Hulkamaniacs will always remember, without a doubt.
The fallout from Hulk Hogan’s legal battle over a sex tape involving his best friend’s wife forced a gossip publication to settle, marking a significant chapter in the late wrestler’s legacy on Thursday.
While Hogan’s wrestling career captured the attention of millions, his 2016 court victory against the media outlet highlighted a more groundbreaking case regarding privacy rights—a significant issue that many in the media often overlook.
The wrestling icon, who passed away at 71, collaborated with billionaire Peter Thiel after the outlet released a tape featuring him and Heather Clem, the spouse of his friend Bubba the Love Sponge.
Hogan, born Terry Borea, argued that his privacy was invaded and that the tape held no public interest.
The judge in Florida took roughly six hours to deliver a $115 million verdict in his favor, with an additional $25 million awarded later on.
After the decision, Hogan remarked that he and his team “made history today,” celebrating their courtroom triumph.
Fans of the Hulkster have acknowledged his remarkable legal achievement following his death from serious health complications. One social media user reflected, “Hulk Hogan was the first to challenge the media’s power and win. We should never forget what he accomplished against Gawker.”
The powerful legal loss led to Gawker’s downfall, ending the publication’s existence.
Another fan expressed gratitude, stating, “Hulk Hogan played a vital role in bringing down Gawker. This world owes him a debt for his efforts.”
In August 2016, the substantial judgments against Gawker ultimately led to the closure of the site, which left its founder, Nick Denton, addressing his staff about the site’s fate.
Denton shared, “Both I and gawker.com, the company I built with my colleagues, are now approaching a new chapter.”
He added that while there were other desirable properties, they couldn’t find any willing media companies or investors.
In a later tweet, Hogan remarked, “They chose the wrong guy to mess with, brother.”
Gawker attempted to make a comeback in 2021 but ultimately shut down again two years later.
