Nick Hogan was emotional during WWE’s latest tribute to his late dad Hulk Hogan at SummerSlam on Saturday (02.08.25).
Nick Hogan was emotional during WWE’s latest tribute to his late dad Hulk Hogan.
The 35-year-old star and his wife Tana Lea were in the crowd for the organisation’s flagship SummerSlam event in New Jersey on Saturday (02.08.25), and the camera panned to the couple at the conclusion of a video package looking back on the career and legacy of his late dad, who died aged 71 on 24 July.
As Hulk’s classic Real American song played at the end of the tribute, Nick appeared near tears.
WWE announcer Michael Cole hailed Hulk as the “greatest performer” the wrestling company had ever seen.
He told viewers: “Hulk Hogan was larger than life, sports entertainment personified [and] the greatest performer in our history.”
He pointed out Hulk was “undefeated” at SummerSlam throughout his career and had been part of “so many great moments, too many to talk about.”
He added: “[This was] a man who carried professional wrestling on his back for three decades. Rest in peace, brother.”
Michael then noted Nick and Tana had attended SummerSlam to “celebrate the life and legacy” of the iconic sportsman.
A few days earlier, Nick broke down in tears as he gathered with a number of wrestling superstars for a 10-bell salute in honour of his dad during Raw.
As CM Punk, Gunther, Jey Uso, Iyo Sky and Dominik Mysterio gathered sombrely for the memorial, Nick could be seen wiping away tears as
WWE’s chief content officer, Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque, also paid tribute to Hogan during the segment.
He told the audience: “He [Hogan] captivated millions of people and inspired them around the globe.
“We would not be standing here right now – all of us together – if it was not for him.”
The day after Hulk died, WWE’s episode of SmackDown also featured a 10-bell salute to the former world champion, as well as a video highlights package of the wrestler’s lengthy career in the ring.
Last weekend, Nick, 35, paid a heartfelt tribute to his dad and remembered him as his “hero”.
He wrote on Instagram: “My dad was the most incredible person I’ve ever known and will always be my hero. He was the most kind, loving and amazing father anybody could ask for. I feel so blessed to have had the greatest dad in the world. He was not only the best dad but also my mentor and my best friend. He always has been my best friend and I love him and miss him more than I could ever explain.
“I thanked him for everything he has ever done for me and told him how much I loved him and hugged him every chance I got. I spent a lot of time with him the past few years after moving back to Florida to be closer to him and I am so grateful for those memories. They are the best moments in my life.”
Nick Hogan emotional at Hulk Hogan Summerslam tribute
