Sylvester Stallone, Ric Flair and Donald Trump Jr have led tributes to the late wrestling icon Hulk Hogan

News of Hogan's death has prompted tributes from across the world of entertainment and sport, with the WWE legend, whose career spanned more than four decades, remembered for his charisma both inside and outside the ring.

Hollywood actor Sylvester Stallone, 78, shared a photo of himself with Hogan on Instagram, taken from their time filming Rocky III in 1982.

Hulk appeared in the film as wrestler Thunderlips in one of his first major screen roles.

Sylvester said online: "I had the pleasure of meeting this brilliant personality and showman when he was 26 years old.

"He was absolutely wonderful and his amazing skill made Rocky III incredibly special. My heart breaks. I think that he's gone... ."

Retired wrestler Ric Flair, 75, expressed shock at the news and described his decades-long friendship with Hogan.

Posting on Instagram, Pic wrote: "I am absolutely shocked to hear about the passing of my close friend @hulkhogan! Hulk has been by my side since we started in the wrestling business. An incredible athlete, talent, friend, and father! Our friendship has meant the world to me.

"He was one of the first to visit me when I was in the hospital with a 2 percent chance of living, and he prayed by my bedside. Hulk also lent me money when Reid was sick.

"Hulkster, no one will ever compare to you! Rest in peace my friend!"

Donald Trump Jr, 46, also paid tribute to Hogan, posting a selfie with the star on X with the caption: "R.I.P to a legend."

Hogan had supported his father Donald Trump, 79, in his bid to be re-elected as US president in the final year of his life.

Actress Brooke Shields, 59, also remembered Hulk with a photo of the two playfully wrestling on the set of Suddenly Susan, a sitcom that aired in the late 1990s.

She said: "Rest easy, Hulk.

"This moment and his entire guest episode on Suddenly Susan was a true highlight. Sending love to all of his loved ones today."