The question of whether Sable, a defining figure of the WWE’s “Attitude Era,” deserves a place in the company’s Hall of Fame is gaining renewed attention, fueled by recent comments from wrestling legend Jim Ross. Ross, an award-winning commentator who has called countless iconic moments in professional wrestling, including five Olympic Games and three World Cups, believes her omission is a significant oversight and that time is running short to rectify it. The debate highlights the complex considerations that go into selecting inductees, balancing in-ring achievements with cultural impact and, sometimes, personal histories.
Speaking on his podcast, “Grilling JR,” Ross addressed the topic following remarks made by Marc Mero, Sable’s former husband and a fellow wrestler, during an interview with Chris Van Vliet. Ross echoed Mero’s sentiment, acknowledging that the ultimate decision rests with WWE leadership. He specifically pointed to a dynamic involving both current leadership under Triple H and the legacy influence of Vince McMahon, the former chairman and CEO who oversaw much of Sable’s career. Ross similarly suggested that Brock Lesnar, Sable’s husband, may have a voice in the matter. You can listen to the full episode of Grilling JR here.
A Star Forged in the Attitude Era
Sable, born Rena Greek, burst onto the wrestling scene in 1996, quickly becoming one of the WWE’s most recognizable and controversial figures. She wasn’t a traditionally trained wrestler, but her striking looks and captivating presence immediately drew attention. Her character, initially presented as a mysterious woman accompanying Mero, soon evolved into a dominant force in her own right. She captured the WWE Women’s Championship in 1998, solidifying her status as a top star during a period of unprecedented growth for the company. The late 1990s saw the WWE, then known as the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), engage in a fierce “Monday Night Wars” ratings battle with WCW, and Sable’s popularity was undeniably a factor in the WWF’s eventual victory.
Beyond the ring, Sable transcended the typical boundaries of professional wrestling. She graced the cover of Playboy magazine multiple times, a move that generated significant mainstream media attention and further boosted her profile. These appearances, while controversial to some, undeniably contributed to the WWE’s broader cultural impact and increased revenue. According to reports at the time, the Playboy covers were a major success for both the magazine and the WWE, drawing in new audiences and generating substantial publicity.
Legal Battles and a Return to the Ring
Sable’s relationship with the WWE wasn’t without its turbulence. In 1999, she filed a lawsuit against the company, alleging breach of contract and sexual harassment. The details of the lawsuit were widely reported, creating a public scandal that damaged the WWE’s image. The case was eventually settled out of court, and Sable left the company.
However, her story with the WWE didn’t conclude there. She unexpectedly returned to the company in 2003, resuming her wrestling career and appearing alongside Brock Lesnar, whom she had married in 2002. Her second run was shorter than her first, concluding in 2004. Since then, Sable has largely withdrawn from the public eye, focusing on her family life with Lesnar, a dominant force in both WWE, and UFC.
The Hall of Fame Debate and What’s at Stake
Jim Ross’s recent comments have reignited the debate about Sable’s Hall of Fame eligibility. “She certainly deserved it, and she caused a stir,” Ross stated on “Grilling JR.” “She made the company a lot of money, she became a star, a big star. For me, she’s not in the Hall of Fame and that’s wrong. She should be, and hopefully that’ll come to pass sooner than later.”
The WWE Hall of Fame, established in 1993, recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the world of professional wrestling. Inductees are selected by a committee, and the process often involves considering factors such as in-ring accomplishments, popularity, longevity, and overall impact on the industry. The WWE has faced criticism in the past for perceived omissions and biases in its Hall of Fame selections.
Ross’s concern about “time running out” likely stems from the fact that the WWE typically announces its Hall of Fame class in the weeks leading up to WrestleMania, the company’s annual flagship event. WrestleMania 40 is scheduled for April 6th and 7th, 2024, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. While an induction isn’t guaranteed, the window for consideration for the 2024 class is rapidly closing.
The decision regarding Sable’s inclusion is now largely in the hands of Paul “Triple H” Levesque, WWE’s current Chief Content Officer, who took over from Vince McMahon in 2022 following McMahon’s retirement amid investigations into alleged misconduct. However, Ross’s comments suggest that McMahon’s past influence and Lesnar’s potential input could still play a role.
Whether Sable will ultimately be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame remains to be seen. However, the ongoing discussion, amplified by the voice of a respected industry veteran like Jim Ross, underscores her lasting impact on professional wrestling and the enduring debate surrounding her legacy. The next opportunity for an announcement will likely come in the weeks leading up to WrestleMania 40.
What are your thoughts on Sable’s potential Hall of Fame induction? Share your opinions in the comments below.
