Hulk Hogan remains one of the most polarizing figures in professional wrestling history, but his impact on the industry is undeniable. In the recently released Real American: Hulk Hogan, the series chronicles his rise to superstardom while also addressing some of the most controversial chapters of his career. It offers a deeper look at the highs and lows that defined his legacy, including how those moments shaped him later in life.
One particularly emotional segment highlights a moving tribute from Vince McMahon, who honored Hogan during his funeral in front of family and close friends, underscoring the profound influence he had on the wrestling world.
Vince McMahon Leads The Final Standing Ovation For Hulk Hogan
In newly surfaced footage featured in the docuseries, Vince McMahon is seen honoring Hulk Hogan while reflecting on the many memories they shared over the years.
Although the full speech was not included in the series, McMahon recalled a long-standing tradition of fans giving Hogan a standing ovation after his matches, and urged those present at this funeral to recreate it one final time.
The former WWE chairman said, “At the end of every match, they give him a standing ovation. So what I’m suggesting to all of you is that we give Hulk Hogan his very last standing ovation right now.”
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McMahon then began applauding, prompting everyone in the room to rise to their feet and honor the wrestling icon in an emotional show of respect. The moment also marks a rare public appearance by McMahon following his departure from the company in January 2024
Triple H Made The Call To Fire Hulk Hogan In 2015 After His Racial Slur Controversy
The docuseries also revisits one of the most controversial periods in Hulk Hogan’s life, when a leaked recording of him using racial slurs spread rapidly across social media. In response, WWE issued an official statement terminating Hogan’s contract and temporarily removed him from its programming and legacy platforms like the WWE Hall of Fame.
The documentary sheds light on the internal decision-making process, revealing that Triple H was the one tasked with delivering the news.
He recalled the difficult moment, stating, “So when all the stuff came out, I’m the guy that had to call and say ‘we cannot move forward with you, Terry, and we’re done'”.
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Triple H further explained that, in his mind, he was letting go of Terry Bollea, the man behind the persona, rather than the larger-than-life character of Hulk Hogan. The series also captures Hogan reflecting on the aftermath, admitting that it left him feeling as though his entire career had been erased.
