The unique style of Big Van Vader would have forced Hulk Hogan to think differently in the ring, according to WWE Hall of Famer Arn Anderson.
On a recent edition of his “ARN” podcast, Anderson spoke about Vader and how a match in Japan with the Hulkster would have had to work differently. He said,
“It would’ve forced Hogan outside of his comfort zone to have him turn it on and turn it up… But I’ve seen some stuff of Hogan in Japan. He’s a different guy in there. He works like a regular guy but he’s still Hulk Hogan. I was very, very shocked to see that. So, if he could’ve had that kind of match with Vader? Sign me up.”
Hogan never competed with Vader in Japan, but the pair did compete against each other at WCW SuperBrawl V in February 1995.
Their WCW World Heavyweight Championship match saw Hogan retain the title via DQ after Ric Flair interfered.
Big Van Vader, known for his unique style and intimidating presence in the wrestling ring, would have posed a challenge for Hulk Hogan, forcing him to adapt his usual approach. This insight was shared by WWE Hall of Famer Arn Anderson on a recent episode of his podcast, “ARN.”
Anderson discussed Vader’s impact on Hogan’s wrestling style, particularly if they had faced off in Japan. He believed that such a match would have pushed Hogan out of his comfort zone and required him to elevate his performance. Anderson noted that he had witnessed Hogan’s different approach to wrestling when he competed in Japan, where he worked more like a regular wrestler rather than relying solely on his larger-than-life persona. This revelation surprised Anderson, who expressed his eagerness to see Hogan engage in a match with Vader.
Although Hogan and Vader never had a match in Japan, they did face each other at WCW SuperBrawl V in February 1995. The encounter was for the WCW World Heavyweight Championship, with Hogan successfully retaining the title through disqualification after interference from Ric Flair.
Vader’s wrestling style was characterized by his immense size, agility, and hard-hitting maneuvers. He was known for incorporating power moves and high-flying techniques into his repertoire, making him a formidable opponent for any wrestler. His imposing presence alone would have challenged Hogan to strategize differently and adapt to Vader’s unique approach.
Hogan, on the other hand, was renowned for his charismatic personality and larger-than-life character. He often relied on his showmanship and crowd interaction to captivate audiences. However, as Anderson pointed out, Hogan demonstrated a more grounded and technical wrestling style during his matches in Japan. This versatility showcased Hogan’s ability to adapt to different environments and opponents.
The clash between Hogan and Vader would have undoubtedly been a spectacle to witness. Hogan’s ability to blend his iconic persona with a more traditional wrestling style could have created an intriguing dynamic in the ring. The contrasting styles and personalities of both wrestlers would have added an extra layer of excitement and unpredictability to the match.
While fans never got to see Hogan and Vader go head-to-head in Japan, their encounter at WCW SuperBrawl V provided a glimpse of what could have been. Despite the interference that led to a disqualification finish, the match showcased the potential chemistry between the two wrestlers.
In conclusion, the unique style of Big Van Vader would have forced Hulk Hogan to step outside his comfort zone and adapt his wrestling approach. Hogan’s ability to work like a regular wrestler in Japan demonstrated his versatility, making a match between him and Vader an enticing prospect. Although their clash in Japan never materialized, their encounter at WCW SuperBrawl V hinted at the captivating spectacle that could have unfolded between these two wrestling legends.