From The Rumor Mill: WWE and Hulk Hogan close to agreeing on a deal?

What's the story?

Hulk Hogan hasn't been seen on WWE TV in more than three years, but Dave Meltzer of The Wrestling Observer believes that both parties are close to agreeing on a deal.

In case you didn't know...

Hogan's last WWE appearance came back at WrestleMania 31 when he joined Scott Hall and Kevin Nash when the trio reunited as the nWo and appeared in Sting's corner for his match against Triple H.

In the summer of 2015, WWE shockingly terminated Hogan's contract after a controversial tape was leaked where the WWE legend was heard using racist language. WWE's statement read that the company was "committed to embracing and celebrating individuals from all backgrounds."

Hogan has since won his lawsuit against the companies that leaked the tape and has apologized profusely for the remarks that he made, which has led to many fans believing that the company could now be open to bringing him back.

The heart of the matter

Hogan has claimed himself publically a number of times over the past year that he would definitely be open to a return to WWE in the near future if that was what the company wanted, but the company has claimed that:

"Hogan is not currently under contract to WWE.”

According to Dave Meltzer of The Wrestling Observer, the wording of this statement could indicate that WWE is close to signing a deal with the former star.

What's next?

At 65 years old, it's limited as to how much Hogan could actually do on WWE TV right now, but there are many non-physical roles that the former World Champion could pick up.

Author's take

Hogan is a wrestling legend and the last few years have been hard on him and his family, WWE has started using his name and moves on TV much more recently after every mention of him was banned for a few years. It's obvious that WWE wants him back as part of their family, so it's highly likely that he will make his return to the company in the near future.