The Return of Jesse Ventura: From Wrestling Ring to Political Arena
In the vibrant world of 1980s professional wrestling, Jesse “The Body” Ventura was a prominent figure, often cast as the quintessential heel — the flamboyant villain whose underhanded tactics and provocative antics ignited the passion of fans, rallying them behind the heroic Hulk Hogan, who stood victorious in his iconic wrestling attire.
Now at the age of 73, Mr. Ventura is making headlines once again, but this time, he is stepping back into the political ring.
In a storyline that feels almost surreal, considering the absurdity often associated with the 2024 presidential race, Mr. Ventura — a self-proclaimed political independent, former governor of Minnesota, and an entrepreneur in the cannabis industry — has recently shown support for Democratic figures Kamala Harris and Tim Walz. He has also issued sharp critiques of the Republican ticket and revisited a long-standing feud with Hogan concerning an unsuccessful initiative to unionize professional wrestlers.
Following Hogan’s flamboyant appearance at the Republican National Convention last month, where he captured attention with his dramatic antics, speculation arose regarding whether Mr. Ventura would make a similarly theatrical entrance in Chicago for the Democrats next week. Some imagined him donning a feather boa, climbing the ropes, and metaphorically body-slamming his longtime rival.
However, Mr. Ventura has clarified his stance. “I haven’t even been invited, and I don’t expect to be involved,” he stated during a recent telephone interview from his residence in Minneapolis.
Moreover, he expressed his frustration over the continued comparisons to Hogan. “Why would they lump me in with Hulk Hogan?” he questioned, underscoring the significant difference between their careers. With a background that includes six years of service in the Navy, a tenure as a mayor, and time as a governor, Mr. Ventura emphasized that he has dedicated a considerable portion of his life to public service, contrasting sharply with Hogan’s wrestling persona.
“Hulk Hogan is like Donald Trump,” Mr. Ventura remarked. “He has never spent a day serving his country.” While he may not be ready to don the boa for a political spectacle, his words are certainly packed with a punch.
