Why Brooke Hogan Skipped Her Father Hulk Hogan's Funeral

Wrestling icon Hulk Hogan was laid to rest on Tuesday, 5 August 2025, in a private funeral service in Florida, attended by WWE legends, close friends and celebrities. However, his daughter Brooke Hogan was notably absent from the ceremony, prompting speculation. She later explained her decision in a public statement, citing personal reasons and her father's dislike for traditional funerals.

Funeral Date, Venue and Guest List

The funeral service for Hulk Hogan, whose real name was Terry Gene Bollea, was held at Indian Rocks Baptist Church in Largo, Florida. The wrestling legend passed away on 24 July 2025 at the age of 71 due to an acute heart attack at his home in Clearwater. He had also been living with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia and atrial fibrillation, conditions that were not publicly disclosed until after his death.

The ceremony was tightly secured and was invitation-only. Guests included WWE figures such as Triple H and Stephanie McMahon, musician Kid Rock and wrestling legends Ric Flair and Jimmy Hart. Security was significant with Largo police officers, K-9 units and church security managing the perimeter. According to the New York Post, pallbearers were seen wearing yellow boutonnieres, a nod to Hogan's iconic yellow ring attire.

Brooke Hogan's Absence from the Funeral Service

Despite being a public figure and his only daughter, Brooke Hogan did not attend her father's funeral. Her absence generated widespread speculation online. After the service, Brooke addressed the situation directly on Instagram, explaining that she chose to honour her father privately instead of participating in the official funeral proceedings.

She stated that Hulk Hogan 'hated the morbidity of funerals' and 'didn't want one' as he preferred celebration over ceremony. In line with what she described as his wishes, she paid tribute to him at his favourite beach in Florida, surrounded by her newborn twins. Brooke recently became a mother and expressed a desire to maintain peace and privacy during the emotionally charged period.

Family Dynamics and Personal Decisions

Brooke also revealed in her Instagram post that she had removed herself from her father's will some time prior to his passing. She explained that this was done to avoid future family conflict, although no further details were shared publicly.

There has been no comment from her brother Nick Hogan regarding her decision or the family dynamics at play. Nick was present at the funeral and has since shared tributes to his father on social media and through WWE platforms.

Public Reaction to Brooke's Statement

Brooke's explanation prompted mixed reactions on social media. Some fans supported her choice, citing respect for her father's preferences and her personal circumstances. Others speculated on deeper family issues, though no formal disputes have been confirmed by the family.

While her absence drew attention, it did not overshadow the tributes paid to the late wrestler by friends, fans and political figures.

Hogan Honoured by Public Figures

The funeral, though private, was acknowledged by public figures. President Donald Trump shared a photo of himself arm-wrestling Hulk Hogan, captioning it with a tribute to the 'Hulkster'.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis proclaimed 1 August 2025 as 'Hulk Hogan Day' across the state and ordered flags to be flown at half-staff in Hogan's honour.

The wrestler's farewell, although intimate, reflected the widespread impact of his career in sports entertainment, music and pop culture.