World wrestling body cuts ties with Hogan

World Wrestling Entertainment has severed ties with Hulk Hogan after the star used racist language.

The company deleted most references to Hogan on its website and issued a statement saying it had terminated its contract with him.

It did not give a reason, but issued a statement saying it is “committed to embracing and celebrating individuals from all backgrounds as demonstrated by the diversity of our employees, performers and fans worldwide”.

The move came amid a joint report from RadarOnline.com and The National Enquirer that Hogan used racial slurs in a conversation caught on a sex tape he is fighting in court to keep private.

In a statement to People, Hogan said: “Eight years ago I used offensive language during a conversation. It was unacceptable for me to have used that offensive language; there is no excuse for it; and I apologise for having done it.”

“This is not who I am,” the statement continues.