Kurt Angle spoke with Justin Barrasso of SI.com about being inducted into the 2017 WWE Hall of Fame. Here are the highlights.
On wanting Steve Austin to induct him:
“That’s a no-brainer,” said Angle. “I had just started with WWE and had a program with Austin right after I beat Rock for the world title. I had a quick skit with Stephanie and Triple H, and then it was right on to Austin. We had some memorable feuds and some very funny segments, so he is at the top of my list. Steve was one of the most giving individuals,” said Angle. “He took me in and allowed me to shine even when it was still his time. I don’t ever compare myself to Stone Cold. He is the guy who elevated wrestling to a level that nobody ever went before, but he enabled me to show my talents when he very well could have said no. He was a very giving individual, and he is one of the guys who had the biggest impact on my career.”
On if he has spoken with Vince McMahon:
“I have yet to speak to Vince, but I did talk with Triple H,” said Angle. “It was a great conversation. This is all about the Hall of Fame, nothing else, and I’m OK with that. WWE wanted to show their appreciation for my career there. Even though I feel it was short-lived at six-and-a-half years, I made enough of an impact that they felt I was worthy of the Hall of Fame.”
On possible in-ring return:
“They didn’t want to talk about anything about the Hall of Fame, and I understood,” said Angle. “This is the priority, and I’m going to enjoy this and see where it goes from here.”
