WWE honours late Hulk Hogan at SummerSlam
The event, held at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, saw Nick visibly moved as WWE celebrated the life and legacy of his late father.
Hulk Hogan, born Terry Bollea, passed away from a heart attack at the age of 71 on 24 July 2025.
His influence on professional wrestling is undeniable. Nick, 35, attended the event with his wife, Tana Lea, and the tribute struck a raw nerve, bringing him close to tears.
As WWE announcer Michael Cole spoke, 'Hulk Hogan was larger than life, sports entertainment personified and the greatest performer in our history.' Nick stood quietly among the crowd, according to People .
Cole added, 'He was undefeated at SummerSlam. Too many great moments to recount in the career of a man who carried professional wrestling on his back for three decades. Rest in peace, brother.'
The tribute ended with Hulk's classic theme song, Real American . Nick held back tears while applauding, then bowed his head in prayer, placing a hand on his chest.
The stadium's fans cheered in unison, paying respect to the wrestling icon.
This moment will resonate with many who appreciate sports heroes and legends. Hulk Hogan was a symbol of dedication, strength and entertainment worldwide.
Nick's appearance at SummerSlam came just days after another tribute on WWE's Monday Night RAW on 28 July.
There, Nick joined WWE talent and legends on stage, sharing in a collective farewell.
He appeared visibly emotional as he wiped tears and stood centre stage with his wife Tana, moving many in the audience.
Beyond the wrestling ring, Florida specially honoured Hulk Hogan by declaring 1 August 'Hulk Hogan Day' in the state where he lived most of his life.
Nick shared his pride on Instagram: 'Tomorrow, 1 August, is officially 'Hulk Hogan Day' in Florida.
My dad was a true Floridian and loved his home state. Thank you for this honour, Governor Ron DeSantis. He would be so proud.'
His story is one of courage, passion and dedication. His tribute at SummerSlam makes that clear.
It is a touching moment of mourning and celebration, bringing together an international community of wrestling fans.
This tribute, full of emotion and respect, reminds us that greatness transcends the ring. It stays alive in those who loved him most.
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
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Nick Hogan, son of the legendary wrestler Hulk Hogan, showed deep emotion during a heartfelt tribute at WWE's SummerSlam on 2 August. The event, held at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, saw Nick visibly moved as WWE celebrated the life and legacy of his late father. Hulk Hogan, born Terry Bollea, passed away from a heart attack at the age of 71 on 24 July 2025. His influence on professional wrestling is undeniable. Nick, 35, attended the event with his wife, Tana Lea, and the tribute struck a raw nerve, bringing him close to tears. As WWE announcer Michael Cole spoke, 'Hulk Hogan was larger than life, sports entertainment personified and the greatest performer in our history.' Nick stood quietly among the crowd, according to People . Cole added, 'He was undefeated at SummerSlam. Too many great moments to recount in the career of a man who carried professional wrestling on his back for three decades. Rest in peace, brother.' The tribute ended with Hulk's classic theme song, Real American . Nick held back tears while applauding, then bowed his head in prayer, placing a hand on his chest. The stadium's fans cheered in unison, paying respect to the wrestling icon. This moment will resonate with many who appreciate sports heroes and legends. Hulk Hogan was a symbol of dedication, strength and entertainment worldwide. Nick's appearance at SummerSlam came just days after another tribute on WWE's Monday Night RAW on 28 July. There, Nick joined WWE talent and legends on stage, sharing in a collective farewell. He appeared visibly emotional as he wiped tears and stood centre stage with his wife Tana, moving many in the audience. Beyond the wrestling ring, Florida specially honoured Hulk Hogan by declaring 1 August 'Hulk Hogan Day' in the state where he lived most of his life. Nick shared his pride on Instagram: 'Tomorrow, 1 August, is officially 'Hulk Hogan Day' in Florida. My dad was a true Floridian and loved his home state. Thank you for this honour, Governor Ron DeSantis. He would be so proud.' His story is one of courage, passion and dedication. His tribute at SummerSlam makes that clear. It is a touching moment of mourning and celebration, bringing together an international community of wrestling fans. This tribute, full of emotion and respect, reminds us that greatness transcends the ring. It stays alive in those who loved him most. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
