In a moment of raw emotion that transcended politics and entertainment, former President Donald Trump and White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt attended the funeral of WWE legend Hulk Hogan, delivering speeches so profoundly moving that they reduced the entire gathering to tears. The service, held at a packed chapel in Hogan’s hometown, saw Trump and Leavitt pay tribute to the wrestling icon as a “true American hero” and “warrior for freedom,” their words echoing through the room like a final body slam from the Hulk himself. As mourners, including family, fans, and fellow wrestlers, sobbed openly, the event highlighted the deep personal bonds Hogan forged and the cultural void left by his sudden death on July 24 at age 71 from cardiac arrest. But what made these speeches so gut-wrenching? Was it Trump’s unfiltered admiration or Leavitt’s tearful vulnerability? Dive into this heartbreaking scene that’s uniting a nation in grief and sparking viral tributes across social media.

The funeral, a private affair turned public spectacle due to Hogan’s larger-than-life legacy, drew hundreds to the serene Florida venue. Hogan, born Terry Gene Bollea, had requested a “patriotic send-off,” complete with American flags draping his casket and a playlist of his entrance music blaring softly in the background. Trump, 79, arrived in a black SUV, flanked by Secret Service, while Leavitt, 29, followed shortly after, her eyes already red-rimmed from grief. The duo, both close allies of the MAGA movement, had been vocal supporters of Hogan, who in turn endorsed Trump multiple times. Their presence wasn’t just ceremonial; it was a testament to Hogan’s role as a bridge between pop culture and politics.

Trump took the podium first, his voice steady but laced with emotion. Dressed in a dark suit and red tie – a nod to Hogan’s iconic colors – the former president began with a signature flair: “Hulk Hogan was not just a wrestler; he was a gladiator for America, a man who body-slammed the odds and stood tall for what’s right.” The crowd, a mix of WWE stars like The Rock and John Cena, family members including daughter Brooke and son Nick, and everyday fans, hung on every word. Trump recounted meeting Hogan at a 2016 rally, where the wrestler pumped up the crowd with his famous “brother” catchphrase. “He believed in making America great again before it was a slogan,” Trump said, his voice cracking slightly. “Hulk fought for freedom, for family, for the little guy. He was fearless, just like the movement we built together.”

As Trump spoke of Hogan’s battles – both in the ring against foes like Andre the Giant and in life against scandals like the 2015 Gawker lawsuit – the audience grew visibly emotional. “He faced the fake news media, the cancel culture mob, and came out victorious,” Trump declared, referencing Hogan’s $140 million victory that bankrupted the outlet after they leaked a sex tape containing racial slurs. “Hulk apologized, redeemed himself, and showed us all how to rise again. That’s the American spirit!” By the end, Trump’s eyes glistened, and he concluded with, “Rest in power, brother. We’ll keep fighting in your name.” The applause was thunderous, but muffled by sobs; several attendees, including Cena, were seen wiping tears.

Then came Leavitt, stepping up with a tissue in hand, her composure already fraying. As Trump’s press secretary, she’s known for her sharp retorts and unyielding loyalty, but here, vulnerability shone through. “Hulk Hogan wasn’t just an icon; he was a voice for the unheard, a beacon of courage in a world that’s lost its way,” she began, her voice breaking on the first sentence. Leavitt, who has cited Hogan as a childhood hero, shared personal anecdotes: “Growing up, I watched him teach us to train, pray, and believe. But as an adult, I saw him stand with President Trump, fearless against the storm.” Tears streamed freely as she praised Hogan’s MAGA support, calling him “a warrior for freedom” who embodied “faith, integrity, and the America we cherish.”

Leavitt’s speech peaked with a poignant reflection on Hogan’s final years. Battling health issues from decades of wrestling – multiple surgeries, painkillers, and mobility challenges – Hogan remained outspoken. “Even in pain, he roared for us,” she said, sobbing. “He supported the president when it wasn’t popular, defended our values when others cowered. Hulk, you were our Hulkamania in dark times.” The room erupted in cries; Brooke Hogan embraced Leavitt afterward, both weeping. “You captured Dad perfectly,” Brooke whispered, audible to nearby microphones.

The speeches’ impact was immediate and profound. Attendees like The Rock, who called Hogan “my brother in arms,” were seen consoling each other. Fans outside the chapel, watching on screens, chanted “Hulk! Hulk!” through tears. Social media exploded with clips, hashtags like #TrumpHoganTribute and #LeavittTears trending globally. “Trump’s words hit like a leg drop,” one X user posted, while another said, “Leavitt’s tears broke me – Hulk was America.”

Hogan’s life was a rollercoaster of triumphs and trials, making the tributes all the more resonant. From his 1980s heyday, headlining WrestleMania and inspiring Hulkamania, to his Hollywood ventures in films like Rocky III, Hogan defined pop culture. His reality show Hogan Knows Best revealed a devoted father, but scandals – the divorce, Nick’s car accident, the sex tape – tested him. Yet, Hogan’s redemption arc, including his WWE Hall of Fame induction and apologies, mirrored the resilience Trump and Leavitt praised.

Politically, Hogan’s Trump alliance began in 2016, evolving into a symbol of conservative defiance. He spoke at the RNC, wore MAGA gear, and criticized “woke” culture. “Hulk saw Trump as a fellow fighter,” Leavitt noted in her speech. Trump, in turn, called Hogan “a great friend” on Truth Social post-funeral.

The event underscored Hogan’s cultural footprint. Tributes poured in from celebrities like Sylvester Stallone and politicians like Ron DeSantis. WWE held a moment of silence at SummerSlam, fans chanting his name.

For Trump and Leavitt, the funeral was more than mourning; it was a rally cry. “Hulk’s spirit lives in the fight for America,” Trump said. Leavitt echoed, “We’ll honor him by winning big.” Critics called it politicized, but supporters saw authenticity.

As the casket was carried out to “Real American,” mourners wept, united in loss. Hogan’s legacy – entertainer, patriot, fighter – endures, amplified by Trump and Leavitt’s tearful words. In a divided world, their speeches reminded us of shared heroes.