Following the passing of legendary WWE star Hulk Hogan, UFC president Dana White shared stories about his deep patriotism and love for President Donald Trump as he gave an emotional tribute to the wrestling superstar.
The iconic pro-wrestler passed away at the age of 71 after experiencing cardiac arrest at his home located in Clearwater, Florida on Thursday. As someone who was a Hulk Hogan fanatic growing up in the 1980s, I can tell you from personal experience that the Hulkster’s fiery passion for America, macho masculinity, and drive to do good and help others had a major impact on me.
As it did for millions of kids all around the world.
Hogan, whose real name is Terry Bollea, had forged a deep friendship with President Trump over the years. Not surprising given they are both members of the WWE Hall of Fame, and love this country with every fiber of their being.
Here’s more from The Daily Mail:
And following his death, UFC CEO White, another outspoken defender of the president, opened up on Hogan’s love for his country and respect for Trump during an appearance on Fox News‘ ‘Jesse Watters Primetime’ on Thursday.
‘I was actually on a family vacation, I flew from Italy to Milwaukee, when I got there, they walked me literally right into a holding room where they had me and Kid Rock, but on the way to my room, Hulk grabbed [me] and asked if he could talk to me privately for a second, and he pulled me aside, and you know, I’ll never forget that conversation that we had that night,’ White explained. ‘He was a good man, he was special, he loved the president, and obviously he loved America.’
President Trump also shared a heartfelt tribute to his dear friend, saying:
‘We lost a great friend today, the “Hulkster,” Trump wrote on social media. ‘Hulk Hogan was MAGA all the way — Strong, tough, smart, but with the biggest heart.’ ‘He entertained fans from all over the World, and the cultural impact he had was massive,’ Trump wrote, praising his ‘absolutely electric speech’ from the Republican 2024 National Convention.
‘To his wife, Sky, and family, we give our warmest best wishes and love. Hulk Hogan will be greatly missed!’ he concluded.
Vice President JD Vance penned a tribute to Hulk of his own on social media.
“Hulk Hogan was a great American icon. One of the first people I ever truly admired as a kid,” Vance wrote. “The last time I saw him we promised we’d get beers together next time we saw each other. The next time will have to be on the other side, my friend! Rest in peace.”
Hogan is survived by his wife Sky, children Brooke and Nick, plus two grandchildren.
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