Legendary American boxer Muhammad Ali, who passed away in June 2016, is set to receive a special honor posthumously. The World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) announced on Monday that Ali will be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2024.
The induction ceremony is scheduled to take place on April 5, during the weekend of WrestleMania 40 in Philadelphia. This announcement marks a significant recognition of Ali’s contributions to the world of sports entertainment.
Muhammad Ali, known for his remarkable career in boxing, made a memorable appearance as a special guest referee in the inaugural WrestleMania main event. The match pitted Hulk Hogan and Mr. T against the duo of “Rowdy” Roddy Piper and “Mr. Wonderful” Paul Orndorff. Ali left a lasting impression by delivering a right hand to Piper’s chin during the event held at Madison Square Garden in New York.
One of the highlights of Ali’s career in sports entertainment was his exhibition match against Japanese legend Antonio Inoki in 1976. Dubbed the “War of the Worlds,” this mixed-rules bout ended in a 15-round draw and remains celebrated to this day. The match was witnessed by approximately 33,000 spectators at Shea Stadium in New York.
Ali’s induction into the WWE Hall of Fame comes decades after his iconic showdown with Inoki. This recognition adds another accolade to Ali’s illustrious career, which includes being a three-time heavyweight champion and a member of the International Boxing Hall of Fame since 1990.
Among Ali’s notable victories are his sixth-round TKO triumph over Sonny Liston in 1964 and his eighth-round knockout of George Foreman in 1974. Both victories were named “Fight of the Year” by Ring Magazine, solidifying Ali’s legacy as one of the greatest boxers of all time.
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