Pro wrestling star Aron Stevens, part of the National Wrestling Alliance, reflected on the legacy of WWE icon Hulk Hogan following his death at the age of 71 due to cardiac arrest. Hogan, who passed away after emergency responders arrived at his Clearwater, Florida, home, was remembered as a figure who symbolized the best of American ideals and unity.
Stevens highlighted how Hogan’s rise to fame in the 1980s coincided with a time of national unity and pride in America, contrasting it with the current state of divided politics. He noted that Hogan’s persona, including his battles with the Iron Sheik and Sgt. Slaughter, resonated with fans across the country, making him a beloved figure whose in-ring persona represented the values most Americans admired.
In addition to his in-ring achievements, Stevens recalled Hogan’s significant impact on young fans, including sick children who found comfort in his persona and were inspired to live better lives. He also spoke about Hogan’s influence at major events such as the Republican National Convention and a Madison Square Garden rally, where he received one of the biggest crowds.
Hogan’s passing shocked the sports and entertainment industry, as he was set to launch Real American Freestyle, an initiative aimed at promoting freestyle wrestling. Stevens concluded by calling Hogan a ‘pioneer’ in the wrestling business, emphasizing that his unique persona and contributions would never be replicated in the industry.