On a recent episode of his “Hall of Fame” podcast, WWE Hall of Famer Booker T enthusiastically endorsed the induction of Lex Luger into the WWE Hall of Fame. Booker T, a two-time Hall of Famer himself, left no doubt about his feelings:
“It’s a no-brainer for me. I’m glad. I’m really happy to see him actually get the nod because he did a hell of a lot for the business.”
Booker T addressed the sometimes-contentious nature of Hall of Fame inductions, suggesting that personal issues can sometimes influence decisions:
“You know, a lot of times people hold grudges in this business a lot. That may be the reason why a lot of guys get in and don’t get in, but I tell you what. As far as deserving, Lex Luger is definitely deserving.”
Luger, a major star in both WCW and WWE during the 1980s and 1990s, was a two-time WCW World Heavyweight Champion and a key figure in the “Monday Night Wars.” He famously appeared on the very first episode of WCW Monday Nitro, jumping ship from WWE (then WWF) where he had been wrestling the night before, without giving any notice. Despite this controversial history, and not winning a championship in WWE, Booker T focused on Luger’s overall contributions to the industry. He was “The Total Package.”
Crucially, Booker T highlighted Luger’s positive attitude despite significant personal hardships. Luger suffered a spinal stroke in 2007, which initially left him completely paralyzed, though he has since regained some mobility. He now uses a wheelchair. Booker emphasized Luger’s resilience:
“He’s been such a stand-up dude, even going through what he’s been going through. I give him so much freaking credit because he could be bitter. He could be mad at the world, and every time I’ve seen Lex Luger, he’s always had nothing but a smile on his face.”
Booker T recounted a recent personal encounter with Luger, reinforcing this point:
“I was with him just last year at a convention, and he was right next to me. He smiled all freaking day. Big ups to Lex Luger going into the Hall of Fame.”
If you use any portion of the quotes from this article please credit The Hall of Fame with Booker T & Brad Gilmore with a h/t to WrestlingNews.co for the transcription.
