WWE has a long-standing tradition of incorporating patriotism into their storylines, with classic rivalries such as Sgt. Slaughter facing off against The Iron Sheik serving as examples. Their intense Boot Camp match is still remembered for its compelling storytelling.
While many wrestlers have embraced the red, white, and blue theme in wrestling, only a select few have truly embodied the spirit of patriotism. Here are five of the most patriotic wrestlers in WWE history.
- “The All-American” Lex Luger: After Hulk Hogan left WWE in 1993, Lex Luger stepped up as a beloved figure in a rivalry against the then-world champion Yokozuna. Despite his memorable bodyslam of Yokozuna on July 4, Luger’s controversial win at SummerSlam 1993 somewhat overshadowed his time as “The All-American.”
- The Undertaker: Known for his ability to adapt to different eras in WWE, The Undertaker’s “American Badass” persona during the Attitude Era was a hit with fans. Despite enjoying the character, The Undertaker felt that the gimmick might face challenges in the long term.
- “The Olympic Hero” Kurt Angle: Kurt Angle’s victory with an Olympic Gold Medal in 1996 established him as a true wrestling legend. His entrance theme “Medal” became synonymous with his persona, leading to a successful career in both amateur and professional wrestling, culminating in a Hall of Fame induction.
- Hacksaw Jim Duggan: Hacksaw Jim Duggan’s pride in his country was evident through his persona, prominently featuring an American flag and a 2×4 when entering the ring. His memorable chants of “U-S-A! U-S-A!” resonated with fans worldwide, solidifying his status as one of the top stars of the 1980s.
- Hulk Hogan: Hulk Hogan’s patriotic spirit was a focal point of professional wrestling in the 1980s, with his anthem “I’m a real American” embodying the essence of the American Dream. Despite his considerable success, Hogan’s career shifted when he left WWE for WCW in 1993, attempting to maintain a similar patriotic image before a controversial heel turn at WCW Bash at the Beach 1996.
