10 Things We Learned From Attending WWE WrestleMania 35 Live

4. The WWE Universe Hasn't Completely Forgiven Hulk Hogan

Kofi Kingston
WWE.com

Well, this was awkward.

WrestleMania 35 opened with a quick introduction from Alexa Bliss, who said that her power as host allowed her to create a 'Mania moment with a click of her fingers. She did just that. Cue: "Real American" over the PA system, and the arrival of one Hulk Hogan, who can through his catchphrases, poked fun at his old "Silverdome" gaff, then posed with Bliss to close the second.

WWE almost certainly banked on Hulk getting a monster babyface pop here. That's not what happened, no matter how they may have edited the audio for the Network. Hogan did get some cheers, but this was one of the most uncomfortable mixed reactions your writer has experienced, with a smattering of jeers joining the positive fans.

In our section, the prevailing reaction was one of bewilderment. Some people were cringing, others were rolling their eyes, but few could believe that WWE had actually trotted this scumbag out at the very start of the show, though we should all have seen this coming. WWE have been shameless in the way they've reintroduced Hogan following the Gawker scandal.

Channel Manager
Channel Manager

Andy has been with WhatCulture for eight years and is currently WhatCulture's Wrestling Channel Manager. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.