Allegations of Medical Error Emerge in Hulk Hogan Case
The death of wrestling icon Hulk Hogan has drawn new scrutiny following allegations of foul play from a former friend and reports suggesting possible medical malpractice.
Bubba the Love Sponge, a radio host and one-time close associate of Hogan, said on his online platforms that “somebody killed him” and called for an independent autopsy. He alleged that mistakes were made and suggested a cover-up, though he did not provide evidence to support his claims.
Separately, an occupational therapist who was present when Hogan collapsed told Clearwater police that a surgeon may have severed the wrestling legend’s phrenic nerve during a recent spinal surgery. The nerve controls breathing, and the therapist said Hogan did not show typical signs of a heart attack before he stopped breathing.
The Pinellas County medical examiner’s office has listed Hogan’s cause of death as acute myocardial infarction, noting his history of chronic lymphocytic leukemia and atrial fibrillation. Clearwater police said the case is still under investigation due to its unusual circumstances but have not confirmed any evidence of foul play.
Hogan’s daughter, Brooke, requested and funded an autopsy, which his widow, Sky Daily, confirmed was performed. The results have not yet been released, and cremation has been delayed pending the family’s review.
Hogan, born Terry Bollea, had undergone more than two dozen surgeries, including a neck spinal fusion earlier this year. He had also previously filed a malpractice lawsuit related to earlier treatments.
He was 71.
Sources: Associated Press, Page Six, Bild, The Daily Beast, Courthouse News, The SportsTak