RIP Hulk Hogan: The Legend Who Opened Hollywood’s Doors for Wrestlers Like Dwayne Johnson and John Cena

Millions of fans around the world have mourned the loss of wrestling legend Hulk Hogan, whose real name was Terry Gene Bollea, who died of heart arrest at the age of 71. Hogan was a cultural phenomenon whose influence extended well beyond the squared circle, and he was well-known for his towering physique, colourful manner, and trademark horseshoe moustache.

The Hulkamania Affirmation

Hogan immediately rose to prominence as the face of professional wrestling after joining the WWF (now WWE) in 1983. "Whatcha gonna do when Hulkamania runs wild on you?" became his trademark slogan and a rallying cry for supporters worldwide. When Vince McMahon expanded wrestling across the country, Hogan, wearing his trademark red-and-yellow attire, contributed to the transformation of the sport into a popular form of entertainment.

Hogan's Ascent to Stardom

Hogan and Sylvester Stallone made their Hollywood debuts in 1982 as Thunderlips and Rocky III, respectively. His charisma and on-screen persona were highlighted in the short role, which helped wrestlers make the move to the big screen.

In the late 1980s and early 1990s, Hogan starred in films such as Mr. Nanny (1993), Suburban Commando (1991), and No Holds Barred (1989). These films, despite their lack of critical praise, made Hogan a family-friendly action-comedy hero and demonstrated that wrestlers could attract fans outside of the arena.

John Cena and The Rock's blueprint

• John Cena and Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson are two examples of future wrestling legends whose success in Hollywood was paved by Hogan.
• Following Hogan's lead, The Rock, who made the move to Hollywood in the early 2000s, went on to become one of the highest-grossing action actors in history.
• In the 2010s, John Cena took a similar route with successful shows including Blockers, The Marine, and the critically praised Peacemaker series.
• Hogan contributed to the development of an entertainment industry that accepted wrestlers as respectable actors and international performers, which benefited both superstars.

The Impact of Hogan on Pop Culture

Hogan embodied the American pop culture of the 1980s and was more than just a wrestler. He became well-known outside of sports thanks to his huge character, endorsements, and TV appearances.

Hogan rebranded himself as "Hollywood" Hulk Hogan in 1996, establishing himself as the leader of the revolutionary nWo faction and demonstrating his capacity to transform the business once more.

A Legacy That Lasts

Hogan's impact on wrestling and film is indisputable, despite the fact that his filmography may not have impressed reviewers. He demonstrated that wrestlers could be famous people around the world, actors, and entertainers. Generations of performers have been motivated to pursue careers outside of the ring by his efforts, which helped pave the way for WWE's Hollywood revolution.

The wrestling community has lost one of its finest performers with Hogan's death. Hulkamania will, however, live on in every wrestler-turned-actor who bravely follows in his footsteps.