WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan is putting his name brand on an international tour of Australia later this year. The four-show tour, "Hulkamania - Let the Battle Begin," will be produced by Hogan and former WCW president Eric Bischoff.
There is the possibility of the tour airing on TV in the U.S. or internationally, as Bischoff Hervey Entertainment Television is listed as one of the production companies
for the tour. Bischoff's company produced the first season of Hulk Hogan's Celebrity Championship Wrestling show that aired last year.
In a press release, Hogan and the event promoter, Condon Sports and Entertainment, danced around the issue of whether Hogan will actually be wrestling on the card. Hogan's health has been a concern in 2009 and he said in a recent interview he can't even "drop the leg" for his signature move.
No wrestlers have been announced for the tour, but the selling point from Hogan and Bischoff is Hogan's brand name. The implication is he wouldn't put his name on a wrestling product unless they have big plans for the tour.
"I have always wanted to perform in Australia as I have heard Aussies are some of the greatest wrestling fans ever," said Hogan in the press release. "I am grateful for this opportunity, and hope that this is just the beginning of a great thing!"
Based on the name of the tour and Hogan's "quote" in the press release, this appears to be the first of a planned series of tours. Reaction to the first tour will dictate whether there are follow-up tours, but there appears to be a long-term touring plan in place.
The dates for the first tour are November 21, 24, 26, and 28 in major cities across Australia. Tickets for the tour go on-sale Sept. 24.
TNA just announced a major live event tour for February and March 2010. WWE toured Australia in July, so Australia is becoming a destination for international tours featuring the top brands from the U.S. pro wrestling
industry.
Pretty interesting. I hope it's successful. The more wrestling out there the better.