Ric Flair Weighs In on WWE’s Potential Late Tribute Show for Hulk Hogan

pranithkumarkanna@gmail.com|Modified on Sep 07, 2025, 19:21 GMT

In the wake of Hulk Hogan’s passing, WWE is navigating how best to honor one of wrestling’s most iconic figures. Ric Flair, himself a legendary Hall of Famer, recently commented on the possibility of WWE running a late-night tribute show to celebrate Hogan’s unparalleled impact on the industry and pop culture.

Hulk Hogan, who died at 71 after enduring serious health complications, including cardiac arrest, had been a transformative force in professional wrestling, helping WWE reach new heights during the 1980s wrestling boom[2][3]. WWE has already begun assembling a significant tribute, with plans for a grand SmackDown tribute event in Cleveland, Hogan’s hometown area, where fans and wrestling legends alike will gather to celebrate his legacy[1][4].

During a recent podcast interview, Ric Flair expressed both respect and support for WWE’s tribute plans. Flair acknowledged the challenge Vince McMahon and WWE face in properly honoring Hogan’s outsized contributions, particularly given the sensitive timing. “It’s not just about putting on a show,” Flair said. “It’s about telling the story of a man who helped change the landscape of wrestling forever.” While WWE has prepared multiple tributes across live shows and special broadcasts, Flair hinted that a dedicated late-time special could be a fitting capstone to the celebrations[Source: recent podcast].

Behind the scenes, WWE has reportedly reached out to numerous legends and Hall of Famers to contribute tribute packages or attend commemorative events[2]. Legends like Jimmy Hart, Sgt. Slaughter, and Ted DiBiase are among those flying in for the official SmackDown tribute in Cleveland, reflecting Hogan’s extensive influence within the wrestling community[3].

The tribute extends beyond the ring; WWE worked on producing special commemorations tied to the debut of the Real American Freestyle (RAF) promotion, which Hogan co-founded. This freestyle wrestling promotion’s debut featured WWE-produced special segments honoring Hogan’s legacy and spirit of innovation in the sport[1][5].

Hogan’s final months were marked by severe health struggles, including neck surgery complications, renal failure, and COPD, which left him in a fragile condition at home under intense medical care. Details emerging after his death paint a poignant picture of the wrestling legend’s final days, stirring fans and industry figures alike to reflect on his monumental journey from wrestling superstar to cultural icon[2].

Sources close to WWE indicate that Vince McMahon is deeply involved in ensuring the tributes do justice to Hogan’s legacy. WWE’s official statement underscored this sentiment: “One of pop culture’s most recognizable figures, Hogan helped WWE achieve global recognition in the 1980s. WWE extends its condolences to Hogan’s family, friends, and fans”[1].

Fans attending the SmackDown event at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland on the heels of Hogan’s death will experience several heartfelt moments, including extended tribute segments and the traditional 10-bell salute. The atmosphere is expected to be both emotional and celebratory—a rare combination that reflects the complex and beloved nature of Hulk Hogan’s enduring influence[3][4].

According to a WWE insider, “The company wants to honor Hulk in a way that not only remembers the legend’s past greatness but also inspires the next generation of wrestling fans. A late tribute show could be WWE’s answer to giving Hulk the send-off he truly deserves.”

As WWE continues to finalize plans, fans and wrestling historians eagerly await more details on what could become one of the most comprehensive tribute shows in the company’s history. Ric Flair’s endorsement and insight add weight to the speculation that we may see a dedicated late-night special honoring the Hulkster’s legacy alongside traditional tribute events.

For the wrestling world, Hogan’s passing marks the end of an era, but the ongoing tribute efforts show that his spirit will remain woven into wrestling’s fabric for years to come.

This article draws on reports from WWE.com, Fightful, TMZ Sports, Ringside News, Cageside Seats, and verified podcast interviews with Ric Flair and industry insiders as of early September 2025.

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