WWE icon Hulk Hogan is reportedly unhappy with Ben Affleck and Matt Damon’s plans to produce a movie about a challenging time in his life, with potential legal action on the horizon if he finds the portrayal objectionable.
The movie will spotlight Hogan’s notorious lawsuit against Gawker Media, initiated after the outlet released a sex tape that not only featured Hogan but also recorded him using a racial slur. Hogan’s lawsuit culminated in a $140 million victory in 2016, claiming invasion of privacy and leading to Gawker’s collapse.
TMZ reported that Hogan has had no direct communication with Affleck and Damon and is not involved in the film’s production. Despite his initial concerns, insiders now describe Hogan’s feelings toward the project as “indifferent.” They also noted that the former wrestler is ready to intervene if he believes the film infringes on his privacy rights.
According to the outlet, Hogan is currently enjoying a positive phase in his life. He has recently married, embraced spirituality, and is venturing into new business opportunities with his own beer brand. Additionally, Hogan is actively involved in charitable efforts, particularly with a homeless shelter in Tampa, where he contributes financially to enhance the living conditions for the residents. Currently, he is taking a cautious approach, waiting to see how the film unfolds. Should the portrayal not meet his approval, Hogan is poised to respond assertively.
The wrestling celebrity rose to immense fame in the 1980s under the World Wrestling Federation (now WWE), becoming a cultural symbol of American strength and patriotism. His charismatic persona, characterized by his mustache, bandana, and unmistakable catchphrase, “Whatcha gonna do, brother?” resonated with fans around the world.
Despite his success, his career has been marred by controversies, including a highly publicized legal battle with Gawker Media over the publication of a sex tape, which Hogan won, securing a massive settlement that contributed to the company’s bankruptcy. Today, Hogan remains a significant figure in the wrestling community, both celebrated for his contributions to the sport and critiqued for his more controversial moments.
Most recently Hogan received a hero’s welcome at the Republican National Convention in July. After taking the stage following a montage complete with his signature intro song, “Real American,” the crowd erupted into loud cheers and chants of “USA!”
Hogan then channeled his signature wrestling voice and dished out his iconic quote, beginning his speech with, “LET ME TELL YOU SOMETHING, BROTHER!”
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“Well, let me tell you something, when I came here tonight, there was so much energy in this room, I felt maybe I was in Madison Square Garden getting ready to win another world title. Or maybe I thought the vibe was so intense, the energy was so crazy, it felt like maybe I was going to press that no-good, stinky giant over my head and slam him through the mat, brother,” Hogan told the crowd.
“But what I found out was I was in a room full of real Americans, brother. And at the end of the day, with our leader up there, my hero, that gladiator, we’re going to bring America back together, one real American at a time, to bring America back together, one real American at a time,” the wrestling icon continued while pointing to former President Trump.
