Ventura says Hall honors should be earned through the grind
Summary
– Jesse Ventura criticized Donald Trump’s place in the WWE Hall of Fame
– Ventura argued Hall recognition should be based on in-ring dedication
– He suggested Trump’s induction did not meet that standard
Jesse Ventura has publicly voiced strong opposition to Donald Trump’s inclusion in the WWE Hall of Fame, saying the honor should be reserved for those who earned it through the demands of the profession.
Ventura, who was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2004 after years of in-ring work and later commentary, contrasted his path with Trump’s, who was inducted in 2013. Trump never competed as a wrestler but was involved with WWE through high-profile WrestleMania appearances and hosting duties.
Speaking with American Independents, Ventura said the Hall of Fame should recognize the physical toll and commitment wrestlers endure over long stretches. He recalled wrestling dozens of consecutive nights without a day off, pointing to that level of sacrifice as the standard for induction.
Ventura claimed Trump’s induction stemmed from business involvement rather than wrestling merit. He argued that providing venues for major events should not be equated with the same recognition as years spent performing in the ring.
The former WWE star went as far as suggesting he has considered publicly distancing himself from the Hall of Fame over the issue. His comments reflect a broader debate about what qualifications should define Hall of Fame status.
Ventura’s remarks have renewed attention on long-standing criticism of celebrity inductions, especially as discussions about legacy and recognition continue in WWE history.
