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Hulk Hogan Reclaims His Spot at the Top: Iconic 1982 Card Sells for $132,000

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Hulk Hogan, one of the greatest wrestlers of all time, has once again asserted his dominance—not in the ring, but in the world of collectible wrestling cards. Over the weekend, Hogan's 1982-83 Wrestling All-Stars card shattered records, selling for an astonishing $132,000, and reclaiming its status as the most valuable wrestling card of all time.

This sale dethrones the previous record-holder, a 2022 Prizm Black 1/1 card of The Rock, which sold for $126,000 earlier this year. Hogan’s legendary card, part of one of the most iconic wrestling sets in history, has cemented its place at the pinnacle of the collectible market.

The Legacy of the 1982-83 Wrestling All-Stars Set

The 1982-83 Wrestling All-Stars set is regarded as a cornerstone of wrestling card history, featuring "rookie" cards of some of the sport's biggest legends, including Hulk Hogan, Ric Flair, and André the Giant. This set has long been a favorite among collectors, and Hogan's card has consistently stood out as its crown jewel.

Before this record-breaking sale, Hogan’s card had already proven its value, with previous sales nearing $50,000. Meanwhile, a BGS 9.5 André the Giant card from the same set sold for $47,970, further highlighting the set’s prestige.

Why the Card Set a Record Price

Only 18 PSA 9-graded Hulk Hogan cards exist, and no PSA 10s have ever been documented. The card that sold for $132,000 also featured an MBA Gold sticker, signifying it as one of the best-graded copies available. This distinction, combined with Hogan's enduring popularity, contributed to the premium price.

A Stellar Weekend for Heritage Auctions

Hogan’s card wasn’t the only highlight of the weekend. Heritage Auctions recorded over $22.7 million in sales, including a 1979 O-Pee-Chee case containing Wayne Gretzky rookie cards. This case, previously sold for $3.7 million before the buyer defaulted, was resold for $2.5 million, still a significant achievement despite the lower figure.

Modern Wrestling Cards: The Next Wave?

While the 1982-83 Wrestling All-Stars set remains the gold standard for wrestling card collectors, modern sets like the 2002 Fleer Royal Rumble could challenge its legacy in the years to come. The 2002 set features rookie cards of stars like Brock Lesnar, John Cena, Randy Orton, and Batista, making it a strong contender for future dominance in the hobby.

For now, though, Hulk Hogan’s iconic card holds the throne. Its $132,000 sale is a testament to the enduring appeal of wrestling’s golden era and the collectible world’s reverence for its most legendary figures.