Nick Hogan is paying tribute to dad Hulk Hogan after his death.
“Thank you to everyone who has reached out to me and comforted me over the last few days. It truly means a lot,” Nick, 35, wrote via Instagram on Saturday, July 26. “I’m sorry to everyone I have not responded to yet. This has been overwhelming and extremely difficult. Hearing so many kind words and stories about my dad’s life, interactions and experiences with everyone has been incredible and comforting.”
Alongside the message, Nick shared several photos of the father-son duo over the years. In one image, Hulk wrapped his arms around his son, while in another photo, the pair were all smiles as they sat across from each other on a plane.
“My dad was the most incredible person I’ve ever known and will always be my hero. He was the most kind, loving and amazing father anybody could ask for,” Nick wrote. “I feel so blessed to have had the greatest dad in the world. He was not only the best dad but also my mentor and my best friend. He always has been my best friend and I love him and miss him more than I could ever explain.”
Nick continued, “I thanked him for everything he has ever done for me and told him how much I loved him and hugged him every chance I got. I spent a lot of time with him the past few years after moving back to Florida to be closer to him and I am so grateful for those memories. They are the best moments in my life.”
Nick noted that he would “do anything” to have his dad “back,” but he knows Hulk will “always be watching over” him.
“I will always remember the lessons and advice he gave me and carry on in a way that I know would make him proud,” Nick concluded. “Thank you for being the best dad in the world and thank you for being my best friend. I love you so much Big Dog and I will miss you forever.”
News broke on Thursday, July 24, that Hulk died after suffering cardiac arrest at his home, per the Clearwater Police Department. Hulk was transported to a local hospital where he was later pronounced dead at age 71.
While the Hogan family was estranged, an insider exclusively told Us Weekly that Hulk and his son were “very close” before the former professional wrestler’s death. (Hulk shared Nick and daughter Brooke with ex-wife Linda Hogan, whom he was married to from
1983 to 2009.)
“Nick got married recently and lives down in Florida near his dad,” a source close to the family shared. They got on great — it was a solid father-son relationship.”