Tribute to Hulk Hogan Following His Passing

WWE honored the legendary Hulk Hogan on Friday evening, shortly before Smackdown, following his death at 71 on Thursday. The tribute showcased clips from Hogan’s impressive wrestling career as well as his work beyond the ring.

Triple-H, the narrator, referred to Hogan as the “ultimate hero” and shared that he passed away in the presence of family at home.

The audience at SmackDown responded with thunderous applause and chanted “Hogan! Hogan!” after the tribute video concluded. Just weeks prior to his death, Hogan faced health concerns, though his wife, Skye, later disputed those reports, stating he was “strong” and recovering from surgery.

Born Terry Borea, Hogan began his career in Championship Wrestling from Florida during the late 1970s before joining the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) in 1979. Vince McMahon, who took over WWF from his father, handpicked Hogan as the main attraction. His rise began when he rescued Bob Buckland from wild Samoans, sparking the “Hulkamania” phenomenon.

Throughout his career, Hogan became a six-time WWE champion, won the Royal Rumble twice, and was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame both individually in 2005 and as part of the NWO in 2020.

Former President Donald Trump also expressed his condolences, recalling their strong relationship over the years. He reflected on Hogan’s impactful appearances, including a memorable wrestling talk at the last Republican National Convention. “We lost our amazing friend today,” Trump wrote. “Hulk Hogan was a true icon—strong, tough, smart, yet possessing the biggest heart. He electrified audiences worldwide and made a significant cultural impact.”

Hogan will be deeply missed, and heartfelt wishes were extended to his wife, Skye, and family during this time of loss.

In July 2024, Hogan had expressed his support for Trump at the RNC, famously stating, “Make Trump Amania great again.”