WWE Hall of Famer Brutus Beefcake, whose real name is Ed Leslie, has expressed regret over not being able to speak with Hulk Hogan before his death at the age of 71. Beefcake shared that he had heard whispers of Hogan’s poor health and had considered visiting his Clearwater, Florida, home. However, he ultimately decided not to go, and now he wishes he had taken the chance to connect with his friend one last time.
Beefcake emphasized the deep bond he shared with Hogan, calling him a true brother and acknowledging the significant role Hogan played in his career. He also recalled the support Hogan offered during his own time of need, when he was in a parasailing accident in 1990 and Hogan personally flew to Florida to be there for him. Beefcake recounted the incident, stating, “I was in a horrible accident and not expected to live. And he left his family in California. His wife was about to have a baby, his son Nick, to fly to Florida to be there, because the doctor said they didn’t think I was going to make it. And he flew there to be there for me.” When he was brought out of a drug-induced coma, Hogan was there, and his words gave him hope, leading to his recovery.
Beefcake and Hogan were longtime friends and teaming up at the early stages of their careers. They were known together as The Boulder Brothers and later as Brutus Beefcake and Hulk Hogan. They were in the main event match for World Championship Wrestling’s Starrcade in 1994. Beefcake, who was also inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2, expressed his gratitude for the support Hogan provided during his career.
Despite their close relationship, Beefcake noted his regret over not being able to connect with Hogan one last time before his passing. He expressed, “I love you brother, and we were truly friends to the end,” underscoring the emotional depth of their friendship. Hogan’s unexpected passing at a hospital following a cardiac event has left many in the wrestling community and beyond mourning the loss of a beloved figure in the sport.