During his WWE Hall of Fame induction speech for his grandmother, Lia Maivia, The Rock’s mention of Vince McMahon stirred an awkward reaction, highlighting the delicate nature of McMahon’s status within the company.
Despite McMahon’s monumental role in shaping WWE over four decades and his dominance in the industry, he has become somewhat of a taboo subject due to allegations against him and his subsequent resignation under disgraceful circumstances.
WWE has largely refrained from invoking his name.
The Rock paid tribute to Lia Maivia, a prominent wrestling promoter in Hawaii, acknowledging the competition and major promoters of her era such as Verne Gagne, Fritz Von Erich, and Jim Crockett.
However, he also mentioned Vince McMahon, prompting a visible reaction during the ceremony.
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Even The Final Boss, known for his strict rule against his name being mentioned in the Hall of Fame, seemed to realize the mistake.
McMahon had previously expressed his desire for the focus to remain on others during the ceremony, which often meant minimal camera attention on him.
Nevertheless, it’s challenging to discuss the wrestling of the 1980s without acknowledging McMahon’s pivotal role, despite the discomfort it may cause.
Given the context, The Brahma Bull’s mention of McMahon may be forgiven, albeit amid some awkwardness.
In addition to the McMahon mention, The Rock intensified the atmosphere by delivering a heel promo directed at Cody Rhodes, emphasizing the personal nature of their impending clash rather than mere business.
