WWE may be considering a change to the format of the 2025 WWE Hall of Fame ceremony.

While the event was never officially announced along with the other WrestleMania activities, it was widely believed to be scheduled for April 18, 2025, at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas—the night before WrestleMania 41. Traditionally, the ceremony airs immediately after SmackDown in the same arena, streaming on Peacock and other platforms.

However, WrestleVotes reported today that WWE officials are reconsidering this format, as some within the company are unhappy with the event following SmackDown.

“After speaking with sources, we’ve heard varying speculation about when and where the 2025 WWE Hall of Fame ceremony will take place. Some within the company strongly dislike the recent format of the ceremony following SmackDown. We’re told WWE is considering a change, with no mention of the time or place in any WM promotional material so far.”

Paul “Triple H” Levesque is set to headline the 2025 Hall of Fame class, with Michelle McCool as the only other announced inductee so far. Additional names are expected to be revealed soon.

The Hall of Fame ceremony will be part of a packed WrestleMania weekend, including NXT Stand & Deliver on the afternoon of April 19, followed by WrestleMania 41 – Night 1 that evening.

Triple H is set to be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame for the second time, this time as an individual member of the Class of 2025. While some have criticized the decision, AEW announcer Jim Ross isn’t having any of the backlash surrounding the decision.

Speaking on his Grilling JR podcast, Ross shut down critics of Triple H’s induction, and believes the idea that he only succeeded in wrestling due to his marriage to Stephanie McMahon is farcical.

“Anybody that says he’s not deserving, the only reason he’s in is because of who he married is such bulls***. It’s weak. If you’re saying that, stop. Stop embarrassing yourself.”

Ross highlighted many high-points of Triple H’s in-ring career, including being “the top heel in one of the hottest eras in WWE.” Now as WWEs Chief Content Officer, Triple H is the “head coach of that same team that’s setting records.” Though he no longer works at WWE, Ross found it appropriate to reach out to Triple H.

“I sent him a text the other day, congratulating him, and believe it or not, it was the day after the Rumble, he texted me back. He doesn’t forget those that have helped him along the way.”

Triple H was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2019 as part of DX but is now set to receive a solo spotlight. While some fans may have an issue with WWE’s Chief Content Officer going in, JR’s message is clear—anyone questioning The Game’s legacy needs to stop talking.

Triple H Reveals Immediate Reaction To WWE Hall of Fame Announcement

On January 29, WWE announced that Triple H will be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame as the first member of the class of 2025. The news was first reported by PW Insider. On X, Stephanie McMahon shared that like her husband, the announcement by Shawn Michaels and The Undertaker came to a surprise as well. McMahon added that Triple H never would’ve put himself forward for the honor before congratulating her “king.”

Triple H will become the latest WWE legend to become a two-time inductee after previously being inducted in 2019 for his role in D-Generation X. Triple H’s friend and mentor Ric Flair became WWE’s first two-time inductee in 2012 and has since been joined by Shawn Michaels, Booker T, Bret Hart, and more. The Game will be the first two-time inductee to be inducted for his role as a singles Superstar second.

It remains to be seen who joins Triple H as part of this year’s Hall of Fame class but this year’s festivities are already off to a strong star. Triple H’s Evolution ally Batista was announced in 2020, but withdrew due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Fans have been waiting for Bray Wyatt’s induction following his passing in 2023, though that has yet to happen.

Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Triple H and the WWE Hall of Fame as the show will be part of a huge WrestleMania week.

Wrestling legend Rick Martel is eager to take a place in the WWE Hall of Fame in recognition of his accomplishments in the squared circle. When the ’80’s Wrestling’ account on X asked its followers if Martel deserves a spot in the Hall of Fame, Rick himself made his views clear.

Martel also re-tweeted a post asking fans if he deserves a spot in WWE’s Hall of Fame. Many fans were all for the idea for both his work inside the promotion and in other territories.

Rick Martel: WWE Hall of Famer?

Martel certainly had a fulfilling career in the ring before he officially retired in March 1999. Martel is a former AWA World Champion, WCW TV Champion and three-time WWF Tag Team Champion. Martel also held gold in the NWA, Puerto Rico’s WWC, Georgia Championship Wrestling and Stu Hart’s Stampede Wrestling. In 2011, Martel’s accomplishments were recognized as he was inducted into the New England Pro Wrestling Hall of Fame, and was inducted into the Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame four years later.

The WWE Hall of Fame selection often comes under scrutiny by fans, with many names inducted seen as ‘undeserving’ of the accolade. Similarly, many names fans hoped to see inducted have yet to be given the nod, including the likes of William Regal and the late Owen Hart. As for whether ‘The Model’ gets a nod, time will tell, but Martel is ready to make an acceptance speech if WWE gives him a phone call.

Each year, WWE adds new inductees into its Hall of Fame, with the annual tradition honoring the very best in the world of wrestling and entertainment. For better or worse, Vince Russo is arguably the most well-known writer in the history of wrestling, but the former WCW World Heavyweight Champion has no plans to be a Hall of Famer.

On his Legion of Raw podcast, Russo discussed WWE’s Hall of Fame and those who want nothing more to be inducted. The 63-year-old on the other hand, shared that he would say no if WWE made an offer to him.

“Bro, I know guys where the most important thing in their lives was getting into the WWE Hall of Fame. I would turn down an invitation. Not that it will ever happen, it won’t, but I would turn down an invitation. That’s me and my freaking opinion, bro.”

Saying No to the Hall of Fame

Russo isn’t the only notable name who’d say no to the WWE Hall of Fame if presented with a potential induction. Last month, Jonathan Coachman shared on Cafe de Rene that he’d turn down the honor if asked, and shared his issues with the current crop of inductees.

“The Hall of Fame is supposed to be the absolute very best at what they do whether it’s a manager, talent, whatever. And that’s not what they do. They check boxes every year so they can have a good show.”

In 2021, WWE released Jeff Hardy after he refused to enter rehab, only to learn that his concerning behavior at a live event was not due to the influence of drugs. When trying to coax Jeff back (an act that’d keep him from AEW,) WWE reportedly offered Jeff a Hall of Fame induction, but he said no.

Becoming a WWE Hall of Famer is a huge deal to many, but not everyone has an acceptance speech prepped in their pocket. Stay tuned to SEScoops for all the latest from Vince Russo, but don’t expect him at a Hall of Fame ceremony anytime soon.

Plans for Dave Bautista’s WWE Hall of Fame induction may have fallen through in 2020, but the Hollywood star still hopes to take his place among the greats. Speaking to Chris Van Vliet of Insight to discuss his new film ‘Killer’s Game,’ the Animal spoke about being approached for an induction years earlier.

“I agreed to do it. Hunter [Triple H] asked me to do it. And I said, ‘Yeah, of course.’ And it was here in LA, and I thought it was perfect. It was storybook, because I won my first title here in LA.”

While an induction in Los Angeles would’ve been perfect for Bautista, it wasn’t meant to be due to his scheduling commitments.

“I was working on a film I was in South Africa, so logistically, we just couldn’t make it happen. But, yeah, I’m still open to it. One day I would like to.”

Bautista was supposed to be inducted in 2020, though that year saw no inductions due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead, the 2020 inductees, which included JBL, the New World Order, and Jushin ‘Thunder’ Liger, were inducted alongside the 2021 class the following year.

As a former WWE and World Heavyweight Champion, among other accolades, Bautista has certainly earned an induction into the WWE Hall of Fame. So far, no names have been announced for the 2025 class which will take place ahead of WrestleMania 41 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The two-night show will take place in Allegiant Stadium and mark WWE’s sixth two-night WrestleMania.

Bautista intends to return to WWE for a Hall of Fame induction but has no intention on wrestling again. Stay tuned to SEScoops for all the latest on the WWE Champion turned Hollywood A-Lister.

Jeff Hardy is in no hurry to be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame after the company’s previous offer “didn’t feel right at all” to the legend.

In late 2021, Hardy’s actions during a WWE live event led the company to suspect that he was using substances and released him after he refused to go to rehab. A drugs test would later reveal that Hardy had not been under the influence of substances. WWE would try and coax Jeff back in early 2022 (an act that’d keep him from joining) AEW but to no avail.

Part of WWE’s efforts to win Hardy back after his release was the promise of a Hall of Fame induction. Speaking on Busted Open Radio, Jeff made clear that going in without his brother Matt (who was with AEW at the time) did not feel right.

“I cried after that phone call. I was just thinking about all the really cool moments I’ve given to the pro-wrestling world. I’m so proud of it, but it didn’t feel right at all. So, I just wanted to wait. If I did do this, I’m definitely doing that with Matt.”

Despite his lofty achievements on his own, include three reigns as a WWE World Champion, Jeff is not interested in a solo induction. In the interview, Hardy made clear that if he is inducted, it’ll be as one-half of the Hardy Boyz, adding “I just want one ring.”

Although Hardy has done more than enough to warrant two inductions, his dedication to his brother Matt trumps any accolade WWE may bestow on the Charismatic Enigma. These days, fans can find Jeff and Matt teaming once more in TNA Wrestling, though Jeff was recently written off TV with an attack by The System.

Related: Jeff Hardy Has “So Much Guilt” & Shame Over Past Mistakes

Welcome to the Daily Drop for Saturday, May 4. WWE Backlash is this afternoon, and fans are waiting for that historic event. We have a lot of other things we must mention as well.

WWE released several NXT Superstars from their contracts on Friday. Aside from Drew Gulak, the biggest name that the company cut was Olympic Gold Medalist Gable Steveson. Things just never panned out for him in the company, despite years of trying to get him ready for a massive spot that they wanted to carve out for him.

We have updated our 2024 WWE release and departure tracker, which you can check out here.

Let’s get into today’s Daily Drop!

WWE:

WWE Backlash is upon us, and the show will start much sooner for fans in the United States. The France-based event will start at 1:00 PM EST. You can find the card below.

• WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships: The Kabuki Warriors (Asuka & Kairi Sane) (c) vs. Bianca Belair & Jade Cargill
• Randy Orton & Kevin Owens vs. The Bloodline (Solo Sikoa & Tama Tonga)
• WWE Women’s Championship: Bayley (c) vs. Naomi vs. Tiffany Stratton
• World Heavyweight Championship: Damian Priest (c) vs. Jey Uso
• Undisputed WWE Championship: Cody Rhodes (c). vs. AJ Styles

WWE’s Noise Warning: The SmackDown fans received a noise warning in France. We can only imagine how loud it will be for Backlash.

The @WWEUniverse in France literally received a warning about the noise level tonight at #SmackDown @LDLC_Arena. Absolutely insane.

Like @myMotorhead said… “Only way to feel the noise is when it's good and loud.” pic.twitter.com/i4KMGnfUtY

— Triple H (@TripleH) May 3, 2024

WWE Speed: The company has a new champion after the first WWE Speed tournament is over. In the end, Ricochet pulled down the championship, which earned him a classic point pose photo with Triple H.

WWE COO Steps Down: The company saw several releases on Friday, but news also broke that the company’s Chief Operations Officer, Brad Blum, also submitted his resignation from the company.

AEW:

No Collision: AEW Collision will not air this week due to the playoffs. They will resume their weekly Saturday night schedule next week on May 11.

Christian’s HOF Stance: Christian Cage appeared at the Steel City Comic Con, where he was his trademark self. When asked about whether he wants to get into the WWE Hall of Fame, he replied: “I could give two sh*ts bout the Hall of Fame … when there is a Hall of Fame, let me know.”

Christian Cage at Steel City Con was asked about not being inducted in the WWE HOF yet:

“I could give two shits out about the Hall of Fame. When there's actually is a Hall of Fame, let me know.” pic.twitter.com/aw0DoMTVTX

— Drainmaker 🌧️ 💵 (@DrainBamager) May 3, 2024

Former WWE NXT Superstar Debut: During the recent ROH Honorclub show, Amari Miller debuted under the new ring name Camron Branae. She faced Nyla Rose in her first match for the brand. Although Branae lost the bout, she made a strong impression on the fans.

https://www.instagram.com/p/p:C6fVcIQOCh6

Julia Hart Return Timeline: We have an injury update on Julia Hart. She has already gone through a surgery and will be out of action for a few months from now. The earliest one can expect for her to return to the ring would be late Summer or early Fall.

Here are the upcoming major wrestling events

• Saturday, May 4: WWE Backlash France (PLE)
• Sunday, May 26: NXT Battleground (PLE)
• Sunday, May 26: AEW Double or Nothing (PPV)

AEW has yet to establish its own Hall of Fame, but Tony Khan has a clear image of who he’d like to see be the first two inductees. 

While WWE’s Hall of Fame opened its (hypothetical) doors in 1993 with the induction of Andre the Giant, AEW hasn’t created its own way of acknowledging talent of the past. It’s not hard to see why as, at five years old, the promotion is still relatively young. 

AEW’s Hall of Fame

Tony Khan addressed the possibility of  a recent interview with Comic Book, Tony Khan discussed a possible AEW Hall of Fame. While Khan didn’t confirm that any plans were in place, he did know who he’d like to see inducted. 

“Certainly the first two people that come to mind that we would have to honor would be Sting and Mr. Brodie Lee. Two of the greatest champions and two of the greatest people we’ve ever had in AEW, and in very different circumstances.”

Khan added that he’d like to see somebody inducted who never got the chance to compete in an AEW ring, that being Jay Briscoe.

“He was my friend and was friends with a lot of people in the locker room. He was one of the greatest wrestlers I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with.”

Potential Hall of Famers

• Brodie Lee tragically passed away in December 2020 at the age of 41. He was AEW’s second-ever TNT Champion. 

• Jay Briscoe died in a car accident in January 2023 at the age of 38. He was inducted into the ROH Hall of Fame in 2022. 

• Sting retired from competition at AEW Revolution 2024. He ended his run undefeated and as an AEW World Tag Team Champion. 

WWE’s Hall of Fame

We don’t know when (if ever) AEW will set up a Hall of Fame, but WWE will induct it’s 2024 class in just over two weeks. Paul Heyman, the US Express, Bull Nakano, Thunderbolt Patterson, and Muhammad Ali have been announced for this year’s class. 

Rob Van Dam is a bonafide WWE Hall Of Famer and now so is the man who put him on the map in Paul Heyman, but who will induct the original orchestrator of extreme?

In the upcoming episode of “1 Of A Kind With RVD” Van Dam said that he wasn’t originally planning on attending the WWE Hall Of Fame this year, but with Heyman getting announced, RVD said he’ll have to make plans.

Per usual, a lot of the fun speculation heading into WrestleMania is who will induct the inductees and there are several names who are worthy of inducting Heyman, including RVD. However, Rob had his own thoughts regarding that matter.

“I think they can definitely find somebody better than me. You know, it’d be an honor. And of course, if I was, nominated and asked to do it, I would give it my best.”

If I were to induct Paul Heyman…

Van Dam added that if he were to induct Heyman, he’d want input from other wrestlers who were impacted by Heyman, but named three names who would be more fitting to do the actual induction.

“I mean, [Tommy] Dreamer, Bubba [Ray Dudley]. Taz, those guys, they know Paul a lot more than I do. They were in New York. 

“I would see him on the weekends. They’d see him all week too and they were there in the office and the production studio helping move the TV forward, also with the merchandise and just booking towns.”

Taz or RVD would both be interesting names considering both have a working relationship with AEW, but Van Dam is featured in WWE 2K24 and has an upcoming figure set to be released by Mattel.

Heyman leads a Hall Of Fame class that so far has Bull Nakano, The U.S. Express and Muhammad Ali.

The new episode of 1 Of A Kind With RVD releases Monday at 4:20 PM ET.

Please credit “1 Of A Kind With RVD” and h/t to SEScoops for the transcription.

The wrestling world has shared their respect for Paul Heyman following the news that Heyman will be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame later this year. 

The industry veteran who today serves as the special counsel to The Bloodline is the first name confirmed for this year’s class of inductees. It’s fitting that Heyman is being inducted in Philadelphia, as ECW is synonymous with the City of Brotherly Love. 

Reactions to Paul Heyman in the WWE Hall of Fame

With such a significant career in wrestling, many stars have paid tribute to Heyman ahead of his induction into the WWE Hall of Fame. Reigning Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns made it clear he acknowledges the Wise Man. 

☝🏽 https://t.co/UlSsqxDW98

— Roman Reigns (@WWERomanReigns) March 4, 2024

Heyman’s fellow ECW alum Bully Ray was happy to welcome Paul E. into the club of WWE Hall of Famers. The Dudley Boyz took their spot in 2018. 

CONGRATS!!!!! Welcome to the club. Well deserved. @HeymanHustle

We will be sending your HOF ring via FedEx.

The tracking # is….🤣🤣 https://t.co/nxp3HbOEcw

— Bully Ray (@bullyray5150) March 4, 2024

WWE Raw General Manager Adam Pearce may have had issues with the Bloodline, but he was able to recognize that Heyman’s induction is well deserved. 

It is official.
And well deserved. https://t.co/ne7fg7FPoi

— Adam Pearce (@ScrapDaddyAP) March 4, 2024

Tommy Dreamer, another man who worked closely with Heyman in ECW, was appreciative of all that Paul had done for the industry. 

Congratulations @HeymanHustle entire career made a mark wherever he went
Florida,Continental,Memphis,AWA
WCW,ECW WWE
He changed the industry
He is great at everything he has ever done in the wrestling business
Well deserved. https://t.co/ipovXo2TUU

— Tommy Dreamer (@THETOMMYDREAMER) March 4, 2024

Sam Roberts, who has worked with WWE and Heyman several times, is excited to hear what Heyman has to say in his induction. 

HUUUUGE. Can’t wait for this https://t.co/0Bo3oZcO3f

— Sam Roberts (@notsam) March 4, 2024

Triple H was pleased to share the news of the induction of the legendary wrestling personality. 

He’s been a promoter, a manager, an executive, a “Wiseman,” and now, a @WWE Hall of Famer.

There’s more to say about @HeymanHustle, but as always, it’s best to let him say it himself… with a live microphone in Philadelphia. #WWEHOF pic.twitter.com/qEZF4lxR3g

— Triple H (@TripleH) March 4, 2024

Rafael Morffi, who until recently was a VP for All Elite Wrestling, also shared his congratulations to Heyman.

Congrats to @HeymanHustle – well deserved for so many reasons! https://t.co/BtryoAKU58

— Rafael Morffi (@rmorfnyc) March 4, 2024

WWE Hall of Fame 2024

Heyman is so far the only name confirmed for this year’s Hall of Fame. The ceremony will take place on Friday, April 5, following that night’s edition of SmackDown on FOX. Heyman will become the first active manager to be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame. 

The WWE Hall of Fame is a yearly ceremony that gives the company a chance to honor those who have contributed substantially to the pro wrestling business. The 2024 ceremony will be very different, because it is the first year that Triple H is in control of the operation.

Looking At The 2024 WWE Hall of Fame

A notable shift occurred in WWE this year. Triple H is the Chief Content Officer, and Vince McMahon was removed from his previous position of influence. Now, the WWE Hall of Fame is under Triple H’s control. 

With Triple H taking the helm instead of the longstanding influence of Vince McMahon, things could really change. As of this writing, no inductee for the 2024 WWE Hall of Fame has been announced. 

The Wrestling Observer Newsletter noted that, although the fundamental criteria for induction are expected to remain consistent, the transition to Triple H’s leadership suggests potential nuances in the selection process.

“Regarding the Hall of Fame, this year will fall under Levesque for the first time instead of McMahon. It’s likely still the same basic rules regarding women, minorities and characters that the audience would know and those who make sense politically for a variety of reasons. I think Levesque may be a little more open to certain types since he was a fan of more than just WWE but once WWE owned the tape libraries a lot of that stigma was gone. I was told that, for example, if there is a political reason to put someone in that Nick Khan would want, that would be a factor but the Hall of Fame is under creative and that’s Levesque’s department and he’d in theory sign off on everyone.”

The 2024 WWE Hall of Fame May Be Different

The possibility of political factors influencing candidate selection was raised, especially if Nick Khan supports a particular individual. However, it was emphasized that the Hall of Fame is primarily within the creative realm, and decisions ultimately rest in the hands of Triple H. 

This change in leadership dynamics may signal subtle alterations in the approach to future Hall of Fame inductees. Then again, we have no idea which direction Triple H will take the yearly ceremony.

There are many perspective inductees for the 2024 Class of the WWE Hall of Fame. It will be very interesting to see who Triple H picks, because it will be the start of a new era for WWE’s hall of heroes. 

WWE has inducted plenty of people into the celebrity wing of their Hall of Fame. Some inductions have caused concern with fans, but it seems Earl Hebner is very opinionated on this subject.

While speaking with Steve Fall, Earl Hebner was quite open about where he believes he belongs in pro wrestling history. He is not in the WWE Hall of Fame, but that is a place he feels as though he believes.

“I should [be in the WWE Hall of Fame], but I don’t know.” Earl Hebner stated. “[There were] a few problems when I left with me and Vince so I don’t know.”

Earl Hebner also stated that WWE should have put former WWE referee Tim White in the Hall of Fame. While was inducted as a Warrior Award recipient, years after his passing. As Hebner sees it, White should have received that honor years before he passed away, not afterward.

“They should have put Tim White in the Hall of Fame way way before he passed away. I think the Hall of Fame means nothing if you’re not alive. You don’t get any benefits out of it. It’s just you know, what good does it do you? What would it do me if I was dead and they put me in the Hall of Fame. What does it mean? Nothing. I don’t know it. Timmy didn’t know it. What the hell? He’s not the only one. Vader, Macho Man. What good does it do you know? Timmy deserved it way, way long before they gave it to him. Before he passed. He deserved it probably 10 years before that, the way he took care of Andre and kept Andre going and, and everything. But, you know, there were a lot of other referees that need to be in the Hall of Fame, but I don’t know if they’re gonna put any referees in. No big deal to me either way.”

Tim White sadly passed away on June 19th, 2022. He was given the Warrior Award in the WWE Hall of Fame the following year.

Earl Hebner was also very old-school with his mindset regarding any non-wrestlers in the WWE Hall of Fame. The way he sees it, they do not belong in the company’s hall of legends. To him, it’s “a joke” to give non-wrestlers that honor. 

“All the people in the Hall of Fame that’s not wrestlers, they don’t belong in the Hall of Fame. Would any of those people go into the baseball Hall of Fame or the NFL Hall of Fame? Hell no they wouldn’t. So you get all these jabroni’s to come in? Its a joke.”

WWE Hall of Fame Celebrity Wing

The WWE Hall of Fame celebrity wing boasts a diverse array of inductees over the years. Among them are Pete Rose, who received the honor in 2004, and William Perry, who was inducted in 2006. The class of 2010 saw the addition of Bob Uecker, followed by Drew Carey in 2011. The year 2012 welcomed Mike Tyson into the prestigious group, while 2013 featured Donald Trump as an inductee. In 2014, Mr. T joined the ranks of the WWE Hall of Fame celebrity wing. 

Other notable inductees include Arnold Schwarzenegger in 2015 and Ozzy Osbourne in 2021. Each of these individuals has left a unique mark on the wrestling world and contributed to the rich history of the WWE Hall of Fame.

Earl Hebner released a book providing intricate insights into his experiences throughout his wrestling career. The book is titled “Earl Hebner: The Official Story.” His book can be purchased at this link.

Fans won’t have to wait long to find out the next inductee into the WWE Hall of Fame class of 2023.

Unlike previous years, WWE has left announcing inductees incredibly late, as typically, most if not all inductees would have been announced by now.

Last Friday, WWE confirmed that three-time former World Champion Rey Mysterio will be inducted this year.

Ric Flair

Ric Flair is no stranger to the WWE Hall of Fame, as he was inducted in 2008 (marking the first time an active Superstar had been inducted.)

Four years later, Flair was inducted again as part of the Four Horsemen, making him the first two-time WWE Hall of Famer.

On Twitter, WWE announced that Flair will appear on this week’s The Bump to announce the next inductee into the Hall of Fame.

Who’s Going In?

We’ll have to wait until Wednesday to know who Flair will be inducting, but there are some names fans are expecting.

One person many are predicting is Flair’s Evolution comrade Dave Batista, who withdrew from the 2020 Hall of Fame class three years ago.

Another name Flair could announce is Japanese wrestling legend The Great Muta, who is expected to be inducted into this year’s class.

Flair and Muta worked together in WCW and at WCW/NJPW inter-promotional events.

Earlier this week, it was reported that Stacy Kiebler is expected to be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame class of 2023.

WWE has started to announce inductees into this year’s Hall of Fame class just weeks before the ceremony takes place. On Friday’s SmackDown, WWE confirmed Rey Mysterio as the first person to be part of the class. 

It’s been reported that Konnan will do the honors for Mysterio. The Great Muta is also expected to be announced soon for the class.

It looks like Stacy Keibler will be going into the WWE Hall of Fame as Pwinsider.com reports that the WWE is “very close” to finalizing a deal to announce Keibler. She would be the first female member of the class to be announced. 

Stacy Keibler in the WWE Hall of Fame

The report added that Keibler and WWE have been in talks for a few weeks now, with an ope source stating the deal was “99% done.” Another source said they expect the induction to be likely, although it wasn’t a done deal as of last Friday. 

Keibler broke into the wrestling business by working for WCW in 1999, and after the company was sold, she went to WWE in 2001, where she stayed with the company until mid-2006. She decided to depart from the company to focus on other opportunities. 

The ceremony will take place on Friday, March 31, from the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

WWE announced its first inductee into the 2023 Hall of Fame on March 10. In a video package on SmackDown, the company revealed that Rey Mysterio is going to be part of the class.

Fans and the wrestling industry alike were delighted, as they all believe Mysterio deserves to be in the WWE Hall of Fame. Among these is Hulk Hogan, who is a HOFer himself.

In a video released on his channel, Hogan reacted to Mysterio’s induction, and congratulated the 48-year-old wrestler.

“You know Maniacs, I was watching WWE the other night and I was real curious who the first inductee to the 2023 Hall of Fame was. Oh my gosh, it’s Rey Mysterio! No one is more deserving! A champion, a great man, a great father, and a great husband! He deserves to be in the Hall of Fame! For years and years and years he’s carried the torch.”

Related: Who Will Induct Rey Mysterio Into the WWE Hall of Fame?

However, Hogan did not just stop there. He went on to request something from the company in regard to the Hall of Fame.

“But then I thought, you know… who could be next? Who could be just as deserving?”

Hogan said that the next inductees should be The Rougeau Brothers, a former WWE tag team who were known as The Fabulous Rougeaus. Hogan spoke highly of Jacques Rougeau and Raymond Rougeau, describing them as one of the greatest tag teams of all time.

“My first thought was, one of the greatest tag teams of all times, The Rougeau Brothers! Jacques Rougeau, brother, and his brother Raymond Rougeau! Those two guys need to be in the Hall of Fame. I’m voting for them! Hopefully, they’ll be the next inductees in the Hall of Fame, man! I just think it might happen, I’ve got a really good feeling about that one brother!”

You can check out the full video from Hulk Hogan below:

One of the biggest names in Mexican wrestling will make his return to WWE to induct Rey Mysterio into the WWE Hall of Fame.

It was confirmed this week that Mysterio will be the first inductee into this year’s class, after a celebrated career both in and out of WWE.

The three-time former World Champion is also a WWE Grand Slam winner, Royal Rumble winner and has held various accolades outside of WWE.

Inductor

With such a lengthy and celebrated career, there is no shortage of wrestlers who’d make sense to induct Rey into the Hall of Fame.

The Los Angeles Times reported this week that Konnan will be doing the honors, and in a tweet, Dave Meltzer confirmed that report.

Meltzer explained that Rey personally asked for Konnan and the company approved it, adding that it was “the only choice.

In the early 90s, Konnan was brought into the WWF to play the Max Moon character but would leave the promotion after three televised matches.

In interviews, Konnan has said the cost of the costume ($13,000, equivalent to $27,000 today) immediately caused friction with the company’s higher-ups.

Konnan and the Mysterios

In WCW and in Mexico, Rey and Konnan worked together, but the latter has kept a close eye on the Mysterio family.

It has been reported that Konnan has been helping Dominik Mysterio throughout his career, but especially since his heel turn last September in Cardiff.

Konnan is a godfather to Dominik, and many have said that Dom’s ex-con attire and character have been influenced by Konnan.

One of the biggest names in the history of Japanese wrestling will be part of this year’s class of WWE Hall of Famers, it has been claimed.

Contrary to previous years, which have seen WWE announce inductees in the months prior to WrestleMania, the promotion has waited very late this year.

Yesterday, WWE confirmed that Rey Mysterio will be part of this year’s class, making him the third active Superstar to be inducted (behind Ric Flair in 2008, and Bill Goldberg in 2018.)

The Great Muta

Japanese wrestling legend The Great Muta will be joining Rey as part of this year’s Hall of Fame, according to PW Insider.

Muta, aka Keiji Muto, recently finished his wrestling career, losing to Masahiro Chono at a Pro Wrestling NOAH event last month.

Despite Muto’s success across various promotions both in his native Japan and internationally, the four-time IWGP Heavyweight Champion never competed in WWE.

For his retirement tour, WWE allowed Shinsuke Nakamura to compete in a match against Muta, which at the time was reported as part of a “trade-off” between WWE & NOAH.

There is no word on who will be inducting the legendary wrestler into the Hall of Fame.

Who Else Is In?

More inductees are expected to be announced in due time, though details are scarce as to who will be going into the Hall of Fame.

Trish Stratus who was inducted in 2013, said last month that Victoria and Impact Wrestling Knockouts World Champion Mickie James both deserve the nod this year.

It is believed that Batista will also be inducted this year, after withdrawing from the 2020 class due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Mick Foley has said he has been contacted about inducting someone into the Hall of Fame this year, but has not said who.

Fans won’t have to wait much longer to learn who will be inducted into this year’s Hall of Fame, it has been claimed.

Since 1993, WWE has celebrated wrestlers and icons of the industry with their Hall of Fame, with the first recipient being Andre the Giant.

WWE also has a celebrity wing of their Hall of Fame as well as the Warrior Award which was introduced in 2015.

2023 Hall of Fame

Unlike previous years, WWE has been in no hurry to announce inductees into this year’s Hall of Fame.

At this point in the calendar, WWE would typically have most, if not all, inductees announced, but so far, nobody has been confirmed for this year’s class.

According to Wrestle Votes, inductees will be announced later today, given that we are now three weeks away from the ceremony.

Who’s In This Year?

While nobody has been publicly confirmed by WWE, there’s no shortage of names rumored to be going into the Hall of Fame this year.

It has been reported that former World Champion Dave Batista will be headlining this year’s class, after withdrawing from the 2020 class.

The Animal withdrew given the Covid-19 pandemic, as 2020’s class were bundled with the 2021 class two years ago.

While some felt that 2022 would be the Animal’s time, the ceremony was (rightly) headlined by The Undertaker.

Last month, Ric Flair shared his belief that the Midnight Express should be inducted, calling the iconic faction a “great team.”

Trish Stratus who was inducted in 2013, said last month that Victoria and Impact Wrestling Knockouts World Champion Mickie James both deserve the nod this year.

WWE is asking around for names to be inducted into this year’s Hall of Fame, according to the Wrestling Observer.

Since 1996, WWE has inducted individuals into the Hall of Fame in recognition of their contributions to wrestling.

WWE also has the Warrior Award for individuals in wrestling who have made a significant, off-screen contribution as well as their Celebrity wing for achievement in the world of entertainment.

2023 Hall of Fame

At this time, nobody has been confirmed for this year’s class of inductees, which has come as a surprise.

Typically, WWE will have confirmed multiple inductees this close to their biggest event of the year.

On Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer explained that while nobody is confirmed “people are being asked for the Hall of Fame.”

Meltzer speculated that Triple H’s idea is for everyone to be announced in the last week, and stressed that WWE is “running low on time.”

While the Game has called legends in the past for the Hall of Fame, this year’s ceremony will be his first as Head of Creative and Head of Talent Relations.

Who Makes the Cut?

While nobody has been publicly confirmed by WWE, there’s no shortage of names rumored to be going into the Hall of Fame this year.

It has been reported that former World Champion Dave Batista will be headlining this year’s class, after withdrawing from the 2020 class.

Last month, Ric Flair shared his belief that the Midnight Express should be inducted, calling them a “great team.”

Trish Stratus (a 2013 inductee) said last month that Victoria and Impact Wrestling Knockouts World Champion Mickie James both deserve the nod.

Each year, the WWE Hall of Fame induction ceremony is one of the highlights of WrestleMania weekend. Just four weeks out from pro wrestling’s biggest event of the year, details about this year’s HOF ceremony have been sparse.

WWE has yet to announce a single member for the Hall of Fame’s Class of 2023. It’s been rumored that former WWE Champion Batista will be the headliner. He was originally planned to be inducted back in 2020, but the ceremony was scrapped that year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. He’s said to have had ‘scheduling conflicts’ in subsequent years.

WWE Hall of Fame Update

Instead of being a stand-alone event, this year’s Hall of Fame ceremony is expected to take place immediately following the March 31 episode of SmackDown from the Crypto.com Center in Los Angeles, California.

According to the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter:

“Those at WWE said that even though there has been no talk about it nor any names mentioned, that the Hall of Fame ceremony is still scheduled on 3/31 at the Crypto.com Center right after the conclusion of the live Smackdown. It’s part of the Smackdown ticket rather than an additional event.”

In addition to Batista, Hall of Famer Trish Stratus also recently pitched a name that she’d like to see inducted this year.

It looks like Dave Bautista will get his moment to be honored by WWE for all of his accomplishments and success with the company. 

The former WWE World Heavyweight champion had been slated to go in 2020, but the COVID-19 pandemic nixed that. The Class of 2020 inductees got their ceremony the following year and was paired with the 2021 class as it was pre-taped inside the virtual WWE ThunderDome. 

Previous Induction

Bautista decided to pull out of the 2021 ceremony “due to previous obligations.” Just last month, the former WWE star told ComicBook.com that he did not know if he would be inducted this year but was hoping he would. 

Wrestling News Premium, WrestlingNews.co’s Patreon account reported today, “the word going around in WWE is that Dave Bautista will be the headliner at this year’s WWE Hall Of Fame.”

Per the report, those they spoke with in the company believe that both sides wanted to hold off on his induction as there wouldn’t be fans in attendance to hear his speech, something he wanted to do in front of fans. 

It’s still unclear when they will make the announcement nor who else will be going into the class. 

16-time World Champion Ric Flair is hoping to add a third Hall of Fame ring to his collection as part of his role with Evolution.

In 2008, Flair took his rightful place in the Hall of Fame the night before his retirement match at WrestleMania 24 against Shawn Michaels.

With this induction, Flair became the first active WWE Superstar to be inducted into the Hall of Fame.

In 2012, Flair made history again as the first-ever two-time inductee, receiving the nod for the second time for his role with the Four Horsemen.

While Flair would have his son Reid buried with one of his Hall of Fame rings upon the latter’s passing in 2013, Triple H would gift Ric a replica ring with Reid’s name engraved inside.

Third Induction

Since Flair’s induction in 2012, other legends have become two-time WWE Hall of Famers, including Booker T, Bret ‘Hitman’ Hart, Shawn Michaels, and Sean ‘X-Pac’ Waltman.

In 2020, Flair’s Evolution ally Batista was announced for that year’s Hall of Fame, but later opted to postpone his induction.

The reasoning at the time was that due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Batista’s legendary career would not have received the proper response.

Speaking on his To Be The Man podcast, Flair said he is excited for the day that Batista will be inducted, and said that Evolution should be inducted not long after the Animal.

While not confirmed, some believe that this year will see Batista be inducted as the headlining act, which went to The Undertaker at last year’s ceremony.

Evolution

Coming together in 2003, Evolution represented the past (Flair,) present (Triple H,) and the future (Randy Orton and Batista,) of WWE’s World Championship picture.

By December of that year, all members of the group held gold, meaning every male championship on Raw was in Evolution’s clutches.

After capturing the World Heavyweight Championship in 2004, Orton was kicked out by a jealous Triple H, and it would be in February 2005 that Batista chose to leave and feud with the Game over the title.

WWE’s Hall of Fame has always been a controversial subject. Many wrestling talents over the years have questioned its credibility over the lack of any criteria for inductees. John Morrison is one who doesn’t care about an induction because he thinks that it’s political and made up.

The former WWE star recently spoke to Chris Van Vliet. Among other things, the former ECW champion was asked if he thinks he has had a Hall of Fame career. Morrison replied by saying that he doesn’t care about it:

“Funny thing is I don’t care. I think the Hall of Fame is political and made up. It doesn’t matter that much to me.”

– John Morrison

Chris mentioned that John Morrison still has a lot left in the tank. The wrestling star then explained that it might be the reason for his disinterest: “Me too. Maybe that’s why I don’t care so much about Hall of Fame. I feel like it’s too early for that question.”

In his two runs with WWE, Morrison has won over half a dozen titles in the company. He has given fans many moments to remember and is certainly worthy of a Hall of Fame induction once he is ready to call it a career.

You can check out John Morrison’s full interview below:

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• Dolph Ziggler Discusses Future Of His Stand-Up Comedy Career

If you use any quotes from the article, please credit SEScoops with an H/t for transcription

The 2023 WWE Hall of Fame induction ceremony is right around the corner.

Each year, WWE honors some of the greatest performers in wrestling history with this prestigious recognition. Since its inception nearly thirty years ago, the WWE Hall of Fame has seen 234 inductions, 124 individual inductees and 46 ‘legacy’ inductees. There are 12 people in the ‘Celebrity Wing’ of the WWE Hall of Fame, and 8 people have received the questionably-named Warrior Award.

There is no physical Hall of Fame building as of this writing, but that does not diminish the magnitude of this honor. Countless inductees have spoken about how meaningful it was to join the ranks of Hulk Hogan, Bruno Sammartino, Stone Cold Steve Austin, Bret Hart, Shawn Michaels, “Rowdy” Roddy Piper and more.

1993 WWE Hall of Fame

The WWE Hall of Fame was introduced in 1993. The first inductee intro the WWE Hall of Fame was Andre the Giant. He was inducted posthumously shortly after his passing on January 27, 1993.WWE did not hold a formal Hall of Fame induction ceremony until the following year.

Andre’s induction was announced on the March 22, 1993 edition of Monday Night Raw. Here is rare footage of the Andre the Giant Hall of Fame video package:

WWE has provided this playlist of Andre the Giant’s greatest moments:

Top Names not in the WWE Hall of Fame

The WWE Hall of Fame includes some of the greatest performers in pro wrestling history. However, there are some glaring omissions to the list of legends have received this honor.

We recently wrote about 5 big names who are surprisingly not members of the WWE Hall of Fame. You can check out that feature here:

(Stats via Wikipedia)