Bully Ray Despises WWE Not Inducting Deserving Wrestlers Into the Hall of Fame While They’re Still Alive

During a recent edition of Busted Open Radio, WWE Hall of Famer Bully Ray discussed the recent passing of former wrestler and founding Midnight Express member Dennis Condrey. Bully Ray criticized the Condrey and the Midnight Express not yet being in the WWE Hall of Fame, and certain talents not being recognized while they are still alive.

Ray called WWE to task for opting to induct wrestlers after they’ve passed away, saying there’s no longer a point when that happens. Bully Ray commented (via WrestlingInc.com), “I despise when guys and gals have earned the right to be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame, and then they’re not when they’re living, but then the WWE decides to induct them when they’re dead. What’s the f****** point?”

He also criticized the Midnight Express not being in the Hall of Fame. He continued, “The Midnight Express, and let’s talk about the most famous version of the Midnight Express, which is Condrey and [Bobby] Eaton, along with Jim Cornette. There is no doubt that they should be in the WWE Hall of Fame, and should have been in the WWE Hall of Fame a long time ago just for their contributions to tag team wrestling.” Eaton, another member of the Midnight Express, passed away in 2021 at 62 years old.

One notable example of Bully Ray’s comments is WWE Hall of Famer Big Van Vader, who passed away in June 2018 at 63 years old. Vader was eventually posthumously inducted into the Hall of Fame as part of the class of 2022. Years earlier, WWE Hall of Famer Mick Foley, one of Vader’s most notable in-ring rivals, had campaigned for Vader to receive a WWE Hall of Fame induction, as Vader had health issues and was ailing.

Foley obviously wanted Vader to see Vader receive an induction while he was still alive. Vader eventually did receive his induction, but it took place several years after his passing.

This year’s Hall of Fame class includes AJ Styles, Stephanie McMahon, Demolition, Dennis Rodman, and the late former world heavyweight champion Sid Eudy (aka Sid Vicious and Sycho Sid). Sid passed away in 2024 and will be receiving this year’s Legacy Award.