The WWE Hall of Fame in 2018 celebrated the legacy of Bubba Ray Dudley and D-Von Dudley with an official induction. This ceremony took place at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, Louisiana, which is just a minute away from the venue of WrestleMania 34 at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Recently, on an episode of “Busted Open Radio,” Ray reflected on the 2018 WWE Hall of Fame event, sharing that although he appreciated The Dudleys’ induction, the location almost influenced his decision to decline.
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Ray explained, “I practically said no to New Orleans. I hesitated because I didn’t think it was the right fit for the Dudleys, especially when I heard rumors about the following year’s ceremony being in New Jersey. The northeast, including New York, New Jersey, and Philadelphia, holds significant meaning for us as it’s our home turf. Personally, I would have preferred being inducted there. However, New Orleans was fantastic. All my friends and family attended, and we created enduring memories. I chose not to decline because of D-Von.”
Ray’s main concern was making sure D-Von’s family, including his children and mother, could witness him receiving this prestigious accolade. He feared that turning down the induction might mean WWE would never extend the offer again. Consequently, he accepted New Orleans as the place for The Dudley Boyz’s entry into the WWE Hall of Fame.
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“It was important to me to see D-Von and his family there, witnessing his induction,” Ray emphasized.
If quoting from this article, kindly credit “Busted Open Radio” with a nod to Wrestling Inc. for the transcription.
