Popular Nollywood actor Yul Edochie has come under intense criticism on social media following his tribute post to legendary American wrestler Hulk Hogan, who reportedly passed away at the age of 71 after suffering a cardiac arrest at his Florida residence.
Reports of Hogan’s passing surfaced earlier this week, sending shockwaves through the global entertainment and sports communities. The death came just weeks after his wife, Sky Daily, debunked viral rumors suggesting that the WWE Hall of Famer had slipped into a coma. At the time, she assured fans that Hogan’s heart was “strong” and that he was recovering from multiple surgeries. Despite these reassurances, Hogan’s health had been a topic of concern following a neck procedure in May.
In response to the tragic news, Yul Edochie took to his Instagram account to express his sorrow over the loss. In a brief but emotional post, the actor described Hulk Hogan as a cherished hero from his childhood and reminisced about the joy the wrestling icon brought to millions during his career.
“This one pain. What a life. He was our childhood hero. Rest well, Legendary Hulk Hogan,” Yul wrote in the tribute post shared with a photo of the late wrestler.
However, Yul’s tribute quickly backfired, sparking a wave of backlash from followers who questioned the sincerity and timing of his post. Many accused him of hypocrisy and emotional inconsistency, pointing out controversial remarks he had made in the past about death, grief, and personal loss.
Critics were quick to reference a now-infamous statement Yul made last year in which he declared that the same year he tragically lost his teenage son was “the best year” of his life. That comment had already drawn widespread condemnation at the time, and it resurfaced again as fans called out what they perceived as insensitivity and selective mourning.
One Instagram user, @orikoejiro, wrote: “This one pain you, but the year your son died, you said it’s your best year. Don’t worry, Jagaban will fix it.”
Another critic, @yvonnnash, added: “You criticised people for posting others only when they’re dead. Now you’re doing the same? Uncle Tom died the other day, you didn’t post him, but here you are.”
The reactions highlight the growing discontent among some fans over what they perceive as performative grief and inconsistencies in Yul Edochie’s public persona. The actor, who has been at the center of several controversies in recent years—particularly relating to his personal life and relationships—has yet to issue a response to the backlash.
As of now, the post remains on his Instagram page, continuing to generate mixed reactions from fans, some offering support and others expressing disappointment.