Vince McMahon has honored Hulk Hogan as the “greatest WWE Superstar of all time” following his passing at the age of 71. Hogan, whose real name is Terry Bollea, died from a cardiac arrest on Thursday.
Hogan, a 12-time world champion and later a prominent TV personality, played a pivotal role alongside McMahon in the meteoric ascent of the WWE brand. Their relationship was marked by disagreements, including Hogan testifying against McMahon in a steroid trial in the 1990s, leading to a period of silence between the two. Hogan eventually left WWE to join WCW but returned in 2002 after the rival company’s failure to thrive.
Despite their past conflicts, McMahon expressed deep admiration for Hogan, emphasizing his unparalleled status among WWE competitors and praising his ability to transcend the sport and venture into the realm of celebrity.
In a social media tribute, McMahon stated, “The world mourns a significant loss today. Hulk Hogan was not just a beloved WWE Superstar, but a global icon admired by many. He was a pioneer, being the first to transition from wrestling stardom to worldwide fame.”
Hogan, a headline attraction at the inaugural WrestleMania in 1985 and a fixture in WWE’s marquee events for years, faced off against legendary opponents such as Andre The Giant, Randy Savage, and The Rock. He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005 by Sylvester Stallone.
Post his wrestling career, Hogan ventured into acting, appearing in various movies and TV shows, including the reality series “Hogan Knows Best” on VH1.
A statement from WWE expressed sorrow over Hogan’s passing, acknowledging his pivotal role in elevating the company’s global profile during the 1980s. The organization extended its condolences to Hogan’s family, friends, and fans.
The Undertaker, a renowned figure in the wrestling world, paid tribute to Hogan, recognizing his immense contributions to the industry and expressing gratitude for his impact.
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