Donald Trump Speaks Out on Hulk Hogan’s Death: “He Was One of a Kind”
0-word tribute articleThe world of wrestling and pop culture was rocked this week with the heartbreaking news of Hulk Hogan’s sudden passing. At 71 years old, the iconic professional wrestler — born Terry Gene Bollea — died following complications from an undisclosed surgery. As fans, fellow wrestlers, and celebrities mourn the loss of the larger-than-life figure, one of Hogan’s longtime friends and vocal supporters, former U.S. President Donald J. Trump, has spoken out in an emotional tribute.
In a heartfelt statement released just hours after Hogan’s death was confirmed, Trump said:
“Hulk Hogan was not only a wrestling legend — he was a friend, a fighter, and a true American icon. He brought strength, pride, and energy to millions of people. I am devastated by the news of his passing. He was one of a kind — and he will be missed tremendously.”
A Friendship Forged in Fame
Donald Trump and Hulk Hogan’s relationship stretches back decades, rooted in the glitzy, over-the-top world of 1980s entertainment and mutual admiration. Hogan, who rose to superstardom during the peak of the World Wrestling Federation (WWF, now WWE), often shared the spotlight with celebrities. Trump was no exception.
In fact, the two first crossed paths during the original WrestleMania events, held at Madison Square Garden and the Trump Plaza Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City. Trump hosted WrestleMania IV and V, two of the biggest wrestling events of the era, and Hogan was the main attraction.
In a resurfaced interview from 1988, Hogan once called Trump “a true champion of entertainment,” and Trump often returned the favor by referring to Hogan as “the strongest guy I’ve ever met, physically and in spirit.”
Trump’s Reaction: Shock, Respect, and Reflection
On his social media platform Truth Social, Trump posted a picture of himself shaking hands with a younger Hulk Hogan, captioned simply:
“An American hero. Rest in peace, my brother.”
Shortly after, during an impromptu appearance on a conservative radio program, Trump elaborated emotionally:
“This one really hit me. Hulk was a symbol of something we don’t see much anymore — he stood tall, stood proud, loved his country, loved his fans. When he walked into a room, you felt his presence. There was no one like him.”
Trump went on to share that the two had spoken earlier this year and that Hogan had been “in good spirits,” talking about a new podcast and visiting veterans’ hospitals.
“He told me he wanted to give back in a big way — that he was feeling grateful for a second chance at life after all his battles. That makes this even harder to believe.”
Tributes Pour In, Trump’s Stands Out
While tributes came in from wrestling legends like Ric Flair, The Undertaker, and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson — and even from mainstream stars like Sylvester Stallone and Arnold Schwarzenegger — Trump’s statement stood out due to its deeply personal tone.
In a follow-up interview with Newsmax, Trump reflected on the private man behind the public persona:
“Terry was humble. People saw Hulkamania, the muscles, the energy — but he had a quiet side. He cared deeply for his kids, he worried about America’s direction. We used to talk about faith, family, and even forgiveness. He had regrets, but he was always trying to be better. That’s something I admired.”
Shared Spotlight: WrestleMania 23 and Beyond
Perhaps the most famous public moment between Hogan and Trump came not in the ‘80s, but decades later at WrestleMania 23 in 2007. Trump famously participated in the “Battle of the Billionaires” match against WWE Chairman Vince McMahon — with both men choosing a wrestler to fight on their behalf.
While Hogan was not part of that match, he made a surprise appearance backstage and shared a moment with Trump before the event. The viral photo of the two shaking hands, with Trump giving Hogan a thumbs-up, has now resurfaced and flooded social media tributes.
A former WWE executive noted this week:
“Trump and Hogan symbolized the over-the-top glamour and grit of the era. Whether you agreed with them or not, they knew how to work a crowd and leave a legacy.”
A Complicated Legacy, A Powerful Goodbye
Hogan, whose career included dizzying highs and deeply public lows, had in recent years been focused on rebuilding his reputation. After a controversial period that included legal battles, health struggles, and personal losses, Hogan had turned to spirituality, fitness, and philanthropy.
Trump, never one to shy from controversy himself, commented on that aspect of his friend’s life:
“We all go through tough chapters. What matters is how we finish the story. Hulk was writing a beautiful final act. He had so much more to give — it’s heartbreaking.”
Final Words and a National Moment
At the close of his statement, Trump made a surprising request that has already sparked conversation online. He urged both the wrestling world and fans around the country to consider honoring Hogan with a national day of tribute:
“He was a cultural force — a man who inspired a generation to believe in hard work, loyalty, and never backing down. I believe Hulk Hogan deserves to be remembered not just as an entertainer, but as an American legend.”
The hashtag #HulkNationalDay began trending shortly after, with thousands of fans sharing clips of Hogan’s classic matches, catchphrases like “Whatcha gonna do, brother?”, and fan memories from the last 40 years.
Conclusion: A Bond Beyond the Ring
In the end, Donald Trump’s tribute to Hulk Hogan wasn’t just a former president speaking about a celebrity. It was a genuine, emotional farewell from one showman to another — two men who built empires on persona, grit, and loyalty.
Their friendship, forged in a world of body slams and gold-plated spectacles, endured despite time, scandal, and political storm.
As Trump said in his closing remarks:
“He made the world a little stronger, a little louder, and a whole lot more fun. Hulk, you slammed giants in the ring — and inspired millions outside of it. Rest well, my friend. You will always be remembered. Forever a champion.”
