This is by far the most questionable of this year's inductees. Carlos Colon never had much success outside of his native Puerto Rico, where he was the promoter and top star for decades, although he did have a brief appearance in the 1993 Royal Rumble where the late, great Gorilla Monsoon referred to him as a "youngster" (he was 44 at the time). Carlos Colon's legacy, fair or not, will always be tied to the 1988 murder of Bruiser Brody. For those who've never heard the story, here's a brief recap: Brody (Real name Frank Goodish) stepped into the locker room shower for a business discussion with booker and wrestler Jose Gonzalez, who performed under the name Invader 1. An argument ensued and Brody was stabbed by Gonzalez. Due to the incompetence of the police force and medical systems of Puerto Rico, Bruiser died that night. There has never been any direct evidence tying Colon to Brody's murder. There's been allegations that Colon used his considerable political influence on the island to have evidence removed and witnesses threatened. Many of Brody's friends refused to work Puerto Rico afterward. What is certain is that Gonzalez was never punished and even pushed as the company's top star (and had the audacity to use the killing as an angle. Twice). His presence among this year's class would likely be a much bigger controversy had the incident not taken place so long ago. But for those who remember it vividly, especially those who were fans of Bruiser Brody, it leaves a sour taste in their mouths.
Brad Hamilton is a writer, musician and marketer/social media manager from Atlanta, Georgia. He's an undefeated freestyle rap battle champion, spends too little time being productive and defines himself as the literary version of Brock Lesnar.
