Throughout his long and distinguished career in the professional wrestling world, Hulk Hogan has relied on his aura of invincibility, but in a recent interview he admitted that a very personal opponent has forced him to bend his knees, if it is because of his addiction after painkillers.
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The now 70-year-old man, who has been a multiple world champion in WWE and WCW, told Muscle & Health magazine.
In this interview, he went back to the 25 surgeries he underwent to treat numerous injuries. While it has long been known that wrestling is a scripted spectator sport, it still takes a heavy toll on the body.
“I got on the pill because I had to endure 25 surgeries, including 10 on my back, facial surgeries after a kick, knee and hip replacements, and abdominal and shoulder back surgeries,” he told the source of his alcohol problems.
Like a dog with his bone
By going under the knife, the “Hulkster” has developed an unhealthy addiction against his will.
“Five or six years ago I was in so much pain that I could no longer function.
“I needed the medication at that stage in my life, but even after the pain subsided they continued to give me the same medication. As I was recovering from my tenth back surgery, the pharmacy called and said my prescription was ready. Like a dog with his bone, I wanted everything,” he explained.
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Willpower… and cannabis
It took Hogan a long time to realize that he had to rely on his own will to exorcise his demons.
“Finally, I looked at myself and said, ‘I’m not in pain. I do not need that. My body aches from all the wrestling injuries, but I’m not in a state of excruciating pain either.”
The legendary character didn’t hide the fact that he also relied on CBD, a cannabis molecule, to endure pain. He also threw away the alcohol of his life.
“Seven months ago I decided to stop drinking. I was at a New Year’s Eve party and I didn’t like what I saw. I said to myself: I’m done with this.
“As for CBD, I was confused because I had never used it. I didn’t understand the health benefits in terms of energy levels, sleep quality, or the ability to help with medication weaning.”
Hogan says he’s lost 40 pounds since the changes in his life and hopes to avoid a possible 11th back surgery in the next few months.