WWE Hall of Fame Ceremony Highlights
The Latest Inductees Join the Ranks of Wrestling Greats
PHILADELPHIA — The WWE Hall of Fame class of 2024 witnessed a historic moment on Friday night, as legends from the wrestling world were immortalized for their contributions to the industry. The energy was electric, emotions were high, and the inductions were filled with laughter and tears. This unforgettable event served as a perfect prelude to the upcoming WrestleMania weekend.
Highlights from the Ceremony
Paul Heyman gets emotional, drops an F-bomb
Roman Reigns, the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion, shared an intimate story about his relationship with Paul Heyman. Reigns explained that Heyman once told him that he didn’t need him to succeed, he only needed to believe in himself. Reigns acknowledged Heyman’s substantial role in his rise to the top of the wrestling world.
Moving the crowd with his entrance, Heyman embraced the former ECW stars in attendance, his old associates who helped shape the promotion’s success. The sight of Heyman shedding tears touched everyone’s hearts. Amidst the crowd chanting “you deserve it,” Heyman let out a timeless expletive, arguably one of the best in WWE history.
During his speech, Heyman paid tribute to Paul “Triple H” Levesque, WWE’s chief content officer, while playfully teasing his wife Stephanie McMahon for marrying the wrong “Paul.” As Heyman contemplated the people he wished to share the moment with, he offered words to Cody Rhodes, expressing a wish that Cody’s father, who has passed away, could have witnessed the night. The emotional encounter left tears in both their eyes.
Reviving ECW Glory
After the emotional beginning, Heyman took a moment to recognize his roots in ECW. Sporting his iconic old-school ECW gear, Heyman recaptured the essence of his time running the promotion. In a passionate and profanity-filled promo, he celebrated his past achievements, promising to continue disrupting the industry with his unique vision.
The Legends Are Celebrated
Bull Nakano rocks signature face paint
Bull Nakano, the beloved Japanese wrestling star, entered the stage adorned in her signature blue face paint. Overwhelmed with emotions, Nakano expressed her gratitude, saying, “I have waited a long time for this moment.”
The Undertaker inducts Muhammad Ali; wife Lonnie Ali gifts The Rock a title
Drawing parallels between the worlds of wrestling and boxing, The Undertaker was entrusted with the responsibility of inducting the legendary boxer Muhammad Ali. The Rock, in turn, shared a heartwarming anecdote about how Ali granted him permission to use “The People’s Champ” nickname. To show his appreciation, Ali’s wife, Lonnie, surprised The Rock with an actual championship belt.
Rotunda family honors late brother Bray Wyatt
The wrestling world stood united as Mike Rotunda and Barry Windham, wrestling legends in their own right, were inducted into the Hall of Fame. In an emotional tribute, Mika and Taylor, referred to as Bo Dallas, paid homage to their late brother Windham, known to wrestling fans as Bray Wyatt. The presence of Wyatt was palpable as the crowd illuminated the arena with an affectionate display of fireflies, a tribute to his iconic entrance.
Thunderbolt Patterson gets long-deserved recognition
Thunderbolt Patterson, a true pioneer in the world of professional wrestling, received a heartwarming welcome from the WWE Universe. Regarded as a master of promos, Patterson’s influence can still be felt in the industry today. The New Day, paying tribute to this legend, solemnly inducted Patterson, signifying the enduring impact of his career. Lifting spirits with a heartfelt prayer, Patterson’s presence added to the night’s magic.
A Grandmother’s Legacy
Venerated into the WWE Hall of Fame, Lia Maivia’s induction was posthumously done by her grandson, The Rock. Amidst a tense moment between The Rock and Cody Rhodes, the attention quickly shifted to the tribute for his beloved grandmother. The Rock pledged to carry the family’s legacy in his upcoming match at WrestleMania.
“I love you, Grandma. Thank you so much,” The Rock concluded, leaving the audience in awe of his heartfelt tribute.
