Corey Graves reacts to exciting WWE Hall of Fame induction news (Exclusive)

The 2024 WWE Hall of Fame ceremony is scheduled to occur on April 5 at Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. In a recent interview, WWE commentator Corey Graves shared his thoughts on the announcement that Paul Heyman will be inducted into this year’s class.

Heyman, who is known for his creativity, is highly regarded in the wrestling industry. In the 1990s, the 58-year-old managed the successful Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW) promotion. Additionally, he has been a part of WWE’s creative team and has appeared on television with some of the top stars such as Brock Lesnar, CM Punk, and Roman Reigns.

“Paul is in a class unto his own, as you know. You’ve been around Paul. He is an absolute genius. He is a mad scientist in every sense of the word, and Paul’s fingerprints and footprints are throughout this business.”[0:44 – 1:00]

Graves proceeded to draw parallels between Heyman and legendary wrestler Dusty Rhodes. He also made note of the fact that Roman Reigns’ on-screen advisor will soon be honored with an induction into the Hall of Fame in the city that was once home to ECW.

“I would put him, as far as influence, up there with the greats, with a Dusty Rhodes, any of these great wrestling minds, and I think it’s really, really special to be in Philadelphia, the city that has meant so much to Paul, despite being a New Yorker!”Graves said. “Philadelphia is where ECW made their home and really changed the industry.”[1:01 – 1:20]

Listen to Graves’ response to Ronda Rousey’s recent negative comments about Vince McMahon and WWE by watching the video above.

Corey Graves Praises Paul Heyman as a Legendary Figure in WWE

Despite being a successful wrestler, Corey Graves was forced to retire from in-ring competition in 2014 due to ongoing concussion issues. However, he has transitioned into a career as a commentator and has been working in this role for the past decade. Most recently, he has taken on the role of SmackDown’s lead play-by-play announcer.

Despite being a WWE commentator in the early 2000s, Paul Heyman is still deserving of every accolade that Graves believes he has received.

“I think it’s really, really cool and appropriate that, for all of his contributions, Paul will get his moment in the sun on his own because he is so proud to be a roleplayer and to continue to add to this business in any way possible, and I truly think Paul is invaluable. He is one of the greatest minds this industry has ever known, and I’m grateful to have been able to be around him and learn from him.”[1:33 – 1:58]

Despite having different perspectives on the wrestling industry, Graves holds a deep admiration for Heyman’s viewpoints, as the former ECW owner.

“There are times we disagree and we see things differently. That doesn’t mean one’s right or one’s wrong, but he’s been a very positive influence throughout my career. I’ve learned so much from Paul, and he’s taking a spot that he deserves in the Hall of Fame.”[1:58 – 2:13]

Graves confirmed rumors during the interview that Triple H had made significant changes behind the scenes after taking over for Vince McMahon as the creative head of WWE.

Are there any memorable moments involving Paul Heyman that stand out to you? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section.