Wrestling legend Hulk Hogan brought his signature energy to Madison Square Garden, opening for Donald Trump at a rally that mixed nostalgia with pointed humor. Hogan, a longtime supporter of the former president, fired up the crowd with references to his wrestling days and delivered a few jabs at Vice President Kamala Harris.
With his iconic bravado, Hogan whose real name is Terry Bollea told the cheering crowd, “This is the house that Hulk-a-mania built!” as he looked back on his wrestling heyday. Embracing the label of “Trump-a-maniacs” for the gathered supporters, Hogan described them as champions of Trump’s vision for the country, while echoing Trump’s “real American” rhetoric. “The only man who can fix this country today is Trump,” he said, framing Trump as the leader who would restore “peace through strength” domestically and internationally.
In a controversial moment, Hogan made a humorous swipe at Harris, alluding to an online video by mimicking a comedic spitting sound effect. “When I hear Kamala speak… it sounds like a script from Hollywood with a really, really [spitting sound] bad actress!” The quip drew cheers and applause, resonating with the enthusiastic audience.
Hogan has been an outspoken Trump supporter, notably delivering remarks at the Republican National Convention in July. Throughout his speech, he rejected criticisms labeling Trump’s base as extreme, instead describing the crowd as “hard-working men and women that are real Americans, brother.” Hogan’s attempt to rip his shirt a nod to his wrestling days ended humorously when he struggled to tear the fabric, a moment quickly picked up by social media users who responded with both humor and sarcasm.
Trump’s rally marked a highly anticipated return to the iconic New York venue, drawing a mix of celebrities and loyal followers who championed his political vision as he gears up for another campaign.
