Hulk Hogan, often described as “immortal,” had numerous iconic matches throughout his wrestling career that left a lasting impact on the industry. Following his passing, the wrestling world honored him as one of the most iconic and influential figures in the business.
While Hogan wasn’t known for technical skills in the ring, his larger-than-life persona captivated audiences and helped him headline many landmark matches. Here are some of his most significant bouts:
8. Hulk Hogan and Mr. T vs. Roddy Piper and Paul Orndorff – WrestleMania 1
This tag team match was pivotal in Hulk Hogan’s career and essential to WWE’s long-term success. Paired with celebrity Mr. T, Hogan’s star power helped make WrestleMania 1 a hit and gave WWE the strong start it needed.
7. Hulk Hogan vs. Ultimate Warrior – WrestleMania 6
In this legendary showdown between WWE Champion Hogan and Intercontinental Champion Ultimate Warrior, Hogan was defeated. Despite neither being known for in-ring skills, the match showcased the immense influence of star power and solidified the Ultimate Warrior’s place in wrestling history.
6. Hulk Hogan vs. Randy Savage – WrestleMania 5
The Mega Powers storyline, marked by friendship, jealousy, and love, reached its climax at WrestleMania 5 when Hogan defeated a bitter Randy Savage in one of his best matches, emphasizing the emotional depth that wrestling can deliver.
5. Hulk Hogan vs. Antonio Inoki – NJPW IWGP Championship League 1983
Hogan’s rare victory over Antonio Inoki was a monumental moment in NJPW and helped pave the way for Hogan’s rise in professional wrestling, showcasing his ability to tell a story and adapt to different wrestling styles.
4. Hulk Hogan vs. The Rock – WrestleMania 18
Hogan’s 2002 return to WWE culminated in a memorable match with The Rock, where fans witnessed Hogan’s classic babyface persona reignited. This bout is memorable for its emotional intensity and symbolized a significant shift in Hogan’s career.
3. Hulk Hogan, Scott Hall, Kevin Nash vs. Randy Savage, Lex Luger, Sting – WCW Bash at the Beach 1996
While Hogan didn’t wrestle much and briefly appeared to assist the babyfaces, his involvement as the new leader of the NWO marked a career-defining heel turn that transformed WCW and energized wrestling fans worldwide.
2. Hulk Hogan vs. Iron Sheik – WWE, MSG Network, January 23, 1984
Hogan’s victory over Iron Sheik to win the WWE Championship kickstarted “Hulkamania” and launched his journey as the biggest wrestling star, underpinning WWE’s future success with just a five-minute match that carried massive significance.
1. Hulk Hogan vs. Andre the Giant – WrestleMania 3
This memorable WWE Championship clash defined Hulkamania and drew a massive crowd of 93,000 fans. While the match itself was straightforward, Hogan’s iconic body slam on Andre became one of the most memorable moments in wrestling history.
Fan Take: Hulk Hogan’s legacy is a testament to the power of charisma and storytelling in wrestling, transcending technical skill to shape the sport’s cultural phenomenon. For WWE fans, revisiting these classic moments highlights the foundation upon which modern wrestling is built and reminds us how significant star power can change the course of sports entertainment.
