Black World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) superstars are torn over the recent announcement reinstating Hulk Hogan into its Wrestling Hall of Fame following his racist remarks disparaging black people.
Almost three years ago, the 1980s and '90s legendary wrestler was caught on a sex tape repeatedly using "n****r" in a racist rant. HuffPost reports the organization cites Hogan's volunteer work and public apologies as reason enough to bring the wrestler back into the fold.
But this decision has not been met with enthusiasm by all. Wrestler Mike Henry told TMZ Sports black wrestlers are split 50/50 over the recent news.
"I do feel like he genuinely wants to clear his name," the host of Busted Open Radio said. "He sees people that used to respect him; they look at him different [sic]. And it hurts. And he brought that on himself. But, he's trying his best to clear that up."
Other wrestlers provided statements on social media, connecting directly to their fans.
My TRUTH!! pic.twitter.com/3HgsmXOOEg
— Titus O'Neil (@TitusONeilWWE) July 18, 2018
— King T’Kofi (@TrueKofi) July 18, 2018
Hogan's remarks were revealed in his high-profile lawsuit against the now-defunct media outlet Gawker. In 2012, the media site published a snippet of the sex tape, which Hogan claimed violated his privacy. Gawker was ordered to pay a settlement of $140 million, wipe articles mentioning the sex tape and was forced to close due to bankruptcy.
WWE distanced itself from Hogan then, but according to the statement released Sunday, July 15, all is forgiven.
“This second chance follows Hogan’s numerous public apologies and volunteering to work with young people, where he is helping them learn from his mistake,” the statement reads. “These efforts led to a recent induction into the Boys & Girls Clubs of America Alumni Hall of Fame.”
Now, check out these related stories:
D.L. Hughley Reveals Police Stopped Him, Called Him A 'N****r' At 8 Years Old
Dallas Cowboys Player Indicted For Flashing His Gun After Being Called A 'N****r' By Raging White Driver
