Posted on 7/25/125 by Colin Vassallo
The tributes for Hulk Hogan continued at a steady pace
overnight after the shock death of the former WWE champion.
TNA started last night’s Impact with an in memoriam graphic
and said that the episode was dedicated to his memory.
“Earlier today the world learned of the passing of the
biggest icon in the history of professional wrestling, Hulk
Hogan,” Tom Hannifan said. “His contributions to this
company and the entirety of this industry will never be
forgotten. TNA Wrestling is deeply saddened by this news,
and we send our condolences to the fans, friends, and family
of Hulk Hogan.”
New Japan Pro-Wrestling, where Hogan also wrestled in the
80s and 90s, posted a long tribute on their website, saying
that NJPW was saddened to learn of the passing of Terry
Bollea.
Former colleagues, actors, actresses, artists, and many
others also flooded X with their memories of Hogan, showing
how far his star power reached.
Steve Austin: “Hulk Hogan was born to be a Professional
Wrestler. Larger than life. Charisma for days. He was in a
stratosphere all on his own. His contributions are immense.
His influence will be forever. Hulkamania lives on. My
condolences to his family and loved ones.”
Chris Jericho: “When I started in WCW, I had the pleasure of
meeting one of my childhood heroes, then years later in WWE,
I had a blast with him entertaining millions…the same way he
had entertained me for many years. Thank you for everything
Hulkster…you paved the way for all of us. Please Say your
prayers and eat your vitamins everybody….you just never
know.”
Nick Aldis: “The industry lost a man today that redefined
what success could look like in Pro Wrestling. This post is
to acknowledge Hulk Hogan’s contributions to the industry,
which are difficult to put into adequate words. Terry Bollea
made personal choices that earned him understandable
criticism, but I’m not here to weigh in on that. As someone
who has put food on the table from pro wrestling for twenty
years, I believe it is necessary to take a moment to
recognize the importance of Hulk Hogan and Hulkamania to our
business. He pulled the wagon and brought a ton of people
with him. Brought wrestling into the cable TV era, changed
the game for the way performers could monetize their talent.
Put simply, he showed us what was possible. Also, he
represents my childhood, and millions of others. That
deserves recognition.
RIP Hulk Hogan.”
Troy Aikman: “From a fan to a friend—working with Hulk Hogan
for a few years was a thrill and a privilege. He was every
bit the showman and entertainer we all grew up watching.
Rest in peace, Hulk.”
Titus O’Neil: “My condolences to the family of Hulk Hogan.
As a legendary figure in professional wrestling, he helped
shape the industry and inspired generations of fans and
athletes. His impact in sports and entertainment will be
remembered for years to come.”
Gina Carano: “Hulk Hogan was such a kind, gentle soul, with
really cool quirky bits of wisdom, fun mischievous banter,
solid bravery on top of paving the way for so many.. It was
an honor to work next to this legend. Rest in sweet paradise
brother. ”
Torrie Wilson: “Woke up this morning with a heavy heart
after hearing about Terry’s passing. He carried the sport of
wrestling on his back for years and inspired millions. So
many of today’s men and women in the ring are better because
they witnessed the career of Hulk Hogan. A true legend. Rest
in peace.”
Matt Jackson: “Would never have been a wrestler if I didn’t
watch The Hulkster. Always so kind to me and my family. Made
videos for my son that we’ll cherish forever. So gracious,
even when nobody was watching.”
Sylvester Stallone: “I had the pleasure of meeting this
brilliant personality and showman when he was 26 years old.
He was absolutely wonderful and his amazing skill made Rocky
three incredibly special. My heart breaks. I think that he’s
gone…”
Taz: “Very sorry to hear of the passing of Hulk Hogan.
During our time working together in WWE & TNA he was alway
very nice to me. He was one of the major reason why the
industry became mainstream years ago. Prayers with his
family during this difficult time.”