WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan’s appearance on the premiere episode of WWE RAW on Netflix stirred controversy, as the wrestling legend was met with a wave of boos from the live audience. The segment, intended to promote Hogan’s Real American Beer brand, became a major talking point backstage due to the overwhelmingly negative reaction.

Hogan’s Polarizing Appearance

The segment was designed as a straightforward promotional opportunity, but fans in attendance weren’t shy about expressing their disdain. Hogan’s past controversies, including his vocal support for Donald Trump and associations with divisive figures, appear to have played a role in the crowd’s reaction. The situation reportedly caused frustration among WWE officials, who had high hopes for the Netflix premiere as a marquee event.

Despite the hostile reception, Hogan was said to have taken the incident in stride. While he expressed “surprise and disappointment” at being booed so heavily, he reportedly brushed it off backstage. WWE also limited Hogan’s screen time, with the segment kept short due to his physical condition and to avoid further backlash.

Missed Opportunity with Hollywood Hogan?

Following the event, online fans speculated that Hogan could have embraced the negativity by revisiting his infamous nWo Hollywood Hogan persona, which would have aligned with the heel reaction he received. However, WWE sources revealed that the focus was always on promoting the beer, not reinventing Hogan’s character. One insider noted, “We’re trying to sell beer, not get a 70-year-old over any way we can.”

What’s Next for WWE and Hogan’s Partnership?

While the reaction was far from ideal, WWE does not appear ready to sever ties with Hogan’s Real American Beer brand. However, the incident has sparked internal discussions about exploring other options. Some within WWE reportedly suggested that the company should consider using different legends or active talent to endorse the beer moving forward.

For now, Hogan remains part of the promotional plans. He is expected to appear at WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event later this month, though WWE will likely take steps to mitigate another negative crowd reaction.

The Bigger Picture

Hogan’s appearance highlights the challenges WWE faces when working with polarizing figures, even legends as iconic as Hogan. As the company looks to balance nostalgia with its modern audience’s preferences, moments like this could influence how WWE utilizes its Hall of Famers in the future.

The debut episode of WWE Raw on Netflix delivered plenty of surprises, but perhaps none were as polarizing as Hulk Hogan’s appearance. Stepping onto the stage at the Intuit Dome on Monday night alongside longtime ally Jimmy Hart, Hogan faced an unexpected reception as the Los Angeles crowd greeted him with resounding boos.

Hogan Booed During Promo

Hogan, one of WWE’s most iconic figures, attempted to rally the audience with a heartfelt speech, declaring that being part of WWE was the “greatest part of his life.” He also reminisced about his legendary career and told fans they were his “greatest partners” over the years. However, his words did little to sway the crowd, which continued to voice its displeasure throughout the segment.

The Hulkster used the opportunity to plug his Real American Beer brand before tearing off his shirt to reveal a custom “Netflix Is RAW” t-shirt. He concluded with a modified version of his famous catchphrase:

“Whatchya’ gonna’ do when WWE and Netflix run wild on you, brother!”

The unrelenting boos, however, suggested the crowd wasn’t ready to run wild with Hogan that night.

Fans Speculate on Backlash

After the show, social media buzzed with speculation over why Hogan was met with such a hostile reaction. Many theorized that his well-documented support for former President Donald Trump may have played a role. Hogan has long been associated with Trump’s MAGA movement, but some fans noted the mixed messaging when comparing his reception to that of other WWE personalities.

For instance, The Undertaker, who had Trump as a guest on his podcast, was loudly cheered when he appeared earlier in the evening. Similarly, Triple H and Stephanie McMahon—both spotted at Trump’s New Year’s Eve party—received warm reactions from the crowd.

Hogan’s Mixed Legacy

Hogan’s polarizing reception underscores the complexities of his legacy. While he remains a cornerstone of WWE history and a hero to generations of fans, his personal controversies and political affiliations have alienated some of his audience. Monday’s crowd reaction was a stark reminder that not all fans are willing to separate the performer from the person.

The Bigger Picture

Despite the boos, Hogan’s appearance achieved its purpose of generating buzz for Raw’s Netflix premiere. Whether fans loved or loathed his segment, it ensured people were talking about the show long after the cameras stopped rolling.

As WWE continues its partnership with Netflix, it will be interesting to see how the company balances nostalgia-driven appearances like Hogan’s with the demands and expectations of its modern audience. For now, Hulkamania might not be running wild in Los Angeles, but it’s certainly stirring the pot.