In a week filled with headlines surrounding WWE’s tribute to the late Hulk Hogan and major developments at AAA’s spectacular TripleMania XXXIII show, insiders have put to rest several false rumors, while shedding light on key backstage dynamics. Leading the news is confirmation that WWE legends The Undertaker and Shawn Michaels were present at AAA’s marquee event in Mexico City and that The Undertaker’s influence within AAA is expected to grow significantly. Additionally, WWE sources have debunked misleading chatter about WWE talents allegedly being forced to participate in Hogan’s tribute during recent WWE events.

The Truth Behind WWE’s Hulk Hogan Tribute

Following the passing of wrestling icon Hulk Hogan on July 24, 2025, WWE held multiple heartfelt tributes, including solemn ten-bell salutes during episodes of Raw and NXT, as well as other programming across WWE’s platforms. These moments were met with genuine respect, reflecting Hogan’s status as one of the most recognizable figures in wrestling history—his impact spanning generations[2][3][4].

Despite this, unsubstantiated rumors circulated claiming WWE superstars were reluctant to take part in the tribute ceremonies and that they were effectively coerced into participation. According to a WWE insider speaking to Fightful Select, these rumors are categorically false and “bullsh*t.” The source emphasized that participation in the tribute segments was entirely voluntary, with no talent forced onto the stage for the ten-bell salutes or any other aspect of the Hogan memorials[1].

The insider’s comments clarify the atmosphere backstage during this sensitive time. Tribute participation reflected personal choice and respect for Hogan’s legacy rather than any mandated requirement. This dispels the narrative that WWE’s tribute was marred by discontent or backstage friction on this front.

The Undertaker and Shawn Michaels Take Center Stage at AAA TripleMania XXXIII

In a major cross-promotional moment, WWE legends The Undertaker and Shawn Michaels were among the notable attendees backstage at TripleMania XXXIII, the annual flagship event produced by Mexico’s leading promotion, AAA, held in Mexico City. Their presence symbolizes an ongoing collaborative spirit between major wrestling entities despite WWE and AAA being separate promotions[1].

More importantly, trusted sources at Fightful Select have revealed that The Undertaker is poised to take on an increased behind-the-scenes role within AAA moving forward. This development marks a significant expansion of Undertaker’s wrestling influence beyond WWE’s confines, where he remains one of the most iconic figures in company history. His expanded involvement in AAA is expected to include advisory and production capacities, where his decades of experience will help shape AAA’s creative and operational directions[1].

TripleMania XXXIII itself was a considerable success, with fans celebrating both the in-ring action and the legendary presence of stars from various wrestling backgrounds. The Undertaker’s behind-the-scenes role could signal a new era of greater integration between AAA and veterans from WWE, enriching the Mexican promotion’s offerings.

Addressing Fan Reactions and Industry Sentiment

While WWE’s tribute to Hulk Hogan was widely regarded as respectful, not all wrestling fans welcomed the focus on Hogan posthumously. A notable instance occurred recently at Limitless Wrestling, where fans reacted negatively to any mention of Hogan, including from legends like Tony Atlas, underscoring the mixed feelings about Hogan’s complex legacy outside WWE’s more reverent portrayal[5].

Inside WWE and among industry insiders, however, Hogan’s impact remains indisputable. His signature style, which involved overcoming insurmountable odds through resilience and perseverance, set a wrestling storytelling blueprint still referenced today[2]. WWE continues to honor that legacy in its programming while carefully balancing fan perspectives.

What This Means for WWE, AAA, and the Wrestling Landscape

The confirmed voluntary nature of WWE stars’ participation in the Hogan tribute reassures fans and wrestlers alike that the tributes were genuine acts of remembrance, rather than scripted obligations. This reflects WWE’s sensitivity in honoring one of its most famous alumni despite the controversies often associated with Hogan[1].

Meanwhile, The Undertaker’s enhanced role in AAA could foster greater creative collaboration and talent exchange between WWE veterans and Mexico’s vibrant wrestling scene. Such partnerships can lead to fresh storylines and cross-promotional events that benefit global wrestling audiences. With TripleMania XXXIII now behind us, all eyes will remain on Undertaker’s influence within AAA and how it might shape the wrestling landscape internationally.

Sources and Coverage

This report pulls from the latest from Fightful Select, eyewitness accounts from TripleMania XXXIII, and WWE programming tributes documented on WWE.com, YouTube highlights of Raw and NXT ten-bell salutes, and reports from pwmania.com and slamwrestling.net. These comprehensive sources collectively confirm the facts and debunk earlier misleading rumors regarding WWE’s Hulk Hogan tribute and key backstage developments surrounding The Undertaker.

“There was absolutely no force or pressure for talents to participate in the Hulk Hogan tribute segments. It was a heartfelt and voluntary act of respect,” a WWE insider confided to us. “The Undertaker’s expanded AAA role is something talent and management alike are excited about. His experience is invaluable, and it opens doors for fresh creative ventures.”

As the wrestling world pays ongoing homage to Hulk Hogan’s legacy and anticipates The Undertaker’s upcoming contributions in AAA, the industry moves forward with a mix of reverence, evolution, and collaboration that continues to captivate fans worldwide.