The recent passing of professional wrestling legend Hulk Hogan has sent shockwaves throughout the wrestling community, with tributes and condolences pouring in from WWE and other wrestling personalities. However, not all promotions have publicly acknowledged his death, with All Elite Wrestling (AEW) and its president, Tony Khan, facing criticism for their silence on the matter.

Hulk Hogan’s Legacy and Impact

Hulk Hogan, whose real name was Terry Bollea, was a pivotal figure in the world of professional wrestling. He was best known for his iconic persona — a mustachioed, bandana-wearing hero who captivated audiences during the 1980s wrestling boom. Hogan’s influence extended beyond the ring; he was a household name, appearing in films like “Rocky III” and TV shows such as the reality series “Hogan Knows Best.” His legacy is marked by numerous championships, including at least six WWE titles, and he was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005[1].

WWE has been quick to honor Hogan’s memory. In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), the organization expressed sadness over his passing, highlighting his role in bringing WWE to global prominence in the 1980s[1]. Such tributes underscore the significant impact Hogan had on professional wrestling, transforming it into a family-friendly entertainment sport that appealed to a wide audience[2].

AEW’s Silence on Hogan’s Passing

Despite the outpouring of tributes from WWE and other wrestling figures, AEW and its leadership have not publicly spoken about Hogan’s death. This silence has not gone unnoticed, with fans and wrestling journalists alike questioning why AEW hasn’t acknowledged the passing of such a legendary figure.

“Tony Khan and AEW’s silence on Hulk Hogan’s death is puzzling,” said a source close to the wrestling industry. “Hogan was a global icon who influenced generations of wrestlers. It would be expected for AEW to pay some form of respect, especially given their proximity to the wrestling community.”

Criticism and Reactions

While some have defended AEW’s decision, citing the company’s focus on its own brand and wrestlers, others see it as a missed opportunity to show respect for someone who shaped the industry. On social media, fans have expressed disappointment, with some calling for AEW to issue a statement of condolence.

In an interview with Fightful, a former AEW wrestler shared their perspective on the situation: “It’s understandable that AEW might not want to detract from their own storylines, but acknowledging Hulk Hogan’s impact on wrestling would be a gesture of goodwill. It’s a missed chance to show appreciation for someone who helped pave the way for all of us.”

Backstage Insights

According to a WWE insider, there’s a sense of surprise within WWE about AEW’s silence. “Hogan was a figure who transcended company lines. His legacy is not just about WWE; it’s about the entire wrestling industry. It would have been gracious for AEW to acknowledge his passing, even if just in a small way.”

Tony Khan’s Approach to Social Media

Tony Khan is known for being active on social media, often engaging directly with fans and addressing various topics related to AEW. However, his silence on Hogan’s passing has raised eyebrows, particularly among those who feel that AEW should maintain a level of respect for wrestling’s history and pioneers.

In a recent podcast, wrestling analyst Dave Meltzer discussed the potential reasons behind AEW’s silence, suggesting that it might be a strategic decision to avoid drawing attention away from AEW’s ongoing storylines. However, he also noted that acknowledging Hogan’s passing would be a positive gesture, especially given the historical significance of Hogan’s career.

Conclusion

As the wrestling world continues to mourn the loss of Hulk Hogan, the absence of public acknowledgment from AEW and Tony Khan remains a topic of discussion. While AEW’s focus on its own brand is understandable, the silence surrounding Hogan’s legacy highlights the importance of respecting the contributions of all wrestling pioneers, regardless of company affiliations.

In the end, it’s not about rivalries or company loyalties; it’s about showing respect for those who have helped shape the sport into what it is today. As one wrestling fan tweeted, “Hulk Hogan’s impact on wrestling is undeniable. It’s disappointing to see AEW not acknowledge his legacy, but hopefully, they will find a way to pay their respects soon.”