TIME TO INDUCT SOME FORGOTTEN LEGENDS

Nope, not referring to any of the in-ring talent from over the years. Not really, that is. There is a group of people who aren't "superstars" but have logged just as much, if not more time in the squared circle. They are an important part of each and every show, from the opening card, to the main event. They also take quite a few bumps along the way at times. Who? Referees.

Some may snicker at this, even I did when TNA inducted legendary referee Earl Hebner into their Hall Of Fame. However, the chuckle didn't come from his induction, it was aimed at TNA and their sad HOF. Earl, as well as some others rightfully deserve their spot among the immortals. Referees do so much more than count to 3 or 10, and signal for the bell. They are the "middle man" at times with backstage and the performers in the ring. Giving new directions, time limits, to being a part of the story. When you really think about it, they are even performing similar to the talent in the ring. Taking bumps on all levels, from the traditional hit in the corner to getting legitimately injured a la Timmy White in one of the Hell In A Cell matches. Referees also "sell" the bumps, laying motionless and "coming to" at the right moment. They act out the stories at times, with things like arguing with a heel or sending the entourage to the back. This all adds to the show. Remember when Andre won the WWF (WWE)  title? Earl and Dave Hebner is what really made the story work that night, which ultimately led to the events of Wrestlemania IV.
Refs also do things behind the scenes, if you want to hear any Andre stories? The man to see would be Tim White (yes, him again) who traveled with the late legend ensuring the Boss was a comfortable as he could be. Another Tim White reference comes from how many times his bar, The Friendly Tap, has been used in WWE programming during the Attitude Era.
They do more than what was mentioned, but you get the idea. If not, then simply think about who has technically appeared in the most Wrestlemania main events, possibly Earl Hebner or another referee. And also remember that the "Montreal Screw Job" doesn't happen without a referee playing his part. If Hebner dropped the ball that night, we could have seen (despite what Bret says) the WWF (WWE) Championship on WCW programming. And lets be honest, the better company won that war. Don't agree? Russo. I win.

Basically, it would be nice to see the referees get their recognition and be inducted into the WWE Hall Of Fame. Starting with saving Earl from TNA and inducting him, as well as guys like Tim White, Jimmy Korderas, and when he hangs them up, Little Naitch Charles Robinson. Teddy Long isn't on here as I am not sure which category he would fall under as he was everything really. Ref, manager, General Manager. There are others as well, but lets start here.

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WHY ISN'T THIS LEGEND ALREADY IN THE WWE HALL OF FAME?

It is a question that could apply to lists upon lists of past wrestlers. This year saw "Macho Man" Randy Savage be removed from those pages. But, this article focuses that question on one person, Hillbilly  Jim. A person who I initially thought was already in the WWE Hall Of Fame. I missed his induction because it was in the earlier classes when the Hall Of Fame wasn't an event like it is now. Bit, this wasn't the case. Thanks to "Reunion Show" for "WWE Legends House" this was both mentioned and caused the thought process.

Why isn't Hillbilly Jim in the WWE Hall Of Fame? He's a verified Legend, but lacking the ring to go to that "next level". To give him that "Hall Of Famer" status. He was "worthy enough" to be included amongst the cast, which were all WWE Hall Of Famers. For some he was just as big of a deal as Junkyard Dog in his supporting role with Hulk Hogan and "Rock 'n' Wrestling". Even as his inring performing days winded down, he made the transition to manager with The Godwinns. So, what is the reason? Is it the lack of championships? There are many within the WWE Hall Of Fame who are in the same boat. Was there some sort of fall-out that we've heard nothing about? Or could it be Hillbilly Jim's own decision to not be in there?

Personally, I think he should be in there. Again given his status during WWE's initial explosion in the 1980's, but also his loyalty to the company and the work he put in during his time. Covering for no-shows, injured, and wrestlers who simply left. Hillbilly Jim would fill the void. Is there something fans need to do? If you know of a reason, feel free to comment below (or where you found this post). Please don't give a "he sucks" response, as everyone who has come and gone is really a matter of opinion. I suppose the real question to all of this is, "What makes a WWE Hall Of Famer?".

*Looking at old pics, if he re-grows the beard...and if there is ever a need for an elder Wyatt...hmm


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TIME FOR REIGNS TO COOK

I know, the title is somewhat of a "wtf", but let me explain. Let's turn back the clock to the 1990's. WWE (as we all know, then known as WWF), had third generation wrestler, who had "it". They didn't know what his "it" was, but regardless, he had "it". WWE hyped him up, showcasing his lineage. He comes from one of sports entertainments biggest family dynasties. Then came out Rocky Maivia. Crazy hair, and a giant smile. Athletic as hell, but his look and WWE's "push" wasn't being bought by the fans. They had him win titles, and be "put over" by some of the best. It just wasn't working. Fans chanted, "Rocky Sucks!", even going as far as chanting, "Die, Rocky, Die!". A change was needed. Luckily, things did change because as we all have seen, it clearly had the "it" that they were talking about. That change came via the glorious, and at times poorly used, "heel turn". From the ashes of the failed Rocky Maivia rose The Rock. Through this turn, he was able to fire back at the crowds, and find "himself". The Rock of course is apparently Dwayne Johnson with the volume jacked up.

Did any of that sound familiar? The first half of what was stated above, it almost exactly what is happening with Roman Reigns. Fans began to reject him when he was getting a push a tad early (perhaps). He is even from the same family, that WWE has been using to try and hype Reigns. Many might disagree with this, especially since it has often been "over-used" or poorly done, but a heel turn might be what Roman Reigns needs. To find himself perhaps, at least as a character. Some might even say that mimicking The Rock would be the wrong way to go. Look at what WCW tried to do with Booker T aka The Book. If Booker wasn't a Hall Of Fame caliber performer, he would have been forever remembered as a "Rock knock-off". He found "himself", but it did help establish him a bit with some fans.
With Roman, it would be both similar and completely different. Yes, he would be making a heel turn like The Rock. Perhaps even using The Rock to make his turn. However, he wouldn't be continuing on as the next Rock, he would still be Roman Reigns. He wouldn't begin to mimic his cousin on the mic or in the ring. He would simply be given a chance to "find himself" without fans burying him due to a WWE push. The Rock found himself firing back, perhaps that is what Reigns needs to finally build his Roman Empire. Or to finish off the title of this article, so that we can smell what he is cooking.

Again, some probably disagree. Either with the approach or to even consider changing Reigns. Understandably, as we are all entitled to our opinions. Yes, he started on the main roster as a heel, but The Shield got over, went face, and only Rollins broke away as a heel. At least this is something other that a feud with Big Show...again. Roman Reigns versus Big Show was used before in an attempt to get Roman over with the audiences as he approached his Wrestlemania main event with Brock Lesner.


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WWE LEGENDS HOUSE. WHO SHOULD BE NEXT?

Although not too different from your typical reality show, where a large chunk of things is generally "planned" or "scripted", but WWE Legends House wasn't too bad. The first season saw legends Pat Patterson, Rowdy Roddy Piper, Tony Atlas, Hillbilly Jim, Mouth Of The South Jimmy Hart, Howard Finkel, Mean Gene Okerland, and Hacksaw Jim Duggan. An entertaining cast, and their different personalities clashing and combining made for some great moments on the show. It would have been interesting to see Duggan and Atlas come to blows, it would have put a damper on things, but would've been nice to see who'd win. Hacksaw is stupid tough, but Atlas is still a walking tank. That was really the only negativeness on the show, the verbal disputes between the two. But, there was of course the emotional roller coasters with Pat Patterson "coming out" to the public, Jim Duggan and Jimmy Hart's personal losses in their lives, everyone's stories added a refreshing realism to these guys. Larger than life characters, who at the end of the day, are just as human as those they entertain.

So, we'll assume that WWE will be bringing the show back for another season. The question is, who will make up the cast? Of course, everyone will have their personal favorites, as we do here in the upcoming list, the problem is which of the Legends are both entertaining outside of the ring, but not in a destructive way that could destroy the atmosphere of the show. Remember Chyna on "Celebrity Rehab" a few years ago? Wasn't entertaining at all, and was sad if anything (and if you've seen her as of late, things got worse). Characters like The Nasty Boys may be entertaining for a moment, but possibly could become "too much" and not funny. WWE will likely stick to the Hall Of Famers or the proven "good boys" or company guys (Hillbilly Jim). So, who does the Non-Geeky Nerd think should be in Legends House? They are...

George The Animal Steele

There is so much more to the man behind the character. Of course, there would have to be some turnbuckle pads set up around the house as to keep with character at times.

Jerry The King Lawler

Might conflict with Raw and what not, but a storyline hiatus could make it work. But, it may also conflict with him hosting the "reunion" show, but like puppies, we want KING!

Koko B. Ware

The only real stipulation is that he brings the bird (not sure if Frankie is still alive), as it goes with his persona, but could also drive some members nuts leading to the needed "drama" of the house.

Mick Foley

Mick can be the funny one, he can be the peace keeper, or he can be the one everyone picks on (or the Jimmy Hart of the group). It fits with him being the young one of the house. Maybe too early for his era, but who better to "bridge the gap"?

Iron Sheik

Remember that destructiveness mentioned before? As entertaining as he can be, the possibility of him creating a negative tone would be high....er than he would be. But, if there is always editing so maybe.

Bobby The Brain Heenan

Would have been the absolute best choice. Sadly, Brain is battling through health issues making this near impossible. But, again he'd have been the best choice, and likely would have been apart of the inaugural cast.

So many of the Legends who would have been perfect for the show have unfortunately passed away through the years. And it may be too early to use Attitude Era legends, and not too sure if the "bigger" names like Hulk Hogan, Ric Flair, and others would sign on for this. Guess we will have to wait and see, well those with WWE Network, everyone else get on that as it is truly a great deal. And we're only in the beginning of all this, things can or should only get better.


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NO LESNER? NO PROBLEM!!

Rumors are running rampant after a heated argument between Vince McMahon and Brock Lesner, followed by an apparent "walk-off" by Brock Lesner before last weeks Monday Night Raw. Rumors are that the verbal engagement was over Lesner's next contract, and allowing Brock to attend UFC 184. Which as most know, Lesner attended, and sat with Dana White. There are even reports that despite all of this, Vince McMahon doesn't see a need for a back-up plan as WWE will sue Brock if he doesn't fulfill his contractual obligation. Although he may have said that, it would almost be safe to assume he's already thought of a plan B. There's always a plan B (ask Triple H).

So, let's assume that there is some real validity to all of this. Brock Lesner decides to not show up, or he does and is obviously not going to follow the plan. It could happen, the amount of money Brock could make from the publicity and a fight in the UFC (with Mir) could outweigh what Vince McMahon and the WWE could take away in court...

Whether he shows or not, Brock is stripped of the WWE World Heavyweight Championship and subsequently "fired". That is either during the pre-show or at the start of Wrestlemania 31. The top prize in all of Sports Entertainment is vacant. Ironically, the night before "Macho Man" Randy Savage was inducted into the WWE Hall Of Fame. Savage captured the WWE Heavyweight Championship at Wrestlemania IV (4), in an elimination tournament to determine the champ. So, to further honor the memory of the late legend, it happens again. With the exception of Tag Team and Divas matches, every match is now apart of the tournament. IC and US titles on line, but also advance in the tournament. The winner of the 2nd Annual Andre The Giant Memorial Battle Royal will get a pass into the second round, similar to how Andre partook at Wrestlemania IV. The end result can still end up with Roman Reigns being victorious (if that is the true plan), and perhaps earn admiration for how he does it. Or whomever they choose. The list of people the fans would go nuts for is pretty long.

For some it is a good idea, for others it is a lousy one. But, to the detractors, it is at least something. This will likely be for not, as Vince generally gets his way no matter the cost (to him or others). The card is looking pretty stacked though, Sting/Triple H, Undertaker/Bray Wyatt, etc. Making it all for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship could make it all that much more meaningful. either way, can't wait to see how everything plays out on March 29th, 2015.

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VINCE MCMAHON. IS IT TIME?

For quite a few years now, I have been reading both articles and comments on how Vince McMahon has lost touch with his audience and needs to either change or walk away from the empire that he built. Up until recently I could not see it, the aftermath of the Monday Night Wars was expected to be "not as good". There were also enough good, to outweigh the bad. It is entertainment, and that means everything is hit or miss.

With reports saying that it is Vince himself writing the promos for Roman Reigns, which have been pretty weak, it is causing me to see the "haters" points of view. And now am curious if Vinnie Mac has ever really been in tune with the fans since before the gimmick era became unwanted by the audience. The edgier "Attitude Era" was after all inspired by Paul Heyman's vision with ECW. And without it, would have lost the war to Ted Turner, Eric Bischoff, and WCW. And with Reigns, it is important for his promos to be up to par as he is being prepped for main event and championship status.
Then there are some of the choices made since the launch of the WWE Network. All of which were likely made simply to somehow boost sales of the network. Small things like stalled pushes, characters being squashed, Brock Lesner being WWE World Heavyweight Champion while being more of a showcase performer. To big things, like the aforementioned Lesner ending the Wrestlemania undefeated streak of the Undertaker. Which I had no real problem with, but the rumors were that Vince made the choice, and did so for the WWE Network.
It is even somewhat apparent that he still loves his muscular heroes, and giant villains (although the bad guys are at least not obese anymore). It could be safe to say that it is Triple H who is behind guys like Dolph Ziggler, Dean Ambrose, and Seth Rollins are in the forefront. Daniel Bryan had more to do with the fans. Although they are characters that I like, Roman Reigns and Ryback must be "Vince McMahon Guys". Big, muscular, and a bit weak on the mic. Although Reigns just needs a better script to better himself.

So, are we starting to see signs that it is time for Vince to pass complete control over to Stephanie and Paul (Triple H)? Is it long over due like many others have said? The one question is for sure, will he even know when it is time to step away? 2014 could have been an epic year, and it wasn't just the injuries that hindered that from happening. 2015 is already looking good with the late and beyond great Macho Man Randy Savage will be inducted into the WWE Hall Of Fame. The possibility of seeing Sting perform in a WWE ring on the grandest stage of them all, Wrestlemania. And now there is a strong rumor that the Undertaker could face Bray Wyatt at Wrestlemania.

RETURNING TO GLORY

Randomly caught an episode of Global Supercard Wrestling. Seeing a list of superstars before the Attitude Era/Monday Night Wars. Guys like Booker T and his brother, Stevie Ray. Which made me think, we're all waiting on Sting to finally step foot into a WWE ring. Whether it for a match, or a simple interview segment, it will be historic. But, what about all the stars of yesteryear? Sure we had Booker T, and he is now a WWE Hall Of Famer, but what about his brother? More notably, their Harlem Heat tag team? After Vince McMahon and WWE bought out WCW back in 2001, we were provided with an opportunity for all the stars WCW made to make their mark on WWE. There were a variety of reasons for their absences. Some opted to take time off and finish collecting the guaranteed money form their WCW contracts. Some simply weren't offered a spot, while some refused to go to the WWE. Regardless of the reasons, we were denied.

With us now over a decade removed from the demise of WCW, and age being the proverbial biatch when it comes to athletics, it becomes less and less likely that we will ever see these stars make a WWE debut. Sure, we now have the WWE Network now so that we can watch all of our favorite moments from the past. And all the new found attention some of the wrestlers will get, could earn them an induction into the WWE Hall Of Fame. That would be great, for both the performers and fans alike. The "Legends Contracts" and deserved props from the fans for the wrestlers, and a final chance to say "thank-you" for the dedication and sacrafice simply to entertain us for us fans. However, as we have seen in some cases, although time is running out, some of these veterans can "still go". Remember Steamboat after he was inducted into the HOF, facing off with Chris Jericho. And the "You Still Got It" chant was extremely apt. Or even more recently with the New Age Outlaws, or the resurgence of Goldust keeping up and tagging up with his younger bro Cody (Stardust).

So, the point of all of this is to name off some guys who I wouldn't mind seeing making their debut, or return to a WWE ring. Guys from WCW's glory days, or even recently from TNA. Whether it be for one last run on the main stage, or a simple one match and done type situation. Even if that comes in the form of say a 6-man tag team match. Here are those I want to see debut or return to a WWE ring and eventually be inducted into the WWE Hall Of Fame...

Harlem Heat
Not too sure about Stevie Ray's status, and although Booker takes on more of a promoter/commentator/general manager type role, I would like to see a reunion of the brother tag team. A reunion that is also a WWE debut for the team and for Stevie Ray, as well as a return to in ring action for Booker. As far as I know, this tandem hasn't been in a WWE ring together. It wouldn't have to be a run like NAO had, or Goldust is currently on. Would hate for the world to see Stevie Ray's main stage career end with is part in the mock WCW at the end of the company. And I want this tag team in the WWE Hall Of Fame. Which could never happen with Booker having a successful WWE career on his own. What about you? Can you dig it?


Scott Steiner
Although we aren't supposed to say "never" in this business, this return is very unlikely. Which would be a shame really. I was ecstatic about Big Poppa Pump being in the WWE, I wasn't too keen on how they utilized him. And given the now near PG level of product (at least not full blown PG anymore), Freakzilla wouldn't quite fit into the scheme of things. Scott Steiner teamed with his brother, Rick, worked in years prior to the Attitude Era. But, the awesomeness that he became on his own unfortunately does not. Would be nice to see a proper run, even with the WWE World Heavyweight Championship since he was denied back when Triple H was playing the new age heel (his run with the World title was almost to peeve off the haters who said it was because of Stephanie). If not though, hopefully there is a spot for him in the WWE Hall Of Fame at least. Both for himself, as well as with his Dog Faced Gremlin bro Rick as the Steiner Brothers.


TNA Wrestlers (Past & Present)
Sure they aren't really who I was referring to, but for some of them, their careers are winding down or could possibly end at any moment given the high risk in this business. And lets be honest, as good as the performers are at TNA, the company itself has turned into somewhat of a joke. And if they don't get into the WWE now, then we could "lose them" forever in regards to main stages. Which can be important in developing stories that add to the matches. Gives them "reason". Who would I want to see? AJ Styles would be top of the list. The other guys would be Robert Roode and Eric Young. EY could be utilized as the WWE's mix of Santino Marella and Daniel Bryan. Comedy or underdog. I would say Samoa Joe, but would be fearful of how the WWE would use him. Especially with "Joe's Gonna Kill You" chant not fitting under the current format. Too many changes at the moment.


Jeff Jarrett
Yes, I still spell his name "J-E-Double F, J-A-Double R-E-Double T" in my head while writing/typing his name.And I didn't mention him in the TNA crew as he is a special case in comparison to those mentioned. Jarrett went to the WWE a somewhat established name, had a decent run in the WWE (although with a mid-card and tag team peak). He put over Chyna before he left for WCW, where he rose to the main event in a company with that proverbial glass ceiling. After WCW folded, instead of returning to the WWE Jarrett created  TNA. And too many out there, the company was a legit contender when he was in charge of things. Now, he is building another wrestling company. Add the fact that he has never really had a good relationship with the WWE, it makes this one of the most unlikely returns. Perhaps a HOF induction could happen one day, but even that seems unlikely. Never say never though right?


Bully Ray
More than any of the other "WWE Guys" on the TNA roster, I would want Bully Ray to return to the WWE. Not saying I don't want Devon to ever join him, I just appreciate how Bubba Ray has become Bully Ray. He would be a perfect heel, especially with an anti-bully campaign. And likely willing to take the heat for his role. A solo run, possibly with the WWE Wolrd Heavyweight Championship, ending with a Dudley Boys reunion. Capped off with an induction into the WWE Hall Of Fame. Yes, they just did this in TNA. This would be better, no?


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WWE HALL OF FAME: THE ECW WING

Even if you weren't a direct fan of Paul Heyman's extreme vision, you should respect it enough to realize how crucial ECW was to the industry, most notably, during the infamous Monday Night Wars. It was ECW that truly planted the seeds for WWE's "Attitude Era". Both WCW and WWE ripped ECW off of both direction/story lines as well as its stars. Only difference was, Vince McMahon compensated Paul Heyman by putting him on his payroll before eventually one day buying the hardcore company. Vince also tried and succeeded in making Heyman's guys into stars, where Eric Bischoff did things like buying out ECW Champion Mike Awesome to jump ship, only to then bury the late superstar with lame character and story lines.
That's the past, and many have enjoyed what Paul Heyman has done within the WWE with his various stints with WWE. Superstars like Rob Van Dam, Tazz, and others are future WWE Hall Of Famers just based on their runs in the WWE alone. Some didn't really have much of a career within the WWE, for various reasons didn't quite make it in WWE, but were superstars in the original ECW. However, as great as some have been, they tend to get lost in the sea that is the WWE roster over the years, so to bring them back to the forefront, we'll imagine that there is an ECW Wing in the WWE Hall Of Fame. Here are a list of ECW Legends who deserve to be a part of the WWE Hall Of Fame: ECW Wing;

Rob Van Dam

Mr. Monday Night is probably the one wrestler who made the best transition from ECW to WWE. After years of seemingly being stuck at mid-card winning countless WWE Intercontinental Championships, RVD became the first person to hold both the WWE and ECW Championships at the same time. In a business where we never say never, who knows, perhaps The Whole F'n Show will be hitting a Five-Star Frog Splash for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship before he closes out his career.

Tazz

The Human Suplex Machine may be sitting behind the announce booth, and currently doing so in TNA, there is no doubt that Tazz deserves to be in the WWE Hall Of Fame. Especially if we were to see an ECW Wing. His in ring career may be over, but Tazz still has some value in the world of wrestling outside of commentary. Who better to manage or simply endorse a new age version of himself? He did so with Samoa Joe, and although made sense, Joe was already an established name in TNA. WWE has loads of new guys who could use this to propel themselves. Alexander Rusev looks like a giant version of Tazz.

The Dudley Boys

"Devon! Get the tables!" are words the crowd would still scream along with Bubba Ray (now Bully) and Devon if they re-entered a WWE ring. And of course would be followed by a massive pop from the crowd as someone went through the table. Bubba is doing his own thing in TNA right now, but a Dudley Boys reunion in the WWE could happen one day. If only briefly like the New Age Outlaws did recently. Other than RVD, the Dudley's transitioned from ECW to WWE very nicely. Even being one of the three teams to pioneer Tables, Ladders, and Chairs (TLC) match, and being synonymous with both Tables and Tag-Team wrestling in pro-wrestling. And that screams Hall Of Fame worthy.

Sabu

Sabu was never really cut out to make it in the WWE, and that isn't a knock on him. It is the constraints of the WWE tend to hinder some performers from doing what they do in the ring. It is out of safety that they do this of course, but this is the Houdini Of Hardcore, and his legend was built on leaving safety in the dressing room. Plus, remember how Chris Benoit's nickname was The Crippler? It was Sabu's neck that broke to create that one. So if there is to be an ECW Wing or even just an ECW Class within WWE's Hall Of Fame, The Modern Day Kamikaze known as Sabu is a front runner in being the top of that class.

Tommy Dreamer

The one ECW Original who made the best out of WWE's attempt at relaunching ECW. It was there, which Tommy Dreamer dropped the WWE mid-card status and returned to mirroring his glory days in the original ECW, being at the top. If ever a resurgence of hardcore or within the WWE, don't be surprised to see Dreamer leading a new group of extreme talent into the forefront. Also, wouldn't be surprised to hear he became a trainer at the new WWE Developmental Facility preparing the next generation of talent. May only be a Dream, but Tommy is Hall Of Fame worthy.

Terry Funk

Yes, he is already in the WWE Hall Of Fame, but Flair has two rings, and we are talking about an ECW wing here. He should have pehaps walked away from the business or found a different way to be a part of it all, but regardless, Funk had some of his greatest matches under extreme rules. Both in ECW and even WWE as Chainsaw Charlie. Pretty sure guys like Mick Foley and even the next guy on this list would agree that Terry Funk is very much worthy on being inducted a second time based on his Hardcore accomplishments, which include winning the ECW Championship.

Paul Heyman

His client, Brock Lesner, is the 1 in 21-1. His client, Brock Lesner, conquered The Streak. Oh, and he was the brains behind ECW. Was Paul the greatest business man? No, but he was so good that the Top 2 companies copied and stole from him. Both ideas and talent. Only difference is that Bischoff had no respect for Heyman, where as Vince put Paul on his payroll before buying ECW from him. And then has has Paul Heyman working for the WWE on multiple occasions both on and off screen roles. Promoter, Manager/Agent, behind the scenes stuff which all add up to a Hall Of Fame induction for Heyman. Preferably with the men who truly gave their all for him and ECW.

Of course there are countless others who would deserve a WWE Hall Of Fame induction, especially if there were to an ECW Wing or classes. Guys like Sandman, Lance Storm, Justin Credible, among several others. Even guys who had runs in WWE before going to the land of extreme in ECW, like the late Bam Bam Bigelow who had legendary moments in ECW, and was also in the Wrestlemania XI (11) main event against L.T. Taylor, deserves to be in the WWE Hall Of Fame.

THE WINGS OF THE WWE HALL OF FAME

It is yet to be a "physical" Hall Of Fame like Baseball's in Cooperstown or Hockey's in Toronto, key word is yet. Personally I would perhaps find a way to maybe have something near or expanded off of WWE's current development center down in Florida. It would have to be massive though, even if going off what one would assume would be the general "vision" of what it would look like with all the memorabilia and such. To fill up the extra space the would be needed for future additions to the WWE Hall Of Fame, perhaps a museum of sorts, consisting of other items mostly pertaining to moments in wrestling and those not yet in the hall or the viewable storage for what is used during WWE Axxess leading into Wrestlemania. Of course majority of everyone's opinion will vary, how it would be laid out, what would be displayed, even in regards to who actually gets their own wing. One may say it should be laid out by "eras", others perhaps would want it to be each wing be broken down by Hall Of Fame Classes (Class Of 2011 gets own, 2012 gets own, etc). All of which would make sense and would "work".

Here is one way to break it down. Each wing is based on induction style. Displays vary in size based on things like items that would "fit" and really general popularity. Although some wings may be smaller at the moment, they will grow in time.

Singles Wrestling Wing
The biggest, and really the main wing. It is the one that will require more space each year as the WWE HOF grew. Size of "displays" would be based on overall popularity. Of course, Hall Of Famers like Stone Cold Steve Austin or Shawn Michaels and other "faces" of the company would have the largest displays, having more of a "section" than a general display. Order of era would work well, having the "top guy" of his era being the "divider' points. 


Womens Wrestling Wing
One of the smaller wings, as there have been times and eras where Womens wrestling on the bigger stages  were non-existant. Include the times were although there, lagging in talent. However, there is usually always at least a couple from each grouping of ladies that are standouts and would be definite future Hall Of Famers. They are starting to tap into the "Attitude Era" Divas now, which has quite a few possibles, but after that it is slim pickings for a bit.


Tag-Team Wrestling Wing
This wing would be focused purely on the tag teams in the WWE Hall Of Fame. Although some of the tag teams within the Hall are actually in as individuals, this would have those in as a team, as well as "fillers" that have sections featuring teams in which the members went in solo. Of course, there is a chance that WWE could start to include others in the "double ring" department, by re-inducting these types as the tag teams that they were.


Group/Faction Wrestling Wing
At the moment, too "new" to have a wing. However, if they continue to induct groups and factions, there will be a need for a separate wing. Doubtful that the entire n.W.o. roster, or even the entire D-X roster will be inducted, their will be space needed though to make room the multiple wrestler squads and display their moments and what not within wrestling history.


Families Of Wrestling Wing
Of course at the moment their hasn't been enough families inducted, however there is a collection of them as single inductees. Perhaps even to take away from the sheer mass of the main wing, group the single inductees by family decent. May be the only way we see Macho Man Randy Savage in there, apparently with his wish having been for the Poffo's to go in together. Naturally there would be a lot more of Randy's things to display being the alpha-star of the family.


Celebrities, Commentators and Promoters Of Wrestling Wing
Although most of the promoters that have been willing to be inducted into Vince's WWE Hall Of Fame have also been inducted for their past wrestling careers as well, the list is short and would help to keep the fellow short list category with celebrities.


The Ric Flair Wing
Has their been anyone with any kind of stroke at WWE ever not said this? Picked my words carefully as I know there are anti-Flairs out there (Shane Douglas, etc). In the 80's he was the top argument against Hulk Hogan being the best in the classic WWE (WWF) Vs WCW (NWA) argument amongst kids and adults.


The Hulk Hogan Wing
If Naitch gets one, then arguably the Hulkster deserves one too. This is the "WWE" Hall Of Fame after all, and before there was Stone Cold, or John Cena who were the faces of the company, it started with Hogan. Add that he was also somewhat the leading man for WCW in what was the Monday Night Wars, kind of adds to his legend.


Future Wing: Undertaker
Other than he is too modest of a person, there is really no valid argument as to why he doesn't deserve one. His loyalty to the company, his sacrifice, his leadership in the back and his drawing power making him today the new age version of what the late, legendary Andre The Giant was during his illustrious career. An attraction all his own. The wing would showcase both his streak and evolution as you progressed through it.

Future Wing: The McMahon Family Wing
At first it would really look more like the "Vince McMahon Wing" that includes his father and grandfather. It would grow of course of time, as Shane, Stephanie and even Triple H (Paul Levesque) would one day make their way into the Hall. Hopefully of course when the next generation of McMahon's, or anyone else is in control. Likely that won't be someone with last name Carter, first name Dixie. How can one dispute this though? The Hall exists because of Vinnie Mac.

Just one of many ways that they could set-up a physical WWE Hall Of Fame. It would be interesting to see how the WWE would present this if they ever followed through on doing this. Would it be an extravagant sight, or a simple display. Wouldn't mind seeing wax sculptures being exact replicas dawning the wrestlers old wardrobe(s). Naturally Hall Of Famers like The Iron Sheik would have audio, although edited for families. I do know that I am am not keen on the rumor of possibly having matches inducted into the Hall Of Fame, as those are truly a matter of opinion and perspective. There have been a lot of legendary and great matches that didn't take place on television let alone at Wrestlemania or on PPV. It also runs the risk of people having too many rings, slightly diluting the purpose of the rings. Would be better serves perhaps giving rings to champions for each reign. If they are looking to be multi-ringed like with some in other sports ie. Bill Russell=Ric Flair. Also if going that route, different rings for WWE Title and WCW/WWE World Titles.

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JOURNEY TO GREATNESS

Not to be confused with the WWE's annual "Road To Wrestlemania", which is currently underway. This is about professional wrestlers who have gone through a string of characters before finding "the one". Some entrants on the list are those who had found the perfect character, but then revamped themselves to prolong their careers within the squared-circle. From a simple heel or face turn to a complete over haul, in most cases it was a matter of being allowed to be themselves. With the volume cranked past eleven as they say.

Will try to leave out the wrestlers who had already discovered themselves, but the WWF (WWE) forced a gimmick of sorts on them, but there are some who took their careers to another level with said gimmick...

Stone Cold Steve Austin

Stunning Steve Austin, and The Ringmaster. Austin made the "Stunning" thing work, and made it even better when teamed with the late Brian Pillman for the tag team "Hollywood Blondes". The Ring Master gimmick, despite adding the "Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase Sr and holding the Million Dollar Championship belt didn't help this one. A combo of being himself (which he did in a short stop in ECW before) and Jake "The Snake" Roberts religion gimmick at that time, the "Austin 3:16 Says I Just Whooped Your Ass!" line was dropped and the rest was history. Oh Hell Yeah!! WHAT?!?

Hulk Hogan

The stars of the 80's, especially the ones who were at the forefront of Vince McMahon's vision of Sports Entertainment, are hard to add but hard not to add to this list. As most were already established stars across the territories before Vinnie Mac scooped them all up and made them global superstars. Which is where most of todays fans joined pro-wrestling fandom. The Hulkster made the cut for his ability to prolong his career, and even go to another level when he turned heel and unleashed the Hollywood Hogan gimmick on us via the n.W.o. Which translated into another "run" when he returned to the WWE and turned face. Even beating Triple H for the Undisputed WWE Championship strap. Love or hate him, he's the Babe Ruth of professional wrestling, Brother!

Bubba Ray/Bully Ray

Shocked that a current TNA star made the list? Understandable. However, I felt this one deserved in. Starting as the stuttering member of one of the greatest tag teams ever (Dudley Boys/Team 3-D), and evolving off of that and being more of the leader/mouth of the Dudleys. What helped him make this list is that he was able to find a gimmick that worked for him after the tag team split. Something that wasn't happening in the WWE days when they attempted to do the same. Bully Ray was even the leader of one of TNA's better things in the Aces & Eights faction. And he's in the best shape of his career.

Rikishi

Fun fact: Yokozuna was supposed to be a member of the Samoan tag team, "The Headshrinkers, but was replaced by Rikishi when they (WWE) decided to put Yoko in the Sumo gimmick instead. After that, he became The Saulton, and followed by more of an urban version of himself, and then finally, he became almost the wrestling equivelant of Kim Kardashian and Jennifer Lopez, became famous for dat butt. Talented in the ring of course, but the "Stink Face" would always garner a massive pop from the crowds.

Triple H

He came into the business via WCW as "", then came over to the WWF(WWE) and started as a blue-blooded snob from Greenwich, CT (Vince's jab at his neighbors) Hunter Hearst Helmsley. He really took off after forming DeGeneration-X with WWE Hall Of Famer Shawn Michaels and becoming Triple H, and then exploded after taking the reigns of D-X. Then he evolved into The Game. Now he has extended his characters career until his end with the corporate angle. Unless of course he and Stephanie get a divorce one day, but even then, the McMahons have a habit of pushing personal feelings aside in the name of business.

Kevin Nash

True, Big Daddy Cool made it big with the "Diesel" gimmick, but things went to another level when he and Scott Hall jumped ship to WCW, and used his real name Kevin Nash a co-founder of n.W.o. But not all are aware of the failed gimmicks Big Sexy had tried out before becoming Diesal or ending Goldberg's streak. There was Vinnie Vegas, Master Blaster, Oz (a rip-off of The Wizard Of Oz) as well as others. But I am sure Nash counts all the money he's made over the years and laughs along with us.


There are many others who have either gone through a string of failed gimmicks, or upgraded their gimmicks to remain fresh, but end up "making it" or at least have a lengthy career. Perhaps another list in the future covering some more like Kane, or even his brother the Undertaker. Love or hate the "American Badass" gimmick, it made way for a great return of the "Deadman".

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FEMALE HALL OF FAMERS

Congrats to Lita on her upcoming induction into the WWE's Hall Of Fame. She'll be joining other female Hall Of Famer's, Trish Stratus, Mae Young, "The Fabulous" Moolah, among a few others. Which is also well deserved, having established her own niche in the history of pro-wrestling being unique from those she was competing with as well as those who came before her.

With the list of female wrestlers in the past being quite low, especially in comparison with the guys, it isn't a surprise that the female count within the WWE Hall Of Fame is low. And with the the inductions seemingly creeping into the "Attitude Era" in terms of the inductees (mostly), which is also when there was a real resurgence in the women's division, it isn't odd to wonder who would be next. Also, it would be wrong to wonder who should be in there but curious as to "if" they ever will. They say to never say never in this business, so here's a list of possible future female WWE Hall Of Fame Inductees...

Medusa

In the early 1990's she was Alundra Blayze the WWF Womens Champion, when the women's division was somewhat making a return after a slight hiatus, only for it to kind of disappear once again. The next time we saw her and the WWF Womens Championship belt, was on an episode of WCW Monday Night Nitro, with Alundra Blayze now known as Medusa, dumping the title belt in a garbage pail on live television. She is also a former WCW Women's Champion. If she doesn't get inducted, it may be by her own decision. Vince and the WWE are known for "sucking it up" for the good of business, and despite the major insult with the belt it was a massive moment in the Monday Night Wars and the history of wrestling.

Ivory

The mouthy firecracker of the women's division, but despite the ability to talk (a lot), Ivory could "go" in the ring. Her three title reigns showed that. As annoying as her "Right To Censor" gimmick was, it was meant to do that and she did it amazingly. Even standing out from the rest of the RTC at times both in the squared circle and on the microphone.

Stacey Keibler

She did try to develop some in ring ability, we all remember her foot chokes on her opponents showing us all her super long legs. It was her performances as a manager that earns her a spot though, if not just for her popularity (it is a business after all, and she drew on looks alone). She was a new age Miss Elizabeth, and as long as she was put with someone who was talented, she didn't over-shadow them, and helped their careers. Plus, there were rumors Stephanie McMahon was trying to get her inducted this year as a "big" name induction.

Luna Vachon

If there was one "Diva" who truly broke stereotypes on women's wrestling it was Luna. Coming from one of wrestling's family dynasties, she had the ability in the ring, cut it was her over the top character that helped her stand out amongst the more traditional "Divas". Not only a great wrestler, she also made for a perfect manager/valet for anyone who has a "weird" gimmick and need help getting over. Never did get a title reign, so perhaps an induction into the Hall will suffice.

Victoria/Tara

She came in as one of The Godfather's "Ho's", but then, like her friend Trish Stratus, this former fitness model became one the best female wrestlers of our generation. Who can forget her "Street Fight" match with Trish back in 2003? They proved the girls can do what they guys can on that night. She's been in TNA Wrestling the last few years, but like many others, isn't at the present moment. Would be nice to see her recognized in the form of a WWE Hall Of Fame induction. Two title reigns as WWE Women's Champion in the WWE, her reigns in the competing (now floundering) TNA are also worth mentioning, although won't help any in her getting the nod.

Jacqueline

She may have been tiny, but if there was a female wrestler that you thought could kick your butt, and most likely could, it was Jacqueline. She held her own on the mic, in the ring and in a bikini (90's and 00's was loaded with that), and even held her own against the men, winning the WWE Cruiserweight Champion in 2004 to go along with her two reigns as WWE Women's Champion.

Chyna

This one mat fall entirely on her. On both a personal and on a business level. Obviously she would have to completely sweep her feelings on Stephanie & Triple H and what had happened in the past. Old, long story short; Chyna & Triple H were a real life item that ended when he hooked up with Stephanie in real life. But, even more important than that is she would have to remain clean and sober like a list of other wrestlers have seemingly, and rightly so, have had to do (ie Jake Roberts most recently). And perhaps, just maybe stay out of the porn industry as well. We'll have to see if the former WWE Intercontinental Champion and former WWE Women's Champion ever gets into the Hall.


There could be others as well, women like Torrie Wilson, Molly Holly, among others. Regardless, the list is a lot shorter then the men's. I would possibly induct a female every other year as to not run the list dry. Stacy Keibler and Torrie Wilson are pushing it, as they weren't the best of wrestlers when they attempted, but still drew in money for WCW and WWE. Unfortunately, the list isn't going to get much longer as the now "Divas" division is openly mocked at times. Luckily, there are still some names that could one day be Hall Of Famers (AJ Lee, Natalya Neidhart, etc). Hopefully by then we can include TNA female wrestlers in the list, as they had for the longest time, a much superior women's division. Until then...


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