What About Bob?

Backlund's first title run

By Kevin Hunsperger 
@kevinhunsperger & @my123cents on Twitter

 I've talked about it before, but after watching Raw I've got to ask it again. Why is Bob Backlund STILL not in the WWE Hall of Fame? The man is the second longest reining champion in the company's history (right behind Bruno Sammartino) and he has seemed to have a healthy relationship with the WWE.

 After his initial run as champ, Backlund left the WWF for several years before returning in 1993. When he first came back he primarily was used to put over newer talent, I remember being shocked at how quickly Razor Ramon beat him at Wrestlemania IX. But by the end of 1994, he was had turned heel and was embroiled in a feud with WWF champion Bret Hart. In fact, he won the title and held it for all of two or three days before dropping it to Diesel. That move shocked me even more than the loss to Ramon.

 Backlund stuck around for a bit, but was already well into his 40's and pushing 50 at the time. He came back to the WWF in 1997 and was paired with his former nemsis the Iron Sheik as they managed The Sultan. Backlund made other appearances in the last 15 years, so I really can't understand why he's not in the Hall of Fame.

Heath Slater vs. Bob Backlund
Photo courtesy: WWE.com

 I know, I know, it's a gimmick. It's validity is in question, and by even posting this blog, I've fallen victim to "caring" about the HOF. I'll close on this, while to some the Hall of Fame is a joke, I do really enjoy it. I think if he's willing, Mr. Backlund needs to be a part of the Class of 2013, along with Randy Savage and Rick Rude. But I'll post more on that when it gets closer.