The wrestling world is in mourning, and no one is feeling the loss more deeply than Ric Flair. The loss has hit closer to home for Ric. Speaking to TMZ shortly after news broke that Hulk Hogan had died at the age of 71 from cardiac arrest, Flair was visibly emotional as he opened up about losing one of his closest friends.
(Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images)“People always wanted to paint us as enemies, but we were actually very, very close friends,” Flair shared.
“We Had Magic”: Flair Recalls In-Ring Chemistry With Hogan
Flair and Hogan’s paths crossed throughout their storied careers, both in the WWF and the WCW. Despite being often billed as rivals, Flair said their relationship was anything but adversarial.
“We had magic,” Flair said. “It wasn’t like me and Steamboat, but we just had a chemistry that was, I felt like, equal to me and Steamboat but in a different way… Unbelievable relationship.”
Hogan Stood by Flair During His Lowest Moments
Flair went on to share intimate stories about Hogan’s loyalty and kindness over the years, including one moment that has stayed with him ever since.
“He was one of the first to visit me when I was in the hospital with a 2% chance of living, and he prayed by my bedside,” Flair recalled.
Flair also revealed that Hogan once lent him money during a difficult time and refused to let him repay it. “How do you forget things like that?” he added.
Charlotte Flair Honors Hogan’s Support
Flair’s daughter, WWE star Charlotte Flair, also shared her appreciation for Hogan’s support during her father’s near-fatal health scare.
“When I nearly lost my dad 8 years ago, one of the few people who was there for all of it was Hulk Hogan,” she posted on X.
Ric Flair Shares Tribute on Social Media
Flair took to social media to post a heartfelt tribute to Hogan following the interview, writing:
“I Am Absolutely Shocked To Hear About The Passing Of My Close Friend. Hulk Has Been By My Side Since We Started In The Wrestling Business. An Incredible Athlete, Talent, Friend, And Father! Our Friendship Has Meant The World To Me.
He Was Always There For Me Even When I Didn’t Ask For Him To Be. He Was One Of The First To Visit Me When I Was In The Hospital With A 2% Chance Of Living, And He Prayed By My Bedside. Hulk Also Lent Me Money When Reid Was Sick. Hulkster, No One Will Ever Compare To You! Rest In Peace My Friend!”
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Legend Hulk Hogan’s Close Friend Fights Tears in Emotional Interview