The much-anticipated debut of WWE’s Monday Night Raw on Netflix was a spectacle of energy, star power, and nostalgia. Fans packed the arena for four high-octane matches, glimpses of celebrity attendees, and appearances from wrestling legends. Yet, amidst the cheers and celebration, one moment stood out for all the wrong reasons.
A Grand Entrance Gone Awry
Before the night’s main event, fans erupted with excitement when the iconic tune “Real American” blared through the speakers. Jimmy Hart led the way, waving an American flag, as Hulk Hogan stepped onto the ramp, evoking memories of his golden era. The initial reception was electric, with fans singing along to one of wrestling’s most recognizable entrance songs.
But that excitement didn’t last.
As Hogan took the mic, the tone in the arena shifted dramatically. Promoting both Netflix and his new venture, Real American Beer, the Hulkster’s speech quickly drew boos from the crowd. The thunderous reaction left little doubt: Hulkamania wasn’t running wild in this moment—it was running out of steam.
Social Media Scrubs the Moment
Interestingly, WWE’s social media coverage of the event showcased Hogan’s triumphant walk to the ring but stopped short of sharing footage from his speech. The omission didn’t go unnoticed by fans, many of whom speculated on the reasoning behind it.
Was it a calculated move to protect Hogan’s legacy? Or was WWE acknowledging the disconnect between Hogan and the modern fanbase? Whatever the reason, the decision to exclude the promo from their highlights spoke volumes.
Decades of Legacy, But Times Have Changed
For years, Hulk Hogan was synonymous with professional wrestling. From his WrestleMania headliners to his larger-than-life persona, Hogan was more than a superstar—he was a cultural phenomenon. However, as time has marched on, so too has Hogan’s untouchable status.
His ties to political figures, including public endorsements of Donald Trump, have sparked debates among fans. The Los Angeles crowd’s response, however, didn’t seem rooted in politics. After all, The Undertaker, another legend with similar affiliations, received an ovation for his surprise appearance that evening.
Instead, the reaction to Hogan appears to stem from a culmination of controversies, missteps, and a growing sentiment among fans that his goodwill has run its course.
A Tough Crowd in Los Angeles
The Los Angeles crowd didn’t pull punches, voicing their disapproval loud and clear. The sentiment online echoed this reaction, with many fans sharing their thoughts on Hogan’s changing place in wrestling history.
While WWE continues to celebrate its legends, the reception Hogan received signals a shift in fan attitudes. Wrestling audiences today demand authenticity, and it seems the once-beloved Hulkster has struggled to keep pace with modern expectations.
A Night of Contrasts
What makes Hogan’s reception even more striking is how the rest of the night unfolded.
- Rhea Ripley’s championship victory was met with thunderous applause.
- The Undertaker’s appearance to congratulate Ripley only added to the evening’s emotional highs.
Even other Trump-affiliated legends like the Undertaker and Kane have managed to navigate their public personas without alienating fans. Hogan’s challenges, then, feel less about politics and more about his enduring controversies.
Hogan’s Legacy Faces a Test
Hulk Hogan’s impact on professional wrestling is undeniable. He’s a Hall of Famer, a global icon, and a pioneer of wrestling’s mainstream success. Yet, moments like these highlight the challenges of maintaining relevance in an ever-critical fan landscape.
As WWE continues to evolve, its legends, including Hogan, must adapt to changing dynamics. Whether the Hulkster can re-establish a connection with today’s audiences remains to be seen.
