WWE has officially announced the 2025 Legacy inductees for the Hall of Fame, honoring three iconic figures who left an indelible mark on professional wrestling: Kamala, Dory Funk Sr., and Ivan Koloff.
Kamala – “The Ugandan Giant” Enters the WWE Hall of Fame
Known around the world as "The Ugandan Giant," Kamala was a larger-than-life presence in the WWE ring. With his striking war paint, fearsome mask, and unorthodox in-ring style, Kamala—real name Jim Harris—was both feared and beloved during his storied career. He clashed with top WWE legends such as Hulk Hogan and The Undertaker, playing a monstrous heel before later revealing a heartwarming innocence that captured the WWE Universe's affection. Kamala’s legacy lives on as one of WWE’s most unforgettable characters.
Dory Funk Sr. – The Patriarch of Wrestling Royalty
A
trailblazer in the world of professional wrestling, Dory Funk Sr. now takes his rightful place in the WWE Hall of Fame. The founder of Western States Sports in Amarillo, Texas, Funk was not only a standout amateur wrestler and World War II veteran, but also a legendary promoter. He developed and showcased some of wrestling’s toughest icons, including Bruiser Brody, Harley Race, and his own sons—Dory Funk Jr. and Terry Funk, both of whom are already Hall of Famers. His contributions to wrestling as both mentor and innovator helped shape the sport for generations.
Ivan Koloff – The Russian Bear Who Shocked the World
Few moments in WWE history are as iconic as Ivan Koloff’s stunning victory over Bruno Sammartino at Madison Square Garden on January 18, 1971. Known as "The Russian Bear," Koloff ended Sammartino’s record-breaking seven-year reign as WWE Champion in a result that shocked the wrestling world. A fearsome villain during the height of the Cold War era, Koloff’s unmatched intensity and storytelling made him one of WWE’s most
unforgettable antagonists.
WWE Honors Wrestling Legends at Hall of Fame 2025
With the inductions of Kamala, Dory Funk Sr., and Ivan Koloff, WWE continues its tradition of recognizing the legends who helped shape the history and legacy of sports entertainment. These icons will be celebrated as part of the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2025, joining an elite group of wrestling pioneers.
