Real Reason Revealed for Batista’s Delayed WWE Hall of Fame Induction

It’s the question fans keep asking—why hasn’t Batista been inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame? Despite retiring from the ring over six years ago and originally being announced for the 2020 class, The Animal still hasn’t received his moment. Now we finally have a clear answer.

During the November 23, 2025 edition of the Fightful Report, Sean Ross Sapp put the speculation to rest. No, it’s not about backstage heat or politics. According to Sapp, the only thing keeping Batista out of the Hall of Fame is timing.

“Scheduling is the reason I’m given every year—because I ask every year—and I’m told it’s scheduling every year.”

Batista’s growing film career, packed with high-profile roles and overseas shoots, has made it impossible to line up the dates for a proper induction during WrestleMania weekend. WWE has wanted to bring him in multiple times, but his availability has always been the issue.

The confirmation from clears up years of uncertainty. Batista remains on WWE’s Hall of Fame radar—they’re just waiting for the calendar to finally cooperate.

Should WWE wait until Batista’s schedule clears or induct him with a video message if needed? Share your thoughts in the comments and let us know how you’d handle The Animal’s overdue honor.

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