6-time WWE World Champion says his career's not Hall of Fame worthy; explains how Triple H helped him change his mind about it
WWE Superstars have often dreamt of entering the company's Hall of Fame, but one star in particular felt his career was not worthy of it. The star in question is Dave Bautista and The Animal explained how Triple H helped him change his mind about it.
The Animal spent five years at the top of the card under Vince McMahon's leadership. Dave Bautista was once the longest reigning World Heavyweight Champion when he moved to SmackDown with the title. However, he eventually left professional wrestling and started his journey in Hollywood.
In an interview with Chris Van Vliet, the former four-time World Heavyweight, and two-time WWE Champion stated he once doubted entering the Hall of Fame as he felt his career was not worthy of it. However, The King of Kings assured him that all his accomplishments were worth getting the induction.
"You know, I've had this conversation with Hunter [Triple H] about going into the Hall of Fame. And, there's always a part of me that makes me feel my career's not worthy of going into the Hall of Fame. He said this to me and it makes sense. He said you've accomplished a lot in a short period of time you were there. I think it's worthy. But, if you don't feel like it's worthy, look at it this way. What you've accomplished outside of the company makes you a Hall of Fame WWE wrestler. I tend to agree with that," Batista said.
He added:
"I think I've accomplished a lot and I've never turned my back on my roots [WWE]. I've always been very proud of it. I've been very open about being a WWE Superstar, and I think I'm a good ambassador for the company." (From 29:50 to 30:40)
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Batista doesn't want to return to WWE for another run
Many wrestlers have often stepped out of retirement for a run or two or a specific match with an old rival. However, Batista has no intentions of getting physical inside the ring for another run.
While promoting The Killer's Game, The Animal stated he was very happy and proud of how he ended his career with Triple H. The six-time world champion has no interest in tarnishing his legacy by returning to the ring.
The Hollywood star hasn't wrestled a single match since 2019, when he lost to Triple H at WrestleMania 35.
If you use any quotes from the article, please credit Chris Van Vliet's INSIGHT podcast and provide an H/T to Sportskeeda Wrestling for the transcription.