The Hulk Hogan Racism Scandal That Marred His WWE Career

Newsweek

3 days ago

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In July 2015, WWE legend Hulk Hogan was abruptly removed from the organization's programming and website after leaked audio revealed him using racist slurs during a private conversation. The scandal resurfaced in the wake of Hogan's death on July 24, 2025, at age 71, prompting renewed scrutiny of his legacy. His manager confirmed his passing to Newsweek, citing cardiac arrest as the cause.
The Context
The remarks, which surfaced as part of a sex tape at the center of Hogan's lawsuit against Gawker Media, included repeated use of the N-word and racially charged comments about his daughter's dating life. WWE terminated Hogan's contract and issued a statement affirming its commitment to diversity and inclusion. Hogan later apologized publicly, saying the language was "unacceptable" and "not who I am."
Hogan's fall from grace marked a pivotal moment in wrestling's reckoning with racism and accountability. As one of WWE's most recognizable figures, his removal sent shockwaves through the industry and raised questions about how organizations respond to misconduct by high-profile talent.
Terry Bollea, aka Hulk Hogan, testifies in court during his trial against Gawker Media at the Pinellas County Courthouse on March 8, 2016 in St Petersburg, Florida.
Terry Bollea, aka Hulk Hogan, testifies in court during his trial against Gawker Media at the Pinellas County Courthouse on March 8, 2016 in St Petersburg, Florida.
John Pendygraft-Pool/Getty Images
What To Know
The racist remarks were captured in a private conversation from a 2007 sex tape involving Hogan and Heather Clem, the wife of his friend Bubba the Love Sponge. The tape was leaked in 2012 and became central to Hogan's $100 million lawsuit against Gawker Media. In 2015, transcripts published by The National Enquirer revealed Hogan using the N-word multiple times while discussing his daughter Brooke's relationship with a Black man.
WWE swiftly terminated Hogan's contract and removed all references to him from its website, including his Hall of Fame profile. The company stated, "WWE is committed to embracing and celebrating individuals from all backgrounds."
In an interview with People magazine, Hogan expressed remorse: "It was unacceptable for me to have used that offensive language; there is no excuse for it; and I apologize for having done it. This is not who I am." He later reiterated that he believed "every person in the world is important and should not be treated differently based on race."
Bay News 9 uncovered additional racially charged comments from 2008 jailhouse phone calls between Hogan and his son Nick, who was serving time for a car crash that left a friend permanently disabled. In one call, Hogan used the N-word and made stereotypical remarks about race, further complicating his public image.
Hogan's legal battle with Gawker over the sex tape culminated in a $140 million jury award, later settled for $31 million. The case, secretly funded by tech billionaire Peter Thiel, led to Gawker's bankruptcy and raised concerns about press freedom and privacy rights.
Despite being reinstated into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2018, Hogan's return was met with mixed reactions. WWE stated that he had apologized to the talent and reflected on the incident, but many fans and wrestlers remained critical. Hogan was often booed during public appearances, including his final WWE event in January 2025.
Hulk Hogan's Cause of Death: What We Know
Born Terry Bollea, the wrestling legend died on July 24, 2025, at age 71 following a cardiac arrest at his home in Clearwater, Florida. According to a statement from the Clearwater Public Safety Department, emergency responders arrived at 9:51 a.m. and transported Hogan to Morton Plant Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Hogan's manager, Lisa Boise, confirmed the news, telling Newsweek, "Unfortunately we must confirm that Terry Bollea, aka Hulk Hogan passed away this morning. We are heartbroken. He was such a great human being and friend."
WWE issued a tribute calling Hogan "one of pop culture's most recognizable figures" and credited him with helping the company achieve global fame in the 1980s.
In the years leading up to his death, Hogan had undergone multiple surgeries for back and heart issues. Despite persistent rumors about his declining health, his wife, Sky Daily, and longtime friend Jimmy Hart had recently assured fans that Hogan was recovering well.
He is survived by his wife, Sky, and two children, Brooke and Nick. Funeral arrangements have not been announced yet.
What People Are Saying
In a 2015 statement, the WWE said about the scandal: "WWE terminated its contract with Terry Bollea (aka Hulk Hogan). WWE is committed to embracing and celebrating individuals from all backgrounds."
Hulk Hogan's public apology at the time via People in 2015: "Eight years ago I used offensive language during a conversation. It was unacceptable for me to have used that offensive language; there is no excuse for it; and I apologize for having done it.
"This is not who I am. I believe very strongly that every person in the world is important and should not be treated differently based on race, gender, orientation, religious beliefs or otherwise.I am disappointed with myself that I used language that is offensive and inconsistent with my own beliefs."
Retired wrestler Ric Flair, born Richard Morgan Fliehr, wrote on X: "I Am Absolutely Shocked To Hear About The Passing Of My Close Friend @HulkHogan! Hulk Has Been By My Side Since We Started In The Wrestling Business. An Incredible Athlete, Talent, Friend, And Father! Our Friendship Has Meant The World To Me. He Was Always There For Me Even When I Didn't Ask For Him To Be. He Was One Of The First To Visit Me When I Was In The Hospital With A 2% Chance Of Living, And He Prayed By My Bedside. Hulk Also Lent Me Money When Reid Was Sick. Hulkster, No One Will Ever Compare To You! Rest In Peace My Friend!"
Retired wrestler Marc Mero wrote on X: "Deeply saddened to hear of the passing of my friend and wrestling legend, Hulk Hogan. Terry Gene Bollea — known to millions as Hulk Hogan — was more than an icon in the ring. He was a man with a big heart and a genuine desire to help others."
Statement from WWE posted on X: "WWE is saddened to learn WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has passed away.
"One of pop culture's most recognizable figures, Hogan helped WWE achieve global recognition in the 1980s.
"WWE extends its condolences to Hogan's family, friends, and fans."
What Happens Next
As tributes pour in following Hogan's death, WWE and the wrestling community face renewed debate over how to honor a figure whose legacy is both groundbreaking and deeply flawed. Retrospectives and documentaries may revisit the scandal alongside his achievements, prompting reflection on the cost of fame and the path to accountability.