D-Von Dudley did not hold back when responding to Disco Inferno’s defense of Jim Ross regarding past racism allegations. On the Duke Loves Rasslin podcast, Duke addressed Disco’s unusual stance, questioning why Ross should be criticized for something that occurred two decades ago and expressing a desire not to “pile on” him.
In response, D-Von made it clear that no one asked Disco to attack or condemn Jim Ross. He emphasized that racism should never have a statute of limitations; a racist remark is wrong regardless of whether it was made 20 minutes or 20 years ago. D-Von clarified he wasn’t trying to stir up trouble but finally spoke out because the issue had been weighing on him for a long time.
He said, “No one is asking you to bury someone. I didn’t know there was a time limit on being a terrible racist. Saying you hate someone because of their skin color is wrong, whether it happened recently or years ago. If you say that, you’re a coward. We don’t have the courage to openly say, ‘That’s wrong, and I wish things were different.’ I know Disco and never had a problem with him, but remember how this all started—months ago I mentioned the issue without naming anyone, and people criticized me for not being specific.”
D-Von also pointed out that people don’t understand how he felt voiceless at the time due to his position, and that Disco should not judge him because he has never experienced life as a Black person. He noted that apologies for past racist acts continue because the pain remains real.
“People ask why I didn’t speak up 20 years ago, but they don’t understand there was nothing to say then. You don’t know what it feels like if you’re not African American. Whether it was 20, 30, or 50 years ago, the hurt lingers, and people still seek apologies.”
He insisted he did not want to make things harder for Jim Ross, who is already struggling with health issues. D-Von expressed willingness to discuss the matter openly but maintained that the racist comments were wrong, irrespective of who said them or when.
“If someone wants to talk, I’m open to that. But you said something wrong back then, regardless of your power or position.”
By confronting Disco Inferno directly, D-Von showed accountability, respect, and highlighted the ongoing impact of racism. His message was clear: defending racist behavior is unacceptable, no matter when it happened.
Fan Take: This exchange underscores an important reality for WWE fans—addressing racism in wrestling is essential no matter the timeline. It reminds us that accountability transcends time, and the sport must foster an environment where all wrestlers feel seen and respected.
