Eric Bischoff, former WCW President, publicly expressed deep appreciation for Vince McMahon’s statement following the passing of wrestling legend Hulk Hogan, highlighting the complicated yet significant bond between McMahon and Hogan. Bischoff praised McMahon’s tribute as exactly what Hogan deserved and offered insights into the nuanced relationship between the two iconic figures, describing it as “love-stressful” rather than a simple love-hate dynamic[1][4].

During the 83 Weeks LIVE tribute episode, Bischoff reflected on Vince McMahon’s rare public acknowledgment of Hogan’s death, describing how much the statement meant personally to him and would have meant the world to Hogan himself. McMahon’s message read:

“The world lost a treasure today. Hulk Hogan was the greatest WWE Superstar of all time. Someone who was loved and admired around the world. He was a trailblazer—the first performer who transitioned from being a wrestling star into a global phenomenon. His grit and unbridled thirst for success were unparalleled and made him the consummate performer. He gave everything he had to the audience whom he appreciated, respected, and loved. He leaves us with one of his favorite expressions: train, take your vitamins, and say your prayers. Today, we pray for him.”[1]

Bischoff described the relationship between Vince McMahon and Hulk Hogan as “very complicated” — a blend of intense respect and personal challenges. “I’m not going to use the word ‘hate’ the way people throw around ‘love-hate relationship,’ but it was a love-stressful relationship at the very least. Both very aggressive, both had a vision, both driven in ways that few people I’ve ever met are,” Bischoff said[1].

Further adding to the emotional weight of Hogan’s passing, Bischoff shared personal reflections on his last visit with Hogan on his podcast. He revealed that he had visited Hogan shortly before his death and recalled their last conversation, where despite his weakness, Hogan still showed his characteristic spirit and interest in wrestling developments and his friends. Bischoff said:

“I could tell he was weak. You know, he sounded tired, but he still had that ‘Brother, what are we going to do next?’ underlying current of energy in his voice… He still had that ‘What’s going on with Real American freestyle? Where are we at? Have you talked to Kurt?’ kind of thing, checking up on me to make sure I was on top of my sh*t.”[2]

This personal account adds a layer to Hogan’s legacy beyond the wrestling ring, showing his enduring passion and camaraderie even in his final days.

Hulk Hogan’s impact on professional wrestling is undeniable, widely acknowledged as the first superstar to become a global icon and crossover celebrity. His career helped shape not only Vince McMahon’s WWE empire but also the entire wrestling industry, including rival promotions like WCW, which Bischoff helmed during its peak competition with WWE. The complicated relationships among Hogan, McMahon, and Bischoff—who once famously battled McMahon’s WWE on Monday Night Raw with his WCW Nitro—remain a focal point for wrestling historians and fans alike[1][5].

Sources within WWE, Fightful, and several podcasts have covered the aftermath of Hogan’s passing extensively, noting the outpouring of tributes from industry peers and fans worldwide. Bischoff’s comments carry special weight given his dual perspectives as both a former WWE and WCW executive, and someone who witnessed firsthand the complex dynamics between Hogan and McMahon.

According to sources close to WWE, Vince McMahon’s statement was a carefully measured tribute that respected Hogan’s monumental contributions while acknowledging the nuances of their professional and personal history. This public acknowledgment was seen backstage as significant, as McMahon rarely issues statements on former stars unless deeply moved[1][4].

In summary, Eric Bischoff’s gratitude for Vince McMahon’s statement on Hulk Hogan’s death underscores the profound, intricate connections that defined Hogan’s career and life in wrestling. It also serves as a reminder of the lasting legacy Hogan leaves behind—not just as a performer, but as a figure who shaped the wrestling world through rivalries, friendships, and unforgettable moments inside and outside the ring.

This article reflects information confirmed by interviews, podcasts, and reports from reputable wrestling news sources including WrestlingInc, Ringside News, Fightful, and direct statements from Eric Bischoff.