Fitness Influencer Joey Swoll Stands Firm Amid Criticism for Hulk Hogan Tribute

Renowned fitness influencer Joey Swoll, who has amassed a following of nearly 17 million across his social media platforms, recently made headlines for his tribute to the late wrestling legend Hulk Hogan. After facing backlash for his tribute, Swoll returned to social media to address his critics and reinforce his message of positivity.

Swoll’s Return to Social Media

On August 1, 2025, Swoll reemerged online following a brief hiatus. He confidently stated to his 8 million TikTok followers, “Love me or hate me, I am not going anywhere, and you are not going to cancel me.” In a strong declaration, he added, “I am not quitting, and I am done apologizing.”

What Sparked the Controversy?

The controversy began when Swoll posted a video dressed as Hulk Hogan shortly after the wrestling icon’s passing on July 24, 2025. While many followers appreciated the tribute, others condemned him for honoring someone with a troubled history. Hulk Hogan, born Terry Bollea, passed away from a heart attack, as confirmed by the Pinellas County Forensic Science Center.

“I’m sorry for not knowing all the ‘horrible, horrible things that man has done,’” Swoll expressed in an apology video, which he later deleted.

Reflecting on the Backlash

In a heartfelt goodbye message posted on July 29, Swoll reflected on his struggles with being a public figure. He mentioned, “All the good I’ve done, all the people I’ve helped, all for nothing.” Despite the negativity, he remained hopeful for his followers, suggesting that they continue to pay it forward.

Standing Up Against Gym Bullies

Upon his return, Swoll emphasized his mission to combat negativity in the fitness community. He targeted gym bullies in his latest video, proclaiming, "Don’t you wish we had someone to call out bullies in the gym?" His message resonated with thousands, prompting supportive messages encouraging him to continue his efforts.

Key Messages from Swoll

• Empowerment: Swoll aimed to empower his followers, reminding them that they can also stand against bullying.
• Persistence: “I just needed a few days to step back, to breathe, to get my mind right," he noted, highlighting the importance of mental health and resilience.
• Hope and Inspiration: He received numerous supportive messages, urging him to return and continue inspiring others.

Joey Swoll’s Resilience

Joey Swoll’s journey encapsulates the challenges faced by public figures in today’s digital age. Despite the backlash from his Hulk Hogan tribute, he remains steadfast in his mission to promote positivity. His powerful concluding message, “My message is do better, NOT be perfect,” encapsulates his intentions.

Supporting the Fitness Community

Swoll’s dedication to advocating for a healthier gym environment resonates strongly. His willingness to confront issues of bullying reflects a deeper commitment to fostering a supportive community. As he stated, he would not be silenced by negativity and would continue to champion for the defenseless.

Conclusion

Joey Swoll stands as a figure of resilience, navigating the complexities of social media fame while promoting positivity in the fitness community. As he continues to lead with his message of empowerment, his story serves as an example of how to rise above criticism and remain true to one’s values. His journey reminds us all: it’s not about being perfect, but about striving to be better every day.