Dennis Rodman Almost Joined WWE Before WCW Deal, Now Heads to Hall of Fame
Dennis Rodman, the former NBA star known for his flamboyant personality and rebounding prowess, came incredibly close to appearing in WWE alongside Goldust at WrestleMania 13 in 1997. However, a last-minute intervention by Hulk Hogan and Eric Bischoff led him to WCW instead. Rodman is now set to be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2026.
WWE’s Vision for Rodman
WWE initially envisioned Rodman as a one-time attraction, hoping to capitalize on his polarizing public image. Jim Ross, a former WWE commentator and executive, explained that Rodman’s larger-than-life persona, including his appearances in a wedding dress, made him an ideal crossover star . The plan was to pair him with Goldust in a role similar to the one Roddy Piper filled at WrestleMania 12, bringing mainstream attention to the event .
“We thought for a one-off, one-time-only appearance by Dennis, it would be a hit, as he was kind of polarizing,” Ross said . “We were disappointed, no doubt, because it seemed like it was going to be a layup.”
The WCW Intervention
The potential WWE appearance fell apart when Rodman contacted Hulk Hogan directly. This connection opened the door for WCW executive Eric Bischoff to step in and negotiate a deal . Bischoff quickly finalized the agreement, securing Rodman’s services for WCW.
“It was frustrating for everybody,” Ross admitted, whereas acknowledging Bischoff’s shrewdness . “He was smart enough and aggressive enough and bold enough to make it happen.”
Rodman’s Impact in WCW and WWE Recognition
Rodman went on to appear at WCW’s Uncensored pay-per-view and participated in a high-profile tag team match later that summer, generating significant attention and revenue for the company . While WWE initially lost out on the opportunity, Ross emphasized that their plan was always for a one-time appearance, whereas WCW extended the relationship.
“Was it a deal breaker? No. It was, to me, it was always going to be a one time deal,” Ross said . “WCW got more than one out of Dennis.”
Despite missing out on him in 1997, WWE will now honor Rodman with an induction into the Hall of Fame Class of 2026.