Nick Hogan paid tribute to his dad, Hulk Hogan, who died last week at age 71, in an emotional post on Instagram.
Nick posted Saturday night that dad Hulk, who died Thursday of a reported cardiac arrest, was his “hero” and “best friend.”
“My dad was the most incredible person I’ve ever known and will always be my hero,” he wrote. “He was the most kind, loving and amazing father anybody could ask for. 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. 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.
“I would do anything to have him back but I know now that he will always be watching over me,” Nick continued. “I will always remember the lessons and advice he gave me and carry on in a way that I know would make him proud.”
In the post, which was accompanied by several photos of Nick with his dad, the younger Hogan thanked those who had reached out with messages of condolence and comfort.
“It truly means a lot,” he wrote. “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.”
He ended the message by addressing Hulk directly: “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.”
Hogan’s death was confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter by promoter Eric Bischoff, his partner in the recently launched Real America Freestyle amateur wrestling league, which landed a TV rights deal with Fox Nation this month. TMZ reported that medical personnel were sent to his home in Clearwater, Florida, with operators stating it involved a “cardiac arrest.”
The pro wrestler headlined WrestleMania eight times and won the World Wrestling Entertainment championship six times. He went on to appear in a slew of films and TV shows but also had his share of controversy, admitting to using steroids and later being ostracized by the WWE and removed from its Hall of Fame after he was heard making disparaging racial comments in a leaked sex video. In 2018, the WWE reinstated his Hall of Fame honor.
Many in Hollywood paid tribute to the late star last week, including Sylvester Stallone, who starred in Rocky III alongside Hogan: “I had the pleasure of meeting this brilliant personality and showman when he was 26 years old. He was absolutely wonderful and his amazing skill made Rocky three incredibly special. My heart breaks.”