Clearwater Memorial Causeway Trail Renamed ”Hulk Hogan Trail” in Honor of Wrestling Icon
CLEARWATER, Fla. (AP) – A popular 2-mile stretch of the Clearwater Memorial Causeway Trail will now be known as the “Hulk Hogan Trail,” Florida Gov. Ron desantis announced Friday, honoring the late wrestling superstar Terry Bollea, known to fans as “Hulk hogan.” The waterfront trail, connecting clearwater to Clearwater Beach, will also feature workout stations in Hogan’s signature red and yellow colors.
The renaming serves as a lasting tribute to Hogan, a longtime Clearwater resident who died july 17 at age 71 following a heart attack at his home. While authorities were still investigating his death as of late August, the trail’s dedication celebrates his important impact on the city and the world of professional wrestling.
“It shows that, you know, his memory is going to live a long time. I mean, it was always said, ‘Hulkamania is gonna live forever,'” said DeSantis, an avowed wrestling fan, at the announcement held at Hulk’s Hangout, a Clearwater bar and restaurant owned by the icon.
Hogan rose to fame in the 1980s and 90s, becoming a cultural phenomenon with his larger-than-life persona, signature catchphrases like “say your prayers, eat your vitamins,” and patriotic image. His career extended beyond the wrestling ring into television, film, and even conservative politics, though it was also marked by scandal.
Nick Hogan, the wrestler’s son, whose real name is Nick Bollea, expressed his father’s deep connection to Clearwater. “clearwater was always home for him. No matter how far he traveled around the world or where his career took him, he always was grounded here,” he said. “He loved to inspire people to be the best version of themselves. So this trail isn’t just a dedication. This is a living legacy.”
A red and yellow sign honoring Hogan was already in place along the trail Friday morning. The Hulk Hogan Trail is expected to become a destination for both Florida residents and tourists alike.
