Hulk Hogan will always be a legend in world wrestling, his legacy reached fans far beyond the USA, drawing in big crowds across Mzansi too.
Here are seven of his most unforgettable WWE showdowns, packed with drama, energy, and that iconic ‘Hulkamania’ flair.
HULK HOGAN VS. ANDRE THE GIANT(WRESTLEMANIA III, 1987
This fight was a true spectacle. Hogan slammed Andre in front of 93,000 fans. The moment shocked the world.
“Whatcha gonna do when Hulkamania runs wild on you?” Hogan roared as he conquered the 230kg giant.
That slam became one of sport’s most replayed highlights, according to Times Of India.
HULK HOGAN VS. THE ROCK (WRESTLEMANIA X8, 2002)
An epic battle: two eras collided in Toronto. Hogan met the People’s Champion, The Rock, and the Canadian crowd erupted.
Even without a title on the line, this clash stole the show.
As Hogan said, “To achieve greatness, you must believe in yourself.” It was old vs new, and every second delivered.
THE HULKSTER VS ULTIMATE WARRIOR (WRESTLEMANIA VI, 1990
Title for title. Hogan put his WWE Championship on the line. The Warrior put up his Intercontinental crown.
Fans watched in awe as Warrior pinned the Hulkster, and it shocked audiences. This was especially so in countries like South Africa, where wrestling is a passion.
HULK HOGAN VS. SGT. SLAUGHTER (WRESTLEMANIA VII, 1991)
This contest mixed sports and politics. Slaughter, at the time, was painted as an Iraqi sympathiser. Hogan, the American hero.
Their brutal fight symbolised good vs evil, and Hogan reclaimed the world title. It was a moment of relief for his fans across the globe.
“Say your prayers, eat your vitamins, and you will never go wrong,” he reminded supporters.
THE HULKSTER VS. BIG BOSS MAN (STEEL CAGE MATCH, 1989)
No disqualifications. No way out. Boss Man was a powerhouse, but Hogan endured.
The cage shook with every blow, and at one point, Hogan narrowly escaped a Boss Man attack from atop the cage.
This victory added to his legend in WWE’s golden era.
HULK HOGAN VS. VINCE MCMAHON (WRESTLEMANIA XIX, 2003)
WWE’s boss versus its biggest star. It was personal, raw, and violent.
McMahon proved ruthless, but Hogan, cheered by ‘Hulkamaniacs’ around the world, prevailed.
As Hogan declared, “This is where the power lies!”.
HULK HOGAN VS. PAUL ORNDORFF (STEEL CAGE MATCH, 1987)
This rivalry defined 80s wrestling. Both men escaped the cage almost simultaneously.
This fight kept fans guessing right until the end. Hogan’s hand, however, was raised, a fitting close to a bitter feud.
WWE’s influence spans continents. Many South Africans tuned in live or caught replays to see these moments.
The tickets, TV rights, and merchandise were worth millions. Hogan inspired Mzansi’s youth to dream big: “Only you have control over your destiny.”
The Hulkster lives on. Giants slammed, and obstacles overcome, his matches will be watched and quoted for many generations to come.
WHICH HULK HOGAN MATCH DO YOU THINK WAS THE MOST ICONIC?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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