WWE legend Hulk Hogan’s strategy has transformed his persona into a permanent brand
Jackie Deangelis of Fox Business reports that WWE legend Hulk Hogan has passed away at 71.
World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) Hall of Fame Hulk Hogan transformed his various business ventures into a powerful engine of wealth before his death.
Hogan earned considerable income not only through his time at WWE and World Championships wrestling, but also through his line of souvenirs based on real estate investment, advocara, collectibles and wrestling.
He also had a television and film career, including his role in “Rocky III” and starring in the VH1 reality series “Hogan Knows Best.”
He was believed to have not only lived much longer than his wrestling day, but also created a significant brand for himself that lasted until his death this week. Hogan passed away Thursday in a medical emergency at his Florida home.
Hulk Hogan is “woven into Americana fabric,” says professional wrestling star Aron Stevens.
On November 24th, 2009, during a Haruka Mania tour at Burwood Dome in Perth, Australia, Hulk Hogan gestures to the audience. (Paul Kane/Getty Images/Getty Images)
In 2024 he jumped into the beverage game and co-founded his own beer brand, Real American Beer. This product is heading towards the shelves of major retailers like Walmart and Albertsons.
| Ticker | safety | last | change | change % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WMT | Walmart Inc. | 97.49 | +0.86 |
+0.89% |
| aci | Albertsons Company | 20.00 | -0.39 |
-1.91% |
May, he He announced his latest sports He started a venture while appearing on “Fox & Friends.” Hogan, along with longtime friend and business partner Eric Bischoff, was promoting the launch of the new freestyle wrestling organization Real American Freestyle.
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Marketing experts agree that Terry Jean Borea-born Hogan treated his wrestling persona as a form of intellectual property and strategically built a personal brand that goes far beyond his ring career. According to brand strategist Laura Burkemper, the personal brand has evolved into a lasting business asset.
Hulk Hogan tears his shirt before his match with Rick Flair during his Furucamania tour at Berwed Dome in Perth, Australia on November 24, 2009. (Paul Kane/Getty Images/Getty Images)
“His iconic look and catchphrasesHogan has built a brand designed for not only rings but also licensing. From video games to restaurants and reality television, he has expanded his brand through smart partnerships while still remaining loyal to his core persona,” Burkemper said. He commercialized it. That’s the power of a personal brand built to last. ”
Another marketing expert and president of Story Group, Aaron Evans reiterated the sentiment, celebrating Hogan for his success from sports celebrities to a lifestyle brand.
Evans said Hogan’s success could be attributed to three core branding principles: reliability, consistency and expansion.
Hulk Hogan’s authentic American beer hit the Walmart shelves less than a year after its launch. (Real American Beer/Fox News)
Hogan leaned against his real persona.
“The large red and yellow patriots were more than just a gimmick. It was an exaggerated version that people could instantly recognize and gather behind. He realized that brand equity was rooted in familiarity and emotion.”
He also managed to maintain brand consistency, whether it was his reality TV show, product or endorsement.
Professional entertainer and wrestler Hulk Hogan will be speaking on stage on the fourth day of the Republican National Convention at the Fizeb Forum in Milwaukee on July 18, 2024. (Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images / Getty Images)
He became a familiar face during the 2024 presidential election. Donald Trump.
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According to Evans, he also embraced a brand expansion from restaurants to licensing deals.
“Hogan diversified his income streams while remaining within his identity. Unlike others who pursue relevance through rebranding, Hogan monetized his legacy by doubling it.”