Speaking through her official Facebook account, former WWE RAW Guest Host Maria Menounos responded to the criticism that she shouldn’t have been chosen to induct Bob Backlund into the WWE Hall of Fame and fired back saying that she has known Backlund for over 14 years and that the two are close friends.

“I know some of you don’t understand why I’m inducting Bob Backlund into the WWE Hall of Fame. Here’s a quick history… I met Bob when I was 19-he starred in my movie, he supported me when I competed at Miss Mass USA pageant and I helped him run for congress. He’s a dear friend of 14 years and I’m honored to be a part of this historic moment in his career and with the WWE.”