3 Stars other than Rey Mysterio to headline WWE Hall of Fame 2023

Rey Mysterio is undoubtedly one of the most legendary superstars in the history of pro wrestling. His accolades complement his in-ring prowess. The former WCW star has transcended boundaries, cultures, in-ring styles, and companies to become one of the best ever.

On the latest episode of SmackDown, WWE announced the Lucha Libre legend’s induction into the 2023 Hall of Fame. Since he is still an active in-ring performer, the accolade being bestowed upon him came as a surprise to many.

Due to the enticing feud that Mysterio is currently having with his son, Dominik, the Hall of Fame induction could have perhaps been kept away for a time when he officially retires.

Several other stars could have been brought back to be given the lifetime achievement award instead of the Lucha Libre legend. This is not to say that Mysterio isn’t an all-time great, but perhaps the timing isn’t right.

In this list, let’s check out three superstars who could have headlined the Hall of Fame this year instead of Rey Mysterio.

#3. Batista – Rey Mysterio’s old ally could have been the headliner this year

“The Animal” Batista was slated to be in the Hall of Fame in 2020, but plans were scrapped unceremoniously thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic. Since then, the former world champion has been touted to be in the Hall of Fame for the last two years, but that did not come to fruition.

The 2020 ceremony took place in 2021, with Kane headlining the event, and the 2022 event saw the induction of the legendary Undertaker.

Many fans hoped that the former partner of Rey Mysterio would go into the Hall of Fame sooner rather than later, but that has, inexplicably, not been the case. Given that Batitsta is unlikely to ever step foot in the ring again, it would have been a great send-off for the Guardians of the Galaxy star while he is still a favorite among fans.

After his not-so-popular return in 2014, when he was subjected to “Bluetista” chants, it would have been a heartfelt moment for him to reconnect with the fans.

#2. The Rock could have headlined the Hall of Fame in Hollywood

There is no greater wrestler-turned-actor than “The Great One”. Dwayne Johnson has been one of the most popular stars in the history of the company and remains, to this day, one of the greatest ever.

“The Brahma Bull” was widely reported to be the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns’ opponent at WrestleMania 39. However, fans were left disheartened when reports emerged that Johnson does not deem himself to be fit enough to take on “The Tribal Chief”.

Despite The Rock not performing at the show, a Hall of Fame induction would have been a great way to get him onto the WrestleMania programming, especially given that it is in Hollywood this year. He could have also shot an angle at the ceremony, perhaps leading to a future match against Reigns.

It is unlikely that Johnson will ever return the ring in a full-time capacity, and a Hall of Fame induction in Hollywood would have a fitting way to send off a true icon.

#1. Triple H should have been in the Hall of Fame this year

With “The Game” now serving as The Chief Content Officer and essentially the creative head of the company, his going into the hallowed hall would have been a crowning moment. However, there is perhaps no one more deserving right now to go into the HOF than Triple H.

The 14-time world champion retired from in-ring action after a cardiological incident in 2021. While he is already in the Hall of Fame as part of the D-Generation X, nothing would have been more special than an individual induction this year. “The Game” has been one of the biggest servants of wrestling throughout his illustrious career, and giving him his due would have been ideal.

A ceremony where he gets inducted by Shawn Michaels and Stephanie McMahon could have served as a sensational cap off to an illustrious career.

It is not to say that he won’t get into the Hall of Fame, but there could never have been a more ideal time than the 2023 ceremony, given how close it is to his retirement.

Nevertheless, Rey Mysterio being inducted into the Hall of Fame is also a cause for celebration. He is one of the pioneers of modern wrestling, and, to quote Michael Cole, “the biggest small man in wrestling”’ deserves every bit of the limelight.