Jake Paul is the latest fighter to pen a tribute to WWE icon Hulk Hogan after his passing at the age of 71 yesterday.
The professional wrestling legend is widely considered one of the most important figures in the development of his industry. And last night, his family let fans know via a statement that he had died due to a cardiac arrest.
Immediately the tributes began to pour in from the UFC and boxing worlds to Hogan, whose real name is Terry Bollea. These included a message from Colby Covington, whom he walked to the octagon last December, as well as his Rocky III co-star Sylvester Stallone.
Jake Paul sends emotional tribute to Hulk Hogan after WWE legend’s passing
Much like Hogan to professional wrestling, Jake Paul is one of the most controversial figures in his sport of boxing. As a result, he likely felt a kinship with the wrestler, sharing an emotional message with his followers last night.
“What the f— brother! RIP Legend,” Paul wrote to his followers on X after hearing the news. “Always appreciated your kind words and encouragement. Hulk Hogan brought WWE to the masses globally. Rest easy.”
Jake’s brother Logan Paul is a professional wrestler, and had a close bond with Hogan in his own right that included multiple meetings and an appearance on his Impaulsive podcast. He also shared a post of his own.
“Talk about a legacy,” the elder Paul wrote. “Hulk’s existence will leave an everlasting ripple effect on sports & culture… he’s shaped the universe that I now call home and I’m so grateful for the time I got to spend with him. RIP Legend
Hulk Hogan was ringside for Jake Paul’s last KO win
Back in July of last year, when Jake Paul had to quickly pivot from fighting Mike Tyson to a much smaller scale event in Tampa, Florida, Hulk Hogan was a surprise guest at ringside. Based in the Southern state, ‘Hulkster’ arrived and sat front row.
Paul scored a knockout win over BKFC superstar Mike Perry, with one of wrestling’s all-time greats watching on. “RIP to a true legend,” Most Valuable Promotions wrote on Instagram in a post reminiscing on the event.
“We had the privilege of having Hulk Hogan with us for Jake’s fight in Tampa against Mike Perry. We’ve never heard an arena erupt so loud for someone. An icon in and out of the ring. Rest easy brother.”