Dennis Rodman Honors Hulk Hogan in Emotional WWE Hall of Fame Speech

The former Chicago Bulls star reflects on their nWo days and friendship.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 10:53am

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An extreme close-up of a shiny, metallic wrestling championship belt reflecting dramatic studio lighting, conveying the high-stakes glamour of professional wrestling.Rodman's WWE Hall of Fame induction celebrated his unforgettable wrestling career and enduring friendship with the late Hulk Hogan.Chicago Today

Former Chicago Bulls legend Dennis Rodman paid an emotional tribute to the late Hulk Hogan during his WWE Hall of Fame induction speech on Friday night in Las Vegas. Rodman, inducted as part of the Class of 2026 for his memorable run in WCW as a member of the nWo, took time during his acceptance speech to praise Hogan and their friendship, wearing a Hollywood Hogan shirt and getting choked up while talking about Hogan always standing by his son Nick Hogan no matter what.

Why it matters

Rodman's WWE Hall of Fame moment added another unforgettable chapter to his larger-than-life career, reminding fans of his wild crossover days in wrestling, including the infamous 1998 incident when he skipped a Chicago Bulls practice during the NBA Finals to appear on WCW Monday Nitro with Hogan.

The details

During his acceptance speech, Rodman questioned why it took WWE so long to honor Hogan with a statue. He ended his remarks with a classic 'nWo 4 Life!' declaration.

  • Rodman was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame on Friday night (April 18, 2026) in Las Vegas.

The players

Dennis Rodman

A former Chicago Bulls legend who was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2026 for his memorable run in WCW as a member of the nWo.

Hulk Hogan

A legendary professional wrestler who was a close friend of Dennis Rodman and part of the nWo with him in WCW.

Nick Hogan

The son of Hulk Hogan, whom Rodman praised Hogan for always standing by no matter what.

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The takeaway

Rodman's emotional tribute to his friend Hulk Hogan during his WWE Hall of Fame induction speech was a touching moment that highlighted the lasting impact of their nWo partnership and friendship, even after Hogan's passing.