What happens when a larger-than-life wrestling legend passes away? For Nick Hogan, it’s a heart-wrenching journey of love, loss, and memories that he shared with his father, Hulk Hogan. In an emotional Instagram post, Nick poured out his feelings, calling his dad both his ‘hero’ and ‘best friend’ following Hogan's death this Thursday.

“This has been overwhelming and extremely difficult,” he wrote, sharing a montage of 20 pictures spanning decades that captured their bond. Nick Hogan, whose real last name is Bollea, reflected on the outpouring of love and stories shared about his father's life, saying it has been “incredible and comforting.” He continued, “My dad was the most incredible person I’ve ever known, and he will always be my hero.”

Hulk Hogan, born Terry Bollea, left this world at the age of 71. His passing was confirmed after Clearwater, Florida, police reported a “serious medical issue,” leading to a 911 call for cardiac arrest early Thursday morning. Hogan had faced health challenges in the weeks before his death, a heartbreaking preview of the struggles he dealt with.

Nick reminisced about the precious moments he spent with his father, especially after moving back to Florida to be close to him. “I spent a lot of time with him the past few years,” Nick shared. “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’s touching tribute continued with a heartfelt thank you to his father: “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.”

The late Hulk Hogan had two children, Nick and daughter Brooke, with his ex-wife Linda. The couple divorced in 2007 but shared their family journey on the VH1 reality show “Hogan Knows Best” from 2005 to 2007. As tributes from the wrestling community poured in, Nick's wife, Tana Lee, also shared a poignant moment by posting a wedding photo on Instagram, adding to the emotional weight of this painful farewell.