In a strange scene, a heckler interrupted Governor Ron DeSantis‘ tribute to wrestling icon Hulk Hogan in Bradenton, Florida. The man shouted allegations tied to Jeffrey Epstein and a controversial facility he called “Alligator Alcatraz.”
On July 24 in Bradenton, DeSantis began remarks mourning Hogan, who died that same day at age 71, recounting a childhood memory of WrestleMania III and Hogan’s impact as a Florida native.
Just minutes into his address, a man in the audience suddenly jumped up, pointed at DeSantis, and began shouting, “Alligator Alcatraz — is that your f—ing legacy?… You bowed down to a f—ing p—phile! You’re a f—ing p—phile! Nazis!”
“Alligator Alcatraz” refers to the controversial immigrant detention center in the Everglades that DeSantis has backed with nearly $250 million in funding.
The heckler accused DeSantis and Donald Trump of bowing to “a f—ing pedophile,” an implicit jab alluding to Trump’s association with Epstein.
Security quickly intervened, removing the man from the crowd while DeSantis struggled to regain control. The Governor repeatedly demanded, “Stop! Stop! Get out of here!” as the protester continued shouting until he left the area.
What happened to the heckler?
Media reports don’t identify the man, nor do they indicate subsequent charges. DeSantis returned his prepared remarks after the interruption was resolved.
Before being interrupted, DeSantis paid tribute to Hulk Hogan, describing him as “our superhero growing up” in Tampa Bay. Hogan had been a major cultural figure and supporter of MAGA politics, including a memorable appearance at the 2024 Republican National Convention in a “Trump‑Vance” tank top.
DeSantis recalled watching WrestleMania III and Hogan’s legendary match, illustrating Hogan’s long-standing impact. But the emotionally charged setting was derailed by the protester’s accusations, shifting attention from Hogan’s memorial to significant immigration politics and Epstein controversies.
Published: Jul 25, 2025 03:36 pm