In a dramatically patriotic display, former wrestling legend Hulk Hogan electrified the Republican National Convention with his fervent endorsement of former President Donald Trump.
Hogan hailed Trump as a "real American hero," adding noteworthy theatrics by tearing his shirt to reveal a Trump-Vance muscle tank, as the Los Angeles Times reports.
Real name Terry Bollea, Hogan is known for his six World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) championships, and he made a sensational appearance Thursday night at the RNC. He kicked off his speech by evoking the energy of his wrestling career, leading the crowd to a peak reminiscent of his days at Madison Square Garden. "When I came here tonight, there was so much energy in this room I felt maybe I was in Madison Square Garden getting ready to win another world title," Hogan exclaimed.
During his speech, Hogan expressed a longstanding friendship with Trump, spanning over 35 years. He applauded Trump, the Republican presidential nominee and a fellow WWE Hall of Famer, as a "hero" and "gladiator." In full wrestling spirit, Hogan belted out, "But what I found out was I was in a room of real Americans, brother."
Hogan's energetic presence was not without theatrical flair. He punctuated his endorsement by tearing off his shirt to unveil a bright red Trump-Vance muscle tank, an act that drove the 50,000 attendees into a frenzy. "Let Trumpamania run wild, brother. Let Trumpamania rule again. Let Trumpamania make America great again," he rallied.
Hogan's endorsement extended beyond mere theatrics; it echoed deep political sentiments. He emphasized his decision to support Trump owing to "everything that's happened to our country over the past four years." The recent assassination attempt on Trump intensified Hogan's resolve to publicly back the former president.
Despite facing dual impeachments and numerous legal battles, Trump’s resilience was a central theme of Hogan's speech. "I know tough guys, but let me tell you something, brother. Donald Trump is the toughest of them all," he asserted. This endorsement touched upon Trump's fighting spirit and unwavering commitment to his political cause.
Hogan also voiced his support for vice presidential nominee J.D. Vance, labeling the Republican ticket as “the greatest tag team.” Reflecting on his wrestling days, Hogan drew an analogy to emphasize the strength of the Trump-Vance partnership, invoking the image of unbeatable wrestling duos. In a nod to his catchphrase, Hogan concluded his endorsement with, "Whatcha gonna do when Donald Trump and all the Trumpamaniacs run wild on you, brother?"
Alongside Hogan, UFC President Dana White took to the stage to introduce Trump at the RNC. White echoed Hogan's sentiments, praising Trump as a "fighter" and "real American badass." This introduction set a robust tone for Trump’s address to the convention attendees.
Trump, appearing at the convention with a bandaged ear following the recent assassination attempt, addressed the crowd's enthusiasm. Many attendees symbolically wore ear bandages matching his. Trump’s speech was a call to restore and save the country, promising the American people "rich and wonderful tomorrows."
Hogan’s dramatic endorsement, coupled with his nostalgic nod to wrestling, left a memorable impact on the convention. His blend of personal conviction and theatricality illuminated his support for Trump in a way only Hulk Hogan could deliver.
This RNC appearance marked Hogan’s significant dive into political waters, reflecting his current stance on American politics. "As an entertainer, I try to stay out of politics, but after everything that’s happened to our country over the past four years, and everything that happened last weekend, I can no longer stay silent," Hogan declared, underlining the gravity of recent national events on his decision to endorse Trump.
Summarizing a night of high energy and dramatic displays, Hogan said, "I’m here tonight because I want the world to know that Donald Trump is a real American hero, and I’m proud to support my hero as the next president of this United States."
