Legendary wrestler Hulk Hogan has paid a heartfelt tribute to his longtime rival, The Iron Sheik, following the latter’s passing at the age of 81. The wrestling world mourns the loss of the iconic WWE Hall of Famer, whose historic rivalry with Hogan forever altered the landscape of professional wrestling.
In a poignant statement shared on Facebook, Hogan honored the legacy of The Iron Sheik, acknowledging the profound impact he had on the industry. Reflecting on their intense battles in the ring and the unforgettable moments they shared, Hogan emphasized the deep bond they forged as fellow wrestlers.
Their rivalry, which culminated in Hogan’s WWE Championship win over The Iron Sheik at Madison Square Garden in January 1984, played a pivotal role in shaping the course of wrestling history. Despite their on-screen animosity, Hogan’s tribute revealed a mutual respect and admiration between the two competitors.
We honor the legacy of a wrestling icon. Rest in peace, Iron Sheikh.
“I’ll always cherish the battles we had in the ring. Our matches were intense, and our rivalry was legendary,” Hogan wrote. “We shared a bond that only fellow wrestlers can understand.”
The Iron Sheik, born Hossein Khosrow Ali Vaziri, previously opened up about their rivalry and iconic match, acknowledging his own role in Hogan’s rise to superstardom. “Without Iron Sheik, no Hulkamania,” he once remarked in an interview with WWE.com, reflecting on the pivotal moment that propelled Hogan to become a household name.
Hogan’s tribute comes in the wake of The Iron Sheik’s family confirming his passing with a heartfelt statement on social media. Describing him as a “force of nature” and a “true legend,” his family hailed his contributions to the wrestling community and his lasting impact on the sport.
As news of The Iron Sheik’s death reverberates throughout the wrestling world, tributes pour in from colleagues and fans alike. WWE executive Triple H, known by his real name Paul Levesque, took to Twitter to honor the late icon, acknowledging his unparalleled contributions to the sport and extending condolences to his family, friends, and fans.
The Iron Sheik’s influence transcended generations, inspiring wrestlers around the globe with his unique charisma, undeniable talent, and unforgettable personality. His legacy will continue to resonate in the hearts of wrestling fans worldwide, serving as a testament to his enduring impact on the sport he loved.
As the wrestling community mourns the loss of one of its most beloved figures, Hogan’s heartfelt tribute serves as a poignant reminder of The Iron Sheik’s indelible mark on professional wrestling and his enduring legacy as a true icon of the ring.