Kai Greene on Joey Swoll and Hulk Hogan says the Apology Was Never Needed!

[Kayce]

Kai Greene Takes On the Joey Swoll–Hulk Hogan Debate​

egendary bodybuilder Kai Greene has never been one to shy away from uncomfortable conversations, and in a recent episode of The Kai Greene Effect, he tackled one of the most polarizing fitness industry stories of the year — Joey Swoll’s Hulk Hogan tribute, the backlash, and the apology that followed. Greene’s perspective? Direct, unapologetic, and loaded with insight.

Joey Swoll’s Hulk Hogan Post — From Tribute to Backlash​

When Joey Swoll posted a social media tribute to wrestling icon Hulk Hogan, the reaction was instant and divisive. Many praised the sentiment, but critics quickly resurfaced Hogan’s past racist comments, demanding accountability.

Swoll responded with a public apology, which ironically sparked more controversy. This time, critics accused him of caving to cancel culture and apologizing for something he didn’t need to.

The situation escalated when Swoll announced he was quitting social media — only to return the next day. Was it emotional impulse, or a calculated play for attention?

Kai Greene’s take:

“I think Joey understands trends. He saw the wave and figured out how to ride it… The apology wasn’t necessary, but it also wasn’t a big deal.”

Was the Apology Necessary? Greene Says No​

Podcast co-host Vlad asked the blunt question — should Swoll have apologized at all? Greene’s answer was clear:

• No, it wasn’t necessary — the tribute came from a place of respect for Hogan’s legacy, not endorsement of his mistakes.
• Yes, Swoll recovered well — his quick return showed composure and control over the narrative.

Greene himself posted a Hulk Hogan tribute and stood firm:

“He inspired a lot of people before those comments ever came out. We should look at the whole human being, not just a sound bite.”

The Bigger Picture — Retiring Healthy in Modern Bodybuilding​

The conversation pivoted when Jay Cutler was quoted saying that retiring healthy in Men’s Open bodybuilding “isn’t possible” in today’s era.

Greene agreed in part but added:

• The sport has evolved with multiple divisions offering safer competitive paths.
• Athletes can choose a career path that avoids the extreme toll of Open bodybuilding.

Chris Bumstead & the Price of Mental Peace​

Greene also weighed in on Chris Bumstead’s comments about sacrificing mental peace for success.

• Early in his career, Greene embraced the “all or nothing” mentality.
• Later, he realized championship success doesn’t always require total inner chaos.
• Some thrive in relentless grind, others need balance.

As Greene put it:

“Some people have to say ‘forget inner peace’ to push further. Others can keep peace and still dominate.”

Kai Greene’s 40-Pound Post-Show Feast​

In a lighter moment, Greene shared his infamous post-competition binge stories:

• After months of precise dieting — sometimes measuring six cashews per meal — he would pack on 40 pounds in a single day post-show.
• The goal wasn’t just filling the stomach; it was feeding the soul.

Quick-Hit Insights from The Lightning Round​

• Gluten & Fat Loss: Only cut gluten if there’s a medical reason.
• Calisthenics: A foundational tool for strength and physique development.
• PEDs & Champions: Drugs don’t make champions — mindset and perseverance do.

Why This Episode Resonates​

The Kai Greene Effect episode offers more than gossip. It’s a candid discussion on:

• Navigating cancel culture without losing authenticity.
• Choosing health and longevity in a high-risk sport.
• Balancing ambition and mental peace.

For anyone serious about bodybuilding, mindset, and personal growth, this conversation is an unfiltered look at the real-life challenges behind the muscle.

 

[MindlessWork]

I agree Swoll didn't need to apologize for his post giving tribute to Hogan. Hogan made mistakes but that shouldn't overshadow his wrestling career as he's done good things..seems he's picked up the racism after he retired from wrestling.