Report: WWE Legend Turns Down 2013 Hall of Fame Induction

Before Hulk Hogan ruled the WWF, a 5'11" stoutly-built bulldozer was the king of the WWWF.

While Hogan may have been champion for over four consecutive years, his predecessor carried the top prize for double that time without interruption—a whopping eight years.

Known as a real man's man, Bruno Sammartino brought his Italian fervor to the squared circle, breaking backs and bear-hugging his opponents into submission.

Sammartino has left such an indelible mark that even Mike Tyson, of all people, can't stop reminiscing about him whenever Tyson is asked about his favorite wrestler.

Of course, the WWE is well aware of the urgency to induct the 76-year-old legend, going so far as to hatch a deal nine months before the 2013 Hall of Fame ceremony.

According to the recent members-only Wrestling Observer radio podcast (reported via 411Mania.com), the WWE made it a priority to reach out to Sammartino, who has had a history of being less than complimentary of Vince McMahon and the current state of wrestling.

Without hesitation, however, Sammartino's representative, Sal Corrente, responded with a letter to PWInsider.com confirming that his "client" would not accept the WWE's offer.

Unfortunately, it seems as if Sammartino may never get his overdue coronation in front of the WWE Universe.

Although he may feel justified in not having any dealings with the WWE, Sammartino is forgetting the bigger picture.

In that picture are fans who either grew up with "The Living Legend" or became acquainted with him through videos.

Surely, they would love to see their hero in the pantheon of other wrestling greats even if Sammartino himself is against the notion.

After all, without them—the fans—Bruno Sammartino as we know him would cease to exist, let alone be in a position to answer the WWE's call.