The British Bulldog Davey Boy Smith is in the WWE Hall of Fame, but not the one in his hometown.
The former Intercontinental, European and Tag Team Champion was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2021. It was a long overdue but well deserved induction. Unfortunately, his family were unable to attend the ceremony due to the Covid 19 pandemic, but they are hoping to attend another ceremony in his honour, however, Smith’s hometown doesn’t seem to be willing to do so.
Smith was born and raised in Golborne, a borough of Wigan, where he learned to wrestle before settling in Calgary, Alberta, Canada and marrying into the Hart Family. His wrestling journey saw him perform for Stampede Wrestling, All Japan Pro Wrestling, WCW and WWE. But after such an accomplished career, his hometown of Wigan has refused to put Smith into its Walk of Fame.
The Lancashire town celebrates its hometown heroes in its Believe Stars list, such as actor Sir Ian McKellan, Lioness and European Championship Winner Ella Toone and Wigan FC owner Dave Whelan. However, Smith is eligible to be honoured due to Wigan Council’s procedure.
Why Isn’t WWE Hall Of Famer The British Bulldog Davey Boy Smith In His Hometown’s Version?
A Wigan council spokesman explained why Davey Boy Smith isn’t honoured on the town’s walk of fame:
“Our walk of fame celebrates the contributions of living residents of Wigan Borough. While Davey Boy Smith does not meet the criteria to be considered for a star, there are alternative ways to commemorate his memory, which we are happy to discuss with the family.”
Speaking to the Daily Star, Smith’s daughter, Georgia, criticised the council’s decision, saying:
“When you think of famous people from Wigan, my dad is number one in my eyes for what he did on a global stage. I think it’s only right he is recognised in his hometown. He’s been recognised by the WWE in their hall of fame, but his family in the UK couldn’t be there because it was during Covid,”
“It’s ridiculous in my opinion. Hollywood has a walk of fame and they give out posthumous stars, so I don’t understand why Wigan can’t.”