WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2025 inductee Lex Luger has revealed the greatest crowd reaction he ever received during his wrestling career.
Speaking at the For the Love of Wrestling convention, Luger recalled the unforgettable moment when he defeated “Hollywood” Hulk Hogan for the WCW World Championship on what was billed as the 100th episode of WCW Monday Nitro on 4 August 1997. According to Luger, the reaction from both the live audience and his fellow wrestlers backstage was unparalleled. He explained that many of his colleagues had no idea he was set to win the match, making the celebration even more genuine.
“The boys in the back didn’t know, which led to that celebration both in the ring and in the locker room, the guys were so excited when that happened, and I found out almost on my way to the ring. I was like, ‘Are you kidding me, Hogan’s going to put me over on national TV for free, on a non-pay-per-view event?’”
Luger admitted he was surprised by the decision, but the reasoning soon became clear.
“[They said] ‘Well, it’s the 100th Nitro, the fans need something, they’ve left you laying for like 63 straight weeks, we’re going to give them something.’”
The reaction inside the Palace of Auburn Hills Arena in Detroit that night remains one of the loudest of his career.
“Man, that crowd in Detroit, I don’t think I ever had a response like that in my career to a victory, I mean, that roof almost came off that building.”
Luger’s win over Hogan remains a defining moment in WCW Nitro history, cementing his legacy as one of the promotion’s top stars.
When Was Lex Luger Announced As Being Inducted Into The WWE Hall Of Fame?
On March 7, it was announced that Lex Luger would be receiving an induction into the WWE Hall of Fame class of 2025. Luger, alongside already announced inductees Triple H and Michelle McCool, will be inducted into the coveted Hall of Fame on April 17, two days before WrestleMania 41.
H/t to TJRWrestling.net