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Washington Post
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Washington Post
Hulk Hogan was a well-known Trump supporter. Their ties go back 40 years.
The nearly 40-year personal connection between World Wrestling Entertainment Hall of Famers Donald Trump and Hulk Hogan — who died Thursday at 71 — began with WrestleMania IV. The 1988 pay-per-view event, advertised as being held at Trump Plaza in Atlantic City (though it was held at the city's convention hall), took place during wrestling's golden era, and Hogan was slated to face off against Andre the Giant. 'I didn't think [Trump would] come to the show. He was there early, came into the dressing room, met all of the wrestlers,' Hogan said on the PBD Podcast last year, recalling the Atlantic City event. ' … They said he was sitting in the front row, and I was surprised because he went out for the first match and he stayed all the way until I wrestled.' In an absurd promotion ahead of his match in Atlantic City, Hogan threatened to slam Andre the Giant 'through the Trump Plaza' and into the ocean, creating a fault line from New York to Tampa. 'Thank God Donald Trump's a Hulkamaniac,' Hogan said in the promotion. 'He'll know enough to let go of his materialistic possessions, hang onto the wife and kids, dog paddle with his life all the way to safety.' Subsequent footage shows Trump ringside, signing autographs and enjoying the show. Nearly 40 years after the match, Hogan took the stage at the 2024 Republican National Convention, where he ripped off his shirt and called Trump, who had faced an assassination attempt days earlier, his 'hero.' 'When I came here tonight, there was so much energy in this room, I thought maybe I was in Madison Square Garden, getting ready to win another world title,' he said at the convention in Milwaukee. ' … But what I found out was, I was in a room full of real Americans, brother.' After the wrestler's death, Trump called Hogan 'a great friend' in a post on Truth Social, adding the Hall of Famer was 'MAGA all the way.' 'He entertained fans from all over the World, and the cultural impact he had was massive,' the president continued. 'To his wife, Sky, and family, we give our warmest best wishes and love. Hulk Hogan will be greatly missed!' Hogan claimed last year that the first time he voted was for Trump in 2016, and he repeatedly said his decision to publicly endorse Trump was motivated by the assassination attempt at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. In the months that followed the Republican convention, Hogan remained in Trump's orbit, appearing at a Madison Square Garden rally, hanging out at Trump's Mar-a-Lago Club and posing together at an Inauguration Day event. Hogan hadn't always been a conservative. He was once a supporter of Barack Obama but changed his tune in 2011. Then, in 2015, Hogan suggested that he should be Trump's running mate. Onstage at the RNC last year, Hogan said he liked Trump's chances given that he had spent decades in the ring fighting 'some of the baddest dudes on the planet.' 'I know tough guys, but let me tell you something, brother, Donald Trump is the toughest of them all,' Hogan said. Trump has decades-long ties to the WWE, the wrestling entertainment company previously known as the World Wrestling Federation, which often starred Hogan in the ring and was run by Vince McMahon. Trump's ties to McMahon's wrestling empire continued after the Atlantic City event, with the New York businessman appearing in scripted fight storylines that included shaving McMahon's head inside the ring and 'Stone Cold' Steve Austin subsequently dropping him to the mat. Hogan did not intersect with Trump's storylines, but in interviews last year, the wrestler drew personal connections to him. Hogan successfully sued the news site Gawker in 2012 for invasion of privacy over its publishing of a leaked sex tape showing him in bed with his best friend's wife — a case that came to effectively serve as a proxy battle for a larger culture war. Hogan, on the PBD podcast, credited Trump for putting 'a spotlight on … 'fake news'' but did not bring up his lawsuit against Gawker specifically. ' … Now I realize the majority of America would get the mainstream news, and they don't really get the real truth of what's really going on.' Although Trump and Hogan came from different backgrounds, they were kindred spirits of a sort, both natural showmen whose public personas centered around traditional views of masculinity. Each grew up in the halcyon days of post-World War II America, with each achieving national fame in the 1980s and defining success in their respective arenas — business and sports entertainment. And while their stars dimmed in the 1990s, they harnessed their entertainment skills to resurrect their careers in the 2000s as reality television stars. They similarly resurrected their careers after respective scandals. Audio recordings revealed during the litigation in the Gawker case captured Hogan uttering racist insults, which prompted WWE to terminate his contract. Three years later, he was welcomed back into the WWE universe and reinstated into the WWE Hall of Fame. Despite a disgraceful exit from office following the attack on the U.S. Capitol and attempts to overturn his 2020 election loss, Trump entered the 2024 campaign vowing to exact revenge if elected to a second term. He returned to the White House this year as the first felon to serve as U.S. president, immediately granting a sweeping act of clemency to individuals involved in the Jan. 6, 2021, riot and empowering those who defended him to go after his perceived political enemies. The presence of professional wrestling within Trump's orbit also goes beyond the WWE, and his fixation on the sport has extended into his time in office. Trump chose WWE CEO Linda McMahon — Vince McMahon's wife — to serve as his small business administrator during his first presidential term. In his second term, she was selected to lead the Education Department. On the campaign trail last year, Trump told Ultimate Fighting Championship President Dana White that he should start a spin-off competition featuring migrants, as part of his riff on restricting immigration. Since returning to office six months ago, Trump has attended the final day of the NCAA Division I men's wrestling championships and made appearances at more than one UFC event. And earlier this month, Trump said he plans to host a UFC fight card on the White House grounds as part of a celebration honoring America's 250th birthday next year. 'We're going to have a UFC fight on the grounds of the White House,' Trump said in Des Moines. 'We have a lot of land there.'
Time of India
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
"We lost a great friend today": President Donald Trump pays tribute to Hulk Hogan after WWE icon dies at 71
Donald Trump and Hulk Hogan in 1988 (Image Source: Getty) Following the passing of WWE icon Hulk Hogan (real name Terry Gene Bollea), U.S. President Donald Trump was one of many to pay tribute. Hulk Hogan passed away aged 71 from a cardiac arrest, in his Clearwater, Florida home on July 24, 2025. Trump said in a Truth Social post, ' We lost a great friend today, the 'Hulkster.' Hulk Hogan was MAGA all the way — Strong, tough, smart, but with the biggest heart. He gave an absolutely electric speech at the Republican National Convention, which was one of the highlights of the entire week. Hulk Hogan will be greatly missed!' President Donald Trump highlighted Hulk Hogan's political support Donald Trump's media adviser on Hogan's loyalty and enthusiasm for politics, stating that he had always played a role in working with the "Make America Great Again" movement. In July 2024, at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Hogan shocked the nation in full "Trumpamania" style. When looking like he was getting ready to go the full Rambo, ripping his shirt open and revealing a Trump campaign tank top, he yelled, "Let Trumpamania run wild! That speech was, he said, 'one of the highlights of the entire week,' indicating cultural relevance. — wrestlelamia (@wrestlelamia) Aside from that memorable encounter, Hogan continued to be a Trump booster. He also hit the campaign trail with Trump Jr. and other MAGA stars, making appearances at rallies and banging the drum for Trump's agenda, including endorsing Trump's Real American beer brand on Truth Social. Donald Trump and Hulk Hogan: A friendship forged over three decades Donald Trump and Hulk Hogan's relationship goes back to the 1980s and was first strengthened when it was first introduced at WWE events and Trump's casino interests in Atlantis City. They met at WrestleMania IV and V, which were held at Trump Plaza, and the two formed a mutual admiration society. Although Hogan told me their relationship was 'more casual, though meaningful,' Trump apparently saw him as a close aide, calling him a 'great friend.' by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Global Indices Are on the Move — Time to Trade! IC Markets Learn More Undo In his tribute, Trump extended his sympathies to Hogan's wife, Sky, and his two children, Brooke and Nick, calling Hogan as lovely as he was, "talented.' Trump said he conveys his best wishes and love to "his wife, Sky, and family." Also Read: Hulk Hogan's death: Health issues, cardiac arrest, and the life he left behind WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan changed the professional wrestling landscape in the 1980s with his larger-than-life image and trademark catchphrases. He has main-evented eight of the first nine Wrestlemanias and appeared in the mainstream, with parts in Rocky III and a ride of his own with Hogan Knows Best. He remained a presence, even if controversial (he was briefly removed from the WWE Hall of Fame back in 2015, only to be reinstated in 2020). The tribute from Trump is likewise mirrored by those from Hogan's WWE peers—Ric Flair, Brutus Beefcake, and from fellow MAGA sounders such as Vice President JD Vance, who deemed Hogan a "great American icon". The far-reaching condolences reflect Hogan's storied success in both entertainment and politics, and in Trump's orbit. For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the India vs England Test match here. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Time of India
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
This Hulk Hogan match still has the highest viewership in wrestling history
As the world remembers Hulk Hogan following news of his passing at 71, it's impossible not to reflect on the larger-than-life moments that defined his career. He was a 12-time world championship wrestler with dozens of iconic matches. Among the many iconic bouts the wrestling legend took part in, one match remains etched into history not only for its drama but for its unmatched reach: his 1988 showdown with Andre the Giant . It happened on the night of February 5, 1988, when professional wrestling stepped out of its usual weekend slots and into prime time on NBC. Explore courses from Top Institutes in Please select course: Select a Course Category MBA Leadership healthcare Technology Finance Artificial Intelligence Management Design Thinking Others CXO Digital Marketing Data Science Data Analytics Project Management Degree Operations Management Cybersecurity Data Science Healthcare MCA Product Management others Public Policy Skills you'll gain: Financial Management Team Leadership & Collaboration Financial Reporting & Analysis Advocacy Strategies for Leadership Duration: 18 Months UMass Global Master of Business Administration (MBA) Starts on May 13, 2024 Get Details Skills you'll gain: Analytical Skills Financial Literacy Leadership and Management Skills Strategic Thinking Duration: 24 Months Vellore Institute of Technology VIT Online MBA Starts on Aug 14, 2024 Get Details The event, broadcast as part of The Main Event, drew a staggering 33 million viewers, earning a 15.2 Nielsen rating , making it the most-watched wrestling match in American television history. That record, remarkably, remains unchanged to this day. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like If you have a mouse, play this game for 1 minute Navy Quest Undo The match itself delivered all the drama fans had come to expect and then some. In a shocking finish, Andre was declared the winner after what appeared to be a highly disputed three-count. Hogan, visibly stunned, had lifted his shoulder after a two-count. But the referee insisted otherwise. The main twist Live Events A second referee appeared at ringside and revealed the twist. The match's original referee, Dave Hebner, had been impersonated by his twin brother Earl, a storyline planted by Ted DiBiase, who had paid for the deception to steal the championship. The controversy led to the WWF title being vacated and set the stage for the WrestleMania IV tournament, where both Hogan and Andre were eliminated, and Randy 'Macho Man' Savage ultimately claimed the title. It was a carefully crafted narrative that hooked fans and drew them deeper into the theatrics of professional wrestling. The night proved that professional wrestling could thrive on network television, not just as a niche entertainment, but as a mainstream, prime-time spectacle. Hulk Hogan, already a household name, became a pop culture force, appearing in movies, commercials, and even shows like Baywatch in the years that followed. As tributes continue to pour in from around the world, Hogan's February 1988 match with Andre the Giant stands out not just as a high point of his career, but as a moment that changed the way America saw professional wrestling.
Hindustan Times
24-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
Hulk Hogan dies at 71: All on WWE star's decades-long friendship with Donald Trump
Hulk Hogan died at the age of 71 after a cardiac arrest on Thursday. The wrestler, whose real name was Terry Gene Bollea, shared a unique relationship with Donald Trump. While not as famously close to him as WWE chairman Vince McMahon, the friendship between Hogan and the president dates back to the 1980s. It was forged over the years through wrestling promotions and political and pop culture intersections, the Sportster reported. Hulk Hogan had often expressed support for Donald Trump.(REUTERS) Also read: Hulk Hogan net worth: A look at WWE star's fortune after tragic death at 71 Hulk Hogan and Donald Trump's friendship According to The Sportster, their first encounter dated back to WrestleMania IV and V, which were both sponsored by Trump Plaza in the late '80s. Donald Trump, who was already a budding pop culture figure, was immediately drawn to Hogan's charisma. As wrestling's top attraction, the WWE Hall of Famer represented the exact over-the-top spectacle Trump was eager to associate with his brand. The report added that photos of two, alongside legends like Andre The Giant, marked the beginning of a professional acquaintance built on mutual admiration. Unlike Vince McMahon, who is considered to be one of Trump's closest allies, Hogan's relationship with the president was more casual but still meaningful. They often showed public support for one another. The report added that when Hogan launched his Real American Beer brand last year, Trump promoted it on Truth Social even though he does not drink alcohol himself. 'Hulk Hogan is doing a beer, and if he's doing it, it must be good,' Trump wrote. 'Great looking can and logo. Give it a try!!! – DJT,' he added. This endorsement was a symbolic gesture of mutual respect between the two. Also read: Hulk Hogan dies: Trump family pays tribute to WWE legend; 'RIP to a legend' Hulk Hogan's campaign for Donald Trump According to The Independent, Trump and Hogan's bond reached a new level of visibility when the wrestler made a surprise appearance during the Republican National Convention in July 2024. Hogan even ripped his shirt on stage in support of Trump's re-election bid: a moment which has gone viral following Hogan's demise. In spite of their camaraderie, the two shared moments of friction as well. On the Impaulsive podcast, Hogan revealed that Trump had once sent him a letter expressing disappointment after Hogan joked about his infamous hair. FAQs: 1. Was Hulk Hogan in bad health? Before his death, the former pro wrestler's health condition was the source of much speculation. 2. Was Hulk Hogan friendly with Donald Trump? He campaigned for Trump in the 2024 presidential election. 3. What was Hulk Hogan's net worth? The former wrestler had total earnings of $25 million at the time of his death, as per Celebrity Net Worth.
Newsweek
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Newsweek
WWE WrestleMania 42 Relocation Confirmed: Report
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Professional wrestling fans were shocked to hear that WrestleMania 42 was no longer going to take place in New Orleans next year. That being said, it seems that WWE has already found a new home for the Showcase of the Immortals in 2026. LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - APRIL 20: Digital screens display WrestleMania logos during the Undisputed WWE Championship match between John Cena and Cody Rhodes during WrestleMania 41 at Allegiant Stadium on April 20, 2025 in Las... LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - APRIL 20: Digital screens display WrestleMania logos during the Undisputed WWE Championship match between John Cena and Cody Rhodes during WrestleMania 41 at Allegiant Stadium on April 20, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada. MoreAccording to a report from WrestleMania 42 is going to stay in Las Vegas according to a source that wishes to not be named. WrestleMania 41 was a massive success in Sin City, earning record-breaking numbers in viewership, merchandise sales, sponsorship revenue, and social media engagement. If this turns out to be true, it will be the second time in WWE history that WrestleMania was held in the same city in consecutive years, with the first being Atlantic City for WrestleMania IV and WrestleMania V. More Pro Wrestling: WWE Superstar Who Was Released Set For In-Ring Return For more WWE and professional wrestling news, head on over to Newsweek Sports. This story is currently being updated...
