Category: Action Figures

SUMMARY:

From Mattel, this WWE “Megabucks” two-pack consists of a 6¾-inch “Million Dollar Man” Ted DiBiase and an approximately 8-inch Andre the Giant.  One may recall their villainous antics amidst the WWE World Title Tournament at March 1988’s WrestleMania IV, at Trump Plaza Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City, New Jersey.  Their other major team-up occurred five months later – now dubbed the “Megabucks,” they appeared at New York City’s Madison Square Garden for the first SummerSlam’s main event in August 1988.  

Sculpted mid-cackle, DiBiase’s simple black ensemble and white wrist tape are painted on, though his black rubber knee pads are tightly-attached.  His black trunks bear his golden dollar sign insignia on both hips.  His black boots also bear the golden dollar sign and white lacing.  Far more simply dressed, his enormous “Megabucks” partner is wearing a mono-strapped navy blue singlet with black wrestling boots.   

To accurately define their articulation points: they include: 1. The heads slightly nod and turn sideways in both directions.  2. The elbows and wrists bend to comfortably create a classic curled-bicep pose.  3.  Flexible rotation of the wrists and hands for both of them, though Andre’s hands are far looser.  4.  There is a 360-degree swiveling of the waist.  5. The figures can bow, but their abdomens don’t bend.  6. The calves allow a 360-degree rotation of the lower legs.  7. The knees and ankles bend.  8.  The figures easily stand, as long as their feet are properly positioned.  The bottom of the feet have display base peg holes, but a base isn’t included with this set. 

Notes: RE: SummerSlam 1988, in 2020, WWE/Mattel released a Ms. Elizabeth figure in her yellow-and-red dress ensemble from that main event. Curiously, as of this writing, a Mega-Powers (Hulk Hogan & “Macho Man” Randy Savage) two-pack in matching ‘Mega-Powers’- printed trunks for SummerSlam 1988 hasn’t been produced.

REVIEW:

The only element conspicuously absent is a figure of DiBiase’s ever-present bodyguard, Virgil (a WWE/Mattel ‘elite’ figure sold separately).  Still, in terms of sculpting and the paint jobs, the likenesses of these two “Megabucks” are top-caliber.  What’s even more life-like is the considerable height difference.  Impressively, this duo is sturdily built for playtime, but one should watch out for the vulnerable hands.  DiBiase’s hands evidently can be re-attached by popping them back in.  However, Andre’s flexible hands might need super-glue if they ever break off.  Otherwise, the “Megabucks” make superb display choices, as they’re well-balanced for indefinite standing poses.       

ADDITIONAL CONTENT:

None.    

PACKAGING:

The packaging is simplistic yet effective.  Predictably, its theme reflects Andre & DiBiase’s nefarious partnership.

BRIAN & ROSCOE’S ODD MOON RATING:             9 Stars

SUMMARY:

In 2014, the WWE released this ‘elite’ (approximately 6.5 inch) Hulk Hogan figure through Mattel.  As a member of its ‘Definitive Moments’ collection, this figure recreates Hogan’s likeness in his 1985-1987 prime (primarily, 1987’s WrestleMania III).  For its ‘elite’ status, this Hogan figure boasts the following noticeable articulation upgrades: 1. His mid-section & torso can move up and down; 2. His thick calves have a 360-degree rotation capacity; and 3. His legs can expand into splits.     

REVIEW:

Starting with his head, Hogan’s facial likeness and balding peroxide blonde hair are spot-on.  His ripped yet bulky physique is also spot-on.  The yellow and red costuming is an exact replica, as only his securely-attached red knee-pads aren’t painted on.  The figure’s articulation points include: turning his head; elbow bends; easily putting his arms into the curled-bicep pose; 360-degree rotation of wrists/hands; swiveling his waist; bending his upper body; his calves allow a 360-degree rotation of his legs; bending his knees as well as 360-degree rotation at the knees; the ankles bend; and easily standing, as long as his feet are properly positioned.  The bottom of Hogan’s feet have holes for display base pegs.  

As for the sculpting, it’s plenty realistic, as his thick abdomen/torso isn’t re-imagined with exaggerated six-pack definition.  His arms are slightly bigger than normal WWE ‘elites,’ so they are consistent with Hogan’s reputed 24-inch ‘pythons.’  Sturdily built, the figure is impressively durable.  All relevant factors considered, this Hulk Hogan homage proves a stellar choice for his fans.  It’s really the definitive Hogan figure!  

ADDITIONAL CONTENT:

As an ‘elite’ figure, his removable extras are: a yellow Hulk-a-mania bandanna; a yellow Hulk-a-mania rip-away t-shirt; and the 1985-1987 era WWE World Championship title belt.  An added extra is Hogan’s trademark gold crucifix necklace, which might easily break off.  A display base isn’t included.    

PACKAGING:

Well-designed and securely packaged, its box is decorated by air-brushed images of Hogan’s legendary 1980’s run.

ROSCOE’S ODD MOON RATING:                 10 Stars

SUMMARY:

From Mattel in 2011, this 7-inch WWE figure represents an older Hulk Hogan casually dressed with a painted-on ensemble. 

His outfit consists of: a red-and-yellow “Hulkamania” headband (non-detachable); yellow-and-black sunglasses; a matching red-and-yellow “Hulkamania” cut-off shirt; black slacks with a silver-buckled black belt; and black hiking boots.  A black italicized “I am that I am” (worthy of Popeye) tattoo adorns his right forearm.  His articulation includes: 1. His head barely nods and turns slightly both directions.  2.  His buff arms are easily flexible, in part due to the well-built joints in his elbows and wrists.  The arms easily rotate the full 360-degrees while the wrists bend back and forth.  3.  His waist also rotates 360-degrees, but his abdomen & ribs don’t bend.  However, his full upper body will bow.  4. The legs sufficiently bend at the knees, so sitting pose and running poses are viable options.  The legs also easily swing back and forth.  5. The ankle joins allow his boots to tilt slightly in both directions. 

REVIEW:

With or without the sunglasses, its resemblance to the Hulkster is spot-on.  Even his blue eyes and blonde hair & handlebar moustache are depicted with impressive care.  The paint job (especially the red T-shirt) is immaculate.  Impressively,  surprising flexibility ensures that this Hulk Hogan is available for either playtime or display options.  Peg holes are included in the bottom of the hiking boots for any display bases.  Whether he is posing with his 24-inch pythons, or pounding his next adversary with a leg-drop, this Hulk Hogan figure is a great buy at its standard purchase price.

ADDITIONAL CONTENT:

Though a bit flimsy, Hogan’s yellow-and-black-shades are detachable.  To re-attach them, these sunglasses must slide through his bandanna.  A display base isn’t included. 

PACKAGING:

The packaging is simplistic yet effective.  The Hulkster’s photo shows him wearing the same red cut-off shirt.

BRIAN & ROSCOE’S ODD MOON RATING:        8 Stars