WWE.com has now confirmed the story that was leaked then removed from their site last Friday: Stone Cold Steve Austin will lead the Class of 2009 into the WWE Hall of Fame during WrestleMania weekend.
Here’s the official statement from WWE.com:
It’s time to raise a glass — of beer, naturally — to the most popular WWE Superstar in history, “Stone Cold” Steve Austin.
It’s official! The six-time WWE Champion will be inducted into the 2009 WWE Hall of Fame on April 4 in his home state of Texas at Houston’s Toyota Center, the night before WrestleMania XXV. “Stone Cold” is the first Superstar announced for this year’s Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony in what promises to be one “Hell Yeah” of an evening.
I think I’m a little conflicted over this one. Not sure why – maybe I feel that it’s too early. Then again you have the natural connection between a Texas WrestleMania and Stone Cold getting in.
Too many other Texas Wrestlers who could go before SCSA. He didnt start until the late 80’s or early 90’s…
Right. And didn’t achieve major success until the late 1990’s/early 2000’s. I think the only reason he’s getting in now is because with the 25th anniversary of WrestleMania, WWE wants everything associated with the show to be the biggest and best.
I’m really not sure anybody else can sell out the ceremony other than Austin. The plan is also for him to be featured in a “last match” at WrestleMania the night after. From what I understand, it was Austin who wished to be inducted in 2009.
Still too early for him to be in the Hall.