Hulk Hogan’s longtime friend, professional wrestler Kevin Nash, is coming to his defense as Hogan’s past controversies resurfaced following his death last week. Speaking on his “Kliq This” podcast on Monday,

Hulk Hogan died Thursday at the age of 71. Here are the famed wrestler's biggest controversies during his story career.

"WWE is saddened to learn WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan has passed away," they said in a statement to PEOPLE on July 24, after the news of his death was first reported by TMZ. "One of pop culture’s most recognizable figures, Hogan helped WWE achieve global recognition in the 1980s. WWE extends its condolences to Hogan’s family, friends, and fans."