In a recent interview for TMZ's special on the wrestling legend, Vince McMahon addressed his controversial decision to bring Hulk Hogan back to WWE in 2018. This decision came three years after WWE severed ties with Hogan when it was revealed that he had used a racial slur. McMahon's remarks come amidst his own challenges, having resigned from WWE and its parent company TKO in January 2024 following a sexual misconduct lawsuit filed against him by a former employee.
During the interview, which aired on Fox, McMahon expressed his unwavering belief in Hogan's character. He stated, “I knew he wasn’t racist. I’ve been with him for so many years. He wasn’t a racist. He said some racist things. He should pay for that, and he did.” This sentiment reflects McMahon's view that Hogan, whose real name is Terry Bollea, had already faced consequences for his past actions and deserved a second chance. McMahon continued, “In the end, I think everyone saw the real Hulk Hogan, Terry Bollea, and they felt, ‘Wait a minute, this guy doesn’t act like a racist. He’s not a racist.’ We all make mistakes. That was a big one, but he wasn’t a racist.”
The controversy surrounding Hogan intensified in 2015 when a leaked sex tape revealed him using the N-word multiple times. In the tape, Hogan remarked, “I guess we’re all a little racist.” Additionally, there was evidence of a 2008 conversation with his son Nick in prison, where Hogan again used racist language. Hogan's friend, Jimmy Hart, also supported the notion that Hogan is not a racist, reiterating his belief during the TMZ interview.
Reflecting on the sex tape, McMahon admitted to being shocked and disappointed by Hogan's comments, stating, “It was unforgivable and I was aghast, ‘What happened?’” He emphasized that the remarks were out of character for Hogan, prompting WWE to distance itself from the wrestling icon. “As soon as it happened, obviously, the company didn’t have anything to do with him anymore,” McMahon explained, adding, “We took him out of the Hall of Fame. You just don’t do those things.”
Following the incident, Hogan referred to his comments as a “glitch” and attempted to apologize. However, some former WWE stars, like Mark Henry, felt that Hogan's efforts were insufficient. Henry suggested that Hogan should engage directly with the African American community, proposing that the wrestling legend visit black colleges to offer a genuine apology. “Go and talk to them and be honest with your apology,” Henry advised Hogan at the time. However, Hogan reportedly declined, saying he had been advised against discussing the matter further.
With Hogan's recent passing at the age of 71, McMahon was asked about his feelings regarding not being invited to any tributes held by WWE for the wrestling icon. He expressed a sense of disappointment, stating, “It struck me that way as well.” This comment underscores the complex relationship between McMahon and Hogan, which has been shaped by years of professional collaboration and personal challenges.
As the wrestling community continues to grapple with Hogan's legacy and the implications of McMahon's comments, the dialogue surrounding race, accountability, and redemption in the world of professional wrestling remains ongoing.
