NASCAR star Ricky Stenhouse Jr. is set to bring a touch of wrestling flair to the racetrack as he pays tribute to one of sports entertainment’s most iconic figures, Hulk Hogan. The driver of the No. 47 JTG Daugherty Racing Chevrolet will honor the WWE Hall of Famer with a special paint scheme and commemorative decal during an upcoming NASCAR Cup Series race, celebrating Hogan’s enduring impact on pop culture and American sports history.
The design, which will be unveiled later this week, is said to feature Hogan’s signature yellow-and-red color scheme, along with bold graphics inspired by his wrestling persona. Fans can expect nods to Hogan’s legendary catchphrases, such as “Whatcha gonna do, brother?” and imagery that reflects the superstar’s larger-than-life charisma. The tribute will also include a decal bearing Hogan’s likeness, positioned on the car’s rear panel, ensuring that his legacy rides along at full speed.
According to Stenhouse Jr., the gesture is more than just a flashy design—it’s a personal acknowledgment of a cultural icon who inspired millions. “Hulk Hogan isn’t just a wrestling legend—he’s a part of American sports heritage,” Stenhouse said. “Growing up, I watched him electrify arenas and inspire fans with his personality, work ethic, and competitive spirit. Those same values translate into racing, where determination and showmanship go hand in hand.”
Hogan, whose real name is Terry Bollea, dominated the professional wrestling scene during the 1980s and 1990s, becoming the face of the then-WWF and later WCW. His championship reigns, crossover into movies and television, and global fan base made him one of the most recognizable figures in entertainment. Even decades after his peak wrestling years, Hogan remains a cultural force, often appearing at fan conventions, charity events, and in cameo roles.
The NASCAR tribute comes at a time when crossover between motorsports and professional wrestling has been increasingly embraced. Both sports share an emphasis on spectacle, fan engagement, and a high-adrenaline atmosphere. In recent years, wrestling stars have made appearances at NASCAR events, and drivers have incorporated wrestling-inspired designs into their cars, further blurring the lines between the two worlds.
Stenhouse Jr.’s homage to Hogan will also serve as a fan engagement opportunity. JTG Daugherty Racing has announced plans for a special merchandise line featuring the Hulk Hogan-inspired car design, with part of the proceeds benefiting children’s charities—a cause both Stenhouse and Hogan have supported throughout their careers. The team is also organizing a meet-and-greet session for fans at the race weekend, where Hogan is expected to make a special appearance if scheduling allows.
Social media has already begun buzzing with anticipation, as teaser images of the design—featuring flames, lightning bolts, and Hogan’s iconic bandana—circulate online. NASCAR and wrestling fans alike have expressed excitement over the collaboration, calling it “a perfect fusion of two worlds of entertainment.”
The tribute race is scheduled for later this month, and Stenhouse is optimistic that the energy from honoring Hogan will translate into a strong on-track performance. “When you’ve got the Hulkster riding with you, you feel like you can body slam anything in your way—whether it’s a wrestling ring or a pack of race cars,” Stenhouse joked.
If all goes as planned, Stenhouse’s Hogan-inspired paint scheme will not only thrill fans in attendance but also create a lasting visual memory, adding a new chapter to the ongoing relationship between NASCAR and pop culture icons. In the end, it’s not just about speed—it’s about celebrating legends who embody the spirit of competition, entertainment, and resilience.
