Sylvester Stallone Says Hulk Hogan is Irreplaceable – ‘Don’t Make ‘Em Like Him Anymore … He Ragdolled Rocky!’
The world of entertainment lost a towering legend this week, and Sylvester Stallone is among the many grieving the passing of pro wrestling and Hollywood icon Hulk Hogan.
In a heartfelt tribute shared with TMZ, the Rocky star reflected on the larger-than-life force that was Hogan, describing him as an “irreplaceable” presence whose kind, talent, and sheer power may never be seen again.
“He Ragdolled Rocky!” Stallone quipped, remembering Hogan’s unforgettable performance as Thunderlips in Rocky III. Their first encounter was back in 1982 on the film’s set, and even then, Sly saw something extraordinary.
“Hulk had a glow about him,” Stallone said, recalling how the young wrestler already exuded star power. Though Hogan was still building his name in wrestling at the time, Stallone had a feeling greatness was inevitable.
But what struck Stallone most wasn’t just Hogan’s immense size—he showed up weighing 315 pounds, a true giant—it was the juxtaposition of strength and skill.
“He was smarter, gentler and more skilled than he looked,” Stallone emphasized.
The stunts between the two were intense, but Hogan made them look effortless and safe.
“He would pick me up and drop me on the ground with ease,” Stallone said, adding with a laugh, “I thought I would turn into a pulp by the time I hit the ground, but Hulk had a way of breaking my fall like a magician.”
As a seasoned actor known for enduring countless on-screen punches, Stallone has worked with many tough guys. Still, he singled out Hogan as uniquely gifted: “No one was more accurate or precise than Hulk.” He even demonstrated a trick Hogan used with his fists—deft, disciplined, and never reckless.
Tragically, Hogan passed away on Tuesday at the age of 71 following cardiac arrest in Florida.
The news was first reported by TMZ Sports and shook the entertainment world.
For Stallone, Hogan’s death is not just a personal loss but one that echoes across generations.