Dana White's Emotional Tribute: Hulk Hogan's Patriotism and Trump Support
EXCLUSIVE: The Wrestling World Mourns the Loss of Hulk Hogan: A Patriot, a Hero, and a MAGA Ally
In a shocking turn of events, wrestling legend Hulk Hogan (Terry Bollea) has left this world at the ripe age of 71, succumbing to cardiac arrest at his home in Clearwater, Florida. The news sent shockwaves throughout the sports community, with friends, family, and fans alike paying tribute to the late icon.
But what made Hogan's life so remarkable? For starters, he was a proud American patriot who wore his heart on his sleeve – literally! The Hulkster's unwavering support for President Donald Trump was no secret, and their friendship spanned over three decades. White-hot passion is an understatement when describing the bond between these two larger-than-life figures.
UFC CEO Dana White, a longtime ally of the president, shared an intimate story about Hogan's love for America during an appearance on Fox News' "Jesse Watters Primetime." As it turns out, White had just arrived in Milwaukee from Italy and was whisked away to a holding room where he met Kid Rock. But before that, Hogan grabbed him aside and shared something special – a testament to their friendship.
"Brother, I'll never forget that conversation we had," White recalled. "He told me how much he loved the president and America. He said it with conviction, with heart, and from his very soul." That's when it hit White: Hogan was more than just a wrestling legend; he was a symbol of American strength and resilience.
And then there's Trump, who couldn't contain his emotions upon hearing the news. "We lost a great friend today," he tweeted, echoing the sentiments of Vice President JD Vance, who remembered Hogan as a "great American icon" and a childhood hero. The president, naturally, was effusive in his praise for Hogan's unwavering support.
"Hulk Hogan was MAGA all the way – Strong, tough, smart, but with the biggest heart," Trump wrote, praising Hogan's electrifying speech at the Republican National Convention last year. "He entertained fans from all over the world, and the cultural impact he was massive." He also acknowledged Hogan's iconic wrestling career, which spanned decades.
Hogan's love for America knows no bounds – nor does his admiration for President Trump. In 2020, the Hulkster famously endorsed the president at the Republican National Convention, saying "What happened last week, when they took a shot at my hero, and they tried to kill the next president of the United States, enough was enough and I said let Trumpamania run wild brother!" Hogan's words dripped with conviction as he ripped off his shirt to reveal a Trump-branded tank top.
It turns out that the assassination attempt on President Trump in 2020 was a turning point for Hogan. "I've known Donald for over 35 years," he said, recalling their shared history at some of Trump's hotel and casino venues. Hogan even spoke at Trump's Madison Square Garden rally in New York City just before the presidential election.
Trump was equally effusive in his praise, saying that Hogan had been a close friend since his wrestling days. "We have our country back!" Hogan exclaimed during the president's Liberty Ball, ripping off the sleeves of his tuxedo as he celebrated their shared vision for America.
Hogan is survived by his loving wife Sky, whom he married in 2023, and their blended family, including children Brooke and Nick from his previous marriage. The wrestling world will undoubtedly miss him dearly – but Hogan's legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched with his larger-than-life personality.
In a shocking twist, rumors swirled that Hogan was bedridden due to a routine neck surgery in recent weeks. His wife Sky denied these claims, stating that his heart remained strong despite numerous surgeries over the years. After all, you can't keep a Hulkamaniac down for long!
As White so eloquently put it: "When you give your body for the sake of your passion, as Hogan did, you're not just doing it for yourself; you're doing it for those who admire and idolize you." That's what made Hulk Hogan a true patriot – his unrelenting love for America, his unwavering commitment to his craft, and his unshakeable trust in the leaders he believed in.
The world may have lost an icon today, but Hogan's impact will live on through generations of wrestling fans. As Trump so aptly put it: "Hulk Hogan was a great man, with a heart of gold. He will be greatly missed!"