Vince McMahon Speaks Up About Not Being Invited To WWE’s Ten-Bell Salute For Hulk Hogan

Written by Animesh Murai • Published Aug 12, 2025 22:52 EDT
Vince McMahon Speaks Up About Not Being Invited To WWE's Ten Bell Salute For Hulk Hogan

Vince McMahon shared his feelings about not being included in WWE’s recent Ten Bell Salute for Hulk Hogan.

Last year, in January 2024, several concerning allegations emerged against Vince McMahon about his involvement in the Janel Grant sexual assault lawsuit, following which he moved away from WWE completely. Following this, McMahon was also not invited to Hulk Hogan’s tribute by WWE.

During an interview for TMZ’s The Real Hulk Hogan documentary, the host noted McMahon’s long history and close friendship with Hogan. He cited the former WWE Chairman must’ve had mixed emotions and absence from the ten bell salute for Hulk Hogan, to which Mr. McMahon responded:

It struck me that way as well.” (0:20-0:23)

McMahon kept his answer short but clear, showing that he was just as surprised and moved as anyone watching the tribute at home. During the same interview, McMahon shared his thoughts about the racist allegations against Hogan.

McMahon and Hogan have worked together for decades. They helped build WWE into a cultural force. Hogan was one of the biggest stars in wrestling history, and McMahon has always praised his contributions to the sport.

Despite their shared past, McMahon was not on the official guest list for the salute by WWE. He did not add extra comments about why he wasn’t invited.

Vince McMahon Reflects on Missing Hulk Hogan’s Tribute

The partnership of these two started in December 1983, when McMahon brought Hogan in to help turn wrestling from a regional business into a national sensation. Together, they created Hulkamania, making Hogan the face of WWE and inspiring millions of fans.

With Hogan’s charisma and McMahon’s guidance, WWE exploded in popularity during the 1980s and ’90s. Their partnership had its ups and downs as Hogan left WWE in 1994 and worked for WCW. He eventually made a dramatic return in 2002 and always had respect for McMahon. He called Hogan the “Greatest WWE Superstar of ALL TIME” and credited him for helping build WWE’s success. Their partnership included a legendary match at WrestleMania XIX where Hogan defeated McMahon in a street fight. Had Hogan lost, he would have had to retire from in-ring competition.

In his brief comment, McMahon avoided criticism of anyone involved in planning the tribute. He did not blame WWE or anyone else for his absence. His tone stayed respectful and measured. He focused on his memories of Hogan rather than the oversight. McMahon’s words showed that he values their long friendship and the shared moments they had in the ring and behind the scenes.