Terry “Hulk Hogan” Bollea checked into a Tampa area hospital for surgery on his back early Tuesday morning. A source told RadarOnline.com exclusively that Hogan is “ attempting to stabilize his back problems which have grown worse recently.

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“The idea is to look for real solutions because of the ongoing wear and tear.”

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The former pro wrestler mayl be in the hospital during the Christmas holiday, according to the source, who adds Hogan could be out as early as the New Year.