Chicago Sun-Times: Wrestling cycle complete for Hogan

He has come full circle--from main-eventing "WrestleMania 1," to a lackluster run in the WCW, to the formation of the NWO, to a return to the WWF to headline "WrestleMania X8." But now, in what is perhaps his greatest achievement yet, Hulk Hogan is back on top of the wrestling world.

In just a few short weeks, Hogan did the impossible--going from the most-hated man in the business who everyone felt was over the hill, to the clear No. 1 man in the sport the fans can't wait to see. It all could come to a classic conclusion next Sunday night at "Backlash," when Hogan gets a shot at the undisputed title and federation champion HHH.

I won't go so far as to say Hogan will leave with the belt--but who deserves one more run as WWF champion more than Hogan?

Also on the card, Stone Cold Steve Austin will face The Undertaker in a match to determine the No. 1 contender for the WWF title at "King of the Ring." Never has a match been held between two men more determined to get back to the top. Also, Edge will battle Kurt Angle, Rob Van Dam defends the Intercontinental title vs. Eddie Guerrero, and Chuck and Billy defend the tag titles vs. Maven and Al Snow.

AROUND THE RING: The Island Boys, who work in the WWF developmental territories, were set to come up to the WWF main roster within the next three weeks, but those plans have been put on hold as Ekmo--one-half of the team--suffered a broken leg this week. ... Chris Benoit, part of the "Smackdown" roster, has been signing autographs at many HWA wrestling events and is working out at the HWA training center in preparation for his WWF return. ... The Rock told fans in New York he might be off for about two months due to his obligations with "The Scorpion King." Don't expect an injury or suspension angle; the WWF already has been down that road. Ric Flair has suspended Kevin Nash in a move that disguises the fact Nash is on the shelf with a torn biceps muscle. ... Speaking of "The Scorpion King," early reviews have been strong, and it looks like this movie could be a big money-maker.

HOTLINE: There is a new wrestling hotline at (900) 990-SLAM ($2 per minute). On it you will hear my inside scoop on Paul Heyman recruiting three more wrestlers to join Brock Lesner in his new stable; five former WWF stars set for a return, and the latest on Stephanie McMahon, Tazz and Sting.