Hulk Hogan is expanding his business to a familiar spot.
Madison Square Garden is like a second home to Hulk Hogan, so much so he’s now reportedly starting a new business venture right nearby. According to Page Six, the WWE Hall of Famer is part of a team opening a new sports bar across from famous New York City venue.
The sports bar is set with a Hulk Hogan theme. It came as an idea from the mind of Rich Rosen, a New York nightlife veteran who owns the spot at 461 8th Avenue, on the corner of 31st Street. Rosen told Page Six that he specifically sought out Hogan due to his previous history with MSG, which includes his first WWE Championship win against The Iron Sheik in 1984. He initially approached Hogan with his pitch at an autograph signing.
Rosen Recalls His Encounter With Hogan
“I basically waited 5 hours on line to get two seconds with Hulk Hogan,” Rosen said. “I came with an 8″ by 11″ glossy picture of Madison Square Garden. And in the picture is our [storefront]… walked up to Hulk, I dropped the picture in front of him.” From there, Rosen pointed to MSG and the adjacent bar, telling Hogan, “That’s my [storefront,] that’s the Garden, and you’re my new partner.”
Rosen subsequently handed out his business card, which Hogan used to call him about the proposition four days later. Eventually, the parties reached a licensing deal. This means that while Hogan doesn’t have direct ownership in the project, his name will be used in it.
At 9000 sq/ft, the sports bar is reportedly worth $7 million, with a wall of windows facing Madison Square Garden. The bar is called Slam. It will also have three floors, including a rooftop bar, upon its planned opening in the fall season.
Inside Slam, patrons can see a variety of Hulk Hogan memorabilia as well as screens playing his greatest moments. Hogan’s beer brand, Real American Beer, will also be served. Similarly, Hogan himself is expected to be a regular fixture at the NYC spot.
RELATED: Hulk Hogan Increases Bid To Acquire All Hooters Restaurants
