theme of surrender, service, and love makes me the Real Main Event that can slam any giant of any size through the power of my Lord and Savior.”

He ended the message emphatically with, “And so it is, even now, brother, AMEN!” The quote, delivered in his signature tone, merged his wrestling persona with a message of religious conviction.

Hogan had long blended elements of his faith with his public identity, and this post was a continuation of that practice. It served both as a personal statement and as an encouragement to followers navigating their spiritual journeys.

Life Reflected in Words and Deeds

Throughout his career, Hogan remained a towering figure in culture, from sold-out arenas to reality television. But in later years, his focus seemed to shift more toward spirituality and personal redemption.

Though his public life was not without controversy, Hogan often expressed belief in God’s forgiveness and power to transform. His most recent posts reflected a man at peace and grounded in belief.

The December 2023 baptism was among his last major public declarations. Its timing, coming less than two years before his death, has gained renewed significance in light of recent events.

Legacy Blends Fame and Faith

Hogan's legacy, while rooted in professional wrestling, is also intertwined with his expressions of faith. For longtime fans, his final messages served as a look into the beliefs that guided him outside the ring.

His words and actions in the final years of his life showed a man increasingly focused on spiritual matters. Those who knew and admired him now remember not just the performer, but the person behind the persona.

As his family and fans mourn the loss, many are revisiting his recent expressions of faith, considering them a meaningful part of his complex and influential story.