Boxing fights are brutal. But the walk to the ring is where fighters show who they are. On Friday, Dec. 19, Jake Paul fights Anthony Joshua in Miami. The bout will stream on Netflix. It is one of the biggest fights of Paul’s career so far.
Paul is known for dramatic entrances. This time, he is doing something personal. He revealed that his ring walk and outfit are a tribute to Hulk Hogan. Hulk Hogan passed away in July 2025. He was one of the most famous wrestlers in history. Even people who never watched wrestling knew who he was. Hogan became a star in the 1980s and 1990s. He was known as a loud, proud American hero. His red and yellow colors became iconic around the world.
Paul is also American. His opponent, Anthony Joshua, is from the U.K. Paul is leaning into that contrast. He is using Hogan’s image to represent American pride against a British fighter. Paul shared a video on Instagram showing his fight outfit.
In the video, he claimed he hunted an alligator and had it turned into boxing shorts. The claim raised eyebrows, but the message was clear. The look was bold and theatrical. Paul wore yellow sunglasses and a Hulkamania-style jacket. Flames ran down the sleeves. His boxing shorts were red and yellow. The word “Paul” appeared on the front in the classic Hulkamania font.
The tribute may not stop with the clothes. In the background of the video, Hogan’s famous theme song “Real American” played. That song was always used for Hogan’s entrances. It signaled to fans that the Hulkster was coming.
What we know about Jake Paul and Hulk Hogan’s bond
Paul and Hogan had a real connection. Hogan once sat ringside for one of Paul’s fights. They spoke and shared mutual respect. Paul’s brother Logan is a WWE wrestler. He worked closely with Hogan and learned from him. Hogan also appeared on Logan’s podcast in the past.
After Hogan’s death, Jake Paul posted a heartfelt message. He thanked Hogan for his encouragement. He credited Hogan for taking WWE to a global level.
Hulk Hogan died from a heart attack on July 24, 2025. Later, his family questioned whether complications from recent surgeries may have played a role.
On Friday night, Paul steps into the ring with more than a fight on his mind. His entrance will honor a legend who shaped sports entertainment for decades.
