WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan immortalised the 'Leg Drop' into an iconic move

WWE legend Hulk Hogan, who died on Thursday (July 24) at the age of 71 due to cardiac arrest, turned the simple 'Leg Drop' into one of the most iconic finishing moves in wrestling history. Though basic in execution, the move became legendary thanks to Hogan’s unmatched charisma and showmanship. After delivering his signature big boot, fans knew what came next - the devastating leg drop that often sealed victory.

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The iconic leg drop wasn’t just a finishing move - it was a performance. Before delivering it, Hogan would often pause, cup his ear to the roaring crowd, and soak in their reaction before delivering the move.


Throughout the 1980s and beyond, Hogan’s leg drop became a symbol of wrestling’s golden era and remains etched in the memories of fans around the world.


The leg drop is one of the simplest yet most enduring moves in professional wrestling, used by countless legends over the years. But no one is more synonymous with it than WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan. His running leg drop, often delivered after a thunderous big boot, became the signature finish of his red-and-yellow, all-American hero persona. It helped him secure countless victories and create some of wrestling’s most unforgettable moments.


From his shocking heel turn in 1996 - when he betrayed Randy Savage with a leg drop to join the New World Order (nWo) - to his electric showdown with The Rock at WrestleMania 18, Hogan’s leg drop always carried weight. Ironically, Hogan lost his final WWE title of the 1990s to a leg drop - this time from the massive Yokozuna - showing just how powerful the move could be in the right hands.

While professional wrestling moves are designed to be executed safely, the leg drop - especially when delivered by someone as massive as Hogan - can be legitimately punishing. Dropping a 300-pound leg across an opponent’s neck or chest isn't just tough on the recipient; it also takes a serious toll on the performer. Hogan himself has undergone numerous surgeries in retirement, largely due to the long-term damage caused by repeatedly executing the move over decades.