Hulk Hogan, one of the most iconic figures in professional wrestling, died on July 24, 2025, at the age of 71. His influence on the sport and pop culture was monumental, and his passing sparked heartfelt reactions globally. WWE honored Hogan’s legacy with special tributes across its major shows, including NXT, where Shawn Michaels led a moving homage.
Hogan’s Impact on Wrestling and WWE’s Homage
During the 1980s, Hulk Hogan’s immense popularity made him a symbol for professional wrestling, helping to elevate it to mainstream success. His career saw unprecedented achievements that helped shape wrestling as a global entertainment phenomenon. Post-retirement, Hogan remained connected to WWE, appearing on rare occasions, with his most recent appearance on the premiere of WWE RAW on Netflix.
WWE marked Hogan’s death with solemn moments on its flagship programs SmackDown and RAW, featuring traditional ten-bell salutes to honor his memory. These gestures acknowledged Hogan’s vast contributions as a two-time Hall of Famer and a key figure in WWE’s rise to prominence.
A Heartfelt Tribute Led by Shawn Michaels on NXT
On the NXT episode following Hogan’s death, WWE continued the tributes to the wrestling legend. Several NXT performers gathered in the ring to pay respect, with Shawn Michaels delivering a personal and emotional tribute. The moment was complemented by a video package illustrating Hogan’s remarkable journey and the legacy he left behind in professional wrestling.
“Hulk Hogan was a pioneer who helped take wrestling into the mainstream and inspired countless people across the world.” —Shawn Michaels, WWE Legend
The Legacy and Future Reflections
WWE’s multi-platform tributes, including the Hulk Hogan WWE tribute NXT segment, underline the lasting impact Hogan had on wrestling fans and performers alike. His career not only symbolizes the golden era of wrestling but also serves as a foundation for future talents to build upon. As WWE continues to celebrate his life, the tribute on NXT reflects the deep respect held for Hogan within the wrestling community and the company’s commitment to preserving his legacy.
