Becky Lynch criticism of Hulk Hogan on WWE RAW has ignited a heated discussion among wrestling legends, following Lynch’s harsh remark during a May 5 appearance on the RAW Recap show. The incident has prompted figures like Dutch Mantell, Bill Apter, Mac Davis, and Teddy Long to voice their contrasting views regarding her words and their impact on WWE culture.
Lynch’s Bold Statement Draws Mixed Reactions
During WWE RAW Recap, Becky Lynch publicly called Hulk Hogan “the scummiest person on Earth,” a statement that quickly became the center of debate in the professional wrestling world. This comes as Lynch, often referred to online as “Becky Hogan” due to her frequent headline matches and storylines, continues to be linked with the main-event scene. The nickname gained even more traction after WrestleMania 41, where she stepped in for Bayley in a last-minute tag team match, sparking further discourse among wrestling fans.
The wrestling community has remained divided over Hogan since 2015, following the release of an audio clip where he was heard making racist remarks. The polarizing reputation of Hulk Hogan added an extra layer of intensity to Lynch’s comment, prompting both criticism and support from various parts of the WWE universe.
Wrestling Legends Weigh In on Lynch’s Motives
Dutch Mantell, known in WWE as Zeb Colter, speculated that Becky Lynch’s comments could be part of her developing heel character, suggesting the remark might be designed for dramatic effect rather than a personal attack. Mantell shared his thoughts while appearing with reporter Bill Apter, host Mac Davis, and WWE Hall of Famer Teddy Long on “The Wrestling Time Machine” panel where they analyzed the fallout of Lynch’s statement.
Bill Apter was surprised by her actions, openly questioning her reasons and the possible repercussions for targeting Hogan publicly:
“I couldn’t believe it when I saw it. Why would she do that? Why would she go on social media and [badmouth Hogan]?” —Bill Apter, Reporter
Offering his perspective on Lynch’s motivation, Mantell emphasized the possible strategic nature of her outburst in the context of wrestling entertainment:
“Well, if you mention Hulk’s name and you’re kind of up there and you’re already a star in your own right and you say something like that, yeah, it’s gonna get a lot of play. But Becky’s a heel now, so if you can’t explain it, it’s just a work, and sometimes we even get caught into that. I love that stuff.” —Dutch Mantell, Wrestling Booker
Considerations from WWE’s Corporate Standpoint
While Mac Davis suggested that disparaging a legend like Hogan might jeopardize Lynch’s standing in WWE, Bill Apter stated that the company appears unbothered by such bold speech, at least when it comes from top-tier talent like Lynch. Apter referenced Hulk Hogan’s ambitions for his Real American Freestyle (RAF) wrestling promotion and WWE’s likely reaction to potential rivalry:
“She’s not risking her job. How is she risking her job? This [Hogan’s WWE deal] is a Legends contract and the beer commercials, but he’s talking about opposing them doing something else, so what are WWE gonna do when this new Hulk Hogan company runs all over them? He wants to compete with them.” —Bill Apter, Reporter
Hulk Hogan’s involvement with WWE has been limited recently, with his last televised appearance occurring on January 6 during the Netflix premiere episode of RAW. Hogan, a two-time Hall of Famer, received a mixed reaction from the live audience during his brief time on stage, signaling ongoing tension surrounding his legacy within the wrestling community.
Ongoing Impact and the Road Ahead for WWE
The aftermath of Becky Lynch’s criticism of Hulk Hogan on WWE RAW remains a topic of debate, not only among industry veterans but also among fans. The controversy sheds light on the changing dynamics of wrestling entertainment, where real-life issues and character developments often collide. The WWE, with personalities like Becky Lynch and legends such as Hulk Hogan, continues to adapt as public scrutiny and shifting audience attitudes shape storylines and careers. The situation leaves open questions about how both Lynch and WWE will navigate reactions from within the sports entertainment landscape in the months to come.
