RIP Hulk Hogan

Hulk Hogan's death last week brought out a lot of comments on social media. Like Hulk himself, it is complicated.

Back when Hulkamania hit in the early 80s, Hulk told us to say our prayers, eat our vitamins and train. Those were simpler times, before I knew of steroids, backstage politics, creative control and other shenanigans.

I admit I was never a huge Hulk fan. I favored Rowdy Roddy Piper< not because he was a bad guy and some thought it cool to cheer the bad guys. I liked Piper for his outrageous character. When Hulk turned evil and formed the massively successful NWO, I still didn't cheer for him. Still, through it all, I respected what he did for wrestling. Love or hate him, his impact is undeniable.

Then there is Terry Bollea (aka the man himself). I won't list his transgressions. You can find those easily on the internet. Bollea was a lot more complicated that Hulk. Some don't separate the two. Some condemn both.

My nephew Matt and I met Hulk many years ago at C2E2. It was a short interaction, but Hulk was as pleasant as could be given the constraints. That's all I ever really ask of any celebrity.

Is it fortunate or unfortunate that the internet gives us such inside info of others? Would it be better not to know Hulk's real life drama? Is it better to know Bollea was imperfect?

I'm not here to judge Bollea. That is a job fo his maker. Where do I stand? I am glad I got to meet Hulk and I recognize his legacy. I do not praise nor vilify him in death.

 Matt, Hulk and me in Chicago, IL-March 2014.