Legendary referee Earl Hebner has stepped out of the neutral zone and into the spotlight, calling out WWE for its continued failure to honor professional wrestling’s striped-shirt officials in its Hall of Fame. The man who oversaw countless iconic WWE moments isn’t mincing words about what he sees as a glaring oversight in the industry’s premier recognition system.
TNA Recognition Highlights WWE’s Referee Blind Spot
During a revealing conversation on the Muscle Memory podcast, Hebner was asked about his induction into the TNA Hall of Fame. Rather than simply basking in his own accomplishment, the veteran official used the moment to contrast TNA’s approach with WWE’s apparent indifference toward the third person in the ring.
“It was great. You know, it’s good that one company realizes who referees are. And not only the TNA Hall of Fame—we belong in the WWE Hall of Fame.
The pointed comment speaks volumes about how Hebner perceives the different companies’ treatment of officials. While TNA honored his decades of contribution to the business, WWE—where Hebner officiated countless championship matches and historic moments—has yet to recognize any referee specifically for their in-ring work.
The Unsung Heroes Deserving Recognition
Hebner didn’t stop at personal grievances. He proceeded to list several colleagues whose careers exemplify excellence behind the stripes, making a compelling case for their inclusion in wrestling’s most prestigious hall.
“I could give names like Mike Chioda, Nick Patrick, Teddy Long, Joey Marella… and, you know, the guys that—old school, not young school, sir. Guys that worked their ass off and know what’s going on in there. We deserve it. Yes.”
His mention of Teddy Long is particularly interesting, as Long has been inducted into WWE’s Hall of Fame—but for his role as a manager and SmackDown General Manager, not for his foundational work as a referee. Meanwhile, officials like Chioda, who spent over 30 years with WWE, remain unrecognized despite their crucial contributions to countless classic matches.
The Referee’s Role in Wrestling’s Biggest Moments
Hebner’s comments highlight an often-overlooked reality of professional wrestling: referees are integral to the industry’s most memorable moments. From Hebner’s own involvement in the controversial “Montreal Screwjob” to Chioda’s presence in multiple WrestleMania main events, these officials have been essential supporting players in wrestling’s greatest stories.
TNA (now IMPACT Wrestling) recognized this reality by inducting Hebner in 2015, acknowledging his significant contributions to both their company and the wrestling business at large. WWE’s Hall of Fame, meanwhile, continues to overlook the men and women who enforce the rules and often enhance the drama inside the squared circle.
A Call for Change
Hebner’s critique comes across not as bitter reminiscence but as a principled stand for his profession. By contrasting TNA’s inclusivity with WWE’s apparent blind spot, he’s challenging the industry leader to broaden its definition of Hall of Fame-worthy contributions.
As WWE continues to expand its Hall of Fame with celebrities, managers, commentators, and various non-wrestling personalities, the absence of dedicated referees becomes increasingly conspicuous. Hebner’s outspoken advocacy raises an important question for wrestling fans and WWE decision-makers alike: If the Hall of Fame truly honors those who shaped professional wrestling, how much longer can it justify excluding the very officials who helped make those historic matches possible?
