Hulk Hogan, the WWE Hall of Famer, and his Real American Beer brand are facing legal action after a promotional event turned into a legal nightmare. Michelle Harlukowicz, an attendee at the event held at Thirsty Cowboys in Medina, Ohio, has filed a lawsuit against Hogan and Real American Beer for negligence.
The incident occurred on August 19, 2024, when Hogan and other unnamed promoters were tossing free cans of Real American Beer into the crowd to promote the brand. Unfortunately, one of the cans struck Harlukowicz in the forehead, causing an open wound that required 10 stitches to close. The injury has left her with permanent scarring.
Harlukowicz's attorney, Eric Tayfel, described the injury as "pretty big" and emphasized the emotional distress his client has endured. "It's unconscionable to think that you're going to go to a bar to see a celebrity and end up being pelted with a can of beer," Tayfel told Fox 8.
The lawsuit, filed on February 10, 2025, alleges that Hogan or one of the other promoters threw the beer can that caused the injury. Medina Township Police responded to the incident but did not file any charges as they were unable to determine who threw the can.
Harlukowicz is seeking damages to cover medical expenses, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. Real American Beer, a brand affiliated with WWE, has yet to comment on the lawsuit.
This lawsuit adds to the challenges Hogan has faced since launching Real American Beer last year. His promotional appearance for the brand on the debut "WWE Raw" on Netflix was met with boos from the crowd, and now this legal issue threatens to further tarnish his latest business venture.
As the case unfolds, many are left wondering how a responsible company could allow such an incident to occur and what measures will be taken to prevent similar accidents in the future.
