What is a 10-bell salute in the wrestling world? Hulk Hogan honored by WWE on SmackDown

Following Hulk Hogan’s death, the WWE remembered and honored him with their 10-bell salute on SmackDown on July 25. Former wrestler Triple H opened the show, saying they lost one of the globally recognised icons. Sharing a few words for the late WWE icon, he said:

“Please help us honor him now as we give a 10-bell salute to Terry Bollea, the one and the only, The Immortal Hulk Hogan.”

The bell then rang ten times while everyone observed silence.

A 10-bell salute is given to a deceased wrestler. Actor and retired wrestler Kevin Nash previously explained that the 10-bell salute signifies that when the athlete does not answer to the ten counts, he is counted out. Previously, wrestlers like Gorilla Monsoon, Brian Pillman, Chris Candido, and many others were honored with a 10-bell salute.

Meanwhile, speaking about Hogan, Triple H said:

“A man I grew up watching was fortunate enough to share the ring with, and like so many of us, were honored to call a friend. The truth is, he captivated millions of people and inspired them around the globe.”

He said they wouldn’t be together in unity if it weren’t for Hogan.

WWE also released a video narrated by Triple H that explored Hulk Hogan’s career. In the video, Triple H stated that the late wrestling icon was the epitome of sports entertainment, noting that he was a box office attraction.

Hulk Hogan, whose real name is Terry Gene Bollea, was born in 1953 in Georgia. Bollea loved to play and had a knack for the bass guitar in his childhood.

More about WWE’s tribute and Ric Flair’s homage to Hulk Hogan

In the video, Triple H mentioned that Hulk Hogan stepped into WWE in 1979. Hogan got his break in Hollywood in Rocky 3, where he was seen with Sylvester Stallone. In 2005, he joined the WWE Hall of Fame. Triple H said:

“In the years that followed, Hogan never left the spotlight, across decades and so many changes to the business. Somehow, Hogan’s connection to the audience always remained. While his step slowed, his work ethic never did and his influence never wavered.”

Triple H went on:

“He loved his fans. From young to old, Hogan was the ultimate hero, even till the end. On July 24th, 2025, surrounded by family and friends, Terry Hulk Hogan Bollea, passed away. He was 71-years-old. But Hulkamania will live forever.”

Retired wrestler Ric Flair also reacted to Hogan’s death. Taking to his X on July 24, Flair wrote that he was shocked after getting the news. He shared that Hulk had been by his side since the start of their wrestling careers, noting:

“I Am Absolutely Shocked To Hear About The Passing Of My Close Friend ! Hulk Has Been By My Side Since We Started In The Wrestling Business. An Incredible Athlete, Talent, Friend, And Father! Our Friendship Has Meant The World To Me.”

Flair remembered how Hulk visited him in the hospital when he was sick and even prayed for him. He also mentioned that Hulk helped him with money when his son, Reid, was ill. Flair said no one could ever compare to Hulk and wished him to rest in peace.

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Also read: Why was Hulk Hogan suspended from WWE Hall of Fame? 2015 controversy explored

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