Hulk Hogan

Terry Eugene Bollea, better known by his ring name Hulk Hogan, was born on August 11, 1953, in Augusta, Georgia. He would go on to become one of the most iconic and recognizable figures in professional wrestling history, known for his charismatic personality, distinctive look, and overwhelming popularity throughout the 1980s and beyond.

Hulk Hogan became the WWF World Heavyweight Champion for the first time on January 23, 1984, when he defeated The Iron Sheik at Madison Square Garden. This victory marked the beginning of Hulkamania, as Hogan became the face of professional wrestling and helped to elevate the WWF (now WWE) into a mainstream entertainment behemoth during the 1980s era.

On March 29, 1987, WrestleMania III hosted one of the most iconic matches in wrestling history at the Pontiac Silverdome in Michigan, where Hulk Hogan faced André the Giant. The event is noted for breaking indoor attendance records and featured Hogan body-slamming Andre in a moment that defined his career.

On February 5, 1988, a major event took place where Hulk Hogan faced André the Giant on WWF's 'The Main Event' televised special. This match drew over 33 million viewers, making it one of the most watched wrestling matches in North American television history. The controversial match set the stage for major storyline developments in the WWF.

On April 1, 1990, WrestleMania VI took place at the SkyDome in Toronto, Canada, featuring a highly anticipated 'Champion vs. Champion' match between Hulk Hogan and The Ultimate Warrior. In a historic match, Warrior defeated Hogan, marking the first time Hogan lost clean at WrestleMania, symbolizing a transitional period in WWE's flagship event.

Hulk Hogan shocked the wrestling world by turning heel (villain) and forming the New World Order (nWo) on July 7, 1996, at WCW's Bash at the Beach. This pivotal moment revitalized his career and sparked a major storyline in professional wrestling, leading WCW to new heights and intense competition with the rival WWF.

Hulk Hogan was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame on March 14, 2005, recognizing his outstanding contributions to the world of professional wrestling. The ceremony honored his legendary career, highlighting his impact on the industry and celebrating his status as one of the greatest wrestlers of all time.

On July 24, 2015, WWE terminated Hulk Hogan's contract after transcripts of racially insensitive remarks he made in the past were made public. This led to widespread criticism and his removal from the WWE Hall of Fame, although he was later reinstated in 2018 after issuing multiple public apologies and pledging to learn from the incident.

On March 18, 2016, Hulk Hogan was awarded $115 million in a lawsuit against Gawker Media, after they published a secret sex tape involving him. The case was significant in terms of privacy law and media rights, ultimately leading to Gawker's bankruptcy and raising issues regarding freedom of the press versus individual privacy rights.

On July 15, 2018, WWE officially reinstated Hulk Hogan into their Hall of Fame. This decision came after Hogan made continuous public apologies and efforts to educate himself on the impact of his remarks. He attended a WWE event that day, making amends with the wrestling community and fans, marking his redemption narrative.