Florida Governor Ron DeSantis was interrupted during a press conference Thursday in Bradenton when a heckler erupted into a profanity-filled rant, blasting the governor’s immigration policies just as he was paying tribute to late pro wrestling icon and longtime Florida resident Hulk Hogan.
The outburst occurred just three minutes into DeSantis’ remarks, as he was recalling watching Hogan face off against André the Giant at WrestleMania III.
“I remember WrestleMania III. He was up …,” DeSantis began, before being abruptly cut off.
“Alligator Alcatraz — is that your f—ing legacy?” the heckler shouted, leaping to his feet and pointing at the governor.
The man, who was seated near the back of the room, was quickly removed by security as DeSantis responded sharply.
“Hey, stop, stop! Stop! Get out of here! Get outta here!” the governor yelled, motioning for the man to be escorted out.
Emotions High Following Hogan’s Death
Before the interruption, DeSantis had opened the event with heartfelt comments on the death of 71-year-old Hulk Hogan, who passed away earlier that day in Clearwater.
“I was sad to see the news that Hulk Hogan passed away today. He was a major icon for anybody in Gen X,” DeSantis said, adding that he grew up watching the wrestling legend and remembered seeing him perform live before the days of pay-per-view.
Heckler References ‘Alligator Alcatraz’
The heckler’s reference to “Alligator Alcatraz” was a jab at DeSantis’ controversial immigration initiative—a high-capacity detention facility built in the Florida Everglades. The governor recently pledged $245 million in funding to expand the site, formally known as the Dade-Collier Immigration Holding Center.
Critics, including some immigrant advocacy groups and progressive activists, have denounced the project as excessive and dehumanizing, while DeSantis and allies argue it is a necessary measure to ensure rapid deportation enforcement.
Tribute Overshadowed by Tensions
The event was intended to spotlight Hogan’s legacy and Florida roots. Born Terry Bollea in Georgia, Hogan grew up in the Tampa Bay area and called Florida home for most of his life.
“He was a larger-than-life figure who really defined an era,” DeSantis said before the disruption. “He was a symbol of strength, of pride, and for a lot of us growing up, he was a hero.”
Despite the disruption, the governor concluded his remarks and fielded brief questions afterward. The heckler’s identity was not immediately released.
