Fans of Hulk Hogan got quite the surprise earlier this month—not because of an in-ring comeback or a headline-grabbing promo, but due to his unusual appearance on live TV.
The wrestling icon showed up on Fox & Friends looking… different.
His usually bronzed complexion seemed unusually worn, his iconic white beard was oddly dyed black while the rest of his hair stayed gray, and he rambled a bit during the segment.
That was enough to spark concern among longtime followers.
Social media lit up with confusion and worry.
One viewer joked, “Tell Hulk Hogan his face is dirty, clean that soot off.”
Others questioned if it was really him at all.
Comments like “Wooly Willy vibes” made the rounds as fans tried to make sense of the TV moment.
Behind the Scenes: Surgery and Recovery
As it turns out, there may have been more going on behind the scenes than anyone realized.
Just weeks after that head-scratching television appearance, Hogan—real name Terry Bollea—quietly underwent neck surgery.
According to TMZ Sports, it was a relatively minor “fusion procedure” meant to help him feel better overall.
And here’s the kicker: the 71-year-old was already back to work the next day.
“Quick turnaround,” his representative said.
That’s impressive for anyone, let alone someone who’s been through the physical wringer like Hogan.
A Body That’s Been Through War
This surgery was hardly Hogan’s first.
In fact, he recently told Logan Paul on the Impaulsive podcast that he’s had more than 25 surgeries over the past decade.
That includes 10 back surgeries, as well as replacements for both knees, both hips, and even work on his shoulders.
“I’ve had everything done,” Hogan said casually during the chat.
It’s a list that would make most people wince, but for a man who spent decades slamming giants and leaping off ropes, it’s part of the cost of the lifestyle.
Wrestling Isn’t Over Yet
Despite the setbacks, Hogan isn’t slowing down.
He’s currently working on launching a new wrestling league, Real American Freestyle, which is set to debut this summer.
While details are still unfolding, the project seems to be an attempt to bring a fresh spin to the classic wrestling formula, infused with Hogan’s larger-than-life energy and brand.
Even with his health challenges and public scrutiny, it’s clear that Hogan isn’t ready to hang up the boots just yet.
Family Feuds in the Spotlight
Unfortunately, his health and professional news have been overshadowed by a wave of family drama.
Just over a month before his Fox News appearance, Hogan’s ex-wife, Linda, accused him of being a “complete liar” and a “sex addict.”
The remarks reignited a fiery public dispute that spilled over into social media and interviews.
Things got even messier when their daughter, Brooke, reportedly cut off both parents.
Linda described the situation as the family being “in the worst mess,” while Brooke and Hulk fired back with their own harsh words.
It’s a painful chapter playing out under a very public lens.
What’s Next for the Hulkster?
So where does Hulk Hogan go from here?
With another surgery behind him, a new league on the horizon, and a stormy personal life unfolding in public, Hogan is clearly at a crossroads.
But if there’s one thing fans know for sure—the Hulkster always finds a way to bounce back.
Whether it’s in the ring, behind a mic, or navigating real-life battles, Hogan remains a symbol of resilience.
Time will tell what his next move is, but for now, he’s still standing, still swinging, and still very much in the game.