Reflections on a Lost Friendship

Once a brother, always a brother, right?

Baba the Love Sponge, Hulk Hogan’s former close friend, expressed his sorrow over not mending their relationship before Hogan’s passing in 2023, especially considering their complicated history, including Hogan’s private moments with Baba’s ex-wife.

Real name Todd Clem, Baba felt the weight of their past, which spiraled into a public feud that contributed to the downfall of Gawker Media.

“I’m heartbroken to hear about Terry’s passing,” Baba shared in a statement.

“It’s common knowledge we had our issues, and I guess I bear some of the blame. I cared for him throughout our time together.”

This heartfelt admission came years after the notorious sex tape scandal, which had been captured and leaked by a radio host, creating a major ripple in their lives.

Hogan had publicly claimed on Howard Stern’s show back in 2012 that he had slept with Heather Clem with Baba’s consent. That incident ultimately led to Gawker releasing clips from the tape, prompting Hogan to file a lawsuit funded by billionaire Peter Thiel over privacy violations.

After that legal battle, Hogan was awarded a staggering $140 million, which led to Gawker declaring bankruptcy shortly afterward.

Days before Hogan’s death, Baba revealed that the 71-year-old was in critical condition.

“You might hear rumors about him being in a local hospital, and it doesn’t sound promising,” Baba stated last week, noting that various families had been notified to say their goodbyes.

However, Hogan’s manager, Jimmy Hart, dismissed claims about the wrestling icon’s life nearing its end.