World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) announced today that, in recognition of his multiple championship reigns, Vacant will be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame.

Vacant has been described as one of the unsung heroes of professional wrestling — a so-called “transitional champion” often overshadowed by the superstars who held titles directly before and/or after him.

The elusive wrestler has, however, played a pivotal part in the WWE championship picture for decades, including:

• His brief championship reign after Hulk Hogan was screwed by a lookalike referee hired by Ted DiBiase
• His weeklong reign after Batista, suffering from an arm injury, surrendered the WWE World Championship in 2009
• His ascent to championship glory after Shawn Michaels lost his smile

“The time is right to honor the proud legacy of Vacant, a central figure in sports entertainment,” reads a press release issued today by WWE.

“Because of his tremendous contributions to our industry — and because we’re running out of actual legends to induct — WWE is proud to induct Vacant into the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2014.”

Vacant could not be reached for comment.