Hulk Hogan’s Real American Beer hits Walmart shelves in 8 states ahead of WrestleMania 41
Hulk Hogan, former professional wrestler, autographs cases of beer during a Real American Beer event at Hy-Vee food store in Omaha, Nebraska, US, on Wednesday, Oct. 16, 2024. (Photographer: Dan Brouillette/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES - Real American Beer, the patriotic brew co-founded by wrestling icon Hulk Hogan, just landed its biggest retail win yet. The brand is now stocked in select Walmart stores across eight states — a move that Hogan and the company say makes it easier than ever for Americans to grab "a real American beer" ahead of grilling season.
Hogan, whose real name is Terry Bollea, launched the beer last summer as a tribute to the wrestling glory days and his entrance anthem, "Real American." With WrestleMania 41 kicking off this weekend in Las Vegas, the timing couldn’t be better for WWE fans craving a themed brew to go along with the action.
Where can you buy Hulk Hogan’s Real American Beer?
The backstory:
According to the company, Real American Beer is now available at Walmart stores in Florida, Illinois, Idaho, Michigan, Missouri, New York, Ohio and Wisconsin. In total, the beer is sold in 23 states and has quickly become a standout in the light beer category.
Real American Beer. (Credit: Real American Beer)
CEO Terri Francis called the Walmart deal a "massive step forward," noting how quickly the beer sells out when entering new markets. "This is about building an iconic American brand that people want to celebrate," Francis said in a statement.
The brand says it appeals to fans of American pastimes like tailgating, sports, and family barbecues — and that it was made with summer in mind.
Why is the beer tied to wrestling?
Big picture view:
Hogan’s Real American Beer is the official beer of WWE and is capitalizing on its growing fandom. WrestleMania 41 begins Saturday in Las Vegas and will once again be a two-night spectacle. That synergy between sports entertainment and branded beverages is helping Hogan’s beer grow quickly, with some stores reportedly selling out within days of stocking.
The name itself nods to Hogan’s iconic entrance song, "Real American," which played throughout his 1980s wrestling dominance.
What they're saying:
"Americans deserve a real American beer, and now they can grab Real American Beer at Walmart — America’s store," Hogan said in a statement. "Our team is passionate about building a beer that brings America together… and now, it’s easier than ever to get some, brother."
Francis added that the company’s fan base continues to show up wherever the beer is launched. "We see it when we roll into a new Real American Beer town and lines wrap around the block," she said.
What's next:
The Walmart partnership signals continued expansion for the brand. While only eight Walmart states are part of this rollout, Hogan’s team says Real American Beer is on track to reach more shelves nationwide. With the summer season approaching — and WrestleMania hype peaking — the company is positioning itself for even more visibility.
The Source: This article is based on previous FOX reporting as well as statements from Hulk Hogan and Real American Beer CEO Terri Francis, as reported in a press release distributed ahead of WrestleMania 41. Background information about Real American Beer’s expansion and retail partnerships was provided by the company. Additional wrestling context was included in reference to WWE’s WrestleMania schedule.