In the world of professional wrestling, creative decisions often shape the course of a wrestler’s career. In a recent interview, Bruce Prichard shared an intriguing story about Hulk Hogan’s desire to turn heel for a match against Dusty Rhodes at WWE’s WrestleMania 9. This tantalizing prospect raises questions about the potential impact of a heel turn on Hogan’s legacy and the WWE’s overall storylines.
A Heel Turn Proposal for the Ages
According to Prichard, he and Pat Patterson frequently discussed the possibility of Hogan turning heel. The duo proposed various storylines, but their ideas never gained traction due to resistance from Vince McMahon. “Vince was hesitant to take the risk, and I can understand why,” Prichard said in an interview. “Hogan was the face of the company, and a heel turn would have been a significant departure from his established character.”
The Hollywood Hulk Hogan Character
In the late 1980s and early 1990s, Hogan’s character underwent a transformation. He adopted the persona of the “Hollywood Hulk Hogan,” a more arrogant and self-absorbed version of the wrestler. This character change allowed Hogan to explore new facets of his personality and connect with a younger audience.
However, some argue that the Hollywood Hulk Hogan character was a watered-down version of the original. “Hogan’s heel turn was a missed opportunity,” said a WWE insider. “The character was already becoming stale, and a heel turn would have given him a fresh start. Instead, he continued to play the same old hero, and the audience grew tired of it.”
The Dusty Rhodes Match
A match between Hogan and Dusty Rhodes at WrestleMania 9 would have been a dream come true for many wrestling fans. Rhodes was a beloved wrestler known for his technical grappling skills and charismatic personality. A heel Hogan would have added an extra layer of depth to the match, making it a compelling and unpredictable encounter.
According to sources close to Cody Rhodes, the current wrestler’s father was a huge fan of the idea. “Cody’s dad always said that a match between Dusty and Hogan would have been incredible,” a source revealed. “A heel Hogan would have brought out the best in Dusty, and it would have been a clash of styles that would have captivated the audience.”
The What Ifs of a Heel Turn
A heel turn for Hogan at WrestleMania 9 would have had far-reaching consequences for the WWE. It would have allowed the company to explore new storylines and create a more complex character. Hogan’s heel turn would have also given him a chance to showcase his acting abilities and connect with a new audience.
However, a heel turn would have also come with risks. Hogan’s popularity was at an all-time high, and a heel turn would have alienated some of his fans. It’s possible that Hogan’s character would have struggled to find its footing as a heel, leading to a decline in popularity.
Conclusion
The idea of Hulk Hogan turning heel for a match against Dusty Rhodes at WrestleMania 9 is a tantalizing prospect that raises questions about the potential impact of a heel turn on Hogan’s legacy and the WWE’s overall storylines. While a heel turn would have been a bold move, it’s impossible to know for certain whether it would have been successful.
One thing is certain, however: a heel Hogan would have brought a new level of excitement to the WWE. It would have allowed the company to explore new storylines and create a more complex character. As the WWE continues to evolve, it’s clear that the possibilities are endless, and a heel turn for Hogan remains one of the most intriguing what-ifs in professional wrestling history..