Nick Hogan experienced an emotional moment as he honored his legendary father, Terry “Hulk Hogan” Bollea, at a venue that played a pivotal role in his father’s rise to fame. The tribute took place during WWE's “Monday Night Raw” at the Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan. This heartfelt event began with a poignant 10-bell salute dedicated to the wrestling icon, followed by a moving video tribute that was also featured on Netflix, similar to the tribute presented during SmackDown the previous week.
Sadly, Hulk Hogan passed away last week at the age of 71 after a medical emergency at his home in Clearwater, Florida. His son, Nick Hogan, made his first public appearance since his father’s passing, surrounded by the supportive WWE locker room on the Raw stage. He was accompanied by his wife, Tana Lea, along with his father’s business partners from the “Real American Beer” venture and fellow WWE Hall of Famer Eric Bischoff.
As the video tribute concluded, the audience erupted into chants of “Hogan! Hogan!” which visibly moved Nick Hogan, who fought back tears during the heartfelt moment. The tribute underscored the immense impact that Hulk Hogan had on the wrestling community and pop culture at large.
Nick Hogan took to Instagram to express his grief and admiration for his father, referring to him as his “best friend” and “hero.” He shared, “Hearing so many kind words and stories about my dad’s life, interactions, and experiences with everyone has been incredible and comforting.” He continued, “My dad was the most incredible person I’ve ever known and will always be my hero.”
In his emotional post, Nick reflected on the time he spent with his father in recent years after relocating back to Florida. “I am so grateful for those memories,” he wrote. “They are the best moments in my life. I would do anything to have him back, but I know now that he will always be watching over me.” He emphasized how he would cherish the lessons and advice his father imparted, vowing to live in a way that would make Hulk Hogan proud.
Hulk Hogan is often regarded as the “Babe Ruth” of wrestling, having played a crucial role in elevating the then-WWF to national prominence during the 1980s alongside former owner Vince McMahon. His notorious heel turn in the mid-90s, which led to the formation of the nWo faction in WCW, was a significant turning point that fueled the legendary “Monday Night Wars”, bringing professional wrestling into the cultural spotlight.
