Vince McMahon makes true Hulk Hogan feelings known after WWE icon's death aged 71

VInce McMahon has declared Hulk Hogan as "the greatest WWE Superstar of ALL TIME" after his death at the age of 71. The wrestling icon, real name Terry Bollea, died Thursday following a cardiac arrest.

Hogan was a 12-time world champion and later a TV personality but he and McMahon, the former chief of the WWE, were both crucial in the brand's incredible rise. The pair didn't always see eye-to-eye with their relationship including a number of incidents.

The wrestler testified in McMahon's steroid trial in the 1990s, which led to the two not speaking. Hogan then walked out on the WWE to sign with rivals WCW and didn't return until 2002, after the company failed to take off.

Despite their differences over the years McMahon was full of praise for Hogan and made it known that he rated him above all of the individuals who competed in the WWE - also praising him for transcending his sport and entering the celebrity world.

He said on social media: "The world lost a treasure today. Hulk Hogan was the greatest WWE Superstar of ALL TIME, someone who was loved and admired around the world. He was a trailblazer, the first performer who transitioned from being a wrestling star into a global phenomenon.

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"His grit and unbridled thirst for success were unparalleled - and made him the consummate performer. He gave everything he had to the audience whom he appreciated, respected and loved. He leaves us with one of his favourite expressions, 'Train, take your vitamins and say your prayers.' Today, we pray for him."

Hogan was the main draw for the first-ever WrestleMania in 1985 and was a regular for years in its most popular event, facing everyone from Andre The Giant and Randy Savage to The Rock. He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005 by Sylvester Stallone.

After his wrestling Hogan went on to appear in numerous movies and television shows, including a reality show about his life on VH1, "Hogan Knows Best".

A statement from the organisation read: "WWE is saddened to learn WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has passed away. One of pop culture’s most recognizable figures, Hogan helped WWE achieve global recognition in the 1980s. WWE extends its condolences to Hogan’s family, friends, and fans."

One of the sport's best known figures, The Undertaker, said: "The wrestling world has lost a true legend. His contributions to our business are immeasurable, and for that, I am appreciative. Thank you, Hulk Hogan."