WWE Hall of Famer Booker T has opened up about the recent passing of fellow wrestling legend Hulk Hogan, describing it as a “bitter moment” for him personally. Known for their complicated and evolving relationship over the years, Booker T revealed insights into how Hogan’s death has affected him and shared a touching memory involving a gesture of respect Hogan once extended.

Booker T said in an exclusive interview with WWE.com that despite the controversies surrounding Hogan in later years, the loss of such a monumental figure in professional wrestling leaves a profound impact. “We’ve had our ups and downs, no doubt. But losing Hulk, it’s a bitterness you can’t shake. It’s like losing family,” Booker said. He reflected on how Hogan paved the way for many wrestlers of their generation, including himself, and noted Hogan’s incredible contributions to the industry’s growth and popularity worldwide.

Sources close to Booker T revealed that before Hogan’s passing, the two had shared conversations that helped ease tensions from past disagreements. According to Fightful, Booker recounted a moment in which he personally thanked Hogan for reaching out privately years ago after a particularly heated confrontation during their WCW days, demonstrating a mutual respect that transcended the public narrative.

The wrestling community has long been aware of the complex dynamics between Hogan and Booker T. From acclaimed tag team matches as part of Harlem Heat to individual rivalries, their on-screen and off-screen interactions were marked by both conflict and camaraderie. As detailed on Booker T’s Hall of Fame podcast, he often acknowledged Hogan’s influence on his own career, even during moments of criticism or disappointment. “Hulk was a pioneer. You can’t forget that, even when times got rough,” Booker explained.

The past decade saw Hogan facing significant public backlash due to controversies, including his infamous 2015 scandal involving racist remarks, which resulted in WWE temporarily removing him from its Hall of Fame listings. Booker T himself spoke about the need for second chances, stating in a 2016 TMZ Sports interview that Hogan “deserves forgiveness” and acknowledging human fallibility. These statements added layers to their relationship, balancing criticism with empathy.

In recent years, Hogan’s career and public life became more turbulent, marked by incidents that sparked criticism from fans and peers alike. Booker T addressed this in a 2025 podcast episode, referring to Hogan’s “rough senior life” and the viral “MAGA Maniac” chant at NXT events that referenced a historic promo involving Booker himself. Booker took the moment in stride, asking fans to give the chant some leeway while honoring the legacy Hogan built.

Industry insiders close to WWE have noted that Booker T’s candid reflections highlight the complexities of reconciliation in wrestling’s legendary rivalries. One backstage source told WWE.com, “Booker T’s respect for Hulk goes beyond what people saw on TV. There’s a genuine bond and sadness now that he’s gone. This is a real loss for all of us.”

Booker T also underscored how Hogan’s death reminds the wrestling world of the importance of legacy and forgiveness. “At the end of the day, we’re all human. Legends like Hulk shaped who we are. It’s a tough moment, but it’s also one for reflection and gratitude,” he said.

As WWE and the pro wrestling community mourn Hogan’s passing, tributes pour in from stars past and present. WWE has yet to announce any formal memorial plans, but insiders expect the company to honor Hogan’s legendary career in forthcoming programming and Hall of Fame ceremonies.

Booker T’s heartfelt tribute and candid commentary serve as a poignant reminder of Hogan’s complex, influential role in wrestling history — one that mixed triumph, controversy, rivalry, and friendship. His words provide fans and fellow wrestlers a nuanced narrative: honoring Hogan’s undeniable impact while acknowledging the challenges that defined his later years.

Key Takeaways:

• Booker T describes Hulk Hogan’s death as a “bitter moment,” acknowledging a relationship that balanced respect and rivalry.[3][4]
• The two shared private moments of reconciliation despite public controversies, including Hogan’s 2015 scandal.[1][4]
• Booker T has publicly advocated for Hogan’s second chance, highlighting forgiveness within wrestling culture.[1]
• Recent fan interactions, like the viral NXT chant, reflect ongoing debates about Hogan’s legacy.[2]
• The wrestling community and WWE insiders confirm the significance of Hogan’s passing and Booker T’s emotional response.[3][4]

This multifaceted reaction encapsulates the complicated legacy of Hulk Hogan — a wrestling icon whose life and career continue to provoke strong emotions and generate meaningful dialogue within WWE and beyond. Booker T’s reflections add a personal dimension to this ongoing story, one of loss, respect, and the enduring influence of a true wrestling hall of famer.