WWE has officially announced that Kamala, Ivan Koloff, and Dory Funk Sr. will be honored as the 2025 Legacy inductees into the WWE Hall of Fame, recognizing their lasting contributions to the wrestling industry.
Kamala, known to fans as “The Ugandan Giant,” left an unforgettable mark on WWE with his fierce presence and wild, unpredictable energy in the ring. Painted in tribal markings and portraying a fearsome warrior, Kamala faced off with iconic names such as Hulk Hogan and The Undertaker.
Over time, however, fans saw a different side of the character, connecting with the gentle personality of the man behind the mask — Jim Harris. WWE described him as a “gentle giant” whose lovable innocence resonated deeply with the WWE Universe.
Dory Funk Sr., the patriarch of the legendary Funk family, will be posthumously inducted for his groundbreaking influence both inside and outside the ring. A former amateur standout and World War II veteran, Funk Sr. became one of the most respected promoters in wrestling through his Western States Sports promotion based in Amarillo, Texas.
Under his guidance, the territory helped shape the careers of future legends such as Harley Race, Bruiser Brody, and his own sons — WWE Hall of Famers Dory Funk Jr. and Terry Funk. WWE praised Funk Sr. for being a crucial figure in shaping some of “the toughest men the ring has ever seen.”
Ivan Koloff, known as “The Russian Bear,” also takes his place among WWE’s greatest villains in the Hall of Fame. Koloff is perhaps best remembered for one of the most shocking moments in pro-wrestling history — ending Bruno Sammartino’s nearly 8-year reign as WWWF Champion.
On January 18, 1971, Koloff defeated Sammartino inside Madison Square Garden, stunning fans and cementing his place in wrestling history. WWE called it “one of the most unforgettable nights in WWE history.”
Below is the updated WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2025:
– Triple H
– Michelle McCool
– Lex Luger
– The Natural Disasters (Earthquake & Typhoon)
– Stone Cold Steve Austin vs. Bret Hart – WrestleMania 13 (Immortal Moment)
– Kamala
– Ivan Koloff
– Dory Funk Sr.
