Former WWE Superstar David Otunga is opening up on how he's choosing to remember Hulk Hogan ... explaining the character will always hold a special place in his heart -- but he can't ignore Terry Bollea's past.

The two-time Tag Team Champion made a surprise appearance on Thursday's "TMZ Live" with Harvey and Charles ... and the hosts asked his thoughts on the WWE Hall of Famer's legacy, given his controversial past -- including the racist slurs he uttered during a leaked sex tape. Alamy

The 45-year-old explained he absolutely idolized the Hulkster growing up ... and he still remembers the first time they met and how special it was that Hogan already knew of him.

Otunga said his personal interactions with Hogan were always cordial and good -- even after the scandal -- but it d

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