The world of professional wrestling is in mourning following the death of Hulk Hogan, one of the most iconic stars in the history of WWE, at the age of 71.

Terry Gene Bollea became a phenomenon thanks to the spectacle he delivered in the ring during his matches, but outside of it, he faced other personal battles. His life beyond the squared circle was marked by controversies, addictions, and public scandals that stained the legacy he built in WWE.

Addiction Fueled by Physical Pain

In a 2023 interview with Muscle And Health, Hogan opened up about his dependency on painkillers, which stemmed from multiple surgeries throughout his career. “I was going to the pharmacy like a dog chasing a bone,” he admitted, explaining that “I was compulsively taking pain meds because I had to endure 25 surgeries.” He went on to detail 10 back surgeries, facial procedures due to kicks, knee and hip replacements, as well as abdominal and shoulder operations.

The pain he endured was so severe that his body could barely function. “When you have back surgery, your body needs at least a year to recover, but I was getting operated on every four months,” he said. Although the medication was initially necessary, Hogan confessed he continued using painkillers even when they were no longer needed.

Personal Battle Against Alcohol

In addition to painkillers, Hulk Hogan also battled alcoholism—a struggle he managed to overcome in early 2023. He shared that he was able to stay sober despite social pressure, even from fellow professionals in the industry. He also credited cannabidiol as a key factor in helping him remain focused, clear-headed, and free from the urge to drink again.