Hulk Hogan Responds To The Racist Allegations And Releases An Apology

Earlier today, Hulk Hogan and the WWE went their separate ways following reports of a racist tirade Hogan made several years ago.

Initially, the comments were believed to have been made by Hogan when he went on DJ Whoo Kid's radio show back in 2012, but reports soon emerged saying the actual comments were from a different incident and were far more racist in language and tone.

Now, Hogan broke his silence on the matter and issued an apology.

Speaking with PEOPLE, Hogan said,

Eight years ago 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.

He continued,

This is 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. I am disappointed with myself that I used language that is offensive and inconsistent with my own beliefs.

While the WWE already released a statement saying it "terminated" Hogan's contract, Hogan's lawyer, David Houston, claims his client resigned from the WWE.

Regardless of whether or not Hogan was fired or quit on his own terms, the WWE will no longer be associated with one of its most legendary figures.

Citations: Hulk Hogan Apologizes for Unacceptable Racist Rant as He Is Scrubbed From WWE Hall of Fame (PEOPLE)