Former wrestler Hulk Hogan is heading back to the sport. He has signed a contract with Total Nonstop Action (TNA).

The former WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) champion has swapped sides by heading to rival wrestling firm TNA and will make his TV debut for the company on Thursday night.

Hogan, who hasn't wrestled professionally since 2006, admits he is delighted to be returning to the sport and has thanked his fans for sticking by him.

He says in a statement, "I'm thrilled to be jumping back into the world of professional wrestling. My fans have been asking me to return to the business for many years on a full time basis, but the timing or the opportunity has never been right until now. TNA Wrestling is a great company with an already excellent fan base, business and broadcast partner. I firmly believe now is the time for some change at TNA as they are positioned to jump to the next level in their development and I'm here to help make that a reality."

This year marks the 25th anniversary of Hogan's triumph as World Wrestling Federation champion in 1984.