Death might bench the man but Hulk Hogan’s legacy is still running the ring. Let’s break down what he left behind, who might step into his boots, and why his brand may be stronger than ever.
The Many Faces of Hogan’s Business Universe
Hulk Hogan didn’t just body‑slam opponents he body‑slammed business, too. His empire spanned everything from t‑shirts to real estate, from restaurants to beer, and a wrestling league that broke the mold. And even now, the world watches, wondering how big his brand will grow next.
What’s Up in the Business Ring?
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Real American Freestyle
His most recent venture, a freestyle wrestling league co‑founded with Eric Bischoff, kicked off in August designed to spotlight amateur stars going pro. Hogan served as commissioner before his death. -
Real American Beer & Hooters IP
Hogan’s beer brand isn’t just for quenching thirst it’s thirsting for more. It’s eyeing a stretch goal: acquiring Hooters’ brand rights in a bid to resurrect and license the icon for merch, beverages, and more. -
Merch, Shops & Branding
From apparel drops to memorabilia stores (even one that opened just before he passed), Hogan turned “Hulkamania” into a revenue-generating machine.
Passing the Torch: Who Might Take Over?
Here’s where things get murky. There’s no clear captain of the ship yet. His recent ventures were co-led or heavily tied to business partners. That suggests the next chapter of his brand could be steered by those partners like the team behind his wrestling league or possibly his family. But that road? Still foggy.
Snapshot of the Hulk Hogan Empire
| Venture | Status / Vision |
|---|---|
| Real American Freestyle | Launched in August 2025; wrestling league with story-driven matches |
| Real American Beer | Launched 2024; distributed widely; targeting Hooters IP for expansion |
| Merchandise & Stores | Active stores & branded retail continuing Hogan’s legacy |
| Legacy Transition | Uncertain; business partners likely key to future direction |
Why It Matters
Think of Hogan’s brand like a well-balanced tag team thank God he’s gone, but the momentum isn’t. His ventures are living on their own power, and how they evolve determines whether “Hulkamania” becomes folklore or legend. It’s a business version of a WrestleMania comeback full of drama, strategy, and raw energy.
Conclusion
Hulk Hogan may have taken his final bow on July 24, 2025, but his empire keeps its spotlight. With ventures like Real American Freestyle and Real American Beer in the ring, the fight for Hogan’s legacy is alive and the next champion to carry the belt is still waiting to emerge.