In the wake of Hulk Hogan’s recent passing, WWE official Adam Pearce found himself in the middle of a heated online discussion after sharing a heartfelt tribute to the wrestling legend on his Facebook page. The response from fans was overwhelmingly supportive at first, but Pearce soon noticed a wave of negative comments directed at Hogan, prompting him to address the backlash head-on.

Hulk Hogan, one of professional wrestling’s most iconic figures, passed away on July 24, 2025, from cardiac arrest in Clearwater, Florida. The wrestling world reacted swiftly, with tributes pouring in from WWE, TNA, and countless fans around the globe. Hogan’s influence on wrestling is undeniable, with many crediting him for ushering in wrestling’s golden era in the 1980s and elevating the industry to new heights.

Adam Pearce, a longtime WWE official and respected authority figure within the company, took to Facebook shortly after Hogan’s death to share a sincere message reflecting on the impact Hogan had both on the industry and on him personally. Pearce recalled moments from his childhood watching Hogan’s matches, highlighting the inspiration Hogan provided to countless fans and future wrestlers alike. However, as the comments section grew, Pearce encountered a disturbing number of negative remarks and criticism aimed at Hogan’s legacy.

Rather than ignoring the backlash, Pearce responded directly to those posting disparaging comments. In a measured yet firm message, he asked fans to reconsider the timing and tone of their negativity, especially given the recent loss of a wrestling pioneer. “There’s a time and place for every conversation, and right now, it’s about honoring a legend who gave so much to this business,” Pearce wrote. “Hulk Hogan’s contributions helped shape the path for many of us here today.”

According to a WWE insider familiar with Pearce’s mindset, the official was motivated by a desire to preserve respect and unity within the wrestling community during a difficult time. “Adam has always been someone who values the history and traditions of professional wrestling. He understands the importance of acknowledging the positive aspects of Hogan’s career, especially when the wrestling world is mourning,” the source explained.

The reaction to Pearce’s post drew praise for his diplomatic handling of a potentially divisive issue. Many fans expressed appreciation for Pearce’s reminder that, despite controversies that have surrounded Hogan in the past, the time immediately after his death should focus on respect and remembrance rather than recrimination. This sentiment echoed across WWE and beyond, with TNA iMPACT opening its show with a solemn Hulk Hogan tribute, highlighting the widespread recognition of Hogan’s impact on wrestling history.

Pearce’s actions also shine a light on the broader challenges wrestlers and officials face on social media, where public discourse can quickly turn hostile. As someone deeply ingrained in the industry, Pearce’s commitment to fostering a positive atmosphere reflects his leadership both inside and outside the ring.

In the days following Hogan’s death, tributes have ranged from heartfelt to critical, reflecting the complexity of Hogan’s multi-decade career and personal history. While there is acknowledgment of controversies that clouded Hogan’s public image, Adam Pearce’s statement articulates a clear message: Hogan’s pioneering influence and contributions to the sport warrant respect, especially during a period of mourning.

This episode demonstrates the ongoing cultural significance Hogan holds, not only as a wrestler but as a symbol of an era that shaped professional wrestling’s global presence. As WWE continues to honor Hogan’s legacy in upcoming events and programming, voices like Pearce’s emphasize unity and respect among fans and professionals alike.

In summary, Adam Pearce’s response to negative comments on his Facebook page reaffirms the importance of honoring wrestling legends with dignity, especially in moments of collective grief. His thoughtful approach serves as a reminder that while opinions will vary, the shared history and impact of figures like Hulk Hogan deserve recognition and respect within the wrestling community.