Hogan didn't publicly endorse Trump until the convention, citing the assassination attempt against Trump at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, as the reason for his announcement.

The WWE Hall of Famer, who died on Thursday at the age of 71, had supported former President Barack Obama in 2008.

The 1988 pay-per-view event, advertised as being held at Trump Plaza in Atlantic City (though it was held at the city’s convention hall), took place during wrestling’s golden era, and Hogan was slated to face off against Andre the Giant.

"He was the real deal," President Trump says of Hulk Hogan, who died at the age of 71. "He was a great guy, he was an unbelievable showman."

Hogan, who revolutionized the world of wrestling and attracted interest in the sport that was ultimately dubbed "Hulkamania" in the 1980s, appeared at the Republican National Convention in July 2024 to endorse then-presidential candidate Donald Trump .

Hulk Hogan, a wrestling icon of the 1980s, captivated audiences with his larger-than-life persona. Known for his patriotic image and electrifying performances, Hogan became a symbol of American culture.

Terry Gene Bollea, better known as Hulk Hogan, has died at 71. Audio obtained by TMZ revealed that the retired professional wrestler suffered cardiac arrest at his Florida home on Thursday morning. His manager Chris Volo confirmed to NBC Los Angeles that he died in his home surrounded by loved ones.