The WWE Hall of Fame ceremony has given numerous memorable moments over the years. Fans have enjoyed how legends and veterans gather annually to talk about their legacy. Hall of Famers also give a speech after their prized induction which sends the WWE Universe into heavy nostalgia. One such speech came in 2019 when WWE veteran Torrie Wilson was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame.
During her time with WWE, Torrie Wilson experienced many noteworthy moments. Wilson started her professional wrestling career in 1999 with World Championship Wrestling (WCW). In 2001, she signed with the Stamford-based promotion, making her debut during the “Invasion” storyline, which pitted WWE against the alliance between WCW and ECW.
During WrestleMania 35 weekend in April 2019, Wilson was inducted into the Hall of Fame, marking the first time the highly anticipated yearly event featured a women’s bout in the main event. During her Hall of Fame speech, Wilson conveyed a great deal of emotion and gratitude. She talked about her experience, taking stock of her professional achievements and setbacks.
However, one of the most weird moments during her speech came when she uncertainly thanked the fans. During the closing moments of her speech, Torrie thanked the WWE Universe for their support and for letting her be a part of their puberty. “I just wanna thank you for letting me be a small part of your life. And for many of you guys, a part of your puberty like I’ve heard that a lot,” said Wilson.
The crowd erupted after these words followed by huge “Thank you Torrie!” chants. WWE Superstars Xavier Woods and Big E were also applauding the veteran for saying these lines. However, the speech got mixed reactions from the fans stating it to be cringy.
Torrie Wilson’s Hall of Fame speech has received mixed reactions from the WWE Universe
Years after her iconic speech, fans still debate over her statements and have their opinions regarding her farewell promo. “That quote alone was HOF worthy LOL,” wrote a fan while another one stated, “Imagine if a guy said that”. Fans also referenced Big E and Xavier Woods giving Torrie a standing ovation right after she thanked everyone for letting be her a part of their puberty.
“Big e and Xavier woods make it better” stated one user while another one quoted “Big E and Xavier are real ones”. While fans laughed at the statements made by Torrie, some of them also got uncomfortable seeing a Hall of Famer pass such a remark on their induction speech.
Wilson became a prominent figure on SmackDown once WWE’s triumph was certified and the first-ever brand split saw RAW and SmackDown splinter into different rosters. She later posed for Playboy twice, the second time with former WWE Women’s Champion Sable. Following a fierce rivalry, the two eventually formed a team and had a “Playboy Evening Gown” match at WrestleMania 20.
Torrie Wilson responded to the criticism she got for her Hall of Fame induction
Fans have pointed to Torrie’s lack of skill in the ring as a possible reason why she shouldn’t have been in the Hall of Fame, but she clarified that it wasn’t her choice to have an underwhelming career. During the Busted Open Radio podcast, Torrie stated “I mean, I think some of the people that are angry are the same people that are forgetting that this is an entertainment show, and I was not calling the shots backstage…”.
She further stated how fans target the negative points faster than talking about the positives of any superstar. “I think for most people, we are just too quick to start looking at the negatives and losing focus on what we can bring to the table.”
With just three basic guidelines, Wilson transformed the WWE Universe from an awkward fourth-grade relationship to the unexpected Superstar who drove herself to the Hall of Fame. Her speech served as a lesson in self-improvement.