Earl Hebner is calling for a long-overdue change in WWEgetting referees the recognition they deserve in the Hall of Fame.
For decades, Hebner was the man in the middle of some of WWEs most legendary matches. His presence alone signaled that a match was important, with stars like Shawn Michaels even refusing to wrestle unless he was officiating. Yet, despite all the managers, celebrities, and even outsiders who have been inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame, referees have been completely overlooked.
Speaking on the Refin It Up podcast, Hebner made it clear he thinks its time that changed. I hope someday that they do have [referees inducted]. There are a lot of guys, not just myself, but you guys [Brian Hebner, Jimmy Korderas, and Daniel Spencer] contribute so much of your life and your body and your knowledge in helping the matches to be what they are, he said. We have been, I guess you can say, traffic directors. We took that job to heart to do the best we could do.
Hebner isnt just advocating for himselfhe believes multiple referees should be honored for their contributions. Its not just me. You guys and a few more need to be in there, if they ever have it. If I ever got the honor and opportunity, I would do it. Some day, I hope that they do. I know TNA did it. I got into that Hall of Fame, which was a surprise to me, but it was great.
The legendary ref also pointed out that even people within the business underestimate the role referees play. Sometimes, I think that were overlooked, and even people in the business dont know how important we are, he admitted. Ive done a lot of things in this business, good and bad, but I did what I was told to do.
Hebners legacy in wrestling is undeniable, but will WWE finally recognize referees as more than just background players?
Do you think referees deserve a spot in the WWE Hall of Fame? If so, who should be the first to get inducted? Please share your thoughts and feedback in the comment section below.
