Hulk Hogan Once Shed His Macho Image to Add Star Power to a High-Profile Video Game Event That Draws Millions Every Year

Hulk Hogan is one of the most well-known pro wrestlers on the planet. His popularity has often won over the fans. Since the 80s and 90s, Hogan dominated the squared circle and became the face of WWF for a long period of time. Known for his physique and mic skills, Hogan was extremely popular and a money-drawing machine.

Similar to Hogan, in Japan and the world, Pokemon was a money-drawing name. A video game, trading-card game, anime and manga, Pokemon, was and still is extremely popular among children, teenagers, and adults alike. YouTube Sensation and WWE Superstar, Logan Paul, wore the most expensive Pokemon Trading Card during his entrance at WrestleMania 38.

In 2006, the Pokemon National Championship was held in New York City, USA. And none other than, The Hulkster was present at the event as a commentator. Hulk Hogan is extremely popular and his presence as a commentator meant more fans showed up at the event.

At the event, Hogan said, “I think Pokemon is so popular because it’s pure entertainment for the kids. It is a very positive form of entertainment, it teaches them values and how to stay focussed in team play.” The 69-year-old even did commentary for the final round, although he was hardly aware of anything about the game.

Hogan was invited in a way to help run the event, to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the game, dropping back in 1996. The original Gen 1 Red and Green came out back in 1996 published by Nintendo for their Game Boy.

Did Hulk Hogan ever perform in Japan?

Hulk Hogan is one of the most well-known faces in the world, especially among pro wrestling fans. Over the years, Hogan earned himself respect and made his name through hard work and dedication toward his career.

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Apart from wrestling in the United States, Hogan also made a name for himself while wrestling in Japan. Hulk Hogan performed for New Japan Pro Wrestling in the 1980s and won the hearts of the fans there. In Japan, Hogan had a more technical approach towards wrestling and performed a different finisher from his signature leg-drop.

Such was his popularity that, he was even nicknamed, ‘Ichiban’ which in Japanese translates to ‘Number One’. His popularity in Japan made him a pop-culture icon there. Considered an upset back then, Hogan was the first NJPW G1 Climax winner and defeated Antonio Inoki in the finals. Hogan is a legend, and he has proved that on several occasions.

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