Vince McMahon Defends Hulk Hogan's WWE Return Amid Controversial Legacy

Vince McMahon has reaffirmed his decision to reinstate Hulk Hogan in the WWE, following Hogan's controversial remarks in 2015. During a televised special dedicated to the late wrestler, McMahon, aged 79, addressed the fallout from Hogan's prior use of racial slurs. McMahon's comments aired as part of "TMZ Presents: The Real Hulk Hogan," in which he asserted that Hogan himself was not racist, despite his regrettable comments. McMahon emphasized his many years of association with Hogan, noting, "He said some racist things, and he should pay for that. And he did."

The racially insensitive comments by Hogan emerged about his daughter Brooke's boyfriend at the time and were made public by the National Enquirer. In response, Hogan publicly apologized, stating that his language was unacceptable and inconsistent with his beliefs. McMahon saw the real Hogan as non-racist, suggesting the public too viewed the wrestler’s actions as part of a significant mistake rather than a reflection of his core character.

Hogan faced considerable backlash, which included being removed from the World Wrestling Entertainment’s Hall of Fame. However, he was reinstated in 2018, a decision McMahon stood by, highlighting Hogan's complex legacy that intertwined wrestling prowess with controversial elements. McMahon remarked, "We all make mistakes. That was a big one, but he wasn’t a racist."

Further shedding light on Hogan's tenure, McMahon reflected on Hogan's final WWE appearance during "Monday Night Raw" on January 6th, where he drew boos from the crowd in Inglewood, California. McMahon expressed his dissatisfaction with the reception, feeling that Hogan deserved more respect. The documentary speculated how Hogan’s political affiliations, particularly his participation in a rally for Donald Trump, could have influenced public perception.

The special also reintroduces McMahon to the media spotlight following his 2024 resignation from WWE due to a lawsuit involving claims of sexual misconduct by a former employee, Janel Grant. Although federal prosecutors dropped the investigation, McMahon's departure marked a significant moment in wrestling history. He has denied all allegations categorically and has largely maintained a low public profile since.

The documentary on Hogan offers a comprehensive look at his life, featuring interviews with industry figures such as Charlotte Flair, Mark Henry, and Sylvester Stallone. McMahon was notably present at Hogan’s funeral earlier in the month in Clearwater, Florida. The broadcast of "TMZ Presents: The Real Hulk Hogan" promises to deliver insights from McMahon among other wrestling luminaries, continuing to blend the past with recent complex narratives, adding layers to Hogan’s storied career.