Ric Flair Shuts Down Hogan Rivalry Rumors After His Death

Ric Flair is mourning the loss of someone he didn’t consider a rival, but a brother.

In a heartfelt interview with TMZ Sports, Flair addressed the passing of Hulk Hogan and immediately pushed back against the long-standing narrative that they were adversaries. While their onscreen clashes became iconic, the Nature Boy made it clear their off-camera relationship was nothing but real friendship and respect.

“People always wanted to paint us as enemies, but we were actually very, very close friends. And we kept up with each other on a regular basis.”

Flair went on to describe the unique chemistry they shared inside the ring, acknowledging that while it was different than his legendary matches with Ricky Steamboat, it was equally impactful in its own way.

“Well, we had magic. I mean, it wasn’t like me and Steamboat, but we had—we just had a chemistry that was, I felt like, equal to me and Steamboat, but in a different way. And he was so over. I mean, when I went there in the ’90s, I had never seen anything like it in my life… when the music started and he came down the hallway, and I mean, I would get him down for two minutes and we’d have—it’s just an unbelievable relationship.”

The interview also touched on the rumors of behind-the-scenes jealousy, particularly due to Hogan’s massive payday compared to other stars of the era. Flair didn’t deny feeling some frustration, but he made it crystal clear that it was never personal.

“Always friends. Always friends. I’d be remiss to say I wasn’t jealous that he was making so much more money than me. But it—you know, it had nothing to do with him. It’s just, you know, I’m not going to bring up his name—it’s the promotion just put me in a bad spot. But not with him ever. Are you kidding? I loved him.”

Flair added that they always made money together and that their connection endured long past their time in the ring.

“Everywhere we went, we drew money. We had a connection… We’ve done signings together, I’ve been out to his bar for karaoke… Everybody wants to take a shot at Hulk, but he doesn’t deserve it.”

Ric Flair didn’t just lose a peer—he lost a trusted friend. And judging by his emotion, the pain runs deep.

How do you remember the Flair vs. Hogan legacy? Did it shape your view of wrestling in the ’90s? Drop your thoughts in the comments and share your favorite memory of the two legends.

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