Hulk Hogan's Success and Achievements in Timeline

A closer look at the biggest achievements of Hulk Hogan. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.

Hulk Hogan, born Terry Gene Bollea, is a retired American professional wrestler recognized globally for his iconic status. Renowned for his flamboyant personality, imposing physique, horseshoe moustache, and signature bandanas, Hogan achieved immense popularity in the 1980s and is considered one of wrestling's greatest. Currently serving as commissioner for Real American Freestyle and a brand ambassador for WWE, Hogan remains a significant figure in the wrestling world.

Sections (7)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals Legacy & Impact

July 1981: Hogan Becomes a Fan Favorite

In July 1981, during a television taping, Hulk Hogan came to the rescue of Brad Rheingans after Jerry Blackwell attacked him, marking the beginning of Hogan's run as a fan favorite.

March 31, 1985: Hogan and Mr. T Win at WrestleMania I

On March 31, 1985, at the first WrestleMania, Hulk Hogan teamed with Mr. T to defeat "Rowdy" Roddy Piper and "Mr Wonderful" Paul Orndorff after Bob Orton accidentally knocked out Orndorff.

1986: Hogan's Title Defenses in 1986

Throughout 1986, Hulk Hogan successfully defended his WWF World Heavyweight Championship against challengers such as Terry Funk, Don Muraco, King Kong Bundy at WrestleMania 2, Paul Orndorff, and Hercules Hernandez.

1987: Hogan Defends Title Against André the Giant at WrestleMania III

In 1987, Hulk Hogan defended the WWF World Heavyweight Championship against André the Giant at WrestleMania III. Hogan successfully defended the title against André the Giant.

1989: Mega Powers Implode, Hogan Wins WWF Championship

In 1989, the Mega Powers began to implode due to Randy Savage's jealousy. Hulk Hogan defeated Savage for his second WWF World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania V.

1991: Hogan Wins and Loses WWF Championship

In 1991, Hulk Hogan won the Royal Rumble, defeated Sgt. Slaughter for his third WWF Championship at WrestleMania VII, lost the title to The Undertaker at Survivor Series, and then won it back at This Tuesday in Texas.

May 3, 1993: Hogan Defeats The Great Muta in NJPW

On May 3, 1993, Hulk Hogan returned to NJPW as WWF Champion and defeated IWGP Heavyweight Champion The Great Muta.

January 4, 1994: Hogan Defeats Tatsumi Fujinami

On January 4, 1994, Hulk Hogan defeated Tatsumi Fujinami at Battlefield in NJPW, marking his last match in Japan.

December 1994: Hogan Defeats The Butcher at Starrcade

In December 1994, Hulk Hogan defeated The Butcher for the WCW World Heavyweight Championship at Starrcade.

September 1995: Hogan Retains Title

In September 1995, Hulk Hogan successfully retained the WCW World Heavyweight Championship against Big Bubba Rogers and Lex Luger on Nitro.

January 4, 1999: Hogan wins WCW World Heavyweight Championship

On January 4, 1999, Hogan returned to WCW and defeated Kevin Nash for the WCW World Heavyweight Championship for the fifth time. Many found this title change scandalous and the warring factions of the nWo reunited.

August 9, 1999: Hogan retains WCW World Heavyweight Championship

On August 9, 1999, Hogan started the night dressed in black and white, but came out in the traditional red and yellow for his six-man tag team match after a backstage scene with his son. Hogan then defeated Nash in a retirement match at Road Wild to retain the WCW World Heavyweight Championship.

April 2, 2005: Hogan inducted into WWE Hall of Fame

On April 2, 2005, Hogan was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame class of 2005 by Sylvester Stallone.

2005: Inducted into WWE Hall of Fame

In 2005, Hulk Hogan was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame, recognizing his significant contributions to professional wrestling.

April 27, 2007: Hogan defeats Paul Wight

On April 27, 2007, Hogan defeated Paul Wight at Memphis Wrestling's PMG Clash of Legends.

2008: Hulk Hogan Honored as King of the Krewe of Bacchus

In 2008, Hulk Hogan was honored as the King of the Krewe of Bacchus, a New Orleans carnival organization, where he visited the Children's Hospital of New Orleans and participated in a parade.

December 2010: Hulk Hogan Undergoes Spinal Fusion Surgery

In December 2010, after failed procedures, Hulk Hogan underwent traditional spinal fusion surgery, enabling him to return to professional activities.

2013: Hogan's Sports Illustrated Cover

As of 2013, Hulk Hogan remains the first and only professional wrestler to be featured on the cover of Sports Illustrated.

February 27, 2015: Hogan Honored at Madison Square Garden

On February 27, 2015, Hulk Hogan was honored at Madison Square Garden during a WWE live event dubbed "Hulk Hogan Appreciation Night" with a special commemorative banner hanging from the rafters, honoring his wrestling career and historic matches he had in the arena.