(Image Source:www.youtube.com)

First they booed and then they cheered. Hulkamaniacs are talking today after celebrity and pro-wrestler Hulk Hogan made a big announcement. (YouTube)

“This for me is the end of the road, guys. When I sat down and had a decision to say this, I wanted to tell the people that love me and were loyal and supported me the most.That’s why I wanted to tell you, fans first.”

He didn’t officially retire, and says the formal statement will come soon. Hogan appeared on Good Morning America to talk about his new focus on his personal life, and to plug his new little person wrestling show.

“What are you going to do, when my micro-championship wrestlers run wild on you brother?”
 

Hogan is facing a string of personal issues lately -- his health, a messy divorce, his ex-wife’s domestic abuse allegations, and now -- money. 

“ANCHOR: How are your finances now?
HOGAN: They’re getting better, I’m living in a rental house. 
ANCHOR: Would you call yourself rich? Would you call yourself poor?
HOGAN: No, I’m living in abundance.
ANCHOR: So it’s not like how it was.
HOGAN: No, but I’m happy now.”

Hogan says he’s moving on, but critics are wondering if there’s more to the story. Here’s a writer for CTV, who says Hulk’s financial issues might be behind his retirement.

“Speculation is rife his retirement is a 'work'...and he will step inside the squared circle again against Sting at upcoming pay-per-view 'Bound For Glory'....Meanwhile, Hulk has run into trouble after attempting to boost his finances with his latest [reality TV venture] after midget competitor Steve Richardson - aka 'Puppet the Psycho Dwarf' - accused him of stealing his idea [for the show].

And in the other corner, Hogan’s rival, Sting, says he’s not buying the retirement.

“Am I the only one that sees this? [FLASH] Look at him, he’s the best. Academy Award I give it to him right now. Hulk you get an Oscar for this one that’s good. Real good”(AOC)

Acting or not, a writer for SB Nation blog Cageside Seats says it doesn’t really matter. Whether or not Hulk retires, the whole thing is great TV. 

“Hogan...hit a home run with his retirement speech. Mixing reality with fantasy, Hulk even drummed up a tear or two to really drive it home...No, this doesn't make the most sense in terms of how a promotion should build towards a big match at the biggest pay-per-view of the year, but the actual playing out of the program, has, dare I say, been as entertaining as possible considering those involved.”(AOC)

The Hulkster says he will make the formal announcement next week.