The Undertaker could have retired from professional wrestling 20 years ago, and he would still be a lock for the WWE Hall of Fame.

It's always been a case of when he gets inducted, not if.

The Phenom officially announced his retirement at the end of this year's Survivor Series pay-per-view on Nov. 22, which marked the 30-year anniversary of his debut with the WWE.

However, it sounds like the call to the hall will have to wait another year.

According to Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter (h/t Paul Davis of WrestlingNews.co), it's more likely that The Undertaker will be part of the 2022 WWE Hall of Fame class. This is supposedly because WWE wants a full crowd in attendance for  his induction.

Citing a source, Davis also added that Vince McMahon wants "to do one more ceremony with Taker with fans in attendance."

Meltzer also revealed that the next Hall of Fame ceremony, for the 2020 inductees, will likely be virtual. The event was postponed due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

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The Undertaker at WrestleMania 36

Initially scheduled to be inducted in 2020, Batista, Davey Both Smith, The Bella Twins, The New World Order, Jushin Thunder Liger and John Bradshaw Layfield will be part of the 2021 class. It remains to be seen if WWE will add more to next year's group.

The Undertaker announced his retirement in the final episode of the WWE Network series, Undertaker: The Last Ride. He wouldn't fully out a return to the ring, but after the ceremony at Survivor Series, it looks like he's committed to staying retired.

Makes Sense To Wait Until 2022

Vince McMahon's tremendous respect and admiration of The Undertaker is well-documented. These two have always had a close and successful working relationship, so it's not surprising that Vince seemingly wants to wait until there's a full crowd for The Undertaker's retirement ceremony. The Phenom certainly deserves it after an illustrious 30-year career with the company.

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