Hulk Hogan has commented on the Iron Sheik's passing.
Hogan and Sheik were longtime rivals beginning with Hogan defeating Sheik for the WWF title on January 23, 1984 inside Madison Square Garden. Throughout the next two years, Hogan would regularly defend the belt against him at house shows across the United States.
Hogan posted a tribute to Sheik on Instagram Thursday evening, writing:
Today, we honor the legacy of a wrestling icon. Rest in peace, Iron Sheikh. 🙏🏼
The wrestling world has lost a true legend, and Sheikh's contributions to our industry will never be forgotten.I'll always cherish the battles we had in the ring. Our matches were intense, and our rivalry was legendary. We shared a bond that only fellow wrestlers can understand.
Iron Sheikh's unique charisma, undeniable talent, and unforgettable personality made him an unforgettable figure in the hearts of wrestling fans worldwide. His legacy will continue to inspire generations of wrestlers to come.
Rest in peace, Iron Sheikh. You will always be remembered as a true warrior of the ring.
Sheik and Hogan would also find themselves on opposing sides of the Iraqi Sympathizer angle with Sgt. Slaughter in 1990/91 as well. Under the name Colonel Mustafa, Sheik joined Slaughter's Triangle of Terror leading up to Hogan vs. Slaughter at WrestleMania VII.
Sheik and Hogan's rivalry continued long after Sheik had retired from in-ring competion as well. He would regularly make Hogan the target of profanity-laced promos he delivered on The Howard Stern Show, or during other media appearances. Sheik's management team would also post messages to Hogan on behalf of Sheik, stating things such as Hogan being a "jabroni" and that Sheik will "make him humble."
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