Report: Eva Marie replaces Jerry Lawler as WWE Hall of Fame host

Editor's note: Check out the updates to this story here.

Jerry Lawler's color commentary work during wrestling shows is controversial and often criticized. Rumors spread when he was moved from Raw to Smackdown that WWE higher-ups were looking for a way to transition the Hall of Famer out of the spotlight.

The King generally received better marks for jobs like hosting the annual Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. His corny humor could still sometimes grate, but he is one of the most well known performers in the history of the business and still rules over a region of the United States that loves pro wrestling. That résumé gave him credibiity as Master of Ceremonies for a show purported to be honoring the industry's all-time greats.

So, while his harshest critics will probably be pleased that PWInsider.com is reporting that Lawler is out as emcee of this year's show, coming up this Saturday night, March 28th in San Jose...they're not likely to be thrilled with his replacement...

Total Divas star Eva Marie.

The 'reality' show star who's greatest pro wrestling accomplishment is...changing her hair color, I guess, will reportedly introduce Hulk Hogan so he can induct Randy Savage into the Hall of Fame.

If this is true...I can't even.

I understand if they are truly looking to move on from Lawler as a company spokesman. As the guy who wrote this, I've even advocated for it.

But not like this.

If they wanted to go with an attractive young woman to host, they have a gifted public speaker with knowledge of the business and great comedic timing in Renee Young.

I can't remember a time I've more hoped a report was wrong. A commercial for the event that ran during last night's broadcast of NXT on WWE Network still announced Lawler as host, so I'm going to hold onto that until Saturday night.

Thoughts, Cagesiders?