In this extra edition of Newstalk Daily, Ciara Doherty takes a personal and critical look at the life and legacy of Hulk Hogan – the man who turned professional wrestling into a global pop culture juggernaut, and whose name became synonymous with the sport in the 1980s and 90s.
Ciara, who fondly recalls growing up in a household where wrestling dominated the TV and sibling rivalries were settled with figure-four leg locks, clothes-lines, and the occasional pile-driver, leads a conversation that’s equal parts nostalgic, insightful, and unflinching.
Joining her is actor, writer, and wrestling commentator Aonghus Óg McAnally – a man who not only grew up idolising Hulk Hogan, but who also trained as a wrestler in the early days of Ireland’s independent wrestling scene. He’s now the voice of OTT Wrestling, Ireland’s premier wrestling promotion.
Together, they explore how Hogan – born Terry Bollea – became a superhero for an entire generation of children, with his trademark charisma, red-and-yellow ring gear, and unforgettable entrance theme. They reflect on his seismic impact on wrestling’s rise from fringe entertainment to billion-dollar spectacle, his partnership with Vince McMahon, and his pivotal role in launching the modern WWE brand.
But the episode doesn’t shy away from controversy. Hogan’s return to the ring in the 90s as a villain in WCW’s New World Order, his leaked sex tape, his use of a racial slur, and his vocal support of Donald Trump all come under scrutiny. Aonghus Óg explains how Hogan's anti-union stance may have deprived wrestlers of basic protections, and why his legacy is as fraught as it is legendary.
The conversation also turns local, as Aonghus sheds light on Ireland’s vibrant independent wrestling scene. He talks about his own journey from fan to trainee to commentator, and highlights Ireland’s global wrestling success stories – like Sheamus, Becky Lynch, and Finn Bálor – all of whom took their first steps in promotions like OTT Wrestling.
Whether you’re a lifelong wrestling fan or just curious about one of pop culture’s most iconic – and polarising – figures, this podcast offers a gripping look at Hulk Hogan’s towering influence, the evolution of wrestling, and why the Irish wrestling scene continues to punch above its weight.
