On July 24, WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan passed away at his home in Clearwater, Florida, leaving behind a legacy as one of professional wrestling’s most influential figures. Hogan’s impact on the industry spans decades, from his pivotal role in the WWF’s rise in the 1980s to co-founding the nWO stable alongside Scott Hall and Kevin Nash in WCW.
His career included several WWE comebacks and a notable run with Eric Bischoff in TNA, yet his most memorable moment remains his iconic match against The Rock at WrestleMania X8. This match is widely celebrated as one of the greatest in WrestleMania history and played a pivotal role in passing the torch to a new generation.
A Legendary Match That Passed Wrestling’s Torch
The Rock’s tribute to Hulk Hogan highlights the lasting connection between the two wrestlers, particularly focusing on their WrestleMania X8 encounter in Toronto. After returning to WWE at No Way Out in 2002, Hogan faced The Rock in his first WWE match in nearly a decade. Although The Rock was victorious, Hogan’s performance rekindled fan admiration, even as a heel.
Reflecting on that night, The Rock recalled a personal story from 1984 when, as a child, he caught Hogan’s “HULKSTER” headband during a Madison Square Garden event, a gift Hogan promised to replace. Seventeen years later, he stood across the ring from his childhood hero in a match billed as deciding the Greatest of All Time, a moment that electrified the crowd and symbolized Hogan’s lasting influence.
Rest in Peace, Terry Bollea aka The Immortal Hulk Hogan 🕊️💐To millions of little kids you were a childhood hero – myself included.In 1984, I gave you your “HULKSTER” headband back, in the locker room in Madison Square Garden – I was the lucky kid caught it when you threw it in the crowd. You were wrestling “Mr Wonderful”, Paul Orndorff that night in the main event.You were shocked and so happy after the match because you told me that was your very last headband and if it weren’t for me, you’d have no way of getting that exact one made again. You promised me that you would get more made and give me a Hulkster headband of my own as a thank you gift.A month later in Madison Square Garden, you did just that. You kept your word, with a handshake and a “thanks kid”. And that meant the world to that little 12 year old boy.Just 17 years later, and still a kid at the age of 29 years old — I’m standing in the middle of the ring and facing you – one of my wrestling heroes in the main event of WRESTLEMANIA.The match was to decide who would go down in history, as The Greatest of All Time.When you kick out of my Rock Bottom finisher – just listen and FEEL that crowd go ELECTRIC… all for you. I’ve never felt anything like that in my entire wrestling career. It takes two to tango, but that historic crowd reaction was all for you.You may have “passed the torch” to me that night, but you, my friend….… you “drew the house” meaning you sold out every arena and stadium across the country in your prime as Hulk Hogan, on your way of becoming the greatest of all time.From deep in my bones, and on behalf of this wild and crazy world of professional wrestling that we love, I say to you now, and forever…Thank you for the house, brother…Thank you, for the house.RIP Terry Bollea aka Hulk Hogan 🕊️goat
The Rock’s message not only honors Hogan’s career achievements but also emphasizes the emotional depth and historic significance of their WrestleMania encounter. That night symbolized a generational handoff, with Hogan retaining an undeniable hold on the audience’s admiration despite the outcome.
Hogan’s Impact on Wrestling and Fan Culture
Hulk Hogan’s popularity was never just about wins and losses; he was a cultural icon who drew massive crowds, selling out arenas and stadiums during his peak. His charisma and persona helped shape professional wrestling into a mainstream form of entertainment, setting the stage for future stars like The Rock and Roman Reigns.
Throughout his career, Hogan experienced various phases, including being a major heel in WCW and making several WWE returns. Despite some controversies following his in-ring retirement, his influence remains deeply embedded in wrestling history. Fans, fellow wrestlers, and even prominent figures such as former U.S. President Donald Trump expressed their condolences and shared memories following his passing.
Reactions From the Wrestling Community and Beyond
In the wake of Hulk Hogan’s death, tributes poured in from across the wrestling world. WWE stars, Hall of Famers, and other industry figures publicly acknowledged his contributions and impact. Vince McMahon, WWE’s chairman, issued a rare public statement mourning the loss of the legend, underscoring Hogan’s role in shaping the company and the sport.
Johnny “The Rock” remains among the most vocal voices, sharing both nostalgic memories and heartfelt respect, reaffirming Hogan’s status as a beloved childhood hero and a fundamental part of wrestling’s evolution.
Looking Ahead: Wrestling’s Ongoing Legacy
Hulk Hogan’s passing marks the end of an era but also highlights the enduring legacy he leaves behind. As younger performers like Roman Reigns continue to evolve their characters and Seth Rollins’ factions face uncertain futures, Hogan’s example as a trailblazer provides context for the sport’s ongoing transformation.
The famed WrestleMania X8 clash will long be remembered as a symbolic passing of the torch, a night when wrestling history was made not just in the ring but in the hearts of fans worldwide. Future storylines and events in WWE and beyond will continue to be shaped by the foundation Hogan helped build.
