Update at 11:45 a.m.: In a statement made to People following his termination from WWE on Friday, Hulk Hogan apologized for "offensive language" he used during a private conversation eight years ago that was apparently caught on film.
"It was unacceptable for me to have used that offensive language; there is no excuse for it; and I apologize for having done it," Hogan told the magazine.
"This is not who I am. I believe very strongly that every person in the world is important and should not be treated differently based on race, gender, orientation, religious beliefs or otherwise. I am disappointed with myself that I used language that is offensive and inconsistent with my own beliefs."
Hogan's apology comes on the heels of two tabloids releasing Friday what is purportedly a transcript of Hogan making racist comments in a video that is the crux of a lawsuit between Hogan and Gawker Media.
Original story:
WWE and the most recognizable and popular professional wrestler in the history have ended their relationship with the company officially announcing Friday it has "terminated its contract" with Hulk Hogan.
While the exact reason for the sudden decision is a mystery at this time, WWE released a statement Friday morning after unceremoniously removing Hogan references from its website and taking him off his judging position on its Tough Enough television program.
"WWE terminated its contract with Terry Bollea (aka Hulk Hogan). WWE is committed to embracing and celebrating individuals from all backgrounds as demonstrated by the diversity of our employees, performers and fans worldwide," the company said in an official statement sent to CBSSports.com on Friday.
Prior to the announcement of his termination, Hogan sent out a cryptic tweet.
Follow
Hulk HoganVerified account
@HulkHogan
In the storm I release control,God and his Universe will sail me where he wants me to be,one love. HH
Hogan was signed with WWE under a Legends contract, which mostly paid him to be a promotional tool for the company while allowing it to sell his merchandise. Hogan has hosted WrestleMania, supported charities with which WWE is involved, and made other appearances as part of the three-year deal, which began in 2014.
As of late, Hogan's primary role with WWE was serving as one of three judges on Tough Enough, a reality-based competition airing weekly on USA Network where he, Daniel Bryan and Paige help decide which amateur wrestler will win $250,000 and a developmental contract with WWE.
In order to remove Hogan from its website, WWE had to pull photos, articles and merchandise, as well as some live tour information. His likeness can still be found in highlight videos and on the WWE Network, mostly from old footage from past events.