Nick Hogan is remembering his dad.
AfterHulk Hogan died at 71 on July 24, following a 911 call to his Florida residence regarding a “cardiac arrest,” his and ex-wife Linda Hogan’s son broke his silence and reflected on his bond with his late father.
“My dad was the most incredible person I’ve ever known and will always be my hero,” the 35-year-old wrote in an Instagram post July 26. “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.”
Alongside his heartfelt tribute, Nick included photos of himself and his dad through the years and emphasized he remained close with the late WWE legend in his final years.
“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,” Nick continued. “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.”
And while the Hogan Knows Best alum added he would “do anything” to spend more time with the late 71-year-old, he expressed that he still felt his father with him.
“I know now that he will always be watching over me,” he added. “I will always remember the lessons and advice he gave me and carry on in a way that I know would make him proud. 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.”
In addition to his kind words about his father, Nick also thanked fans and loved ones for checking in on him during his difficult time.
“Hearing so many kind words and stories about my dad’s life, interactions and experiences with everyone has been incredible and comforting,” he noted. “Thank you to everyone who has reached out to me and comforted me over the last few days. It truly means a lot.”
While Hulk’s son maintained a strong relationship with him, the pro wrestler’s 37-year-old daughter Brooke Hogan recently shared insight into her estrangement from both of her parents.
“No contact with my Mom has nothing to do with my Dad, and no contact with my Father has nothing to do with my Mother,” Brooke stressed on Instagram in March. “The decision was made based purely on how they have each dealt with me directly in my life.”
“What I’m about to say is not pointed at either person,” she wrote, before adding, “I have been EXTREMELY verbally and mentally abused since childhood. Sadly, it would frequently turn physical.”
E! News had reached out to Hulk and Linda’s reps for comment at the time and did not hear back.
The “About Us” singer shared that the alleged treatment has devastating consequences on her self-esteem and confidence, which was especially difficult with life in the public eye.
The Brooke Knows Best alum said that it was not a decision she made lightly, adding, “No one wants this, to feel so much pain and not have parents. But their behavior became more painful than their absence.”
As a mom to her and husband Steven Olesky’s 6-month-old twins Oliver and Molly, Brooke is more focused on prioritizing time with them. She concluded, “I want so much to be able to enjoy what’s important… my children and my life I have worked so hard to create and protect.”
For a look back at Hulk’s life in photos, keep reading…
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