Hall of Fame nominations and recognitions are typically popularity contests. Beloved figures are enshrined by their peers in either a physical or metaphorical “hall,” getting recognition for their contributions to their fields. Then there are some that are exceptionally deserved. News broke that Mickie James is going into the TNA Hall of Fame, and this is one of those awards that is well overdue and outstanding at the same time.
TNA announced the Hall of Fame induction via a press release on Monday, September 22.
“Mickie James, an 11-time women’s world champion between WWE and TNA Wrestling, will be inducted into the TNA Wrestling Hall of Fame on Sunday, October 12, at Bound For Glory – the showcase event of the year for TNA, held at the Tsongas Center in Lowell, Massachusetts.”
Mickie James is one of the most important professional wrestlers of all time. That’s not just because of what she achieved in the ring. Sure, she’s a multiple-time champion who has held titles in nearly every major promotion in the world. But she’s achieved and pushed for so much progress outside the ring that her career is already an inspiration for those who will come after her.
James is the fourth TNA Knockout to be added to the Hall of Fame. She joins other important names in Gail Kim, Awesome Kong, and Traci Brooks.
James in-ring success is a big part of her work, but it is hard to ignore what she’s done for women’s wrestling on the outside as well. She pushed for NWA to have a women’s only show, being one of the forces who built that entire card. Plus, she consistently uses her voice and platform to shine a light on women’s wrestling, not only speaking out for the good, but pointing out injustices along the way. She used her voice in such a way that pushed WWE to bring her in as a surprise for the WWE Women’s Royal Rumble with the TNA Knockouts Championship in tow, perhaps opening the door for the multi-year partnership between the two companies today.
Since its establishment in 2012, the TNA Wrestling Hall of Fame has honored 12 individuals and two groups, totaling 16 total inductees.
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