Tag: WWE Hall Of Fame

Demolition Finally Get Their Due: Ax & Smash Headed to WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2026

After years of speculation, fan campaigns, and lingering questions about their relationship with WWE, Demolition are officially headed to the Hall of Fame.

The Undertaker broke the news personally, revealing during a video call that Ax and Smash will be inducted as part of the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2026. “The Deadman” congratulated the legendary duo and told them the honor was “well deserved,” putting a stamp of approval on one of the most requested inductions in recent memory.

For longtime fans, this announcement feels long overdue.

Demolition was one of the most dominant tag teams of the late 1980s, carving out a legacy that stood the test of time. However, their absence from the Hall of Fame had been a glaring omission for years. Much of the delay was believed to stem from past legal tensions between the team and WWE, including their involvement in a CTE-related lawsuit against the company. That legal friction appeared to put any formal recognition on ice.

Things began to shift in 2025 when Ax and Smash signed a Legends Deal with WWE. The agreement fueled speculation that fences had been mended behind the scenes. Now, with the Hall of Fame induction confirmed, it’s clear that the relationship has officially been repaired.

The 2026 ceremony will also mark a significant milestone: it will be Demolition’s first appearance on WWE programming since the 1990s. For a generation of fans who grew up watching their destructive run, that return alone is bound to generate nostalgia.

Inside the ring, Demolition’s credentials speak for themselves. The team captured the WWE World Tag Team Championships three times between 1988 and 1990. Their first reign remains historic, lasting an incredible 478 days — a benchmark for tag team dominance during that era.

They weren’t just champions; they were cornerstones of a stacked tag division. Ax and Smash shared the ring with some of the best teams in wrestling history, engaging in memorable rivalries against Arn Anderson and Tully Blanchard of The Brain Busters, Haku and Tama of The Islanders, and the powerhouse duo of The Legion of Doom. Those battles helped define tag team wrestling in the late ‘80s and solidified Demolition as one of WWE’s most iconic duos.

With their Hall of Fame induction now official, Demolition’s legacy is finally being recognized on the grand stage. It’s a fitting honor for a team that dominated an era and left an undeniable mark on tag team wrestling.

Longtime fans can finally check this one off the list — Ax and Smash are getting their moment.

Demolition joins Stephanie McMahon and AJ Styles in the WWE HOF Class of 2026.

WWE Releases Emotional Post-Raw Celebration Footage Following AJ Styles Tribute Show & HOF Announcement

WWE has released exclusive behind-the-scenes footage from AJ Styles’ emotional farewell on Monday Night Raw, giving fans an extended look at the heartfelt celebration that followed the cameras going dark.

The closing segment of Raw was already heavy with emotion, as “The Phenomenal One” addressed the crowd and reflected on a career that spanned the globe. But once the broadcast ended, the real floodgates opened.

In the nearly five-minute video shared by WWE, Styles shared deeply personal moments with friends and rivals from every chapter of his journey — from TNA to New Japan Pro-Wrestling to WWE.

Several familiar faces from Styles’ TNA days joined him in the ring, including Frankie Kazarian, Drake Maverick (formerly Rockstar Spud), Bobby Roode, and Abyss. Maverick and Kazarian now work behind the scenes as WWE producers, but on this night, it was about celebrating their longtime friend. During an embrace with Roode, Styles jokingly told him, “You got me good, dude,” referencing the surprise announcement of Roode’s upcoming WWE Hall of Fame induction. Roode insisted he had no advance knowledge of the honor.

The tribute also featured a rare WWE appearance from Karl Anderson and Luke Gallows, who had been released from the company in February 2025. The duo, who teamed with Styles in both WWE and NJPW, stood alongside him once again. Other former Bullet Club members in attendance included Finn Bálor, Tama Tonga, Tonga Loa, and Cody Rhodes — highlighting the massive influence Styles had across promotions. At one point, Bálor and Styles shared a classic “Too Sweet” gesture, bringing things full circle.

Among Styles’ WWE peers, the emotion was palpable. Cathy Kelley, Stephanie Vaquer, Michin, and Asuka were visibly moved during the sendoff. Earlier in the night, Cody Rhodes and Sami Zayn even lifted Styles onto their shoulders in a symbolic tribute to his impact on the business.

Styles’ final match came at the 2026 Royal Rumble, where GUNTHER — dubbed “The Career Killer” — forced him to pass out to a sleeper hold in a physically grueling contest. Prior to that, Styles revisited one of his most storied rivalries when he faced Shinsuke Nakamura at Saturday Night’s Main Event. In a poetic touch, Nakamura was seen capturing photos of Styles’ farewell on Raw, documenting the final chapter of a shared legacy that dates back to their NJPW days.

From TNA standout to global superstar, AJ Styles’ career has touched nearly every major corner of the wrestling world. WWE’s post-Raw footage makes one thing clear: his influence goes far beyond championship reigns and five-star matches.

For one night, the wrestling world — across generations and promotions — stood together to celebrate The Phenomenal One.

AJ Styles Gets Emotional Raw Farewell, Leaves Gloves In The Ring, Named As An Inductee For WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2026

Monday night’s episode of WWE Raw delivered an unforgettable send-off for one of the most influential performers of the modern era. AJ Styles closed the show in an emotional main event segment that not only celebrated his legendary career but also confirmed his place in WWE history — as the first announced inductee into the 2026 WWE Hall of Fame class.

A Night Built Around “The Phenomenal One”

Throughout the broadcast, WWE paid tribute to Styles with a series of video packages highlighting his journey from international standout to WWE Champion and locker room leader. Several WWE Superstars offered words of appreciation, reflecting on his impact inside and outside the ring.

The tribute extended beyond the current roster. In attendance were longtime friends and former allies from multiple chapters of Styles’ career. TNA legends Frankie Kazarian and Christopher Park — the latter appearing in his iconic Abyss persona — were present for the occasion. Former WWE and NJPW stars Karl Anderson and Luke Gallows, known collectively with Styles as The Good Brothers and members of Bullet Club and The OC, also showed up to support their longtime teammate. Even Omos, Styles’ former tag team partner, made a rare appearance for the celebration.

It was a gathering that underscored just how wide Styles’ influence stretches across the wrestling world.

An Emotional Goodbye

When Styles made his entrance for the final segment, the crowd immediately filled the arena with chants of “Thank you, AJ.” Clearly overwhelmed, Styles soaked in the moment before delivering a heartfelt promo that traced the arc of his career — from his early days to becoming one of WWE’s most respected performers.

In classic AJ fashion, he mixed humor with sincerity, joking that he would have worn a suit for the occasion, but the last time he did that he ended up fighting Cody Rhodes.

As the moment grew more emotional, Styles removed his jacket and laid it in the center of the ring. He followed by placing his signature gloves on the mat — a symbolic gesture long associated with retirement in pro wrestling. With his family watching from ringside, Styles offered one final “thank you” and “I love you” before the locker room emptied onto the stage. Paul “Triple H” Levesque joined the group in applauding Styles, creating a powerful scene of respect from peers and executives alike.

The Undertaker Delivers A Final Surprise

Just as it appeared the night was coming to a close, the familiar gong echoed through the arena. The lights went out, and when they came back up, The Undertaker emerged on his motorcycle.

In a fitting bit of theatrics, The Deadman asked Styles if he was really planning to leave his gear in the ring and simply walk away. He then revealed there was still “unfinished business” — announcing that AJ Styles will be the first inductee into the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2026.

The surprise announcement brought fresh tears to Styles’ eyes as he embraced Undertaker. Moments later, his family joined him in the ring to celebrate the milestone, closing the show on a note of gratitude and legacy.

A Career Worthy of Immortality

Styles’ WWE run alone includes multiple world championships, show-stealing matches at WrestleMania, and leadership roles in groups like The OC. But his Hall of Fame nod also represents decades of influence across TNA, NJPW, and beyond — cementing him as one of the most well-traveled and respected performers of his generation.

Whether this marks the official end of his in-ring career remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: AJ Styles’ impact on the industry is undeniable.

And come 2026, “The Phenomenal One” will officially take his place among the immortals.

As of Now John Cena Not Expected for 2026 WWE Hall of Fame Induction — Stephanie McMahon Tapped as Headliner

John Cena may be officially retired, but fans hoping to see him resurface through a WWE Hall of Fame induction might need to be patient a little longer.

According to a recent report from WrestleVotes Radio on Fightful Select, Cena is currently not listed internally for the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2026. Despite his legendary status and career-ending match against Gunther last year, there’s no indication that WWE is planning to induct him in the upcoming class.

Instead, the report suggests that Stephanie McMahon is penciled in as the headline inductee for 2026. Notably, her induction is said to include an “Immortal Moments” component, highlighting her long-running influence on WWE both on-screen and behind the scenes. If accurate, it would make her the centerpiece of the ceremony rather than a traditional in-ring legend.

Cena, meanwhile, has remained largely out of the WWE spotlight since his retirement. After completing a brief media run, his only public appearance tied to wrestling was at a FAN EXPO event in January. With WrestleMania season approaching, some fans speculated that WWE might use the Hall of Fame as a way to bring him back into the fold — but that doesn’t appear to be the case for now.

It’s also worth noting that leading into his final match with Gunther, Cena reportedly wasn’t eager to frame the bout as a career retrospective. That mindset could play a role in WWE holding off on honoring him just yet, allowing more time before fully celebrating his legacy.

There’s little doubt that John Cena will eventually take his place in the WWE Hall of Fame. The question now isn’t if, but when — and based on the latest backstage chatter, 2026 likely won’t be that moment.

Report: John Cena Expected To Headline 2026 WWE Hall of Fame Class Alongside Stephanie McMahon

We’re still months away from WrestleMania season, but the 2026 WWE Hall of Fame conversation is already heating up—much earlier than usual. Stephanie McMahon was announced back in September as the first official inductee, and for a while she seemed like the obvious headliner. But according to the latest backstage buzz, she may be sharing that spotlight with one of WWE’s most iconic names.

On Wrestling Observer Radio, Bryan Alvarez revealed that chatter behind the scenes at Monday’s WWE Raw pointed toward John Cena being lined up as the marquee inductee for the 2026 class. While nothing is confirmed, Alvarez noted that the idea was circulating heavily among those backstage.

“As of Monday night, the belief is the headliner would be John Cena,” Alvarez said. “Maybe things change, but that was certainly the discussion. With Stephanie already announced, Cena and Stephanie would be the two biggest names if that’s what ends up happening.”

If this comes together, the induction would take place during WrestleMania weekend in 2026—and honestly, the timing couldn’t be more fitting.

Cena’s Hall of Fame case has been locked in for years. Between his unprecedented run as WWE’s franchise star for two decades, his crossover success in mainstream entertainment, and his still-strong relationship with the company, it was always just a matter of when WWE would pull the trigger.

Now the “when” lines up perfectly with Cena’s current farewell tour. He’s set to wrestle his final match on the December 13 edition of Saturday Night’s Main Event in Washington, D.C., officially closing the in-ring chapter of his career. Having him headline the Hall of Fame just a few months later would tie his retirement story together in classic WWE fashion.

If Cena is indeed added to the 2026 class, WWE will be stacking WrestleMania weekend with two of the most influential figures of the last 25 years—one a trailblazing executive, the other the face of an entire era.

We’ll keep you updated as WWE begins rolling out official announcements for the 2026 Hall of Fame.

The Undertaker Surprises Stephanie McMahon At Wrestlepalooza With 2026 WWE Hall of Fame Announcement

The Undertaker surprised Stephanie McMahon announcing her as the first inductee into the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2026

At Wrestlepalooza on September 20, 2025, The Undertaker, sporting his “American Badass” persona, appeared at Wrestlepalooza on his motorcycle. The Undertaker pulled up ringside, taking a seat next to McMahon. The Undertaker and McMahon started riffing on their long-standing friendship. He asked McMahon, “Are you ready?” evoking the spirit of D-Generation X and her husband, Triple H. The Undertaker proceeded to announce that McMahon would be the first person inducted into next year’s Hall of Fame class.

McMahon has not worked for WWE in an official capacity since 2023, when it was announced she would be leaving her role as co-CEO of WWE as Vince McMahon returned to the fold and later negotiated the merger with Endeavor to create TKO. She has since appeared in sporadic appearances, mostly those of a broadcasting or guest attending role, though she started her “What’s Your Story?” podcast on ESPN+ in partnership with WWE and Fanatics earlier this year. 

The 2026 WWE Hall of Fame ceremony takes place during the week of WrestleMania 42 in Las Vegas

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.

Hart Vs. Austin At WrestleMania XIII To Be First Match Inducted Into WWE Hall Of Fame – “Immortal Moment”

WWE is set to break new ground with its 2025 Hall of Fame class, introducing a brand-new category of recognition: the induction of individual matches. During WWE SmackDown, the company announced that the legendary WrestleMania 13 bout between Bret “The Hitman” Hart and “Stone Cold” Steve Austin will be the first match honored as an “Immortal Moment.”

A Defining Match in WWE History

The Hart vs. Austin showdown from WrestleMania 13 (1997) is widely regarded as one of the greatest matches in WWE history. Not only did it showcase elite in-ring storytelling, but it also played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of WWE’s most successful era. The match is best remembered for its dramatic double-turn, where the fan-favorite Hart became a villain while the rebellious Austin won over the crowd despite losing the match.

The unforgettable finish saw a bloodied Austin refusing to tap out to Hart’s Sharpshooter, ultimately passing out due to the pain. Hart’s refusal to release the hold cemented his heel turn, while Austin’s resilience solidified his status as WWE’s next breakout star. This match played a crucial role in launching the Attitude Era, with Austin eventually becoming one of the most iconic figures in wrestling history.

Bret Hart & Steve Austin Set to Appear at Hall of Fame

Both Austin and Hart, who have previously been inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame for their individual careers (Austin in 2009, Hart in 2006), will be present at the 2025 ceremony to accept this historic honor. With this recognition, Bret Hart also becomes the first-ever three-time inductee, having been previously honored in 2019 as part of The Hart Foundation.

2025 Hall of Fame Class

This year’s WWE Hall of Fame class already boasts an impressive lineup, including:

  • Paul “Triple H” Levesque
  • Lex Luger
  • Michelle McCool
  • The Natural Disasters (Earthquake & Typhoon)

With WrestleMania season approaching, WWE’s decision to honor WrestleMania 13’s defining match as an “Immortal Moment” is a fitting tribute to the impact Austin and Hart had on shaping the industry. Fans can look forward to their appearance at the ceremony, which promises to be one for the history books.

Stay tuned for more Hall of Fame announcements as WWE continues to build an unforgettable Class of 2025!

WWE Officially Announces The Natural Disasters for WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2025

Earlier this month, Typhoon confirmed that he and Earthquake, known as The Natural Disasters, will be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame.

WWE has now officially announced this news.

The Natural Disasters will join Triple H, Michelle McCool, and Lex Luger in the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2025.

You can check out the official announcement below:

“One of the most physically imposing duos in professional wrestling history, Earthquake (John Tenta), and Typhoon (Fred Ottman), known together as The Natural Disasters, will enter the WWE Hall of Fame as members of the Class of 2025.

Typhoon joined forces with Earthquake in late 1990 and the pair ran roughshod over the WWE due in part to their combined weight of nearly 900lbs. The tandem would go on to claim the WWE Tag Team Titles and engage in epic in-ring showdowns with Money Inc., The Legion of Doom and The Nasty Boys during their run as champions.

A talented group with the in-ring acumen to complement their enormous size, The Natural Disasters were a vital piece in the growth of WWE to where it is today. The pair reigned supreme in an era full of incredible tag teams and even teamed with inaugural WWE Hall of Fame inductee Andre the Giant at one point.

Considered a gentle giant by his peers outside of the ring, Earthquake was a former two-sport athlete as a wrestler and football player at Lousiana State University. He broke into the wrestling business in Japan where he was a decorated Sumo champion to go along with a successful career in All Japan Pro Wrestling. Earthquake awed fans across the world with his incredible size and memorable rivalry with Hulk Hogan during a golden age of wrestling before sadly passing away in 2006.

Typhoon, meanwhile, came up in Championship Wrestling from Florida alongside fellow Hall of Famers Diamond Dallas Page and Dusty Rhodes where he became the promotion’s Heavyweight Champion. He later married The American Dream’s sister and is the uncle of Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes.

A larger-than-life pairing that changed the game regarding tag team wrestling, The Natural Disasters will be remembered forever for their collective destruction and indomitable fighting spirit as they take their place in the WWE Hall of Fame as members of the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2025.”

The Latest On Sting Possibly Inducting Lex Luger Into WWE Hall Of Fame

The 2025 WWE Hall of Fame will feature a long-overdue induction, as Lex Luger is set to take his place among wrestling’s greatest legends. But when it comes to who will induct him, Luger has made his request clear—he wants Sting.

As reported earlier here on Wrestling News Blog, WWE plans to ask Sting about making the appearance if they haven’t done so already.

According to The Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Luger personally asked WWE to have his longtime friend and former tag team partner Sting do the honors. WWE reportedly has no issue with the request, but the decision ultimately lies with AEW CEO Tony Khan.

Will AEW Approve Sting’s Appearance?

Historically, AEW has been open to allowing its talent to appear on WWE programming under certain conditions. However, there have been exceptions. When WWE held a D-Generation X reunion, AEW star Billy Gunn (aka “Daddy Ass”) was invited, but Khan reportedly wanted WWE to acknowledge Gunn’s AEW affiliation—something WWE wasn’t willing to do. As a result, Gunn did not appear.

This situation could unfold similarly. While Khan will likely give Sting the freedom to make his own decision, there’s always a chance AEW and WWE will negotiate terms.

Adding another wrinkle to the situation, Luger was not permitted to appear on-screen when Sting wrestled his final match at AEW Revolution 2024. Given that precedent, it’s unclear whether Khan would be willing to let one of AEW’s biggest legends take part in a WWE event without some form of recognition for AEW.

A Legendary Friendship

Luger and Sting’s careers have been intertwined for decades, from their days as tag team champions in WCW to their storied rivalry. Their bond extended beyond the ring, as Sting played a significant role in Luger’s personal redemption story after his career-ending spinal injury in 2007.

Having Sting induct Luger into the WWE Hall of Fame would be a fitting tribute to their history, but whether AEW allows it remains to be seen.

What’s Next?

With WrestleMania season approaching, WWE will likely reach out to AEW (if they haven’t already) to discuss the possibility of Sting appearing at the Hall of Fame ceremony. If AEW agrees, it would mark a rare moment of collaboration between the two companies and a heartfelt moment for wrestling fans.

Will AEW give Sting the green light? Or will WWE need to find another inductor for Luger? Stay tuned.