WrestleMania weekend is officially underway, and one of the most anticipated highlights of this annual spectacle is the WWE Hall of Fame ceremony. This year, the ceremony took place on Friday, April 18, 2025, following SmackDown, at the BleauLive Theater in Las Vegas, Nevada. The event celebrated the careers of several wrestling legends, culminating in an emotional tribute to their contributions to the sport.
For the first time ever, WWE introduced the "WWE Immortal Moment" award, recognizing iconic matches that have left a lasting impact on the company’s history. The inaugural recipient of this honor was the legendary bout between Bret Hart and Steve Austin at WrestleMania 13, a match that is often hailed as one of the greatest in wrestling history.
The Hall of Fame Class of 2025 included a star-studded lineup: Triple H, Lex Luger, Michelle McCool, and the tag team duo known as The Natural Disasters—Earthquake and Typhoon. Additionally, several Legacy inductees were honored, including Dory Funk Sr., Kamala, and Ivan Koloff. Each inductee brought their own unique stories and experiences to the podium, making for a night filled with nostalgia and heartfelt moments.
Triple H, now a two-time Hall of Famer, was inducted by his close friend Shawn Michaels. Michaels delivered an emotional speech, humorously referring to Triple H as “Paul” and affectionately calling him a “pain in the ass.” In his acceptance speech, Triple H paid tribute to the many individuals who helped shape his career, including Terry Taylor, The Kliq, and Evolution. He concluded his remarks by thanking the fans, leaving the audience with a powerful message: "Thank YOU, Triple H." The atmosphere was electric as the crowd erupted in applause, celebrating the legacy of The Game.
Lex Luger, who has faced significant health challenges in recent years, rose from his wheelchair to address the crowd after being inducted by Diamond Dallas Page. Luger shared his journey, expressing gratitude to “Pastor Steve,” a reference to his friend Sting, for guiding him toward faith during a tumultuous period in his life. His emotional speech resonated with many, showcasing the power of resilience and redemption.
Michelle McCool, a trailblazer in women’s wrestling, was inducted by her husband, The Undertaker. In her speech, she reflected on the challenges faced by female wrestlers during the “Divas Era” of WWE. “Don't let the noise around you drown out the truth inside you because your calling is bigger than their commentary,” she advised, inspiring future generations of wrestlers to pursue their dreams despite adversity.
The Natural Disasters, represented by Typhoon (Fred Ottman) and the children of the late Earthquake (John Tenta), were honored for their contributions to tag team wrestling. The duo was celebrated for their larger-than-life personas and their ability to captivate audiences. Typhoon paid tribute to Earthquake, who passed away in 2006 at the young age of 42, ensuring that his legacy would live on through their shared memories and accomplishments.
As the ceremony progressed, CM Punk took the stage to introduce the first-ever Immortal Moment inductees, Bret Hart and Steve Austin. The two legends accepted the award with grace, and a two-headed statue featuring both their likenesses was unveiled, symbolizing the iconic nature of their WrestleMania 13 match. Hart, now a three-time Hall of Famer, shared insights into what made their encounter so memorable, further solidifying its status in wrestling lore.
Vince McMahon was referenced during the ceremony, highlighting his role in shaping the landscape of professional wrestling. In attendance were Linda McMahon, alongside Stephanie McMahon and Triple H’s parents, providing a familial touch to the evening's festivities.
The Hall of Fame ceremony not only honored the past but also set the stage for the excitement of WrestleMania 41, which kicks off on Saturday, April 19, 2025, and runs through Sunday, April 20. Fans are eagerly awaiting the two-day event, with broadcasts scheduled to begin at 7 p.m. ET each night on Peacock.
As the wrestling world converges in Las Vegas, the Hall of Fame ceremony serves as a poignant reminder of the rich history that has shaped WWE. From unforgettable matches to groundbreaking female wrestlers, this year's inductees exemplify the spirit and dedication that define the industry. With WrestleMania just around the corner, the momentum is building, and fans are ready for an unforgettable weekend of wrestling action.
