I Don't Hate Hulk Hogan, But I Can't Defend Him

Let's be clear: I, like many, grew up idolizing Hulk Hogan. He was the larger-than-life figure we all loved in wrestling rings, video games, and even his oddly entertaining reality TV stint. But recent discussions, fueled by figures like Joey Swoll and Michael Rapaport, who've made their brands on virtue signaling and cancel culture, force me to address the complex legacy left behind by the WWE legend.

As white men, Swoll and Rapaport's defense of Hulk Hogan often conveniently glosses over his past racist remarks—remarks that, as a Black man, I cannot ignore or justify. Their attempts to sanitize or sidestep Hogan's controversies ultimately risk alienating their own fan bases, who might swiftly "yeet" them for selective morality.

When Hogan passed away, social media quickly filled with celebration and distasteful commentary from those who remembered his leaked audio featuring racially charged language. Was celebrating his death justified? Absolutely not. But was it predictable given the unforgiving nature of the internet and the gravity of his remarks? Unfortunately, yes.

Do I personally believe Hulk Hogan truly hated Black people? No, not in the absolute sense. Hogan's racism felt more akin to a certain outdated cultural prejudice—a type you might see among older generations of Hispanic communities, where working, eating, and even fighting side-by-side with Black individuals was acceptable, but romantic relationships were an absolute no-go. Hogan clearly had deep relationships with Black wrestlers and peers, suggesting he wasn't entirely blind to the positives within our community.

Yet, despite this nuanced understanding, as a Black man, hearing Hogan’s leaked recordings remains deeply unsettling. I've always reminded my white friends who casually use certain words around me, "Just because I'm cool with it doesn't mean I'll defend you when someone else takes offense." Simply put, being comfortable in certain circles doesn’t give blanket permission everywhere.

Applying this logic here, Hulk Hogan remains a childhood hero who created countless cherished memories. But will I jump on social media to fight online battles in defense of his legacy? No. The uncomfortable bed Hogan made is the one he ultimately must lie in.

Rest in peace to a legend whose contributions to entertainment and wrestling are undeniable. Thank you for the memories, Hulk. But I must respectfully draw the line and recognize that this complicated legacy must remain precisely that—complicated and ultimately indefensible.