Hulk Hogan has once again proven his dominance, not in the wrestling ring but in the world of collectibles. The recent sale of his 1982-83 Wrestling All-Stars card for an astonishing $132,000 has set a new standard in the realm of wrestling cards. This milestone solidifies Hogan’s status as a legend not only in the ring but also on the auction block.
Surpassing the previous record held by The Rock’s 2022 Prizm Black 1/1 card, which sold for $126,000 earlier this year, Hogan’s victory in the collectibles market is reminiscent of his triumphs in the squared circle. This sale is a testament to Hogan’s enduring legacy, reminding fans and collectors alike of his iconic presence in the wrestling world.
The 1982-83 Wrestling All-Stars card set holds a special place in the hearts of wrestling enthusiasts, revered as the holy grail of wrestling cards. Featuring the “rookie” cards of legends such as Hulk Hogan, Ric Flair, and André the Giant, this set has been a pillar of wrestling memorabilia for decades, with Hogan’s card shining as the ultimate treasure.
Prior to this record-breaking auction, Hogan’s card already commanded high values, with previous sales reaching around $50,000. The scarcity of this card, with only 18 PSA 9-graded copies in existence and no documented PSA 10s, adds to its allure. The inclusion of an MBA Gold sticker on the card further cements its status as one of the finest-graded examples, contributing to its remarkable price tag.
The sale of Hogan’s card marked a significant moment for Heritage Auctions, with total sales exceeding $22.7 million over the weekend. Notable highlights included the resale of a 1979 O-Pee-Chee case containing Wayne Gretzky rookie cards for $2.5 million, following a previous sale at $3.7 million before a buyer defaulted. Despite the reduced price, the resale still showcased the strong demand for valuable collectibles.
While the 1982-83 Wrestling All-Stars set remains the undisputed champion of wrestling cards, modern releases are steadily gaining recognition. Sets like the 2002 Fleer Royal Rumble, featuring rookie cards of prominent superstars including John Cena, Brock Lesnar, Randy Orton, and Batista, pose as potential competitors to the All-Stars set in the future. The star-studded lineup of the Fleer set hints at a promising future for wrestling card collectors seeking new treasures.
For now, Hulk Hogan’s $132,000 card stands proudly as the reigning king, symbolizing the enduring appeal of nostalgia and the growing significance of vintage collectibles in the sports card market. This sale not only signifies a triumph for Hogan but also showcases the increasing value and appreciation of wrestling cards as valuable assets in the broader collectibles landscape.
In the realm of collectibles, Hulkamania isn’t just alive—it’s thriving.
