Michael Rapaport Slams Hulk Hogan ‘Slander’ Following Wre…

Actor and comedian Michael Rapaport is defending Hulk Hogan in the wake of the legendary pro wrester’s death.

Rapaport took to Instagram on Friday, July 25, to make it clear he wasn’t here for any posthumous disrespect toward Hogan.

“We’re not gonna disrespect the Hulkster,” Rapaport declared in a passionate video. “That’s what we’re not gonna do. I don’t care if he had some controversy outside of the ring. I don’t care if he endorsed Donald Trump.”

He urged fans and critics alike to remember Hogan for his impact on wrestling and the wider world.

“We’re talking about one of the most original characters in American pop culture history,” he continued.

Rapaport praised Hogan’s ability to create a persona that transcended wrestling.

“Men, women, and children all knew who Hulk Hogan was. The great Hogan,” he said. “When the Hulkster was out there, oiled up with his goatee and his hair? Pure joy. Elation. A total original.” [This last sentence is one some wrestling historians disagree with, pointing out that the Hulkster’s look and catchphrases seemed to come from the man Hogan himself called “the guy who inspired me to step into the ring,” Superstar Billy Graham.]

Despite Rapaport’s tribute, not everyone agreed with his stance. Commenters quickly flooded the post with backlash, referencing Hogan’s past controversies.

“You don’t care because you’re not Black. Just say that,” wrote one commenter.

Comedian Aries Spears added, “So we’re not gonna disrespect the Hulkster but it was OK for him to disrespect an entire race of people???”

However, others, including rapper Lil Scrappy, showed support, writing, “Amen Hulk Hogan is the biggest and realest.”

Hulk Hogan—born Terry Bollea—died on July 24, 2025, at age 71 due to complications from cardiac arrest.

Though his legacy in wrestling is undeniable, Hogan’s career took a hit in 2015 after audio leaked of him using racist slurs. WWE terminated its contract with him, and the fallout strained his relationship with fans and the company.

Hogan later apologized, calling his remarks “unacceptable” and saying they didn’t reflect his true beliefs. He was reinstated into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2018, but public perception remained divided.

He further divided fans with his public support for Donald Trump, going so far as to speak at the 2024 Republican National Convention.