Vince McMahon, the former WWE Chairman and CEO, has made a rare public appearance in the trailer for TMZ Presents: The Real Hulk Hogan, which was released on Tuesday, 12 August 2025. The FOX documentary, set to air on the same day, marks McMahon's first major on-screen interview since stepping down from WWE/TKO amid legal controversies in January 2024. The interview was filmed at the offices of his new business venture and features personal reflections on Hulk Hogan's final WWE appearance.
McMahon's Appearance in the Hulk Hogan TV Special
The upcoming TMZ Presents: The Real Hulk Hogan explores the wrestling icon's life and career, featuring exclusive interviews with colleagues, friends and rivals. In the newly released trailer, McMahon is seen speaking candidly about Hogan's last WWE appearance, stating: 'I was angry. He deserved much more'.
TMZ Presents: The Real Hulk Hogan is airing tonight on @FOXTV at 8/7c!
— michael j. babcock (@mikejbabcock) August 12, 2025
All new interviews w/ @VinceMcMahon, @TheSlyStallone, @TheMarkHenry, @Goldberg, @AlexaBliss_WWE, @MsCharlotteWWE, @RealJimmyHart, @davemeltzerWON, Mick Foley, and Brooke Hogan among other @WWE Superstars for a... pic.twitter.com/LjZIYXFOKa
The documentary, produced in collaboration with TMZ, will air on FOX and is expected to include behind-the-scenes stories from Hogan's time in WWE, his cultural influence and his relationship with McMahon. The pair worked together for decades, with McMahon playing a central role in shaping Hogan's career during WWE's 1980s and 1990s boom period.
Public Reaction and the 'Crying Meme' Connection
Following the trailer's release, social media lit up with speculation about whether a new 'Vince McMahon crying meme' might be on the horizon. Early posts from fans have joked about 'Crying Meme 2.0', noting McMahon's solemn expressions in the trailer.
The original meme, which captured McMahon in a visibly emotional moment, became a viral staple on platforms like Twitter/X, TikTok and Reddit.
WWE Vince McMahon sad / in pain / holds / holding back tears / tries / trying not to cry / "Dad who was" meme pic.twitter.com/T2DgXPbCrs
— reaction memes ➡️ @VideoReacts (@VideoReacts) October 31, 2023
Recent Public Sightings of Vince McMahon
This is McMahon's second notable public appearance in recent weeks. On 5 August 2025, he attended the private memorial service for Hulk Hogan in Clearwater, Florida. Wrestling insiders reported that McMahon delivered an emotional eulogy, reflecting on Hogan's impact both inside and outside the ring.
Security was reportedly tight at the event, which was attended by numerous wrestling stars and close friends of Hogan. McMahon's presence was described as both significant and rare, given his low public profile since his resignation.
Ongoing Legal and Corporate Background
McMahon resigned from his executive roles at WWE/TKO in early 2024 after facing allegations of sexual misconduct and financial impropriety. Federal authorities have placed related lawsuits on hold while conducting investigations.
In January 2025, the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) fined McMahon more than $1.7 million for failing to disclose multiple hush-money payments between 2019 and 2022. Shareholders have also filed legal claims accusing him of withholding internal documents related to the misconduct allegations.
New Business Ventures
After stepping away from WWE, McMahon launched a new investment company, 14TH & I, focusing on sports, media and entertainment sectors. The firm's branding was trademarked in July 2025, signalling his continued interest in the industry despite his corporate exit.
The interview for the TMZ Presents: The Real Hulk Hogan special was filmed in the offices of 14TH & I, suggesting the location may serve as a base for McMahon's post-WWE business activities.
The WWE and Hulk Hogan Legacy
Hulk Hogan, one of WWE's most recognisable stars, played a pivotal role in the company's global success. His partnership with McMahon helped propel WWE into mainstream entertainment, particularly during the 1980s wrestling boom.
McMahon's comments in the documentary trailer highlight the emotional weight of Hogan's final WWE appearance, which McMahon felt did not receive the recognition it deserved. This shared history continues to resonate with wrestling fans worldwide.
