Wrestling icon Hulk Hogan has dropped a bombshell about one of Hollywood’s most legendary roles – revealing that Sylvester Stallone once wanted him to play Rocky Balboa in the iconic Rocky franchise.
In a recent interview, Hogan explained that Stallone saw potential in him for the underdog boxer, but there was a major catch: he’d have to drop nearly 100 pounds to fit the role.
The Role That Almost Was
Hogan, known for his towering physique in the wrestling world, admitted that shedding the weight wasn’t something he was willing to do at the time. "Sly wanted me to lose like 80 to 100 pounds," Hogan recalled. "I was like, ‘Bro, I can’t even get to 300 [pounds]!’"
Why Hogan Turned It Down
The wrestling superstar was at the peak of his career, and his massive frame was part of his brand. "I was making so much money being big," Hogan said, laughing. "I wasn’t about to shrink down for a movie."
Of course, the role ultimately went to Stallone himself, launching one of the most successful film series in history. But it’s fascinating to imagine an alternate universe where Hogan’s Rocky stepped into the ring instead.
Hollywood What-Ifs
This isn’t the first time Hogan has shared stories about near-misses in Hollywood. The wrestling legend has previously talked about almost landing roles in major action films, but none quite as iconic as Rocky.
Would Hogan have been a believable Rocky? Fans will never know – but one thing’s for sure: Stallone’s version became a cultural phenomenon, while Hogan continued dominating the wrestling world.
