While Hulk Hogan has long been enshrined as one of the most iconic figures in professional wrestling, his in-ring ability has often been a point of contention among fans and critics alike. But according to WWE Hall of Famer Ted DiBiase, Hogan's contributions to the sport shouldn't be underestimated simply because of his limited technical repertoire.
Speaking on a recent installment of his podcast, "Everybody’s Got A Pod," DiBiase was posed with a hypothetical question: who would he choose to face if he were defending the World Championship at a WrestleMania event? Without hesitation, he named Hulk Hogan as the ideal opponent and went on to elaborate on what he believes makes the "Hulkster" an exceptional performer.
"Sure, Hogan wasn't a technical marvel when it came to wrestling moves like hammerlocks or wristlocks," DiBiase admitted. "But he had an uncanny ability to understand his character’s essence. Like André the Giant, Hogan could convincingly put himself in situations where audiences genuinely believed he could lose.
It's all in the storytelling, and Hogan was a master at that."
Redefining Proficiency
Ted DiBiase's commentary provides an alternate perspective on how wrestling fans should measure an athlete's proficiency in the squared circle.
According to him, the real metric should be how effectively a wrestler can tell a story that captivates the audience, a skill that Hogan undoubtedly possessed. In a separate but related update, Hogan recently spoke candidly about the physical toll his years in wrestling have taken on his body.
"Everything hurts," the wrestling legend confessed during an interview. With limited arm mobility and chronic issues affecting his back, neck, knees, and hips, Hogan pointed to his extended career as a potential reason for his current ailments.
Even as Hogan grapples with the repercussions of a storied but physically demanding career, his impact on the world of professional wrestling remains indisputable. Whether or not fans agree with DiBiase's assessment, there's no denying that Hogan's flair for theatrics and storytelling have left an indelible mark on the industry.
While the debate around Hogan's technical skills might continue, his prowess in engaging audiences and selling tickets is something that even his most ardent critics should acknowledge, according to DiBiase. And in an industry where persona often eclipses technique, that’s a significant commendation.