Matching 30 WWE superstars with 30 Marvel and DC superheroes
By Mark Lynch
14. Hulk Hogan
Hulk Hogan is the reason professional wrestling became popular. He’s the first person we think about when the topic of classic WWF comes up. For most of the 1980s, 1990s, and early 2000s Hulk Hogan was king. His theme music hits and his fans (the Hulkamaniacs) jump to their feet to cheer. When he “Hulked up” it was like he felt no pain. Once that happened, it was only a matter of time before he hit the big boot and landed the Atomic Leg Drop. His popularity also landed him some starring movie roles and cameos.
There was a time when Hulk Hogan became “Hollywood” Hogan. A heel who did whatever he wanted. Despite being a villain and going away from everything he once represented, he was still beloved. His time with the NWO is still among the best three eras in wrestling history.
The Hulk
Pun aside, this was an easy choice. Throughout Hulk Hogan’s career, he was almost unstoppable. In his early career, he was the reason that people tuned into the WWF. His promos and battles remain classics. Hogan performed feats that seemed impossible like body slamming Andre the Giant.
The Hulk had a similar origin. He’s partly responsible for the Avengers’ popularity in the comic books and the movies. We’ve seen both men appear to feel no pain after receiving a beating. Hulk and the Hulkster are both characters that took pride in being the strongest in their time. However, no one is stronger than Hulk.