Representations of Hulk Hogan in the 1980s: Christianity, Masculinity, Xenophobia

In 1984, professional wrestler Hulk Hogan defeated the Iron Sheik to win WWF Heavyweight Title. Thus marked birth of ‘Hulkamania’, a near-decade-long period when (real name Terry Bollea) crossed over into American popular culture. following years, battled series proxies for America’s enemies, from Soviet rival in Nikolai Volkoff, Iranian sympathizer Sergeant Slaughter, and Japanese sumo Yokozuna, among other opponents. More importantly, appeared on talk shows, front magazines, had his own children’s cartoons, marketed workout devices, toys, food, host ephemera. Existing liminal space between sport entertainment, wrestling allows athletes/performers far more opportunities cultivate messages meanings through their bodies. Using film, broadcasts, this article argues that Hogan’s body use were paramount success. than that, embodied ideals about masculinity. It all-American strength, an ability succeed no matter odds, fierce Christian patriotism. was one biggest stars 1980s, inside outside sport. His its representation are thus worthy study.