Ric Flair Reveals How Hulk Hogan’s Death Gave Him Anxiety

Ric Flair has shared an emotional and deeply personal update on how the death of his longtime friend Hulk Hogan has affected him, opening up during a conversation with Clay Edwards.

When asked if he ever feels responsible for WWE’s current success in light of the ESPN–WWE deal, Flair immediately shifted the focus to the friends he’s lost in wrestling — and how Hogan’s passing hit him especially hard. Flair began by saying WWE’s success is undeniable, but for him, the relationships mean more than the business accomplishments.

“No. Well, I… No, they print money. They’re doing so well. I’m so… I’m happy just knowing them all. I was at Hulk’s funeral… you know, just knowing them all—Hunter, Steph, Vince was there, Shane was there. A lot of the guys.”

From there, he admitted that losing Hogan made him reflect on his own life and mortality, especially since they were close in age.

“And you know, the funny thing is we’ve lost so many guys. That’s what… when Hogan went, it kind of gave me anxiety ‘cause I’m 5 years older than he is.”

Flair went on to describe in detail the toll Hogan’s legendary career took on his body, explaining that years of injuries and surgeries had left him far from the towering figure he once was.

“But, he had just pushed himself too hard and—eleven back surgeries, hip replacements, shoulder replacements—I think he had just had two neck surgeries. I mean, I think his body just said, you know, ‘I can’t… I can’t fight this anymore.’”

Even in his final years, Hogan still looked impressive to most, but Flair said it wasn’t the version of himself that Hogan wanted fans to remember.

“You know, he’s still jacked, he was, but… not… he was at one time—Hogan was 6’8”. He’s like 6’4” now. He’s bent over and he’s walking with a cane. And that’s not the Hulk that he wanted to be. And I’ve kind of told my daughter that.”

Flair’s words paint a vivid picture of Hogan’s physical decline, showing how decades in the wrestling business can leave even its most iconic figures with lasting damage. His admission that Hogan’s death gave him anxiety also reveals just how personal and deep their bond was.

What are your thoughts on Ric Flair’s emotional comments about Hulk Hogan’s final years? Do you think the physical demands of wrestling are worth the toll it takes? Share your thoughts below.

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