Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s powerful message to wrestling legend andHogan Knows Beststar Hulk Hogan, who recently died, is going viral, and it’s one of his most emotional moments yet.Dwayne and Hulk had a long-standing relationshiprooted in WWE history.Hulk, a major star in the 1980s and 1990s, paved the wayfor future wrestlers.“The Rock” debuted in the late 1990sand has often cited Hulk as an inspiration and a pioneer in professional wrestling.
Hulk, born Terry Gene Bollea, passed away on June 22, 2025, at age 71due to cardiac arrest. A 12-time WWE World Champion and wrestling icon,Hulk played a key rolein transforming professional wrestling into a global entertainment phenomenon. His death sparked tributes from fans and celebrities, highlighting his lasting impact on sports and pop culture.
Dwayne Johnson shared a powerful message for Hulk Hogan after the news of his passing.
Dwaynetook to Instagram after it was revealed that his former opponent, Hulk, had died of cardiac arrest. “To millions of little kids you were a childhood hero - myself included,” Johnson wrote as he posted a video of a match between himself and Hulk playing on an old-school TV set. Dwayne remembered returning Hulk’s “Hulkster” headband in the Madison Square Garden locker room as a child.
“I’m standing in the middle of the ring and facing you – one of my wrestling heroes in the main event of WRESTLEMANIA.”
Seventeen years later,Dwayne faced him at WrestleMania X8 in 2002. The match was going to decide who would go down in history as “The Greatest of All Time.” Dwayne continued,“When you kick out of my Rock Bottom finisher - just listen and FEEL that crowd go ELECTRIC…all for you.” He had never felt anything like that in his entire wrestling career.
“It takes two to tango, but that historic crowd reaction was all for you.”
Dwayne wrote howHulk might have“passed the torch” to him that night, but he also “drew the house.” He meant that Hulk sold out every arena and stadium across the country in his prime as Hulk Hogan, on his way to becoming the “greatest of all time.”
“From deep in my bones, and on behalf of this wild and crazy world of professional wrestling that we love, I say to you now, and forever…Thank you for the house, brother,” Dwayne wrote as he concluded his emotional message to his departed rival.
What Dwayne Johnson’s Hulk Hogan Tribute Means
The Rock’s Heartfelt Tribute Celebrates Hulk Hogan’s Lasting Impact
Dwayne has often shared how Hulk was his childhood idoland how meeting him left a lasting impression. Catching Hulk’s headband during a main event match against Paul Orndorff and returning it backstage is a memory he cherishes. Years later, they clashed in an iconic match at WrestleMania X8, symbolizing a generational shift in wrestling.
Dwayne’s tribute reflects more than just nostalgia. It told a story of deep respect, admiration, and the symbolic passing of the torch between two of wrestling’s greatest stars.Fans in the comments section reacted with emotion and appreciation, praising Dwayne for sharingsuch a touching and genuine memoryfollowing the news of Hulk’s passing.
Dwayne’s emotional tribute to Hulk speaks volumes about their journey, from being fierce competitors to deep mutual respect. Though rivals in the ring,Dwayne honored him as his childhood hero and mentor. By commemorating their iconic WrestleMania match and personal bond, he celebrated Hulk’s legacy in wrestling.
Our Take On Dwayne Johnson’s Emotional Tribute To Hulk Hogan
The Rock’s Tribute To Hulk Hogan’s Is Full-Circle Wrestling Moment
Dwayne’s tribute to Hulk is more than a farewell. It reflects how wrestling icons influence each other across generations. From childhood admiration to a legendary showdown,The Rock’s heartfelt words reveal thedeep respect behind their rivalry. It is a powerful reminder of theHogan Knows Beststar’s lasting legacy in wrestling history.
Hogan Knows Best
Cast
This reality documentary series on VH1 centers on the family life of professional wrestler Hulk Hogan. It explores his efforts to manage and support his children’s burgeoning careers, highlighting the dynamics of the Hogan household and offering a glimpse into their personal and professional challenges.
