The wrestling community was deeply shaken by the unexpected death of Hulk Hogan, whose health issues and family dynamics added complexity to the tragic event. Hogan’s close circle, including his daughter Brooke and ex-wife, expressed differing views that raised questions about his final choices. Bubba the Love Sponge, a longtime friend, recently revealed new information regarding Hogan’s state before his passing, highlighting the risks that surrounded his decision for surgery.
Bubba disclosed during a conversation with Danny Jones that Hogan’s family had urged him to avoid a risky neck operation, given his age and pre-existing numbness in his hands. The procedure was aggressively recommended but met with resistance from those close to him. Bubba explained,
His family actually argued with him and said, ‘Terry, just live with the pain. Because they knew the complication rate of this particular aggressive procedure. They knew. He had numbness in his hands, he would tell me all the time, ‘I can’t even feel my fingers.
— Bubba the Love Sponge
Most of his family, from Nick to Brooke to Sky, they were telling him, ‘Terry, just live, you’re 71 years old, you’ve lived with having numbness in your fingers. Don’t get this neck surgery. Don’t get it. We’ve talked to the doctors. It’s very risky.
— Bubba the Love Sponge
Despite medical advice and family opposition, Hogan proceeded with the surgery. His aggressive schedule after the operation, including multiple public appearances within just two days, compromised his recovery. Bubba continued,
And you’re not going to sit still the way you’re supposed to. So don’t do it. He was supposed to be bedridden four to six weeks. He spent 46 hours at home and is already out in Milwaukee, and Green Bay, and Michigan doing these three- and four-hour personal appearances for his beer.
— Bubba the Love Sponge
His neck operation doesn’t really have an opportunity to fuse and to heal itself. You’re sleeping in hotel bedrooms, and you’re standing up for hours. Hogan’s one big thing is when he would do an autograph session, he would never sit. He always prided himself on standing because it made him bigger than life. Had he listened to his doctors and not been on the road 46 hours after a major operation, he probably would have been in a better situation.
— Bubba the Love Sponge
Booker T Seen Supporting NFL as WWE Community Grieves
Meanwhile, WWE Hall of Famer and NXT commentator Booker T was visibly present at the Houston Texans NFL game, suggesting a momentary distraction within the wrestling world amid recent turmoil. The Texans shared a brief clip highlighting Booker T’s attendance, capturing his enthusiasm during the event.
CAN YOU DIG THAT?!?! pic.twitter.com/8O2RUdBFVj
— Houston Texans Official Twitter
Bianca Belair Provides Encouraging Update on WWE Return
In the midst of the somber wrestling atmosphere, Bianca Belair is preparing to make a much-anticipated comeback to WWE after a lengthy injury hiatus. The EST has been sidelined since WrestleMania 41, where she sustained a broken finger during her WWE Women’s World Championship match. Fans have eagerly awaited news of her recovery and return to the ring.
During a recent interview conducted by Adrian Hernandez, Belair addressed her supporters directly, delivering an uplifting message about her status and future in WWE. She shared,
I just wanna’ say to all my fans, thank you for all the love, all the support. I hear you, I see you all online when you’re asking when I’m coming back and that you miss me. All I can say is be ready, stay tuned. The EST always comes through and shows up and shows out, so, I’ll be back soon.
— Bianca Belair
Reports from late July indicated that Belair was approaching full fitness and close to resuming in-ring competition, raising momentum among the WWE Universe for her return.
Wrestling Community Faces a Period of Transition and Uncertainty
The recent developments surrounding Hulk Hogan’s death, combined with Bianca Belair’s imminent return, reflect a wrestling world grappling with loss and renewal. Hogan’s passing leaves a legacy complicated by family tensions and medical challenges, sparking reflection on how physical health and professional demands collide in wrestling’s demanding lifestyle.
Bianca Belair’s recovery and comeback offer fans a hopeful counterpoint, suggesting WWE’s roster continues evolving despite setbacks. Booker T’s ongoing public appearances also signal the enduring presence and influence of wrestling veterans amidst ongoing changes.
As the wrestling industry moves forward, these narratives underscore the passion, dedication, and sometimes difficult personal decisions behind the scenes. Fans can expect further updates on Belair’s matches and memorializing Hogan’s impact in the months ahead, marking a turbulent yet compelling chapter in wrestling history.
CAN YOU DIG THAT?!?! pic.twitter.com/8O2RUdBFVj
— Houston Texans (@HoustonTexans) September 15, 2025
