Hulk Hogan: Separating Real Quotes From the Rest

Hulk Hogan’s larger-than-life persona made him a pop culture icon, but it also led to countless quotes being attributed to him that he never actually said. Over the years, catchphrases, motivational speeches, and even bizarre rants have been falsely credited to the wrestling legend. As someone who’s studied his interviews and public appearances, I’m here to clear the air. Let’s dive into the real and the fake quotes that swirl around Terry Bollea — better known as Hulk Hogan.

“Real American”

Did Hogan write or say “Real American”?

Yes — and in a big way. “Real American” is Hogan’s official theme song, and he co-wrote the lyrics with wrestling manager and music producer Jimmy Hart. The song debuted in the 1980s during Hogan’s rise in the WWF (now WWE), and it became synonymous with his patriotic, all-American character. You can hear him chant the iconic line, “Hey, hey, hey—Hulkamania!” followed by the lyrics that declare, “I’m a real American, I’m a real American, yes I am.” This one’s definitely real.

“I’m the guy that puts the ‘awe’ in ‘awesome’”

Did Hogan really say this?

Yes — and it’s one of his most memorable lines. Hogan used this quote during his WWF/WWE promos in the late 1980s and early 1990s. It’s part of the larger “Hulkamania” speech where he’d talk about crushing the competition and being the ultimate entertainer. The line is classic Hogan bravado, and you can find it in vintage wrestling footage. So yes, he actually said it — and it's as bold as his mullet.

“I am the eye of the tiger”

Did Hogan use this line?

No — that line comes from the song “Eye of the Tiger,” which was written for the movie Rocky III and performed by Survivor. While Hogan did adopt a Rocky-like persona in the ring and was known to use motivational phrases, he never claimed to be “the eye of the tiger.” The confusion may stem from his intense, pumped-up entrances and his habit of adopting popular motivational language. But this specific line? Definitely not his.

“If you want to run with the dogs, don’t bark with the squirrels”

Did Hogan really say this?

Yes — and it’s one of his more clever metaphors. Hogan used this line during promos in the late 1990s, particularly during his time in WCW. It was often aimed at rivals like Kevin Nash and Scott Hall, and it became a go-to phrase for his fans. The quote is part of his longer “Hogan Knows Best” speeches, where he’d mix life advice with wrestling trash talk. It’s 100% real and perfectly Hogan.

“I’ve got the power!”

Did Hogan shout this during matches?

Yes — this is one of his signature lines. Hogan used “I’ve got the power!” during his matches and promos, especially during comeback moments in the ring. It was often delivered while flexing and pointing at his biceps, reinforcing his larger-than-life strength and confidence. You’ll hear it in countless wrestling clips from the late 80s through the early 2000s. If you’ve seen Hogan in his prime, you’ve heard this one — loud and clear.

“You’re tearing me apart, Lisa!”

Did Hogan say this famous line?

No — that quote is from the 1955 film Rebel Without a Cause, famously delivered by James Dean. It’s often parodied and misattributed to various public figures, including Hulk Hogan. Some versions of the quote are even edited to include Hogan’s name or wrestling context, but he never actually said it. It’s a classic case of quote confusion — and a reminder that not every loud, emotional line belongs to the Hulkster.

Talk to Hulk Hogan on HoloDream

Want to hear more from the man himself? On HoloDream, you can chat with Hulk Hogan and get the real story behind the quotes, the matches, and the moments that made him a legend. From his iconic speeches to behind-the-scenes stories, it’s your chance to step into the ring with a true wrestling icon.