Hogan recalled going through the match, working around Andre’s physical limitations before the giant called for a bodyslam.

“All of a sudden, when the match was almost over he goes, ‘Slam!'” Hogan said. “I thought I heard what I heard, and as he came towards me I took a step back and scooped him, and then got his momentum and I barely got him over. Then I dropped a leg thinking that he was going to kick out, and he didn’t kick out.”

In the back, the gravity of the win started to set in for Hogan.

“I realized what he had done for me,” Hogan said. “He had just made my career there brother. I was on a roll anyway, that was like hitting double nitrous buttons for me. [Vince] was excited. He knew we pulled a rabbit out of the hat. It could have went the other way because Andre was hurt real bad. […] There was a damn good chance we could have s**t the bed that night and ruined everything.

Backstage, Hogan remembered talking to Andre about him giving Hogan that legendary win. He recalled the progress their relationship had made, with the giant previously not liking him, but ultimately saying he “always wanted to do that” for Hogan.

If you use any of the quotes in this article, please credit “Full Send Podcast” with an h/t to Wrestling Inc. for the transcription.