WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has been sacked by the company after audio emerged of him making racist remarks about his daughter’s boyfriend.
In a statement the wrestling company said: "WWE terminated its contract with Terry Bollea (aka Hulk Hogan). WWE is committed to embracing and celebrating individuals from all backgrounds as demonstrated by the diversity of our employees, performers and fans worldwide."
The WWE would not comment as to the reason it axed Hogan, but widespread reports in US media claim the wrestler was sacked for using the N-word to describe a man involved with his daughter, Brooke.
Following the WWE's announcement, Hogan apologised for the remarks he made:
"I used offensive language during a conversation. It was unacceptable for me to have used that offensive language; there is no excuse for it; and I apologize for having done it."
"This not who I am. I believe very strongly that every person in the world is important and should not be treated differently based on race, gender, orientation, religious beliefs or otherwise."
Hogan posted a cryptic tweet after a transcript of the secretly recorded audio leaked online.
In the storm I release control,God and his Universe will sail me where he wants me to be,one love. HH
— Hulk Hogan (@HulkHogan) July 24, 2015
When referring to his daughter's boyfriend the Hulkster is alleged to have said: "I mean, I’d rather if she was going to f**k some n****r, I’d rather have her marry an 8-foot-tall n****r worth a hundred million dollars! Like a basketball player...I guess we’re all a little racist. F**king n****r."
Hogan is alleged to have made the remarks during the recording of a sex tape with Heather Clem the wife of his former pal Bubba “The Love Sponge” Clem. They were covertly filmed having sex in 2012. The release of that tape is currently the subject of a lawsuit between Hogan and the website Gawker.
