The first African American to manage a sports arena (Turner’s Arena in Washington D.C.), James Dudley served as an on screen manager of Bobo Brazil.  He was also a long time executive and close associate of Vince McMahon Sr.   Many have called this induction as one of the more bizarre entries to the Hall, as it has often been criticized that he is only in due to his relationship with the McMahons and not necessarily for his overall contributions to wrestling.  We have to admit, this isn’t our favorite induction either.

As one of the great Super Heavyweights of all time, Gorilla Monsoon used his size and skill to be an upper card attraction for years.  A loyal ally of Vince McMahon Sr., Monsoon would continue that role with the junior McMahon when he bought the company.  Monsoon was given a lifetime job with the company and was the lead announcer throughout the 80’s.  Few were respected in and out of the ring more than Gorilla Monsoon.

Best known to current fans as the sequined clad manager who threatened to whack “pencil neck geeks” with his cane, Freddie Blassie was actually one of the most vicious competitors in his day.  He was especially notorious in the Los Angeles territory and had many of his best matches there.  Blassie would later become one of the top managers for the WWE and was in the corner of some of the greatest heels who ever passed through there.

The most famous Native American wrestler in WWE history was actually an Italian American named Joe Scarpa.  He was immensely popular and it could be argued that through the 70’s and early 80’s that Chief Jay Strongbow was the most over face in the company next to whoever was the champion.  He may not have been the best wrestler, but his long term popularity in the Northeast earned him his Hall of Fame slot.