10 Wrestling Facts We Didn't Know Last Week (Feb 2)

6. AJ Styles Asked To Pay Tribute To Hulk Hogan At Raw 25

AJ Styles was quite visibly marking out when 'Mean' Gene Okerlund conducted that backstage interview with him at Raw 25. AJ grew up watching Gene, so it must have felt special to work with the legendary announcer. At the same time, Styles had another legend on his mind, and he was desperate to pay tribute to him with his promo.

Sports Illustrated reported this week that AJ begged WWE officials to let him reference Hulk Hogan. The use of, "let me tell you something, brother" wasn't Styles acting off the cuff. That line was completely scripted and was AJ's way of thanking Hulk for his help and guidance when the pair both worked for TNA.

It's also interesting that WWE would green light such a comment. Something as small as AJ using Hogan's signature catchphrase could hint that Hulk is on his way back. There's already speculation from fans on social media that he'll be part of WrestleMania, and it looks like WWE might be ready to move on from Hogan's past indiscretions.