Sylvester Stallone is sharing fond memories of working alongside Hulk Hogan. Following the wrestling icon’s death on Thursday, July 24, at the age of 71, Stallone, 79, spoke to TMZ ’s Harvey Levin about starring in Rocky III with Hogan. The actor said they met for the first time during rehearsals for the movie in the early 1980s.

Sylvester Stallone continues to pay tribute to his late friend and co-star Hulk Hogan, the WWE wrestling legend, who passed away on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at the age of 71.

Brooke Shields remembered Hogan by sharing a photo of the duo arm wrestling as Kathy Griffin stood behind them. “Rest easy, Hulk. This moment and his entire guest episode on ‘Suddenly Susan’ was a true highlight,” she wrote via Instagram. “Sending love to all of his loved ones today.”

Hulk Hogan made a big impact in Hollywood, both in and out of the wrestling ring. His most memorable movie roles, starting with "Rocky III."

“Through the good times and the bad, I always loved my brother Terry!,” wrote Brutus Beefcake (referring to Hogan by his given name). “I am devastated by the loss of my friend, I only wish we had time to mend our broken friendship before his passing. Until I see you Brother, in the big squared circle in the sky! I love you.”

Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson paid tribute to the "immortal" Hulk Hogan on social media following the wrestling legend’s death.

When Sylvester Stallone was making Rocky III, he need a monster villain to fight. He found one not in the world of boxing or even in Hollywood but in the wrestling ring. The 6ft 7in, 300lb Hulk Hogan.