Even if you weren’t ringside or glued to your TV back in the day, chances are you’ve still heard of Hulk Hogan.
With his handlebar mustache, red-and-yellow gear, and that iconic “Hulkamania” energy, he didn’t just dominate American wrestling—he became a global icon.
In South Africa especially, fans couldn’t get enough.
Whether it was on live TV or through replayed tapes, Hogan’s matches brought the drama, the muscles, and the roar of the crowd right into people’s living rooms.
Let’s dive into seven of Hogan’s most unforgettable WWE showdowns that cemented his legacy across generations.
Slamming the Giant and Shocking the World – WrestleMania III (1987)
If you ever needed proof of superhuman strength and unmatched showmanship, this was it.
Hulk Hogan picked up and body-slammed Andre the Giant—yes, all 230 kilograms of him—right in front of a crowd of 93,000 screaming fans.
That single move didn’t just win the match.
It became a piece of sports history replayed over and over again.
Hogan shouted, “Whatcha gonna do when Hulkamania runs wild on you?” and the moment was sealed in wrestling legend.
The Icon Meets The Rock – WrestleMania X8 (2002)
This one wasn’t just a match—it was a clash of titans from different generations.
Hogan, the face of wrestling’s golden era, faced off against The Rock, the star of the modern age.
The Canadian crowd in Toronto was electric, torn between two fan favourites.
No titles were on the line, but none were needed.
The spectacle, the energy, the nostalgia—every second had fans on their feet.
Hogan later reflected, “To achieve greatness, you must believe in yourself.” And he certainly proved that here.
Champion vs Champion – WrestleMania VI (1990)
Here’s where things got real intense. Hogan’s WWE Championship was up for grabs, and so was Ultimate Warrior’s Intercontinental title.
Winner takes all.
Fans in places like South Africa were stunned when Warrior actually pinned Hogan.
It was an emotional moment—the Hulkster losing clean.
But it also showed Hogan’s willingness to pass the torch and elevate a new face of wrestling.
Battling for Justice – WrestleMania VII (1991)
This wasn’t just another title match—it had serious political undertones. Sgt. Slaughter was playing the villain, portrayed as supporting Iraq during a tense global period.
Hogan, the ultimate American hero, took on the role of saviour.
Their bout felt like a fight between good and evil.
When Hogan reclaimed the world title, fans around the world, especially those watching from afar, breathed a collective sigh of relief.
“Say your prayers, eat your vitamins, and you will never go wrong,” he reminded them.
Steel and Sweat – The Big Boss Man Match (1989)
Imagine being locked in a steel cage with a man built like a truck.
That was Hogan’s reality when he faced Big Boss Man.
The match was raw and brutal. At one point, Hogan narrowly avoided a dangerous leap attack from the top of the cage.
He came out victorious, adding yet another classic to his collection and proving once again that no structure—cage or otherwise—could contain Hulkamania.
Settling Scores with Vince McMahon – WrestleMania XIX (2003)
This wasn’t about championships or rankings—it was personal.
Hogan versus WWE Chairman Vince McMahon was the stuff of soap opera-level tension.
Years of backstage drama exploded into an in-ring showdown.
McMahon was ruthless, but Hogan, backed by loyal fans across the globe, fought through.
His words after the match said it all: “This is where the power lies!”
The Cage Rivalry That Kept Fans Guessing – Paul Orndorff (1987)
One of the most thrilling rivalries of the 80s came to a head inside a steel cage.
Hogan and Paul Orndorff both tried to escape at the same time, leading to an edge-of-your-seat moment where no one knew who had won.
Ultimately, Hogan’s hand was raised, and the feud finally ended.
For fans in South Africa and beyond, it was just another unforgettable chapter in Hulk’s story.
Hulkamania’s Legacy in South Africa and Beyond
It wasn’t just the matches. It was the attitude, the energy, the larger-than-life persona.
Hogan inspired a generation—including many in Mzansi—to believe in their own strength.
From schoolyards to gym rings, kids tried to imitate that famous leg drop and shout his catchphrases.
With millions made from tickets, TV rights, and merchandise, Hogan’s reach extended far beyond the USA.
“Only you have control over your destiny,” he once told fans—a message that stuck with many.
So, Which Match Was Your Favourite?
Whether you’re a long-time fan or just discovering the magic of Hulkamania, one thing’s for sure: Hulk Hogan’s legacy is timeless.