With the passing of WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan, many have reflected on the wrestling world today. Broadcaster Tony Schiavone recently addressed who might be considered AEW’s equivalent to Hogan during his “When Did It Happen” segment. When co-host Conrad Thompson suggested former AEW World Champion Jon Moxley, noting Moxley’s typical heel role contrasted with Hogan’s babyface image, Schiavone had another name in mind.
“I think it’s Kenny Omega if there is anyone,” Schiavone said.
Much like Hogan, Kenny Omega began his AEW career as a fan-favorite babyface and played a key role as a founding Executive Vice President, helping to establish the promotion. During the pandemic, Omega transitioned into a heel character for a time, mirroring Hogan’s career twists. Omega, who held both AEW and TNA championships, took a break due to a severe health issue but returned to great acclaim. Since then, he has remained a top fan favorite and a prominent voice for the audience, often standing up against injustices involving other top stars like The Young Bucks and Kazuchika Okada. Recently, Omega was AEW’s International Champion but passed the title to Okada, who became the first unified champion in AEW history.
Fan Take: This comparison between Kenny Omega and Hulk Hogan highlights Omega’s significant influence in AEW’s growth and star power, something that resonates deeply with fans. It signals that Omega is not just a top performer but a defining figure whose legacy could shape the future of professional wrestling.
