10 Best Moments From Hulk Hogan's 2002 WWE Return
10. Backstage With Kane
“Well ya know something Mean Gene!”. That phrase was immediately identifiable to anyone watching along to WWE programming in the HulkaMania Era. Staring directly into the camera, running with the ball after interviewer Gene Okerlund masterfully passed it to him, the intensity and passion with which Hogan delivered his promos could not be matched. Hogan was a one-man show during these segments, and his command of the grandiose dialogue coming from his lips overshadowed anyone who happened to be sharing the segment with him.
The legacy of Hogan as a “promo god” is what makes this backstage segment from 2002 all the more memorable. Hogan is a total team player in these 2 minutes, letting The Rock do his shtick and playing the supporting role in a way that had not be seen until this evening.
However, things really go into third gear when Kane shows up and proceeds to lampoon both The Rock and The Hulkster, imitating both men’s signature catchphrases and mannerisms.
The contrast of the usually strong and silent Kane and two of the most colourful characters in Pro Wrestling history make this moment so fun and gave a refreshing preview of what Hogan’s run would be like for the remainder of the year.