Hundreds of fans, known passionately as "Hulkamaniacs," converged on a Liberty Township Kroger store yesterday, eagerly awaiting the arrival of wrestling icon Hulk Hogan. The WWE Hall of Famer visited the Yankee Road Kroger to celebrate the Ohio launch of his co-founded "Real American Beer," named after his famous ring entrance theme. In a statement obtained by Journal-News, the company described the beer as a "light-bodied, fresh and crisp" American-style light lager, boasting 4.2% alcohol by volume and made with 100% North American ingredients.
The scene at Kroger was nostalgia and festivity as Hogan, who started wrestling in Cincinnati over 40 years ago, autographed cases of the Real American Beer and posed for snapshots with his followers. According to Local12 news, a similar event unfolded in Oxford earlier in the day, culminating with an appearance at Brick Street Bar.
I never dreamed that at 71 years old, the fans would still be with me and be so loyal, Hogan told reporters in a statement featured in an article by Cincinnati.com. The turnout was impressive, with lines stretching through the Kroger parking lot and one family from Middletown mentioning they had camped overnight to secure their spot. Hogan was slated for two events in Oxford the same day after his Kroger visit.
In between autographs and photos, Hogan expressed his admiration for the local cuisine, mentioning Cincinnati Gardens memories and even discussing his views on political figures like Trump. A 12-pack of Real American Beer costs $15.99 at Kroger. With a four-decade-long career behind him, the 71-year-old seems to have successfully tapped into the beverage industry, with his Real American Beer serving not only as a throwback to his wrestling glory days but as a new avenue to connect with fans past and present.
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