Hulk Hogan racist video: What does the scandal mean for ex-WWE star's Celebrity Big Brother appearance?

Legendary wrestler Hulk Hogan could be in hot water over racist comments he allegedly made in a leaked audio clip. However, speculation is also rife over what this could mean for his rumoured appearance in the new series of Celebrity Big Brother.

Days before reports emerged of the offensive footage, Hogan (real name Terry Bollea) was among the famous faces hotly tipped to be entering the UK's reality-TV house in August.

It was suggested that the 61 year old would be among the handful of housemates flying the American flag alongside former supermodel Janice Dickinson and comedian Kathy Griffin, who are also rumoured to appear.

In the midst of the video speculation, fans were sent into a frenzy after noticing that all merchandise and mention of the wrestling champ had been removed from the WWE website without explanation.

Hulk Hogan WWE Hall of Fame — Hulk Hogan made his wrestling debut in 1977, and was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005 Getty

The federation later confirmed that Hogan was no longer a member of the company . Although no reason was given, reports suggest it was related to leaked audio in which Hogan is said to have used the term "n****r" and admitted to being a racist "to a point".

Commentary on social media also notes the coincidence in timing of the wrestler's removal from the WWE and his rumoured CBB appearance, believing he was forced to quit the company over the TV show.

Hulk Hogan's WWE contracted terminated just a few weeks before Celeb Big Brother?! Hmmmmmm.
— Symmo (@Symlish) July 24, 2015

Hulk Hogan with a racial slur and he is linked to be a housemate in the UK Celebrity Big Brother. Reasons why he got shot by WWE.
— Darth Vader Nemesis (@IAmNotLetago) July 24, 2015

Maybe Hulk Hogan will be on Big Brother after all.
— Steven (@SCFack) July 24, 2015

Hulk Hogan is racist storm, as linked with Celebrity Big Brother UK? What a coincidence.......
— R (@Hamster_1874) July 24, 2015

if no proof/vido of hulk hogan is released im going with the fact he was rumored to be on celeb big brother as the reasoning...
— A... (@Adz_celts) July 24, 2015

Although Hogan's appearance would undoubtedly be shrouded in controversy over his alleged racial comments, there is still a good chance that he could enter the house.

IBTimes UK contacted Channel 5, which airs the reality series, in regards to Hogan's position on the show, with a spokesperson stating: "We don't comment on rumour or speculation over Housemates."

Perhaps telling of his appearance, CBB's Bit On The Side host Rylan Clark has stated that Hogan would make a "great housemate".

Hogan has not directly commented on the racial allegations, but he has replied to supportive messages from fans on Twitter.

Celebrity Big Brother is yet to confirm housemates for the upcoming series.

Celebrity Big Brother