WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan, whose legacy has already been marred by previous controversies and allegations of racism, is now facing fresh accusations that could further tarnish his reputation. Influencer Essence Jenai has alleged that Hogan dismissed her as an ambassador for his ‘Real American Beer’ brand due to her race. However, another WWE Hall of Famer has stepped forward to defend Hogan against these claims.
Jenai alleged that Hogan initially hired her as an ambassador, only to dismiss her the following day upon discovering she is Black. She took to social media to share her experience, uploading photos and detailing her sudden dismissal.
According to Jenai, her contract with Hulk Hogan’s ‘Real American Beer’ was supposed to last a week. However, after promoting the brand for just one day on July 2nd, Hogan allegedly terminated her contract. On July 3rd, she was replaced by white ambassadors. Jenai also shared a text message from Hogan’s team suggesting that Hogan wanted to cancel the events entirely. She disputed this claim, noting that Hogan proceeded with the events using the new ambassadors.
A representative of ‘Real American Beer’ then issued a statement regarding the allegations, stating that ‘Real American Beer’ had ended its short-term relationship with a third-party marketing agency and that Hulk Hogan had no involvement in this decision, nor did race play any role in the matter.
“We are deeply troubled by the false rumor circulating on social media that a brand ambassador hired by a third-party marketing agency was terminated by Hulk Hogan for racial reasons. Real American Beer simply ended its short-term relationship with the third-party marketing agency. Hulk Hogan was not involved in that decision, and race was not a factor. We are in communication with the agency to clear up the misunderstanding and incorrect information, and we believe this false statement will be withdrawn.”
Addressing the racism accusations on The Wrestling Time Machine, WWE Hall of Famer Teddy Long defended Hogan, suggesting that while it might appear as though the replacement decision had racial undertones, it is sometimes not about racism. Long mentioned that quick judgments can be made when someone is replaced, but often, the context might be different from what it seems.
“The last thing you said at the end there, you know that wasn’t a decision made by Hogan, that was a decision made by the company. To me, that seems right. You know what I mean, I think the young lady, I don’t know her, but sometimes people can jump the gun. Just because you were let go and then they bring in some white person to replace you, you know that always falls under that you know, that racism. Sometimes, it is really not.”
Despite the controversy, Hulk Hogan has continued with his public appearances, recently making an appearance at the Republican National Convention. Hogan seems to remain unfazed by the situation and continues to make waves wherever he goes.
Do you believe the whole situation was overblown and that Hulk Hogan had no involvement in the matter? Let us know in the comments section below!
