Dave Zirin Rejects CNN’s Request to Applaud Hulk Hogan After Passing

Wrestling icon Hulk Hogan, a two-time WWE Hall of Famer, has died at the age of 71. Ric Flair expressed deep sorrow upon hearing the news, honoring Hogan as an extraordinary athlete, friend, and father who stood by him throughout their wrestling careers. Meanwhile, journalist David Zirin did not shy away from critiquing Hogan's controversial legacy, labeling him “anti-union” and a “liar.” Zirin shared a conversation with CNN, where he offered candid insights into Hogan's history of racism and his ties to controversial figures, highlighting the ten-year anniversary of Hogan’s infamous racial tirade. Hogan was pivotal in elevating the WWE into a global force, with iconic matches that helped craft wrestling’s mainstream appeal. However, his dismissal from WWE in 2025 over racial slurs marks a complicated legacy, overshadowing his major contributions to the sport. Hogan’s profound impact on pro wrestling remains, yet his moral missteps cannot be overlooked.

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