Wrestling icon Hulk Hogan is jumping into the restaurant business in a big way. His beer company, Real American Beer, is leading a bid to buy the Hooters of America chain, as relayed by multiple outlets, including Wide Open Country.
Videos by Wide Open Country
The move comes just months after Hooters filed for bankruptcy and shut down more than 25 locations across the country.
Terri Francis, CEO of Real American Beer, confirmed the takeover attempt in a statement to Business Insider. He said Hogan fully supports the effort to revive the brand.
"Hulk Hogan and Real American Beer are fully committed to protecting and revitalizing the iconic American brand Hooters," Francis said.
Can Hooters Be Saved?
If the deal goes through, Hogan and his team plan to bring in fresh revenue streams. That could include expanding merchandise and revamping the menu to appeal to a younger crowd.
"Cheap beer and fattening wings aren't the food or drink of the younger generation," a source told Business Insider. "Hulk can solve that."
Real American Beer believes Hooters still holds strong brand recognition, even if foot traffic has declined. The company sees opportunity in modernizing both the menu and the brand image.
Chain Still In Business, For Now
Despite the closures, Hooters insists the brand is staying alive. The company says it's shifting toward a franchise-only model to stabilize operations.
"Hooters will be well-positioned to continue our iconic legacy under a pure franchise business model," the company said in a statement to USA Today. "We remain committed to supporting our impacted team members and are incredibly grateful to our loyal customers."
Many closed locations now play a recorded message: "This Hooters location has permanently closed." Nexstar confirmed more than two dozen closures, including stores in Madison, Wisconsin, and Fort Smith, Arkansas. Those locations also disappeared from the company's website without public notice.
Hogan Adds Star Power to Effort
Hogan's involvement brings new attention to Hooters' fight for survival. His name recognition and loyal fan base could give the struggling brand the boost it needs.
The wrestling legend hasn't commented publicly yet, but sources say he's ready to help turn the company around.
In summary, one thing's certain: Hogan is ready to fight for Hooters.
