Hulk Hogan, the legendary wrestling icon who passed away at 71 following a cardiac arrest, made headlines for his endorsement of Donald Trump at the 2024 Republican National Convention. During his appearance, Hogan praised Trump as the ‘toughest of them all,’ drawing comparisons to his own wrestling legacy. His endorsement came after Trump’s assassination attempt in Butler, Pennsylvania, which influenced Hogan’s decision to support him.
Hogan’s passing has prompted tributes from political figures and the entertainment industry, highlighting his significant impact on both American pop culture and politics. Vice President JD Vance expressed his admiration for Hogan, recalling how the wrestler was one of the first figures he ever truly admired as a child. White House Deputy Communications Director Kaelan Dorr echoed these sentiments by sharing, ‘Today we are all Hulkamaniacs.’ The White House spokesperson Harrison Fields also posted a tribute to Hogan on X, referring to him as ‘Rest In Peace, BROTHER.’
World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) characterized Hogan as one of pop culture’s ‘most recognizable figures’ and expressed its condolences to Hogan’s family and friends following the news of his passing. ‘WWE is saddened to learn WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has passed away,’ WWE said in a Thursday post on X. ‘One of pop culture’s most recognizable figures, Hogan helped WWE achieve global recognition in the 1980s. WWE extends its condolences to Hogan’s family, friends, and fans.’
Although Hogan was a wrestling icon, he also had a significant political presence, endorsing both former President Barack Obama and Republican Sen. Mitt Romney during their presidential bids. However, his support for Trump was influenced by the events of the 2024 election, particularly the assassination attempt on Trump. Hogan’s passing has left a void in both the wrestling and political arenas, with many expressing their condolences and reflecting on his contributions to both fields.
Hogan’s tenure as a wrestling star took off when he joined the World Wrestling Federation, now WWE, in 1979. One of his most memorable moments as a wrestler was going up against Andre the Giant, where Hogan took down his 520-pound opponent in what became known as ‘the bodyslam heard around the world.’ Hogan is survived by his two children, Nick and Brooke, that he had with his first wife, Linda Claridge, and is also survived by his current wife, Sky Daily.
Hogan’s legacy as both a wrestler and a political figure continues to influence discussions about his contributions to popular culture and American politics. His endorsement of Trump at the RNC was a significant moment, reflecting the intersection of entertainment and politics in the United States. The outpouring of condolences and tributes indicates that his impact on both worlds was profound and enduring.