Hulk Hogan's 2002 WWE Return and the Resurgence of Hulkamania

HULKAMANIA NEVER DIED. Few moments in wrestling history proved the power of nostalgia quite like Hulk Hogan’s WWE return in 2002. After years away from the company, Hogan returned alongside Kevin Nash and Scott Hall as part of the New World Order. At first, WWE presented the Hulkster as a villain — a rebellious version of the character fans had once cheered. Then came WrestleMania X8. Hogan faced The Rock in Toronto, and despite being booked as the heel, the crowd absolutely exploded for him. As the match continued, Hogan realized what was happening. The fans weren’t booing him — they wanted the Hulkamania they remembered. And slowly, the Hulkster came back. The Rock ultimately won, but Hogan walked out of the arena more beloved than he had been in years. The reaction was so powerful that WWE completely changed course with his character. Soon, Hogan was a fan favorite again. Then at Backlash 2002, Hogan defeated Triple H to capture the Undisputed WWE Championship — winning a world title again in his late 40s. For the rest of 2002, Hogan remained one of WWE’s biggest attractions, sharing the spotlight with stars like Chris Jericho and Kurt Angle. His comeback proved something wrestling fans already knew: You can’t kill Hulkamania.