Hulk Hogan checks into hospital to undergo back surgery

Washington, Dec 22 (ANI): Hulk Hogan reportedly checked into a Tampa area hospital to undergo back surgery early Tuesday morning.

A source said that Hogan is " attempting to stabilize his back problems which have grown worse recently," reports RadarOnline.com.

"The idea is to look for real solutions because of the ongoing wear and tear," the source added.

The former pro wrestler may be in the hospital during the Christmas holiday and could be out as early as the New Year, according to the source.

Hulk shot to fame with the World Wrestling Federation in the early 1980s. He won the WWF title numerous times and helped transform the sport into a pop culture phenomena. (ANI)