Muhammad Ali’s induction into the 2024 WWE Hall of Fame is a well-deserved honor, underscoring his profound impact not only in the boxing ring but also in the realm of professional wrestling.
WrestleMania stands as wrestling’s pinnacle event, and Ali’s involvement in the inaugural edition solidifies his place in wrestling history.
In 1985, the iconic boxer served as a special guest referee for the match featuring Hulk Hogan, Mr. T, “Rowdy” Roddy Piper, and Paul Orndorff, leaving an indelible mark by delivering a memorable punch to Piper, adding a unique flair to the match.
Gotta love @WWE's #WrestleMania 30 tonight with @HulkHogan as host. Flashbacks to WrestleMania 1! pic.twitter.com/jmU5Xvn7HP
— Muhammad Ali (@MuhammadAli) April 6, 2014
Ali’s foray into physical wrestling encounters traces back to 1976 when, during preparations for his bout against Antonio Inoki, he engaged in a physical altercation with Gorilla Monsoon during a WWF show.
Despite his efforts, Ali found himself on the receiving end of Monsoon’s powerful Airplane Spin, a moment etched in wrestling lore.
Reflecting on Ali’s affinity for wrestling, insights from a 2019 episode of Bruce Prichard’s Something to Wrestle podcast reveal his admiration for legends like Bruno Sammartino and Gorgeous George, showcasing his deep-rooted connection to the sport long before his own involvement.
“Ali grew up as a wrestling fan. He got his wrap from Gorgeous George back in the ’50s. He loved Bruno and those guys from that era. Monsoon, to him, was like a larger-than-life character. A boxer, even Mike Tyson, they were afraid of the wrestler because they knew if the wrestler ever got you down, you were dead. As good as you are with your hands, if that wrestler gets you down and ties you up in a knot, there’s not much you can do, especially with boxing gloves on,”
shared Bruce.
The updated WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2024.#WWEHOF #WrestleMania pic.twitter.com/3DtVS3A6z1
— Wrestle Ops (@WrestleOps) March 11, 2024
Ali’s induction into the WWE Hall of Fame marks his place among legends, joining the ranks of Bull Nakano, US Express (Barry Windham and Mike Rotunda), and Paul Heyman in this year’s esteemed class.
As fans anticipate Ali’s induction, they eagerly await the tales and memories that will undoubtedly be shared, celebrating his enduring legacy in both boxing and wrestling.
