VIDEO: Hulk Hogan’s WWE Match Debut & Entrance

WWE and sports entertainment star Hulk Hogan passed away on July 24, 2025 at 71 years old. As tributes pour in and fans mourn the loss of the beloved wrestler, many are choosing to remember him in happier days. Back in 1979, Hogan was a twenty-six-year-old wrestler just getting his start in pro wrestling. In a throwback YouTube video, Hogan flexes his muscles in an early debut promo.

As the announcer describes, the debut took place in Madison Square Garden in New York City. “There’s not a man alive that can get in a squared circle and pin me to the mat,” young Hogan said. He also had some stern words for his opponent, Ted DiBiase, who would go on to be a WWE Hall of Famer. He may not have had the colorful costumes and flair that he came to be known for as his career progressed, but Hogan was clearly ready to be a star.

Hogan Won His First Madison Square Garden Match

Getty

From the start, it was clear Hogan came ready to win. He had a formidable opponent in DiBiase, but in the end, the Hulkster came out victorious in his first match.

In a fan video of the match, Hogan won the match by knockout with a bear hug. “So, the fabulous Hulk Hogan, victorious here in his very first appearance at Madison Square Garden!” the announcer said. The match helped him start his decades-long journey from newly minted wrestler into a seasoned, ultra-popular pro.

His WWE Entrance Evolved Over The Years

Getty

One of the most memorable things about WWE wrestlers is their entrance. For Hogan, this all-important part of his wrestling persona evolved a lot over the years, gradually becoming more and more theatrical. He quickly became known for his colorful clothes and headbands, as well as his memorable antics. This included ripping his shirt, wearing feather boas, and sometimes brandishing American flags on his way to the ring.

And, of course, who could forget his walk-out music? “Real American” was one of his staples for decades. As Mel Magazine shared, Hogan began using the song in 1985, when his career was truly reaching new heights. Hulkmania was in full swing by this time, and the American hero persona he created was ideal for his fan base.