D-Von Dudley finally speaks openly about his racism case in WWE

The WWE Hall of Fame member confirms that Jim Ross was the person he recently referred to

D-Von clarified that neither Vince McMahon nor Michael Hayes nor John Laurinaitis were involved

D-Von Dudley
Photo Credit: WWE.com
Sebastián Martínez
Sebastián Martínez
Published 10/29/2025

After weeks of speculation, D-Von Dudley has put an end to the mystery surrounding the identity of the person who made racist comments towards him during the Attitude Era. In a recent interview on the Duke Loves Rasslin podcast, the WWE Hall of Fame member confirmed that the responsible party was Jim Ross, thus dispelling rumors that pointed to other prominent figures within the company.

"Many people thought I was referring to Michael Hayes, Vince McMahon, or John Laurinaitis. I want to make it very clear: Vince helped me become a superstar. Yes, there were moments of frustration, but that doesn't mean I hate him," explained D-Von, before also praising Hayes and Laurinaitis for their support during his time as a producer.

Michael Hayes always helped me improve as a producer. John Laurinaitis took good care of me in that role, he never spoke ill of me. So, no, it wasn't them.

After ruling out other names, D-Von finally confirmed what many suspected: "Did I mention a cowboy hat? Yes. Did Maven hint at it? Also. Was it J.R.? Yes, I had an issue with him back then,".

The Dudley Boyz member recounted that Ross's words deeply affected him at the time, although he now claims to have forgiven him. "His comments hurt me a lot. He can deny it all he wants, but Bubba was there. Paul Heyman, Spike Dudley, and Tommy Dreamer also witnessed it," he recalled.

D-Von wanted to make it clear that he is not seeking controversy or victimization: "I'm not playing the race card. I was asked a question and I got tired of the speculation. Before, I chose not to say anything, and I had the right to do so. Now I just wanted to free myself from that."

The former tag team champion also showed empathy towards Ross, who is currently facing health issues, stating that he holds no grudge: "I'm not mad at him. I pray for his recovery. I have forgiven him in my heart, although he never came to apologize. I don't harbor negative feelings towards him. I don't forget what happened, but I do forgive. It's my way of letting go."