Ruthless Podcast - "Hulk Hogan Tribute: Iconic Moments, Wrestling Legacy & Politics"
Release Date: July 25, 2025
Hosts: Josh Holmes, Comfortably Smug (Michael Duncan), John Ashbrook, Lee Wolf
The "Ruthless Podcast" dedicated its July 25, 2025 episode to a heartfelt tribute to wrestling legend Hulk Hogan. Hosted by Josh Holmes, Michael Duncan (Comfortably Smug), John Ashbrook, and Lee Wolf, the episode delved into Hogan's extensive legacy in American culture, his symbolic representation of American resilience, and the intricate ties between professional wrestling and politics.
Hulk Hogan's Cultural Impact
The episode opened with the hosts reflecting on the passing of Hulk Hogan, a figure they describe as monumental not just in the realm of wrestling but as an embodiment of American identity. Josh Holmes emphasized Hogan's role as "the depiction of the American comeback" and "the greatest country in the world," highlighting how Hogan represented Reagan-era optimism and embodied the spirit of American heroism (02:07).
Michael Duncan echoed this sentiment, stating, "He transcended wrestling. He was an American icon. You couldn't live in American culture in the 80s and 90s without knowing who Hulk was" (03:45). The conversation underscored that Hogan's influence extended beyond the ring, making him a household name and a cultural staple.
Personal Anecdotes and Legacy
John Ashbrook shared a personal anecdote from his childhood, recalling the awe-inspiring presence of Hulk Hogan when he appeared live in Clearwater. He described the collective admiration of the crowd, stating, "The aura this guy had was like a real-life superhero" (04:34). This story highlighted Hogan's ability to connect with fans on a profound level, making him a larger-than-life figure.
Josh Holmes reminisced about the nostalgia Hogan invoked, mentioning nostalgic relics like Wrestle Buddies and their impact on shaping their generation's cultural landscape (06:37). Michael Duncan added, "You just followed it culturally," emphasizing the pervasive influence of wrestling in their upbringing (07:14).
Wrestling as Political Storytelling
A significant portion of the discussion focused on the intersection between professional wrestling and politics. The hosts discussed the Vince McMahon documentary on Netflix, suggesting that understanding pro wrestling is key to comprehending contemporary American politics. Josh Holmes remarked, "If you want to understand how we got to this era in American politics, watch that documentary" (09:32).
They drew parallels between wrestling's storytelling techniques and political narratives, noting how figures like Donald Trump utilized similar strategies to captivate and mobilize audiences. John Ashbrook likened Trump to a WWE hall of famer, suggesting that Trump's appearance at the Republican National Convention alongside Hogan symbolized a fusion of pop culture and political momentum (13:00).
Hogan at the RNC Convention
The podcast highlighted Hulk Hogan's impactful appearance at the recent Republican National Convention. Josh Holmes recounted being "fortunate enough to stand feet away from him as he was delivering that iconic speech," observing the electrifying atmosphere when Hogan took the stage (11:00). Michael Duncan noted, "You could feel in the crowd there was something different when he took the stage" (13:21).
They discussed Hogan's support for Trump, encapsulating it with Holmes' memorable phrase, "let trumpamania run wild, brother" (12:33), illustrating the deep-seated cultural resonance Hogan holds within the Republican base.
Audience Interaction and Listener Comments
The episode also featured interactions with listeners, who shared their most iconic Hulk Hogan moments. Carol Clemens praised the hosts' "on the road adventures" like the Iowa State Fair and fishing trips, indicating the broad appeal and multifaceted nature of the podcast's content (21:22).
Hulk Hogan's Enduring Influence
Throughout the episode, the hosts reiterated Hulk Hogan's enduring significance as a cultural icon. They celebrated his contributions to wrestling and his symbolic role in American optimism while also critiquing political adversaries and media portrayals that undermined his legacy.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- Josh Holmes (02:07): "He was the very depiction of the American comeback. The greatest country in the world."
- Michael Duncan (03:45): "He transcended wrestling. He was an American icon. You couldn't live in American culture in the 80s and 90s without knowing who Hulk was."
- John Ashbrook (04:34): "The aura this guy had was like a real-life superhero."
- Josh Holmes (09:32): "If you want to understand how we got to this era in American politics, watch that documentary."
- Josh Holmes (12:33): "Let trumpamania run wild, brother."
Conclusion
In conclusion, the "Ruthless Podcast" episode provided a comprehensive and affectionate tribute to Hulk Hogan, celebrating his multifaceted legacy while deftly intertwining discussions of politics and cultural influence. Through personal anecdotes, critical analysis, and listener engagement, the hosts painted a vivid picture of Hogan's unparalleled impact on both the wrestling world and the broader American zeitgeist.
Overall, the episode served as both a nostalgic homage and a critical examination of Hulk Hogan's place in the intersection of pop culture and politics, offering listeners a rich and engaging exploration of his enduring legacy.
Timestamps Reference
- 02:07: Josh Holmes discusses Hogan as the depiction of American comeback.
- 03:45: Michael Duncan on Hogan transcending wrestling.
- 04:34: John Ashbrook shares childhood experience with Hogan.
- 06:37: Josh Holmes reminisces about Wrestle Buddies.
- 07:14: Michael Duncan on cultural influence of wrestling.
- 09:32: Josh Holmes on Vince McMahon documentary.
- 11:00: Josh Holmes about Hogan at RNC Convention.
- 12:33: Josh Holmes on "trumpamania run wild."
- 13:00: John Ashbrook likens Trump to WWE hall of famer.
- 13:21: Michael Duncan on crowd's reaction at RNC.
- 21:22: Listener comment from Carol Clemens.
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