Booker T would feel honoured to induct a former rival into the WWE Hall of Fame if given the opportunity.
On top of being a 2-time Hall of Famer for his contributions both individually and in Harlem Heat, Booker T has also given the induction speech for his wife Sharmell in 2022. As the 2025 Hall of Fame class approaches, fans are speculating who will be honoured at this year’s ceremony over WrestleMania weekend and who will give the induction speeches.
At the time of writing, Triple H and Michelle McCool are the only confirmed entrants in the upcoming Hall of Fame class. While speaking on his podcast, Booker T spoke about “The Model” Rick Martel and how he would feel honoured to welcome his former rival into the Hall of Fame, but was aware someone else would likely have that spot:
“He truly is a Hall of Famer. I think Rick Martel, his resume speaks for itself. One of the best workers that I ever had a chance to get in the ring with and perform [with] in that square circle. That would be an honor for me to induct Rick Martel into the Hall of Fame, but I’m sure somebody else would have that spot. But as far as a guy who is worthy of being there, even when he was The Model back in WWE and then when he was with Strike Force with Tito Santana, I used to love those guys.”
A part of WWE from 1980 to 1982 and from 1986 to 1995, Rick Martel found success in the team division with 3 reigns as champion. Martel’s first reign came when he and Tony Garea defeated The Wild Samoans at a house show, reigning with the championships for 129 days. Losing the titles to The Moondogs, the duo would win the titles back the following year. Martel’s third reign was alongside Tito Santana in 1987. The team was collectively known as Strike Force.
Joining WCW in 1998, Martel feuded with Booker T over the World Television Championship. After defeating the Hall of Famer on Nitro, Martel suffered a torn ligament in a rematch against Booker T at SuperBrawl VIII, ending his title reign at just 6 days. Martel was supposed to win the match but an audible was called due to the injury. The injury effectively ended Martel’s in-ring career as he only competed in 2 more matches before retiring in 1999.
Booker T Discusses Recent WWE Signings
Now focused on announcing NXT, the Hall of Famer has seen many stars of the future put on impressive matches and they prepare for their call-up to Raw or SmackDown. However, when it came to one member of NXT, Booker T admitted that he was surprised they did not appear on the main roster.
H/t to Wrestling Inc.