WWE fires Hulk Hogan after racist recordings emerge

World Wrestling Entertainment have fired Terry Bollea – better known as Hulk Hogan – after several recordings emerged in which the wrestler reportedly made racist comments.

According to the National Enquirer and Radar Online, Hogan’s comments were made in an audio recording submitted as evidence in his legal battle with gossip site Gawker Media, who he is suing over the publication of a sex tape.

The two organisations cited several sources as saying that transcripts of the video – which are reportedly under seal as evidence in the upcoming trial – show Hogan repeatedly using the N-word and saying: “I guess we’re all a little racist.”

In a statement to People magazine on Friday, Hogan apologised for his comments. “Eight years ago I used offensive language during a conversation. It was unacceptable for me to have used that offensive language; there is no excuse for it; and I apologize for having done it,” he said.

“This is not who I am. I believe very strongly that every person in the world is important and should not be treated differently based on race, gender, orientation, religious beliefs or otherwise. I am disappointed with myself that I used language that is offensive and inconsistent with my own beliefs.” 

Hogan had earlier tweeted: “In the storm I release control, God and his universe will sail me where he wants to be.”

The WWE wiped almost every reference to Hogan from its website on Thursday evening, and all Hogan-themed merchandise also appeared to have been removed from its online store.

WWE spokesperson Annie Kruger confirmed that Hogan’s contract had been terminated, but did not link it to the tape.

In a statement, the organisation said: “WWE is committed to embracing and celebrating individuals from all backgrounds as demonstrated by the diversity of our employees, performers and fans worldwide.”