Vince McMahon has proclaimed Hulk Hogan as the “ultimate WWE Superstar of all time” following his passing at 71 years old. The renowned wrestler, also known as Terry Bollea, passed away on Thursday after suffering a heart attack.
Hogan, a 12-time world champion and later a prominent television personality, played a pivotal role alongside McMahon, the former head of WWE, in the remarkable ascent of the brand. Despite occasional disagreements and incidents in their relationship, including Hogan testifying in McMahon’s steroid trial in the 1990s which led to a period of estrangement, their impact on the wrestling industry was undeniable.
Expressing his admiration for Hogan, McMahon highlighted him as the top WWE performer ever, lauding his ability to transcend the sport and venture into the realm of celebrity. He praised Hogan’s unparalleled determination for success, noting his transition from wrestling stardom to global fame.
Hogan, who headlined the inaugural WrestleMania in 1985 and remained a fixture in the marquee event for years, faced off against legendary opponents like Andre The Giant, Randy Savage, and The Rock. Inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005 by Sylvester Stallone, Hogan later ventured into acting, appearing in various films and TV shows, including the reality series “Hogan Knows Best” on VH1.
In a statement mourning his passing, WWE acknowledged Hogan’s significant role in propelling the organization to global prominence in the 1980s. The Undertaker, a revered figure in the wrestling world, paid tribute to Hogan’s indelible contributions, describing him as a true legend whose impact on the sport was immeasurable.