Rhea Ripley might play an intimidating badass on screen, but even she was forced to break character to pay tribute to a WWE Hall of Famer.
On January 19th D-Von Dudley announced that he was leaving WWE. The star first rose to fame in ECW where he began teaming with Bubba Ray Dudley in the 1990s. From here the pair enjoyed multiple spells with WWE and runs with the likes of IMPACT Wrestling and more.
After winding down his in-ring career, D-Von began working as a producer before moving to NXT as a coach in June 2022.
In a post on social media announcing his exit the WWE Hall of Famer paid tribute to Vince McMahon, Triple H, and Stephanie McMahon.
“I would like to say thank you to everyone out there Who has supported me over the years and been in my corner. It was a great 32 year career with 20 of those years I’ve been with Bubba entertaining you, and I’m sure somewhere down The road we will do it again.
The company (wwe)and I have decided to parted ways, and feel this is the best Decision for all parties it’s been a pleasure and an honor to work with the young talent when bubba as well as everyone over in NXT. As well as working with some of the best producers in the world.
would mike to thank Vince , Paul(HHH), Stephanie, and my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for the Opportunity that was given. I’m very excited to see where God brings me next, Oh my brother……. TESTIFY!!!”
Rhea Ripley, Zelina Vega And More Thank D-Von Dudley
Following the announcement, tributes began pouring in from the likes of Rhea Ripley, Zelina Vega, Indi Hartwell, and a whole host of NXT Superstars.
♥️ ♥️♥️
— RheaRipley_WWE (@RheaRipley_WWE) January 21, 2023
We love you D!!
— 👑 QUEEN ZELINA 👑 (@ZelinaVegaWWE) January 20, 2023
Thank you for everything! 🙌🏻
— Joe Gacy (@JoeGacy) January 20, 2023
D-Von Dudley ended his career as a 23-time World Tag Team Champion, while he was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame alongside Bubba Ray in 2018.