Legendary Superstars Kamala, Dory Funk Sr., and Ivan Koloff Will Enter The WWE Hall Of Fame As The 2025 Legacy Inductees

With WrestleMania 41 just around the corner, WWE continues to build anticipation—not just for the in-ring action, but for one of the most emotional nights of the year: the Hall of Fame induction ceremony. While names like Triple H, Michelle McCool, Lex Luger, and the legendary tag team of The Natural Disasters (Typhoon & Earthquake) were already confirmed for the Class of 2025, WWE has now revealed three more legends who will join this year’s prestigious lineup.

In an announcement made Wednesday, WWE confirmed that Kamala, Dory Funk Sr., and Ivan Koloff will be honored as Legacy inductees for the 2025 class. Their addition brings this year’s total inductees to eight. And for the first time ever, a match will be inducted into the Hall of Fame as well—Bret Hart vs. “Stone Cold” Steve Austin from WrestleMania 13, a bout often hailed as one of the greatest in WWE history.

Remembering Kamala, The Ugandan Giant

Few characters in wrestling history were as instantly recognizable—or as feared—as Kamala. With his tribal war paint, imposing presence, and unpredictable demeanor, Kamala was a standout villain during WWE’s golden era in the late ’80s and early ’90s. Iconic battles against the likes of The Undertaker and Hulk Hogan helped cement his legacy. But behind the menacing persona was a performer who fans came to love over time—a gentle giant who left a lasting impression on the business.

Dory Funk Sr.: A Pioneer and Promoter

Dory Funk Sr. may not have the mainstream name recognition of some of his contemporaries, but his fingerprints are all over wrestling history. A highly respected amateur wrestler in the NWA during the 1950s and ’60s, Funk Sr. went on to become one of wrestling’s most influential promoters. Based in Amarillo, Texas, he built the Western States Sports territory into a key developmental hub, nurturing future legends like Harley Race, Bruiser Brody, and, of course, his own sons—Dory Funk Jr. and the hardcore icon Terry Funk.

Ivan Koloff: The Man Who Shocked the Garden

Ivan Koloff’s legacy is etched in one historic moment: January 18, 1971, when he ended Bruno Sammartino’s nearly eight-year WWE Championship reign at Madison Square Garden. That jaw-dropping upset forever changed the landscape of professional wrestling. Known for his rugged, powerhouse style and fierce intensity, Koloff played the role of foreign heel to perfection during a politically charged era in wrestling. His place in the Hall of Fame has been long overdue, and this induction finally gives “The Russian Bear” his due.


The WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most well-rounded groups in recent memory, blending iconic performers, pioneering figures, and unforgettable moments. With WrestleMania 41 looming large, fans now have even more to celebrate as the legends of the past take their rightful place in wrestling immortality.

‘The Russian Bear’ Ivan Koloff Passes Away At The Age Of 74

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Ivan Koloff has passed away at the age of 74.

PWInsider is reporting “The Russian Bear” died after battling liver cancer. He was famously known for defeating Bruno Sammartino at Madison Square Garden, after Bruno held the WWWF World Heavyweight Championship for nearly eight years.