In an unforgettable night at the WWE Hall of Fame ceremony, Hollywood legend Sylvester Stallone took the stage to induct his longtime friend and wrestling icon Hulk Hogan into the Hall of Fame once again — this time not just as a wrestler, but as a cultural phenomenon who helped shape sports entertainment forever.
Stallone, best known for his role as Rocky Balboa, spoke from the heart as he reflected on their decades-long friendship and Hogan’s impact both inside and outside the ring. “Hulk Hogan isn’t just a wrestler,” Stallone began, his voice full of emotion. “He’s a brilliant personality, a showman unlike any other, and one of the most genuine people I’ve ever known.”
The bond between Stallone and Hogan stretches back to their 1982 film Rocky III, in which Hogan played the flamboyant wrestler Thunderlips. Stallone recalled how Hogan’s charisma lit up the set and how his larger-than-life presence helped elevate the Rocky franchise. “He walked into the ring with thunder, power, and passion—and I knew instantly this man was destined to be an icon,” Stallone told the audience.
Throughout the ceremony, Stallone highlighted key moments in Hogan’s career—from his historic WWE Championship victory over The Iron Sheik in 1984 to his unforgettable clashes with legends like Andre the Giant, Randy Savage, and The Rock. “Hogan had this magnetic presence. He didn’t just entertain people; he inspired them,” Stallone added.
He also praised Hogan for bringing wrestling into the mainstream, noting how the Hulkamania era changed the way the world saw professional wrestling. With his red and yellow gear, wild promos, and the infamous “Say your prayers and eat your vitamins” mantra, Hogan became more than a performer—he became a symbol of hope and strength for millions of fans around the world.
Stallone closed the induction with a powerful statement: “Hulk Hogan showed the world that heroes don’t just exist in movies. They live in the hearts of the people who dare to dream, and brother, Hogan made the whole world dream big.”
The crowd erupted in cheers as Hogan entered the stage, visibly emotional and grateful for Stallone’s touching words. The two embraced, celebrating not just a career but a brotherhood built on respect, admiration, and mutual legacy in entertainment.
