Hulk Hogan debuts new look on live TV and viewers are concerned about WWE legend
WWE legend Hulk Hogan debuted a new look during a live TV interview - but it's got people concerned.
Hogan was the top star in WWE (then WWF) during the 1980s and early 1990s, and had what was ultimately an industry-changing stint in WCW prior to his return to the company in 2002.
He is the fifth longest-reigning WWE Champion of all-time, and has been inducted into the company's Hall of Fame on two occasions.
Public opinion towards Hogan has unmistakably shifted in recent years after a video emerged in 2015 of him making racist slurs.
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His public support of current US President Donald Trump at live rallies also drew the ire of some wrestling fans.
During a surprise appearance on WWE's Raw on Netflix premiere in January, Hogan - real name Terry Bollea - was audibly booed by sections of the live audience.
Despite this, Hogan's career as an in-ring performer will always be regarded as a key reason behind WWE's growth into a multi-billion dollar gimmick, with his first persona - associated with his white handlebar moustache, yellow and red attire and 'Real American' theme song - loved by fans for many years.
But during an interview on the 'FOX & Friends' TV show, the 71-year-old showed off a changed look - and it's caught viewers by surprise.
He wore a T-shirt with the words 'America first, beer second', along with sunglasses and his signature red bandana.
But while his hair and goatee were left white, his beard was dyed black, with viewers stating that the new look simply didn't look right on the 71-year-old.
Check out the clip below.
Taking to Twitter, one said: "Just saw a clip of Hulk Hogan and I thought it was a parody? What's up with that dark beard?"
Another wrote: "What is going on with that beard man."
A third added: "What in the fresh hell is going on with his face?"
While another bluntly assessed: "It makes him look 100 years old."
Hogan was appearing alongside former WCW booker and promoter Eric Bischoff, who would later sign for WWE and be inducted into their Hall of Fame.
The pair announced the creation of 'Real American Freestyle' - a new professional wrestling promotion.
Hogan will serve as the promotion's Commissioner, with the inaugural event featuring single matches across eight men's and four women's weight classes, as per Associated Press.
Key members of the roster include former MMA star Ben Askren and Olympic silver medalist Kennedy Blades.
Hogan explained: "The idea was so exciting that I get a chance to be involved with all these young people and help guide them in any way, especially to make them huge stars and create a future for them.
"People might be surprised, but wrestling is wrestling, brother."
Topics: WWE, Hulk Hogan, Fan Reactions
Ryan Smart