WWE star Chelsea Green paid an emotional tribute to Hulk Hogan in an interview with CBS News, reflecting on the late wrestling icon’s unmatched legacy and lasting cultural impact following news of his death. “I mean, polarizing political views aside, he was an absolute icon,” Green said. “And if it weren’t for Hulk Hogan, there are many of us in the wrestling industry that would absolutely not be here. He inspired a massive generation, so it’s a loss that we are feeling deeply in the wrestling community.”
Green shared her shock at the timing of the announcement, noting that it coincided with a major reveal at Comic-Con. “You just announced Ultimate Edition figures to be released with Hulk Hogan at Comic-Con today,” the host pointed out. Green then reflected on her most recent encounter with Hogan: “We actually just saw him at the Netflix premiere of RAW in January. He was very alive, very well, very just full of spirit and energy. So, you know, that’s just – that’s the Hulk that I knew and I grew up with.”
She added that Hogan’s presence was larger than life both professionally and personally. “He showed up to RAW and SmackDown with an energy that truly was unmatched,” she said. “My husband is a ride or die Hulk Hogan fan, and so he’s definitely feeling the loss today. I can only imagine that my coworkers are, you know, taking it very hard as well.”
When asked about personal memories, Green said it was impossible to pick just one. “Think about all of the impact that he had on wrestling. And then on top of that, you know, he was a Florida local. And I’m here in Florida as well. So we would often see him at his shop and at the beach and out and about. And he was just – and, you know, he was one of a kind.”
Discussing how other wrestlers are likely feeling, Green noted, “I think exactly the same way that I’m saying – they’re probably going to put it even better than I can possibly word it, because, you know, I think all of the ’80s and ’90s babies really grew up with Hulk as their idol in one way or another. I can’t imagine what his family is feeling right now, but it’s amazing to see the community – and not just the wrestling community, but the community – come together and honor an American icon.”
Green acknowledged Hogan’s rare ability to transcend wrestling, saying, “That’s the very unique thing about Hulk, and we’ve seen it a couple times since then with The Rock and John Cena. But these men transcend wrestling. You know, there are people well outside of this wrestling world that know who those three men are, and that’s what makes it really special. Hulk Hogan walked so that we could all run in Hollywood.”
Though she wasn’t yet a WWE star when she first met him, Hogan still left a lasting impression on her. “At the beginning of my career, I had a couple of run-ins with him… before I was anyone. And all I can say is that the positivity and the encouragement that he provided to me 10 years ago still sticks in my brain. And I’m going to carry that on throughout my career because he was just such a trailblazer and he wasn’t afraid of anything.”
When asked if anyone could ever fill Hogan’s shoes, Green was definitive. “There couldn’t possibly be. We can all try to emulate him… and bring that star power. But at the end of the day, there’s one and only one, Hulkster.”
Chelsea faced backlash from fans on X for saying positive things about Hogan, despite some of his controversial past. This led to Chelsea issuing the following statement:
“A significant part of my role at WWE involves engaging with the public & responding to questions, often on live platforms. Yesterday, I was asked to comment on Hulk Hogan on live tv.
Let me be clear: my stance on racism is unwavering. I do not condone it—period.
If my response (or tweet) seemed dismissive of real concerns, I sincerely apologize. That was never my intention. I tried to acknowledge a death respectfully, even when the legacy is complicated.
I am learning one day at a time and will continue to learn.
ILY my PatriHOTS,
President Chelsea”
Also Read: 6 Legends Returning For Hulk Hogan Tribute On Tonight’s SmackDown (Spoiler)
