Summary

Behind-the-scenes footage in the Netflix documentary *American Made* showed Triple H telling WWE talent they could opt out of appearing on stage for the company's ten-bell salute to Hulk Hogan on the SmackDown after Hogan's death on July 24, 2024.

The scene captured Triple H addressing producers and wrestlers before the tribute. He made it clear that WWE planned to honor Hogan at the top of the show, but also said anyone uncomfortable with standing on stage would not face any issue for declining.

Quote from Triple H

"Unfortunate passing of Hulk Hogan, yesterday. Hard to say that there is a more influential figure, especially on the performing side. No one is perfect in life, and they have ups and downs, but we're going to continue to remember Hulk Hogan as what he meant to this industry. His influence cannot be denied and cannot be overstated. You can make an argument that we probably wouldn't be sitting here today. This business might have gone the way of roller derby or some other shit that didn't quite make it to the end, but here we are. We're going to start this show off tonight with a ten-bell salute with everybody on stage. I don't think it needs to be said, but anybody that has an issue and does not want to be on stage, no problem, no issue, no anything."

WWE's approach to the Hulk Hogan tribute

That moment showed WWE trying to balance two realities at once. Triple H framed Hogan as one of the defining figures in the history of the business, but he also left the decision to appear in the tribute up to each individual talent member.

The company has continued to honor Hogan since his death. Most recently, WWE expanded that remembrance by unveiling a Hulk Hogan statue at WWE World during WrestleMania 42 weekend.

What Triple H's comments meant for SmackDown

Triple H's wording made the immediate consequence clear, WWE wanted a visible on-air tribute to Hogan without forcing every performer into the same public stance. That gave talent room for personal choice while still letting the show open with a company-wide memorial.

It also fits the larger way WWE has handled Hogan's legacy since his death. The ten-bell salutes and later WrestleMania weekend tribute both point to the company continuing to present Hogan as one of its most important historical figures.

Sources

As reported by Fightful.