Professional wrestling icon Hulk Hogan has hinted at a potential role in President-elect Donald Trump’s upcoming administration. Speaking with Fox News’ Brian Kilmeade on Saturday, Hogan revealed that Trump had suggested appointing him as the head of the President’s Council on Physical Fitness—a position dedicated to promoting health and wellness across the United States.
According to Hogan, Trump told him, “You’d be great to run the President’s Council on Physical Fitness,” during a recent conversation. While no official plans or announcements have been made, Hogan’s potential appointment would represent an unconventional choice for this influential role.
The Council’s History and Hogan’s Potential Impact
Founded in 1956, the President’s Council on Physical Fitness has been traditionally led by prominent athletes and celebrities committed to encouraging healthier lifestyles nationwide. If Hogan were to assume the role, his dynamic and larger-than-life persona could inject new energy into fitness advocacy efforts.
Hogan’s relationship with Trump spans decades, with the former WWE champion often voicing admiration for the president-elect. During the interview, Hogan referred to Trump as “my president,” highlighting their longstanding friendship, which includes Trump’s past appearances at WWE events.
Political Implications
Hogan’s potential involvement reflects Trump’s penchant for appointing high-profile figures from outside traditional political circles. While the idea remains speculative, the prospect of Hogan leading the council underscores Trump’s unconventional approach to governance. His second term could see more celebrity figures tackling national issues in innovative ways.
MSNBC political host Joy Reid blames Donald Trump’s 2024 presidential victory on Generation X voters who grew up watching Hulk Hogan and WWE. This group is aged 44-59, born between 1965 and 1980. Reid argues that this generation’s familiarity with wrestling icons like Hulk Hogan shaped a cultural mindset that is sending Trump back to the White House. During MSNBC’s 2024 election special coverage, Reid stated:
“My generation, Generation X, the people who grew up on WWE and Hulk Hogan and Donald Trump, did this. They did this. They are the ones who looked in the face of somebody who looked them in the face and said, ‘I want to be a dictator on day one.’ We did this.”
“The people that grew up on WWE, Hulk Hogan, and Donald Trump did this. They did this.”
Reid’s comments highlight the longstanding ties between Trump and wrestling culture. Several WWE legends have publicly supported him over the years, including Hulk Hogan, The Undertaker, Kane (Glenn Jacobs), and Ric Flair—all longtime fans of Trump who actively campaigned for him during his latest presidential run.
Linda McMahon, former WWE president, she served in Trump’s cabinet as the head of the Small Business Administration from 2017 to 2019 during his first term before transitioning to lead a PAC supporting his reelection. She’s now co-chair of his transition team.
Hulk Hogan may have found a new tag team partner in Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as the WWE Hall of Famer says he wants to help kids get healthy and in shape.
Throughout the course of 2024, RFK Jr. made his own bid for President of the United States, running first as a Democrat then later as an Independent, but due to America’s established two-party system, the son of Bobby Kennedy found the deck stacked against him. That made him to decide to align with Donald Trump, who promised RFK Jr. that he’d have him be a factor in health and enviromental issues if he were to be elected as President.
RFK Jr. has been on the campaign run for Trump and so has Hogan, who not only showed up at the notorious rally that took place in Madison Square Garden, but has been making media appearances too.
Hogan was just on Fox News with Jesse Waters, who asked Hogan if Trump wins, would he play any role in helping the Trump adminstration out. Hogan certainly had an idea in mind, noting that in wrestling you have to draw a big angle and put “hot spice on a feud.”
“This Robert Kennedy Jr., he’s onto something with nutrition, but he’s gonna tag team us up as the Mega Powers – the ‘MAGA Powers,’ there ya go. ‘The MAGA Powers’: RFK Jr. and Hulk Hogan, he could get them to eat the right food and I could get all of our kids in shape, brother.”
There’s the cliche that it’s a “fine line between love and hate” but that line Jim Cornette drew between he and Donald Trump is wider than the Mississippi River his home state rests alongside.
A rightful WWE Hall of Famer, Cornette clearly despises Trump, a 2013 celebrity inductee, who aims to reclaim the Oval Office once again this November. With Election Day less than a week out, there’s a fine line between politics and pro wrestling, and while an immense amount of hate is harbored from Cornette to Trump, Donald pulls quite a bit of promotional tactics from the world of wrestling. The distinct difference is one is just selling merchandise, the other is doing that and campaigning to be the next leader of the free world.
Two well-known no-no’s in the wrestling business have been to steer clear from politics and religion. If you’re currently in the ring or under a promotion’s umbrella, that notion (for the most part) still holds true. Very rarely do you see an AEW name, a WWE name or a “name your promotion” name take a political stand because when you’re in between the ropes, your goal should be to unite the people in an effort to make money.
The late great George Carlin said division is what makes the government run off the backs of the lower and middle classes. “It’s a big club and you ain’t in it,” unless you buy a ticket to take the ride, something those classes do in droves for pro wrestling. While the First Amendment gives everyone the right to speak their mind, doing such under a wrestling company’s eye could garner some repercussions. Good or bad, you’re not just representing yourself, but the promotion you work for.
That doesn’t stop the retired names from talking, however. Dave Bautista made it known he’ll be voting for Kamala Harris. She got the Venn diagram of pro wrestling and Juggalos with ICP’s support. Mick Foley shot a video believing America will have a “Nice Day” if you go to the polls for Harris/Waltz. Same goes for Kevin Nash, always an outspoken Clinton Democrat, “sidewalk slams” Trump’s bluster on a weekly basis. However, his fellow NWO member Hulk Hogan notoriously tore off his shirt for Trump and JD Vance at the Republican National Convention. Right after Bautista voiced his vote, Trump literally sat in between Undertaker and Kane for a TikTok video. “The Brothers Of Destruction” called out “The Animal,” making it known they’ll be voting for Donald on November 5. Trump was then the next guest on Undertaker’s podcast.
Jim Cornette Pulls No Political Punches
While Jim Cornette has never been one to mince words, he makes a point to saw off the end of the double barrel and fire away at anyone who evokes the name of Trump. He did just that with Undertaker and Kane.
“Another former great wrestler on the list of alien pod people duped by the world’s most repugnant con man. Mark & Glen, you made it this long with everyone admiring you, then in the end you ruin your reputations AND try to destroy the country along with them. I’m ashamed FOR you.”
Cornette was so motivated by many of his colleagues speaking their minds, the legendary manager ended up doing the same. Very rarely does Jim Cornette put himself on video (his podcast clips are mostly adorned with Hannah-Barbara like illustrations), but he made clear that “we’re all idiots” if we as a country put Trump back in office.
Cornette has been out of the mainstream pro wrestling spotlight for years, but has created his own relevancy via his podcasts and his undeniably astute takes on the business. Because of his brashness, particularly when it comes to AEW, Jim Cornette has created a fine division amongst the cesspool that is social media. Jim has cultivated his own “Cult of Cornette” that backs him and there are plenty of wrestlers (plenty) that agree with his philosophy on the business. I too find myself nodding along in agreement with a good deal of his thoughts. Granted, how he sometimes expresses said thoughts can cut deep and raise eyebrows, but that’s always been what made Cornette the legend he is in the business.
In a lot of ways that willingness to verbally flamethrow is what helped his ultimate heel become president. Before he was ever a primetime factor on “The Apprentice”, Trump’s ties to the WWE have been long-standing since WrestleMania 4. Lavie Margolin’s “TrumpMania” does an in-depth job at showing Donald’s continuous ties to pro wrestling before he became the 45th President covering his beef with Rosie O’Donnell, the potential influence of Dutch Mantell’s Zeb Colter. For basically a decade now, the “cult of personality” conjured up Donnie’s own passionate fanbase, filled with all types of wild merchandise to show your MAGA support.
However, there is a very distinct difference between Trump’s rise to power and Jim Cornette’s impact on the business. Cornette has been a bricklayer for how the house of pro wrestling has been presented while Trump is the result of a broken system courtesy of both parties. The lack of attention to the middle class in favor of what’s going on overseas, gave Americans an ax to grind and a division that is fiercer than anything ever exemplified in our lifetime.
Many Legends Don’t Let Politics Divide
While Cornette is more than willing to draw a line in the sand between he and his colleagues, others aim to not torch their longstanding relationships over political sides. On his podcast, Nash said despite Kane fully putting the “red” behind “Big Red Machine” he didn’t bury him alive for his stance, same with Hogan, who “Big Sexy” checked in on following Hurricane Milton. In Mick Foley’s ballot backing for Kamala, Mankind didn’t throw his friendship with The Undertaker off the cell either despite disagreeing with him, but much like Cornette did to him, Undertaker took a light jab at Bautista for backing Harris and Waltz.
Pro wrestling fandom sure has its fair share of tribalism and the political contention is quite thick between everyone with less than a week away.
“I can count on one hand the number of friends I lost over politics. Friendships are stronger, family is stronger, the things that draw us together are so much more meaningful than the things that divide us,” Foley said in an interview with CNN, noting how much respect he has for Undertaker despite their political differences.
“When I see him for the next time, we’ll hug it out, we’ll agree to disagree and we’ll do the best we can to keep a 30 year friendship going strong.”
In early 2019, a biopic on the life and career of Hulk Hogan was announced, with Chris Hemsworth (Thor, The Avengers) attached to play the Hulkster. Despite Todd Phillips and Scott Silver (Joker) attached to write, years went by with little to no updates before the project was ultimately canceled this year.
On the PBD Podcast, Hogan spoke about his biopic and why the project fell through. The two-time WWE Hall of Famer, who has been endorsing Donald Trump as of late, pointed the finger of blame at Netflix, who were tied to distribute.
“They kind of missed a beat in the contract, you know, so Netflix screwed up. Yeah, there was a payment that wasn’t placed at the right time.”
Hogan added that the script was “amazing” and claimed Silver called it “the best thing I’ve ever written.” The wrestling icon even predicted that the film would’ve been a hit during awards season if it had seen the light of day.
“There was talk that Chris Hemsworth had never played a real person before and he would probably win an Oscar and the movie too; this thing’s so powerful.”
While Hulk Hogan’s biopic won’t be winning any awards, a biopic on his lawsuit against Gawker remains in the works, despite Hogan’s warning of a potential lawsuit. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest from Hulk Hogan and his involvement outside the squared circle.
At the Republican National Convention, Hulk Hogan publicly endorsed Donald Trump, describing the former U.S. President as his personal hero. This week, the Hulkster once again backed the Republican party leader, who he predicts will win in a landslide when voters go to the polls next month.
Appearing on FOX News, Hogan called Trump “quick on his feet” and a politician who can “pivot.” Hogan praised an incident when the former President “schooled that guy who didn’t know a thing about tariffs.” Trump has praised tariffs as “the greatest thing ever invented” and has shared plans to impose tariffs on foreign goods entering the United States. Supporters of Trump have said this will increase the chance of these products being made in the U.S. though economists have argued that this plan will see the cost of tariffs passed onto consumers.
Speaking about the polls, many of which show Trump and Democratic nominee Kamala Harris tied or Harris ahead, Hogan predicted that his preferred candidate would emerge on top in the election.
“So I hear what you’re saying about the polls, and it’s even-steven, but let me tell you something. I don’t believe the polls! It’s going to be a landslide. You know – too big to rig brother is the theme here.”
Too big to rig has been a rallying cry among Republicans who continue to allege that the 2020 election saw illegal interference that favored President Joe Biden. Hogan’s appearance on FOX is somewhat ironic given that FOX paid $787 million to Dominion to settle a defamation lawsuit over lies shared by the network over Dominion’s role in the 2020 election.
Hulk Hogan has led a career in entertainment most can only dream of, from making a name in wrestling and platforming from that success into films and TV. As a WWE icon, Hogan is no stranger to being immortalized in wrestling video games, but he also played a role in one of the most beloved entries into the Pokemon series.
This week, Game Freak (the team behind the Pokemon video games) experienced a leak that revealed plenty about both past and present projects. Along the way, it was shared that Hogan was one-third of the inspiration behind the character of gym leader Drayden. Some of the character’s physical appearances, including “a muscular body like a wrestler” and “mustache control” were inspired by none other than the Hulkster.
Serving as one-third of Drayden’s inspiration isn’t Hogan’s only connection to the massively popular world of Pokemon. In 2006, Hogan commentated on the Pokemon TCG world tournament in New York City. Speaking at the event, the Hulkster shared what he feels has made Pokemon a worldwide phenomenon.
“I think Pokemon is so popular because it’s pure entertainment for the kids. It’s a very positive form of entertainment. It teaches them values and how to stay focused and team play.”
With his jacked physique, Hogan would fit right at home alongside Pokemon like Machamp, Buzzwole, or Conkledurr.
With his massive frame and larger-than-life personality, Andre the Giant was a true spectacle in wrestling and worked with some of the top names in wrestling. At WrestleMania 3, Hulk Hogan beat Andre the Giant, allegedly shattering a 15-year undefeated streak of the Frenchman, but Andre had already tasted defeat before.
Speaking to The Sun Sport, Peter Thornley, better known as British wrestling legend Kendo Nagasaki, spoke about his experiences working with Andre. Thorney shared that he was the first wrestler to beat the Giant long before Hogan and Andre stepped in the ring.
“I was the first wrestler to ever beat André the Giant… before any American wrestler ever beat him. All of them, like [Hulk] Hogan, came after I beat him.”
Andre was ‘green’ a term used for inexperienced wrestlers, when he first came to the United Kingdom, according to Thornley. Due to Andre’s lack of training, the pair spent much of their match in a bear hug before Thornley got the win.
“Eventually, I got out of it, body-slammed him, and pinned him. That was the end of it. We only went two and a half rounds, and that was the first time he was beaten.”
Thornley, as Nagasaki, didn’t just score an upset victory over Andre, but earned three wins over the Giant in 1969. In the interview, Thornley admitted to feeling bad about being the first man to give Andre a loss, adding that he was never billed quite the same in the United Kingdom following these defeats.
Andre the Giant would tragically die young in 1993 and became the first inductee into the WWE Hall of Fame. Today, Andre’s legacy continues to be celebrated in WWE with the annual Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal that takes place on the eve of WrestleMania. While Hulk Hogan may be known as the Frenchman’s most legendary opponent, it was a wrestler very much unlike the bleach-blond bronzed Adonis who holds the distinction of handing Andre his first defeat.
In June of this year, MVP responded to a handful of social media posts about Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque and his decision not to reunite the Hurt Business when he had the chance. Some fans believed MVP was implying that WWE’s Chief Content Officer was racist, but now MVP has made his views crystal clear on the matter.
Speaking to K&S WrestleFest, MVP addressed his previous comments regarding Triple H and his decision not to bring back the popular group of black Superstars. While some may have believed MVP was implying Triple H is a racist, that was a term MVP never used.
“I never said that word [Racist.] I never said that. You show me the quote or the caption where I said that. Somebody made a comment on my social media about how he books black talent. I just said, ‘Ah, you see it.’ I never said he is racist.”
MVP added that his opinion on how Levesque books black wrestlers is a “different conversation” but reiterated that he never called WWE’s CCO a racist. The former WWE U.S. Champion then acknowledged a different legend of WWE who he does believe to be a racist.
“Hulk Hogan is racist. He said it himself, ‘I’m a little bit racist.’ He said that. As far as Triple H, I don’t know that he is.”
Hulk Hogan’s legacy has been a topic of debate in recent years, as while no one can deny his influence on wrestling, many are opposed to the Hulkster and his many controversies. In recent years, Hogan has received mixed-at-best responses at WWE events, and now the Hulkster has evoked the name of Chris Benoit to address fan hostility.
On the ImPaulsive podcast, Hogan brought up Benoit, arguing that there are fans who still love the disgraced Canadian despite the tragedy of June 2007. Hogan then argued that fans can be very forgiving when they want to be, and hopes he is shown the same treatment given his “major mistakes.”
“If Chris Benoit can do the crap he did and the fans still love him [why not me?] they are forgiving… I have made some major mistakes… they are very, very forgiving.”
While some fans may be willing to ‘love’ Benoit (at least in Hogan’s eyes) WWE has done what it can to distance itself from the former World Champion. The promotion has made no reference to Benoit on TV since June 2007. While Benoit’s matches remain available in WWE’s extensive archives, the company goes to lengths not to reference him by name, often labeling his matches in ways that omit his involvement entirely.
Hogan referencing Chris Benoit has not gone down well with fans, many of whom took to social media to critique the Hulkster’s argument that fans have forgiven Benoit.
No one forgives Chris Benoit. Disgusting.@HulkHogan , there has never been a sincere apology or accountability..
Hulk Hogan once again proves he’s one of the dumbest people to have ever been in the wrestling business. Nobody ever forgave Chris Benoit. As a matter of fact, I think New Jack pretty much spoke for literally everyone when somebody asked him about Benoit: https://t.co/OogHINGw9wpic.twitter.com/yNkL6UThrt
Hogan was fired from WWE in 2015 after racist remarks came to light. His exit saw him removed from WWE’s Hall of Fame, though this would only be known in 2018 when he was readmitted into the Hall of Fame. More recently, Hogan spoke of bodyslamming Kamala Harris and made a ‘joke’ about Native Americans that he quickly blamed on his drinking.
Despite this, WWE has signed a new five-year deal with Hogan that will see the wrestling icon serve as an ambassador and have his license used for merchandise. While Hogan’s comments continue to rub many the wrong way, the Donald Trump endorser is sticking to what he believes about the fans and their willingness to forgive.
Hulk Hogan is no stranger to controversy, from his racist rant that was exposed in 2015 to his recent comments about bodyslamming Vice President Kamala Harris. Despite this, Hogan remains one of the biggest names ever in wrestling, and fans can expect to see much more of him as part of WWE.
Recently, Hogan sat down with Logan Paul—another WWE personality known for his own share of controversies—to discuss his career and future in the industry. The two-time WWE Hall of Famer shared that he has signed a new multi-year deal with WWE. This agreement secures Hogan’s image for merchandise and ensures he will continue serving as a WWE ambassador.
“I signed a five-year deal. I’m 71 years old in a few weeks. I signed a five-year deal for the licensing and merchandising stuff, and ambassador stuff.”
Hogan also reflected on working with Nick Khan after decades of working with former WWE Chairman Vince McMahon. The Hulkster praised Khan’s cut-and-dry nature of doing business compared to his predecessor.
“He doesn’t overthink the creative. Nick Khan is strictly business… I said, ‘Hey brother, this artwork that hasn’t been used for 35 years. I need it for my Real American Beer.’ Nick Khan says, ‘Let me get back to you in a couple of days…’ He made it really easy on me. Vince was great, too, but I don’t know if Vince would make that quick of a decision.”
Hogan’s most recent appearance for WWE took place in January of this year when he made a special appearance on RAW to celebrate 40 years of Hulkamania. As with many of his recent appearances, the reaction from the WWE Universe was mixed. While Hogan still enjoys a large and loyal fan base, there are many within the WWE community who remain critical of him due to his past controversies.
Nevertheless, Hogan’s new contract with WWE shows the company’s continued support for him and faith in the Hogan brand. Whether through merchandise, licensing, or special appearances, Hulk Hogan’s presence in WWE is far from over.
Posted September 3rd, 2024 in WWE. Tagged: Hulk Hogan.
WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan is no stranger to controversy, from both his work in wrestling and outside the squared circle. Recently, the Hulkster stepped his giant boot inside the world of politics, resulting in an uncomfortable situation for the legend this week.
At a Real American Bear promotional event in Rhodes Island, comedian Robby Roadsteamer approached Hogan wearing a homemade ‘MAGA Powers’ shirt, a nod to Hogan’s recent endorsement of Donald Trump. Borrowing a line from Hogan, Roadsteamer asked “Whatchu gonna do when we drop the big boot on trans and everything? Does that work for you brother?” Trump and the Republican party have made their opposition to transgender rights clear throughout the campaign, with Trump threatening severe consequences to those who provide gender-affirming care if elected.
Robby didn’t stop there as he sang “Trump is a real felon. Then he went to Epstein Island” to the tune of Hogan’s ‘Real American’ theme song used in WWE. Security then stepped in to move Roadsteamer away from the uncomfortable Hogan.
Had a word with Hulk Hogan about MAGA and sang his own theme song to him with Epstein Plane lyrics ✈️🇺🇸 Here's the uncut WideScreen Version! Blue wave coming Brother! #MAGA#Trump#HarrisWalz2024pic.twitter.com/lyV5R5h2zV
Roadsteamer’s appearance at Hogan’s event comes one week after a man was arrested for protesting the two-time WWE Hall of Famer. Nathaniel Livington was arrested earlier this month after protesting Hogan’s appearance at a Kroger store in Liberty Township, Ohio. Livington was joined by others who protested after Hogan asked fans if they wanted him to bodyslam Kamala Harris and made ‘jokes’ about the race of the Vice President.
Hulk Hogan may fight for the rights of every man (according to his WWE theme song) but right now, his support is behind Donald Trump and the Republican Party in this November’s election. While Hogan has the right to endorse who he believes is fit for office, opponents of the Hulkster have as much right to make their views clear on the WWE legend.
Hulk Hogan always champions that he slammed Andre The Giant at WrestleMania III, but it was the pure strength of Sylvester Stallone that gave Hogan a taste of his own medicine, brother. On Monday, Stallone shared a video of Hogan detailing how it was actually Rocky himself who picked up Hogan and tossed him out of the ring in Rocky III.
“That was him, that was him… bro, if you don’t realize he was 160 lbs and I was like 320 lbs. He got me up and he was wobbling. It was him. He did everything. He did all his own stunts…”
Hogan mentioned how invested Stallone was into the physicality that Hogan brought. As a caption, Sylvester shared his appreciation for Hogan, noting how great he was to work with back in 1981.
“WOW, HULK was the best. Fantastic athlete and threw the most amazing punches of all. Because he was bare fisted I could actually feel his punch touching my skin yet he knew just when to pull back… Amazing!”
Stallone has strong ties to pro wrestling. Not only did he work with Thunderlips, but he also starred in Paradise Alley with the late legendary Terry Funk. There’s also a great picture floating around of Sly standing with Harley Race.
8-time NWA World Heavyweight Champion Harley Race with Sylvester Stallone in '78 pic.twitter.com/7q0tFZ4PR6
Hulk Hogan is one of the most iconic figures in professional wrestling history, yet, his fame extends beyond the ring, very often dipping into realms of controversy that have impacted his public image.
Here we delve into some of the most infamous controversies associated with Hogan, including the Belzer lawsuit, the Gawker case, the leaked tape scandal, and a peculiar connection to Kamala Harris.
The Belzer Lawsuit: A Wrestling Move Gone Wrong
In 1985, Hulk Hogan appeared on the television show “Hot Properties,” hosted by Richard Belzer. The appearance was intended to promote the first-ever WrestleMania, but it quickly spiraled into an infamous incident.
During the show, Belzer asked Hogan to demonstrate a wrestling move. Complying, Hogan applied a front chin-lock, a common wrestling maneuver, on Belzer. However, the move rendered Belzer unconscious, causing him to collapse onto the studio floor. To make matters worse, Belzer’s head hit the floor, resulting in a laceration that required medical attention.
Belzer sued Hogan and the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), seeking damages for the incident. The lawsuit was eventually settled out of court, with Belzer reportedly receiving $5 million according to Hogan.
This controversy highlighted the dangers of blurring the lines between wrestling entertainment and real life, marking one of the earliest public scandals in Hogan’s career.
The Gawker Case: A Pioneering Privacy Battle
One of Hulk Hogan’s most high-profile controversies was his legal battle against Gawker Media.
In 2012, Gawker published a secretly recorded sex tape featuring Hogan and Heather Clem, the wife of his then-best friend, radio personality Bubba the Love Sponge. The tape quickly went viral, causing significant damage to Hogan’s reputation.
Hogan sued Gawker for invasion of privacy, leading to a landmark trial. In 2016, the court ruled in Hogan’s favor, awarding him $140 million in damages. The lawsuit effectively bankrupted Gawker, leading to the media company’s shutdown.
This case was not only significant for Hogan but also set a precedent in privacy law, highlighting the legal risks of publishing private content without consent.
The Leaked Tape Scandal: Racial Slurs and Public Fallout
The fallout from the Gawker tape wasn’t just about privacy—it also revealed a darker side of Hogan’s character.
In the leaked video, Hogan was heard making racially charged comments, including the use of the N-word. The revelation of these remarks caused widespread outrage, leading to Hogan’s immediate firing from WWE and the removal of his profile from their website.
The scandal tarnished Hogan’s legacy, with many fans and fellow wrestlers expressing their disappointment.
Hogan later apologized for his remarks, attributing them to a low point in his life. Despite his efforts to rebuild his image, the incident remains a significant blemish on his career.
Kamala Harris: Controversial Comments
Hulk Hogan’s connection to Kamala Harris, the current Vice President of the United States, stems from a controversial incident that occurred in 2024. During a promotional event for his new beer, Hogan made headlines for making inflammatory comments about Harris. In a video obtained by TMZ, Hogan jokingly asked a crowd if they wanted him to “body slam Kamala Harris” and “drop the leg” on her, referencing his iconic wrestling moves.
The remarks, made in front of a fired-up crowd, were not only provocative but also crossed into racially insensitive territory. Hogan questioned Harris’s racial identity, making comments about her Indian heritage and using outdated stereotypes. He referred to Harris as a “chameleon” and questioned whether she was truly Indian, which drew significant backlash.
Hogan’s comments came at a time of heightened political tension in the U.S., with growing calls to curb violent political rhetoric. His remarks were widely condemned, especially given the context of recent political violence and the ongoing divisiveness in American politics.
Hogan later tried to downplay the incident by blaming his comments on the beer he was promoting, but the damage to his public image was already done.
During an appearance this week at the Thirsty Cowboy in Medina, Ohio, wrestling icon Hulk Hogan engaged with the crowd in a rowdy and controversial manner, directing remarks at U.S. Presidential candidate Kamala Harris.
Hogan, known for his flamboyant promos, teased that he might “body slam Kamala Harris” and even suggested he could “drop the leg” on her. The crowd reacted enthusiastically, but Hogan quickly downplayed the remarks, emphasizing that he was only joking, saying, “That was not me, that was the beers talking.”
The event was part of Hogan’s promotion for his new beer, Real American Beer, a premium light lager introduced this summer, which bills itself as “brewed with 100% North American ingredients.” The incident, captured in an embedded video courtesy of TMZ Sports, has garnered mixed reactions.
WWE Hall of Famer & former Governor of Minnesota Jesse ‘The Body’ Ventura recently sat down with Rev. Al Sharpton on MSNBC to talk politics and the U.S. presidential election. Voters will go to the polls this November to elect either Vice President Kamala Harris or Former President Donald Trump as the next President of the United States.
On Tim Walz
Tim Walz is the current Governor of Minnesota and the running mate of Harris. In the interview, Ventura recalled Walz seeking his advice following his first victory in the race to be governor.
“He called me and set up a being with me to pick my brain. No other Governor has ever done that, Republican or Democrat but Tim Walz did. And what that showed me, Tim Walz is the kind of guy who’s out for success and he will reach across the aisle.”
Ventura also spoke about JD Vance’s attacks on Walz, as the running mate of Trump has accused Walz of ‘stolen valor’ despite Walz’s twenty years as an officer in the U.S. Army. Ventura explained that after twenty years, an officer can retire when they want to. Ventura added that, as a former Marine, he knows what it means to show respect to those who have served and that Vance should behave like a Marine.
On Hulk Hogan Endorsing Donald Trump
At the Republican National Convention, Hulk Hogan publicly endorsed Donald Trump and called the former President his hero. Ventura chuckled to himself as Sharpton reminded him of Hogan’s endorsement and recalled Hogan’s attempts to block Ventura’s effort to form a union in pro wrestling.
“It doesn’t surprise me to see Hogan with the Republicans because Hogan’s as anti-union as you can get… It was Hulk Hogan who ratted me out to Vince McMahon and I was fired and lost my job.”
On Donald Trump
Years before he dominated the Republican Party, Trump was part of the ‘Reform Party’ after being recruited by Ventura himself. The WWE Hall of Famer said that Trump is not the same man who came to him years ago and believes the billionaire’s politics are solely based on what benefits himself.
“Donald Trump is for Donald Trump. And Donald Trump is going to do whatever it is that supports Donald Trump… He saw that he could take over the Republican Party so he changed his views. He want from pro-choice to no rights for women’s reproductive. He’s gone far right.”
Ventura added that Trump’s claims of being a Christian man, one that is echoed by many of his supporters, are hollow.
“He’s trying to say he’s now a religious person. Well to me, if you’re going to be a religious person, you have to live it. And Donald Trump hardly lives it…. I’m an agnostic athiest and I think that I’m more religious than he is.”
Ventura suggested that Republicans would have had a far harsher response if Barack Obama had had multiple affairs while they “embrace” Trump.
WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan could sue those behind the planned Gawker lawsuit film if the project goes too far, it has been claimed. Sources who spoke with TMZ claimed that Hogan has no involvement with the film and that he is “indifferent” about the project. With that said, Hogan could sue those behind the film if they broach too far into his private life.
TMZ’s sources added that Hogan is in a “really good place right now,” thanks in part to his recent new wife and reconnecting with religion. Hogan is also doing charitable work with a homeless shelter in Tampa, the source claims.
Killing Gawker
Killing Gawker is being set up with Matt Damon and Ben Affleck’s Artist Equity and hopes to launch production in January 2025. Affleck is “eyeing” the role of Hogan while Damon is said to be interested in playing venture capitalist Peter Thiel. A screenplay was reportedly written by Charles Randolph based on Ryan Holiday’s book Conspiracy: Peter Thiel, Hulk Hogan, Gawker, and the Anatomy of Intrigue.
The Hulk Hogan-Gawker Lawsuit
In October 2012, Gawker posted a sex tape of Hogan with Heather Clem, the wife of Bubba The Love Sponge. In response, Hogan sued the company and several employees and affiliates who had shared portions of the tape. Hogan sought $100 million in damages and in March 2016, a jury of four women and two men voted in his favor. The wrestling legend was awarded $115 million in compensatory damages, which included $60 million for emotional distress. Three days later, Hogan was awarded an additional $25 million in punitive damages.
Thiel, a co-founder of PayPal, paid $10 million to help finance lawsuits against Gawker, including Hogan’s litigation against the company. In 2007, Gawker had published an article outing Thiel as gay without his consent.
Gawker attempted to file an appeal, but in June 2016, three months after the Hogan verdict, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection and put itself up for sale. Gawker CEO Nick Denton would also file for personal bankruptcy.
A new film based on the legal case of WWE Hall of Famer Terry Bollea(AKA Hulk Hogan) vs. Gawker is officially in active development. Artists Equity, Ben Affleck’s and Matt Damon’s production company, will produce the movie, which is currently titled Killing Gawker.
“Hulkamania” will be running wild on the big screen, but not what fans have anticipated. The Hollywood Reporter’s Borys Kit reported in 2019 that a biopic on the rise of Hogan’s fame in wrestling was in the works. Hollywood superstar Chris Hemsworth is expected to play the WWE Hall of Famer, with Academy Award-nominated director Todd Philips also attached to the development. However, in a recent interview with Screenrant on May 15, Hemsworth shared that nothing is official yet.
Although the biopic is in limbo, the film based on Hogan’s legal drama is starting to take shape. PWInsider’s Mike Johnson revealed on August 2 that Killing Gawker was being developed and could have Affleck playing the role of Hogan. In addition, it’s reported that the project may launch in January 2025.
Variety’s Katcy Stephan confirmed on August 5 that the film was being developed and added that Gus Van Sant is set to direct it. Van Sant has famously worked with Affleck and Damon as a director on the Academy Award-nominated movie Good Will Hunting.
Stephan reported that no casting has been made yet but acknowledged that there is an ongoing rumor that Affleck will play the WWE Hall of Famer.
What is Bollea vs. Gawker?
The infamous legal battle came after the wrestling legend filed a lawsuit in 2012 and took the media company to trial in 2016 regarding publishing portions of a sex tape involving Hogan and his former friend Bubba The Love Sponge’s wife at the time. It was alleged that Sponge filmed the intimate moment, which Hogan claimed he didn’t know about and didn’t consent to. The incident occurred in 2006, but Gawker obtained footage of Hogan having sex and published an article about it on October 12, 2012.
Hollywood A-Lister Ben Affleck is reportedly interested in playing Hulk Hogan in an upcoming film based on the infamous Gawker lawsuit. PW Insider reports that Killing Gawker is currently being set up with Matt Damon and Ben Affleck’s Artist Equity and hopes to launch production in January 2025.
Affleck is reportedly “eyeing” the leading role as Hulk Hogan, while Damon is said to be interested in playing venture capitalist Peter Thiel. A screenplay was reportedly written by Charles Randolph based on Ryan Holiday’s book Conspiracy: Peter Thiel, Hulk Hogan, Gawker, and the Anatomy of Intrigue.
The Hulk Hogan-Gawker Lawsuit
In October 2012, Gawker posted a sex tape of Hogan with Heather Clem, the wife of Bubba The Love Sponge. In response, Hogan sued the company and several employees and affiliates who had shared portions of the tape. Hogan sought $100 million in damages and in March 2016, a jury of four women and two men voted in his favor. The wrestling legend was awarded $115 million in compensatory damages, which included $60 million for emotional distress. Three days later, Hogan was awarded an additional $25 million in punitive damages.
Thiel, a co-founder of PayPal, paid $10 million to help finance lawsuits against Gawker, including Hogan’s litigation against the company. In 2007, Gawker had published an article outing Thiel as gay without his consent.
Gawker attempted to file an appeal, but in June 2016, three months after the Hogan verdict, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection and put itself up for sale. Gawker CEO Nick Denton would also file for personal bankruptcy.
Hulk Hogan And Films
Killing Gawker isn’t the first film project to be tied to the two-time WWE Hall of Famer. In 2020, it was announced that Chris Hemsworth (Thor, Cabin in the Woods) would portray Hogan in a biopic of his life. Four years later though, the film has not been made and Hemsworth has admitted that he isn’t sure what is happening.
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has shared her support for the Iron Sheik after Hulk Hogan publicly endorsed Donald Trump for President. At the 2024 Republican National Convention, Hogan called Trump his “hero” and endorsed the 78-year-old to be a “real American.”
Appearing in Lansing, Michigan, Whitmer was asked for her thoughts on Hogan’s endorsement of Trump. She joked “This was the question I was hoping not to get asked tonight” and threw her support behind the Iron Sheik. While Whitmer spoke of Sheik being from Lansing, Michigan, this was the original Sheik Ed Farhat. The Iron Sheik, who passed away in June 2023, was born in Iran.
Hogan isn’t the only notable name in wrestling backing the former President. WWE Hall of Famer Glenn Jacobs is backing Trump as he has done for years. On Twitter, Jacobs, the Mayor of Knox County, TN, argued that Joe Biden was not fit to serve as President after the Democrat leader announced he would not seek re-election this November. Jacobs was at the RNC, as was Linda McMahon who delivered a speech before Hogan and Trump himself.
Whitmer has thrown her support behind Kamala Harris for the November election. The Vice President has been endorsed by several names so far, including President Biden.
WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan gave an impassioned speech supporting Donald Trump for President at Thursday’s Republican National Convention.
Hogan referenced Madison Square Garden, Macho Man Randy Savage, slamming Andre the Giant. At one point, he ripped off a his shirt to reveal a Trump-Vance shirt underneath, as the crowd chanted “USA, USA!”
He endorsed Trump as a “Trump, calling him ”hero” and “gladiator” who is the right choice in this election to get the America back on track.
NBC News: Hulk Hogan gave what I would say is probably the best speech at this convention so far pic.twitter.com/xAMPmhjIuA
Wrestling icon Hulk Hogan, former WWE President & CEO Linda McMahon, and UFC President Dana White are among the speakers at Thursday’s closing night of the 2024 Republican National Convention. Hulk Hogan spoke with Bret Baier of Fox News about his presence at the event. The 12-time World Champion of WWE/WCW and nWo founding member likened his convention speech to body-slamming Andre the Giant.
Hulk Hogan says his speech tonight will be like bodyslamming Andre The Giant at WrestleMania. pic.twitter.com/8D2R8gHgub
Hulk Hogan does not like what he’s seen in America since Trump left office in January 2021. He says the United States’ borders have “collapsed” while food and gas prices have skyrocketed.
”When they took at a shot at my hero Donald Trump, I realized that I couldn’t be silent anymore.
You know, I had to step up, I had to be a real American, just like all of these real Americans here and Donald Trump.”
WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan is slated to make an appearance at the Republican National Convention on Thursday night, just before WWE Hall of Famer Donald Trump accepts the GOP nomination for President of the United States.
The wrestling legend will address the crowd ahead of Trump’s official acceptance speech on the final night of the convention, according to two senior campaign officials who spoke to NBC News. Trump’s nomination follows the recent announcement of Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance as his Vice Presidential running mate.
Linda McMahon & Kane Also at the 2024 RNC
WWE has had a presence at the 2024 RNC all week. Aside from the whole thing revolving around a Hall of Famer, former WWE President and and Trump’s former United States Administrator of the Small Business Administration Linda McMahon.
Hulk Hogan and Donald Trump are friends dating back to the 1980’s. In recent years, Hogan has been a proud supporter of Trump’s US Presidential campaigns.
In 2015, when Trump was running for president, Hogan publicly stated that he wanted to be Trump’s running mate [CBSNews]. During another interaction with TMZ, Hogan was asked which 2016 presidential candidate he would like to have in the ring with him. Believe it or not, the Hulkster went into self-promotion mode, brother.
“I don’t want to be in the ring with any candidates, I want to be Trump’s running mate.”
– Hulk Hogan (2015)
Stay tuned for our continued coverage of Hulk Hogan speaking at the 2024 Republican National Convention later this evening.
WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has explained why he believes Adam Copeland (formerly Edge in WWE) didn’t need to execute the high-risk dive off the cage at the AEW Double Or Nothing pay-per-view in May.
‘The Rated R Superstar’ performed a scary dive off the top of the cage on Malakai Black through a table. The dangerous move cost the veteran as he landed awkwardly on his legs, fracturing his tibia. However, he managed to finish the match and retained his AEW TNT title.
Speaking on The Outbound Life podcast, ‘The Hulkster’ raised questions on Copeland deciding the spot. Hogan believes it wasn’t required given Copeland’s legendary status. Copeland is in the latter stages of his career and Hogan wondered why he decided to take such a risk. Hulk Hogan then highlighted that wrestlers perform such high-risk moves to win over the fans and gain popularity. However, Copeland already has an established fanbase he didn’t require to perform the move. Here is what Hogan said:
“I watched Edge [Copeland] jump off the cage the other night. I haven’t talked to him yet, but trained professional. Twilight of his career. Jumps off the top. Please explain that to me. He’s over. Most guys who do that, go up and do it because they are not over enough. Edge was over. To do that, I just don’t get it. I haven’t called him yet. I was going to call him last night, but I fell asleep. I just want to know, ‘Please explain that to me. You’re over like a son of a gun. You didn’t need to do that. You didn’t need to go up there.’
He added:
“If you’re going to go up there, it doesn’t mean anything, unless you do something better than Mick Foley did. Mick Foley got thrown off the top of the cage and hit the table. If you’re going to beat Mick Foley, you have to get thrown off the top of the cage with no table. I just didn’t get it. It didn’t mean anything because Edge was so over. So over. He didn’t need that.”
Taking to social media, Copeland confirmed that he sustained a fractured tibia. He successfully underwent surgery. He dropped an update on his Instagram where he could be seen on crutches. Copeland was stripped off of his TNT title due to the injury and he is currently recuperating. It will take several months before he gets back inside the squared circle.
Hogan has not commented publicly on the accusation against him. Similarly, WWE has not made a public statement on the accusation. A spokesperson for Real American Beer said the following:
“We are deeply troubled by the false rumor circulating on social media that a brand ambassador hired by a third-party marketing agency was terminated by Hulk Hogan for racial reasons. Real American Beer simply terminated its short-term relationship with the third-party marketing agency. Hulk Hogan was not involved in that decision, and race was not a factor. We are in communication with the agency in an attempt to clear the misunderstanding and incorrect information, and believe that this false statement will be withdrawn.”
In 2015, Hogan was fired from WWE after racist remarks made in 2007 were shared online. In that video, Hogan disapproved of the idea of his daughter Brooke dating a black man and used the N-word during his rant. Hogan added that he is “a racist, to a point.” In addition to being fired from WWE, Hogan was removed from the promotion’s Hall of Fame and gave an apology to People Magazine. He was re-added to the WWE Hall of Fame in 2018 and has made sporadic appearances for the company ever since.