Wrestling legend Hulk Hogan received not the warm welcome he might have anticipated during the WWE's Netflix debut of Monday Night Raw at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles on January 6, 2024. Instead of fervent cheers, the iconic wrestler was met with loud boos from the audience, marking a stark moment for the star once known for captivating fans across generations.
Entering the arena about two and a half hours through the show, Hogan's signature entrance music, "Real American," drew immediate attention, but it quickly transformed as wresting enthusiasts demonstrated their disapproval. The 72-year-old grappler, whose real name is Terry Bollea, was accompanied by his longtime manager, Jimmy Hart, who waved the American flag as Hogan attempted to engage with the audience. Yet, the climate was anything but accepting, as numerous fans visibly displayed their distaste with thumbs-down gestures.
Despite the hostility, Hogan launched his promotional pitch for "Hulk Hogan’s Real American Beer," declaring, "You, the fans, have been my greatest tag team partner because you guys have stuck with me through thick and thin, dudes." The crowd's reaction remained overwhelmingly negative, drowning out his words with jeers. Hogan tried to continue, sharing, "But the greatest partner the WWE has ever had is the fact tonight we’re making history with WWE’s tag teaming up with Netflix, the greatest tag team partner of all time." Yet, his attempts to celebrate the collaboration were met with increased contempt.
This polarizing reaction can be traced back to his controversial history. Hogan has faced significant backlash over the years after being embroiled in scandals, including his 2007 leaked sex tape, which disclosed him using racial slurs. Initially ousted from the WWE Hall of Fame due to these comments, Hogan has expressed regret about his past, stating, "Eight years ago I used offensive language during a conversation. It was unacceptable for me to have used offensive language; there is no excuse for it; and I apologize for having done it." Nonetheless, the repercussions from both the wrestling community and the public have lingered, coloring much of his reputation.
The ill reception at the Netflix event highlights the wrestling legend's complicated relationship with his fans. For many, Hogan was synonymous with the golden era of wrestling, capturing titles and hearts alike. Yet, his subsequent political alignments and controversies have resulted in estrangement from the very demographic he once energized. Reports of Hogan's support for Donald Trump and vocal appearances at various political gatherings have only exacerbated his contentious standing within the wrestling community.
The indifference from fans at Monday Night Raw was also felt by other wrestling superstars who graced the event. Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, John Cena, and the Undertaker all appeared to thunderous applause, contrasting sharply against the vitriol directed at Hogan. The night’s proceedings spotlighted the WWE's recent efforts to engage with Netflix, aiming to breathe new life and excitement around the Monday Night Raw franchise, structured under this new partnership, which began with multiyear negotiations earlier this year.
Hogan's past controversies were not lost on the audience, who reflected on their history with him through their boos. He had previously garnered significant acclaim after rising through the ranks of the wrestling world, transitioning beyond wrestling to become a recognizable pop culture icon. Throughout the years, he showcased roles across various entertainment platforms, including movies and reality television. Despite his reputation, Hogan's legacy remains tumultuous, as individuals grapple with the dichotomy of his contributions to wrestling against personal transgressions.
Fans’ disdain during this pivotal event signifies much more than mere distaste for Hogan’s presence; it shines a light on the broader, shifting dynamics within wrestling fandoms and public opinion. While Hogan may represent one of the sport’s most significant figures, his flawed legacy has left many feeling abandoned, leading them to vocalize their sentiments particularly harshly.
The WWE's Netflix debut may have been written off by some as flawed, but it nonetheless served to remind everyone of the lasting impacts individuals can have on their audiences, for both good and bad. Hogan, once hailed as the hero of the squared circle, is now facing the harsh realities of public scrutiny and the consequences of his past. This stark display of rejection was not only about Hogan’s import as a performer but also about the lasting interface of celebrity culture, accountability, and fan loyalty.