WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan, through his company Real American Brands, is reportedly making a bid to acquire the intellectual property and branding of the Hooters restaurant chain, according to information first reported by TMZ Sports. The move is described as part of a broader mission by Hogan’s company to take over and reinvigorate established American brands that represent “freedom, grit and good times.”
Real American Brands aims to bring such brands “back to relevance,” and in the case of Hooters, they see a significant opportunity. “Hooters is more than just wings and nostalgia — it’s part of the American story,” a representative for Real American Brands told TMZ Sports.
The vision for a Hogan-influenced Hooters involves a significant refresh. “We see enormous potential to modernize the brand without losing its bold identity,” the Real American Brands representative continued. “Under our umbrella, Hooters will return to the spotlight as a symbol of unfiltered Americana — fun, fearless, and proudly American.” This suggests a strategy that respects the chain’s established image while aiming to update its appeal.
This potential acquisition comes at a critical time for Hooters. Hooters of America, one of the entities operating the restaurants, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in March 2025, seeking to restructure its debts. Despite the bankruptcy proceedings, Hooters locations have remained open. Hogan’s interest in the brand was reportedly first noted in early April 2025, with sources in his camp describing it as a “perfect match.”
Real American Brands, which last year launched Real American Beer (a brand that found early placement in Hooters locations), views the Hooters IP acquisition as a “big step in the right direction” for growing its portfolio with an emphasis on entertainment and patriotism. Reports suggest that if the all-cash bid for the intellectual property is successful and approved by parties overseeing the bankruptcy, Real American Brands would likely license the Hooters name back to restaurant operators, as Hogan is reportedly not interested in directly owning or managing the physical restaurant locations.
The plans for a revitalized Hooters extend beyond the restaurant experience itself. Real American Brands indicated intentions to relaunch Hooters “in a ton of different ways — from consumer products to digital content to gaming and more,” specifically hoping to engage with younger audiences and broaden the brand’s reach.
