Hulk Hogan & Undertaker Discusss Vicious Boos At Netflix Debut

Hulk Hogan Faces Loud Boos in WWE Return, Blames Politics

Hulk Hogan’s iconic Real American theme song lyrics includes “when it comes crashing down and it hurts inside.”

Well, the wrestling legend, whose real name is Terry Bollea, attributed the overwhelmingly negative reception he received during his surprise return on Raw to his political stance. Fans at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, jeered the 71-year-old icon as WWE debuted on Netflix on Jan. 6.

A longtime supporter of former President Donald Trump, Hogan had spoken at Trump’s October rally at Madison Square Garden. He addressed the backlash during an interview with WWE commentator Pat McAfee on The Pat McAfee Show on ESPN.

“I think the politics had a whole lot to do with it,” Hogan admitted.

Hulk Hogan says he expected to receive boo’s at the RAW on Netflix debut in LA.

(via @PatMcAfeeShow) pic.twitter.com/qChehrQzm2

— Wrestle Ops (@WrestleOps) February 3, 2025

As one of the most recognizable figures in wrestling history, Hogan played a pivotal role in launching WWE (then WWF) into mainstream popularity in the 1980s and 1990s. His transition to WCW and the formation of the New World Order (NWO) further cemented his influence on the industry.

Throughout his wrestling career, Hogan was often greeted with roaring cheers as a beloved babyface (good guy). However, his post-wrestling years have brought a shift in public perception, with reactions now resembling those he received during his infamous Hollywood Hogan heel (villain) era.

Typically, WWE legends returning to the ring receive massive ovations fueled by nostalgia. The Undertaker, who also has a known history of supporting Trump, was met with cheers that night. Hogan, however, was relentlessly booed by the California crowd, one of the most liberal audiences in the country.

Despite sticking to his signature “Let me tell you something, brother” catchphrase while promoting his Real American Beer, the jeers persisted. Even longtime manager Jimmy Hart, waving the American flag in a nod to Hogan’s past patriotic feuds against villains like the Iron Sheik and Sgt. Slaughter, couldn’t sway the audience’s response.

For Hogan, the reaction may have been unexpected—but it was loud and clear.