Hulk Hogan's close friend Jimmy Hart talks exclusively to PEOPLE about the WWE star's health in his final days and reflects on his friendship, after Hogan's death on Thursday, July 24.

The wrestling world is mourning the loss of Hulk Hogan. His sudden passing at 71 shocked not just fans, but those closest to him — including longtime friend and manager Jimmy Hart.

Former WWE writer Vince Russo spoke about seeing Jimmy Hart on TV during Hulk Hogan's tribute segment. Several legends were on SmackDown this week.

Jimmy Hart provided an update about Hulk Hogan's health, though the status of the WWE Hall of Famer following neck fusion surgery remains vague.

Well, as Parade highlighted, Hogan claims that he tried to join the legendary rock band, Metallica, and was prepared to leave life as a wrestling icon behind to do so. “When Metallica was looking for a bass player, I called and never heard a word back from them either,” he told the Chicago Tribune in 2009.

Legendary wrestler Hulk Hogan has died at age 71. Here are some of his Michigan connections, highlighted by WrestleMania III vs Andre the Giant.

Hulk Hogan almost had a Netflix biopic, with Chris Hemsworth portraying the WWE star and 'Joker' director Todd Phillips set to helm the film.

WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has passed away at the age of 71, according to reports in the US, with medical officials reportedly called to his home in the early hours of Thursday morning