Wrestling Life Hall of Fame Announces Earl Hebner as 2026 Inductee

Wrestling Life Online is proud to announce that legendary professional wrestling referee Earl Hebner will be inducted into the Wrestling Life Hall of Fame as part of the class of 2026, recognising a career that forever changed how referees are perceived within the industry.

Richmond, Virginia native Earl Hebner began his journey in professional wrestling in 1977. By the early 1980s, Hebner had established himself as a trusted official across National Wrestling Alliance territories including Jim Crockett Promotions, where his credibility, professionalism and commanding presence quickly set him apart from his peers.

Hebner rose to international prominence after joining the World Wrestling Federation in 1988, where he would become the company’s senior referee for nearly two decades. During his time in the WWF / WWE, Hebner officiated countless championship matches, WrestleMania main events and historic encounters featuring squared circle icons such as Hulk Hogan, Ric Flair, Bret ‘Hitman’ Hart, Shawn Michaels, The Undertaker, Steve Austin and The Rock. His consistent officiating style added extra legitimacy to the most dramatic moments in sports entertainment.

Perhaps no referee in professional wrestling history has been more closely associated with wrestling’s most infamous and talked-about moments. Hebner played a pivotal role in the controversial Saturday Night’s Main Event finish in 1988 which resulted in Andre the Giant being declared WWF Champion in a decision that stunned fans and reshaped the Federation's title picture. Nearly a decade later, Hebner was at the heart of the 1997 Survivor Series main event in Montreal, calling for the bell in the infamous Screwjob: a moment that irrevocably altered the wrestling business and cemented Hebner’s place in wrestling history. Throughout the Attitude Era, Hebner’s involvement in high-stakes matches, authority-driven storylines and controversial decisions made him one of the most recognisable referees of all time.

After departing WWE in 2005, Hebner continued his career with TNA Wrestling, where he served as senior referee for over a decade. His presence helped lend credibility to TNA during its formative and peak years as Earl officiated countless marquee matches and helped mentor a new generation of officials. In recognition of his contributions, Hebner was inducted into the TNA Hall of Fame in 2015. He later brought his experience to All Elite Wrestling in 2019, once again demonstrating his enduring value and respect across promotions and eras.

Ben Veal, founder of Wrestling Life Online and host of the Wrestling Life podcast, spoke about Hebner’s lasting impact on the industry and the decision to induct him into the WL Hall of Fame:

“Earl Hebner redefined what it meant to be a referee in professional wrestling: he was a vital part of the story, the drama and the history of this great business. From the NWA to WWE, TNA to AEW, Earl Hebner’s fingerprints are on some of the most important moments wrestling has ever produced. His consistency, credibility and longevity make him one of the most influential officials of all time, and his induction into the Wrestling Life Hall of Fame is richly deserved.”

The Wrestling Life Hall of Fame honours individuals whose careers have left an indelible mark on professional wrestling, both inside and outside the ring. Launched in 2025, the Hall of Fame’s mission is to recognise the legends and often overlooked heroes whose passion and perseverance helped build the foundation of modern wrestling and whose influence continues to shape the sport today.

The Class of 2025 featured six inductees who exemplified Wrestling Life’s mission to honour enduring pro wrestling impact and influence. That inaugural class included The British Bulldog Davey Boy Smith, whose iconic Intercontinental Championship victory at Wembley Stadium in 1992 remains a defining moment in UK and global wrestling; Marc Mero, celebrated for his charismatic presence and contributions both inside and outside the ring; Candice Michelle, whose tenacity as a WWE diva helped paved the way for the women’s evolution; veteran referee Mike Chioda, recognised for his three-plus decades of influence as the third man in the ring for countless historic matches; The Dynamite Kid Tom Billington, whose explosive high-impact style helped redefine modern in-ring performance; and Marcus ‘Buff’ Bagwell, whose electrifying persona and athleticism made him one of WCW’s most unforgettable stars. 

Continuing that tradition, the Class of 2026 already includes legendary figures whose careers span generations and styles, celebrating innovation, legacy and leadership. Among the already announced inductees are tag team icons Bill ‘Demolition Ax’ Eadie and Barry ‘Demolition Smash’ Darsow, whose dominance set the standard for tag team wrestling; technical master Doug Williams, whose influence resonates in the UK and internationally; Al Snow, whose multifaceted contributions as performer, trainer and mentor have shaped countless careers; and trailblazing women’s star Angelina Love, a transformative figure in modern women’s wrestling.

Special Hall of Fame induction episodes will air on the Wrestling Life Online YouTube channel and the Wrestling Life with Ben Veal podcast during 2026.