Terry Bollea, better known to wrestling lovers worldwide as Hulk Hogan, passed away on Thursday at the age of 71.
During the height of his fame in the 1980s, Hogan became one of the biggest personalities in professional wrestling. His fame reached such a level that he crossed into other areas of entertainment, becoming a household name.
Through the years, His work extended beyond the ring as he featured in movies, ventured briefly into music, launched a successful reality TV show, and even started a pasta-themed restaurant business.
Public Image and Scandal
Things changed in the later years of Hogan’s life, especially after a video surfaced in which he used racial slurs. That incident led to WWE cutting ties with him for a period. Even after returning to the company, he was not warmly welcomed during his last appearances. Public reaction to his return reflected the effect of the scandal on his legacy.
Even though his final moments in WWE were not embraced warmly, Hogan never lost his influence in wrestling circles. His legacy remained powerful, and fellow wrestlers openly honored him following the news of his passing.
Tributes From Public Figures
Among those who reacted was former President Donald Trump, who acknowledged Hogan with a message describing him as strong and tough, yet kindhearted. This statement reflected how far Hogan’s reputation had gone beyond professional wrestling.
Earlier in 2024, Hogan attended the Republican National Convention to show his support for Trump. During the event, he delivered a speech and performed his signature move of tearing his shirt while calling out, “Let Trump-A-Mania run wild, brother.”
Former WWE chairman Vince McMahon also released a heartfelt message following Hogan’s passing. He described Hogan as a major global force whose reach stretched well beyond professional wrestling.
Real American Freestyle Statement
Chad Bronstein, the head of Real American Freestyle (RAF), a freestyle wrestling league Hogan helped to launch, stated his memory of their commissioner. Bronstein described Hogan as not just a legend inside the ring, but also as a powerful spirit who gave wrestling deeper meaning.
He explained that Hogan viewed wrestling as more than just a sport or entertainment. To him, it represented a community, a place where strength and dedication met opportunity. According to Bronstein, Hogan believed the RAF could serve as a stage for the toughest and most dedicated wrestlers, and he worked hard to support that dream.
Hogan was said to have been involved from the very beginning. He attended meetings, spent time with athletes, gave advice, and shared his wisdom. For Hogan, Real American Freestyle was deeply personal and important. Bronstein added that the league remains part of Hogan’s lasting memory, and they plan to continue building what he started.
Tributes From Wrestlers
Many others from the wrestling industry also paid their respects to Hogan. Among them was Ric Flair, one of Hogan’s biggest opponents during their time in the ring. Flair described Hogan as not just a competitor, but a genuine and loyal friend away from wrestling.
Charlotte Flair, Ric’s daughter and herself a 14-time women’s champion, also expressed her sorrow and remembered Hogan as someone she admired deeply.
Several other wrestling companies and athletes joined in sharing their messages in honor of Hogan, acknowledging how much he had given to the sport and those who watched it for decades.
Another message came from JD Vance, Trump’s vice president, who called Hogan a “great American icon,” praising the role he played not just in entertainment but in shaping part of the culture.
