Hulk Hogan Booed at WWE Raw Premiere for Netflix: A Closer Look at the Controversy
By Tony Ramos
This week, WWE fans witnessed an unexpected moment during the red-carpet premiere of Raw on Netflix. Hulk Hogan, one of wrestling’s most iconic figures, was met with a wave of boos from a crowd that once chanted his name with pride. While Hogan’s legacy as one of the most celebrated wrestlers of all time is undisputed, this moment served as a stark reminder of the controversies that have shadowed his career in recent years.
The Legacy of Hulk Hogan
Hulk Hogan, born Terry Bollea, became the face of professional wrestling during the 1980s. As the centerpiece of Vince McMahon’s WWF (now WWE), Hogan inspired millions with his larger-than-life persona, his catchphrases like “Whatcha gonna do, brother?” and his message of “say your prayers and eat your vitamins.” From his unforgettable matches against Andre the Giant at WrestleMania III to his reinvention as a villain in WCW’s nWo, Hogan’s contributions to wrestling cannot be overstated.
But in recent years, his legacy has become tarnished.
The Racism Scandal That Changed Everything
In 2015, a leaked recording revealed Hogan making racist remarks. The comments, which included the use of the N-word and derogatory statements about his daughter’s relationship with a Black man, sent shockwaves through the wrestling world. The WWE acted swiftly, terminating his contract and erasing his presence from their website and Hall of Fame. Fans who grew up idolizing Hogan were left conflicted, with many expressing disappointment and outrage.
Although Hogan issued multiple apologies and claimed that his comments stemmed from a place of personal frustration rather than deep-seated racism, the damage was done. The incident sparked a larger conversation about racism in the wrestling industry and the responsibility of public figures to uphold certain values.
Why the Boos?
Despite being reinstated into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2018 and making sporadic appearances on WWE programming, many fans and critics have not forgotten the scandal. For some, Hogan’s apologies felt insufficient, and his attempts at redemption lacked sincerity. Others view his return to WWE as a sign that the company prioritized nostalgia and profitability over accountability.
The boos at the Netflix premiere can also be seen as a reflection of the changing landscape of wrestling fandom. Today’s fans are more vocal about holding stars accountable for their actions, and the industry itself has made strides toward becoming more inclusive. To many, Hogan’s presence at such a high-profile event felt tone-deaf, especially in light of his controversial past.
A Divided Legacy
Hulk Hogan’s journey from beloved icon to polarizing figure is a complex story of fame, fallibility, and redemption. While his contributions to wrestling history are undeniable, the stain of his actions continues to linger. The boos at the Netflix premiere serve as a reminder that, for some fans, time does not heal all wounds.
As the wrestling world moves forward, it’s clear that fans are not only looking for legendary performances but also for leaders who embody the values of respect and equality. Whether Hogan can ever fully rebuild his reputation remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the wrestling community will continue to hold its heroes to a higher standard.
