Terrence Bollea, better known as Hulk Hogan, made a highly anticipated yet controversial return to WWE Raw during its debut on Netflix. Despite the wrestling legend’s attempt to congratulate WWE on this milestone, he faced a chorus of boos from an unimpressed audience. Hogan, now 72, tried to address the crowd and highlight his past partnerships in professional wrestling, but the reception was far from welcoming. The event also drew attention to Hogan’s Real American Beer brand promotion. This appearance reignited discussions about his controversial history, particularly the leaked sex tape from 2007 that led to his removal from the WWE Hall of Fame in 2015.
Hogan’s career has been marred by controversy since 2007 when a leaked video revealed offensive language regarding his daughter’s personal life. In response, WWE distanced itself from the star and removed him from the Hall of Fame. Initially claiming resignation, Hogan was later confirmed to be fired by the company. He issued a public apology in 2015, acknowledging his mistake and expressing regret for using offensive language. Despite this, the WWE reinstated him in 2018. The recent appearance underscores the ongoing tension between Hogan’s legacy and his past missteps.
The Audience's Reaction to Hogan's Comeback
Hulk Hogan’s return to WWE Raw was met with a decidedly chilly reception. Over two hours into the show, the wrestling icon entered the arena only to face a barrage of boos from the crowd. Despite the unwelcoming atmosphere, Hogan persisted, congratulating WWE on its historic debut on Netflix. He reminisced about his past partners, including notable figures like Macho Man Randy Savage and Andre the Giant, but the audience remained unresponsive. The awkward moment quickly gained traction online, highlighting the divide between Hogan’s storied career and his recent controversies.
Hogan’s appearance on WWE Raw was intended to promote his Real American Beer brand, adding another layer to the uncomfortable situation. The crowd’s reaction underscored the lingering resentment many fans still harbor towards Hogan. His presence on the show, while brief, reignited discussions about his controversial past, particularly the 2007 incident involving a leaked sex tape. Fans expressed their disapproval through social media, where the event quickly went viral. The booing served as a stark reminder of the impact of Hogan’s actions on his relationship with WWE and its fanbase.
Hogan's Controversial History and Apologies
The controversy surrounding Hulk Hogan dates back to 2007, when a leaked sex tape revealed offensive remarks about his daughter’s love life. This incident prompted WWE to distance itself from the star, ultimately removing him from the Hall of Fame in 2015. Hogan initially claimed he resigned from WWE but was later confirmed to have been fired by the company. The fallout from this period significantly tarnished his reputation within the wrestling community. However, Hogan did issue a public apology in 2015, acknowledging his use of offensive language and expressing deep regret.
In his 2015 interview, Hogan apologized for the offensive comments, stating that they were inconsistent with his beliefs. He emphasized his commitment to treating everyone with respect, regardless of race, gender, or orientation. Despite these efforts, the damage to his image was substantial. It wasn’t until 2018 that WWE reinstated Hogan, signaling a partial reconciliation. Yet, his recent appearance on WWE Raw highlighted that many fans remain unconvinced by his apologies. The event served as a poignant reminder of the lasting impact of his past actions on both his career and his relationship with WWE fans.