Viral Gym Photo Ignites Speculation
The world of professional wrestling thrives on speculation, and few stories have captured fan imagination in recent weeks like the viral photo of Nick Hogan—son of legendary WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan—training in the ring with NWA star Bryan Idol. The image, shared across social media and Nick’s own Instagram, instantly sparked rumors that another Hogan might be preparing to carry the family torch inside a WWE ring[2][3][7].
Nick, now 35, has spent most of his adult life away from the wrestling spotlight, but this unexpected glimpse into his training regimen prompted a wave of excitement and questions about his future. Fans, still feeling the emotional impact of Hulk Hogan’s passing earlier this year, wondered if Nick was ready to step out from his father’s shadow and forge his own path in the industry[2][11].
WWE Sources: “No Talks Since the 2010s”
Despite frenzied online chatter, authoritative sources inside WWE have shut down rumors of imminent negotiations. According to multiple insiders, there has not been any discussion whatsoever about Nick Hogan possibly signing with the company since the early 2010s, and even then, it was never more than a fleeting hypothetical[1].
“When we spoke with WWE sources, they said they’ve not heard any discussion whatsoever of Nick Hogan wrestling in the company since the 2010s, and even then it was a ‘what if?’” reported one backstage insider this week[1]. This aligns with recent updates from Fightful Select and other wrestling news outlets, which confirm that while Nick has been actively training with Bryan Idol at FTW’s World Wrestling Academies, there’s simply no buzz inside WWE about bringing him in[1].
Nick Hogan’s Response: Keeping the Door Open
Pressed for clarity about his future plans, Nick Hogan has chosen to keep fans guessing. When asked by TMZ Sports if the viral gym photo signaled the start of a wrestling career, Nick offered a cryptic but telling response: “You never know, man. It’s in the blood. So, you never know”[5][7][9].
He elaborated further, sharing how the act of training and being around the ring stirs powerful emotions tied to his family legacy. “I’ve always loved the business. Being around that environment makes me feel that much closer to my pops,” Nick said, referencing the enduring influence of Hulk Hogan on his life and career aspirations[2][3][7].
Nick did not confirm any formal training for WWE or other major promotions, but he did acknowledge that his ties to the wrestling community run deep. “The wrestling community truly is a family… so being in contact with wrestlers and execs in the industry is nothing new,” he noted, hinting that opportunities could exist outside WWE’s orbit[1][2][3].
Hulk Hogan’s Legacy and Family Grief
Nick Hogan’s recent surge in publicity comes in the shadow of personal tragedy. Hulk Hogan, born Terrence Gene Bollea, passed away in July at the age of 71 following complications from heart surgery. The loss has profoundly affected Nick, who now serves as co-personal representative of his father’s estate and is set to inherit a significant portion of Hulk’s legacy[2][3].
Nick has spoken openly about how support from fans and the wrestling community has helped him through the grieving process. He has remained involved in family-driven ventures—including business projects and tributes to his father—while carefully weighing his next step[2].
Backstage Perspective: WWE’s Position
A WWE talent relations source, speaking on condition of anonymity, told this reporter: “There’s a lot of respect for the Hogan family and what they’ve done for wrestling, but right now, Nick isn’t on our radar as an in-ring prospect. The company is focused on developing younger, homegrown talent, and there haven’t been any internal discussions about bringing Nick in for a tryout or developmental deal.”
This sentiment has been echoed by other figures close to WWE creative, who point out that while Nick Hogan’s name carries undeniable star power, the current landscape of WWE programming is stacked with emerging talent and established veterans[1].
Nick Hogan’s Current Activities: Staying Ready
While WWE may not be pursuing Nick Hogan, the younger Hogan’s recent actions suggest he is keeping his options open. He has maintained his physical fitness, regularly hitting the gym and training with respected wrestlers like Bryan Idol. When asked about his conditioning, Nick replied, “I’m in pretty good shape right now. I’m cool… not saying too much, trying to stay in good shape”[7].
Insiders in other promotions have quietly acknowledged that Nick’s name would generate instant attention should he choose to step into the ring, whether for NWA, Impact Wrestling, or a major independent event. “He hasn’t ruled anything out, and the door is always open in this business for someone with his pedigree,” noted a source close to a rival promotion.
Fan Reaction: Hope for Another Hogan
Across social media and wrestling forums, the prospect of Nick Hogan wrestling has become a hot topic. Many fans have expressed excitement at the idea of seeing the Hogan legacy continue in the ring, even if not under the WWE banner[2][3]. Others are more skeptical, citing Nick’s lack of in-ring experience and questioning whether he would be able to live up to his father’s monumental legacy.
Still, the general mood remains one of hope and curiosity. As one veteran fan commented on Reddit, “If Nick gets the right training and finds his own style, he could surprise people. Wrestling is all about second chances and new beginnings.”
The Bottom Line: What’s Next for Nick Hogan?
For now, Nick Hogan remains on the sidelines, content to train and reflect on his future without making any firm commitments. WWE is not in active talks with him, and there are no concrete plans for a debut—yet the possibility remains, thanks to Nick’s own openness and the enduring fascination with wrestling dynasties[1][2][3][5].
As Nick himself put it, “It’s in the blood. You never know.”
Backstage Quote:
“Nick’s got the name, the look, and the attitude. If he ever decides he’s ready, there will always be promoters willing to give him a shot. But WWE? Not right now,” shared one veteran WWE producer on the condition of anonymity.
Wrestling fans will continue to watch, speculate, and dream—because in this business, anything can happen. For Nick Hogan, the next move is his to make.