1st INDUCTEE: "MR. PERFECT" CURT HENNIG 1959-2003 INDUCTED ON: MARCH 17, 2003: MR. PERFECT IS BY FAR ONE OF THE MOST TALENTED ATHLETES TO EVER LACE HIS BOOTS. HE CAME TO THE TWF POSSESSING THOSE SAME SKILLS AND PROVED THEM BY WINNING THE TWF INTERCONTINENTAL AND RAW TAG TEAM TITLES. HE ALSO PROVIDED KEY INSIGHT AND DIRECTION FOR THE YOUNG HARVARD GRADUATE, CHRISTOPHER NOWINSKI. BUT HENNIG WILL ALWAYS BE REMEMBERED FOR HIS UNGODLY ATHLETIC ABILITY. THE SON OF FORMER GRAPPLER LARRY "THE AXE" HENNIG, HENNIG WAS VERSATILE IN MANY SPORTS, INCLUDING BASEBALL, BASKETBALL AND EVEN GOLF. BORN ON MARCH 28, 1959, HENNIG WAS TRAINED BY THE LEGENDARY VERNE GAGNE. HE COMPETED IN SEVERAL COMPANIES AND IT WAS EVIDENT THAT NO OTHER SUPERSTAR DESERVED THE MONIKER, MR. PERFECT MORE THAN HE. BUT ON FEBRUARY 10, 2003, HENNIG WAS FOUND DEAD IN HIS HOTEL ROOM AT THE AGE OF 44. THERE IS NO WAY TO DESCRIBE EXACTLY WHAT HE MEANT TO THE WORLD OF WRESTLING AND TO THE HEART OF THE TWF. WE SALUTE CURT WITH THIS INDUCTION AND MAY HE REST IN PEACE.
MICHAEL "HAWK" HEGSTRAND 1958-2003 Inducted on January 4, 2004 There is no way to describe exactly what this man did for professional wrestling. Along with Joe Lauranitis, a.k.a. Animal, he formed the legendary tag team the Road Warriors, who also wrestled under the moniker, Legion of Doom. Widely regarded the greatest tag team there ever was, Hawk and Animal burst onto the wrestling scene in 1983 wearing dog collars, face paint and mohawks. They later added spiked shoulder pads to their attire, although many said they did so by copying the movie "Thunder Dome". After a stellar career that included winning the tag team titles multiple times, Hawk came to the TWF along with Animal and together, they positioned themselves atop the tag team ranks on RAW, despite thoughts that they no longer "had it". But on a tragic day in October, the 19th to be exact, Hawk was found dead of an apparent heart condition at age 45. Hawk has and will forever be sorely missed and we acknowledge all his accomplishments with this induction.
Mick Foley Inducted on: March 31, 2005 A young kid growing up in Long Island who dreamed of becoming a professional wrestler, Mick Foley was always told he couldn't do it. That is why he may be the most inspirational wrestler in the history of the business because he proved all the naysayers wrong. His time in the TWF was short, competing as his triple ego of Cactus Jack, Mankind and Dude Love. But in his very last match, wrestling under his real name, he defeated The Undertaker on nationally televised RAW to win the World title in a moment that will never be forgotten.
The Big Boss Man-Ray Traylor 1962-2004 Inducted on: March 31, 2005 The Big Boss Man, born Ray Traylor, gave up his job as a prison guard in Cobb County, Georgia to pursue a career in wrestling. His first job was in 1986 as a bodyguard of Jim Cornette's, Big Bubba Rogers. He ended his career in the TWF, one of the very first men signed when the company opened in November 1999. He became the first ever Hardcore champion when he defeated Al Snow. But after ending his in ring career, Traylor tragically passed away, reportedly due to heart problems. He will always be remembered for his contributions to the TWF and the wrestling business in general.
Bobby "The Brain" Heenan Inducted on March 31, 2005 Considered by many to be the greatest manager and commentator ever, Heenan came to the TWF as the color commentator of PrimeTime after the roster split. Working alongside Michael Cole, many fans considered them to be even better than Jim Ross and Jerry Lawler. But when he was diagnosed with throat cancer, Heenan was forced to leave the broadcast table. He successfully fought the disease and was there to accept his Hall of Fame plaque. Bobby "The Brain" Heenan will be revered for an eternity in the TWF.
Kid Gundam- Cory Rodriguez Inducted on March 31, 2005 Kid Gundam was the first ever member of the TWF, signing a contract in August of 2000, two months after the TWF went online. He quickly made his mark in the Lightheavyweight division, winning the title 3 times. Gundam also headed up the controversial groups Camp Cornette and Extreme Japan 2000. But near the end of his career, Gundam endeared himself to the fans, and began to defend the United States, rather than insult it. After winning the Intercontinental title, Gundam defended the title with honor and looked like one of the better champions ever. He lost the title to Shane Thompson before announcing he had been diagnosed with cancer. The member who played him, Cory Rodriguez, would later lose a battle to cancer, breaking the heart of the TWF and it's members. Officials decided that the appropriate thing to do would be to retire Gundam and then induct him into the Hall of Fame, which he richly deserved. Thank you Cory Rodriguez for everything. We know you will always be a TWF fan and you will remain in our hearts forever.
Hulk Hogan Inducted on March 31, 2005 There is little argument that the biggest household name in wrestling history is Hulk Hogan. Born Terry Bollea in 1953, Hogan made his mark in many areas and inspired many fans. With his "say your prayers and eat your vitamins" slogan, the Hulkster quickly became a favorite of almost any wrestling fan. He came to the TWF for a couple appearances at WrestleMania before becoming a full time superstar as a member of the nWo. But Hogan quickly dropped the colors of the nWo to don th8e famous red and yellow and even with people saying he was too old, he won the TWF World title at the age of 49. His last match came at WrestleMania 5 and even though he lost, the fans knew who the spotlight belonged to, giving him a standing ovation and proving that Hulkamania truly is immortal.
Weapon R Inducted on: April 10, 2006
For the first couple years of the TWF's existence, Weapon R ruled the ranks of the Lightheavyweight division, winning the title 3 times and defending it with honor. He competed at the very first WrestleMania along with being the only TWF superstar to ever win Japan's version of the Lightheavyweight title. On a Halloween episode of TWF Raw, he stepped out of the division to claim the Hardcore title, defeating the late Crash Holly. Any superstar in the Lightheavyweight division today measures his success against Weapon R, to know where they stand. It's been almost four years since we've seen this amazing competitor in a TWF ring but this year, we are proud to welcome him into the TWF Hall of Fame.
Crash Holly Inducted on: April 10, 2006
Although small in stature compared to his fellow competitors, Crash Holly had as much fight in him as anyone. Possibly the most successful hardcore wrestler in TWF history, he won the title 4 times. He defended the title against all comers and had some very memorable matches. But none more memorable than the night he wrestled his "cousin" Hardcore Holly at the very first TWF WrestleMania, and beat him. But Crash also showed his versatility when he became the Lightheavyweight champion, having to totally change his in ring style. Although his life was cut way too short, Crash's memory lives on in the heart of all TWF fans and this year at WrestleMania, he will take his rightful place in TWF lore.
Jake "The Snake" Roberts April 10, 2006
Already an iconic figure in the business when he came to the TWF, Jake didn't take long to establish himself as a main attraction. With his patented DDT finisher, Jake mowed down opponents on his way to winning the Intercontinental title by defeating Billy Gunn at Code Red in 2001. It seemed Jake had finally overcome a long history of problems. Jake went on to defend the title and while he maintained a shady image, many thought he was a changed man. But it was revealed that summer that he was once again battling drug addiction. But unlike the Jake of old, he came out for a very moving speech on the June 6, 2001 episode of TWF Raw and told fans he was giving up his career to save his life, dropping the title in the process. Now, Jake speaks to young kids in school about the importance of saying no to drugs. But in the ring, he will always be remembered as one of the greats. We proudly announce the addition of Jake Roberts to the TWF Hall of Fame.
Eddie Guerrero April 10, 2006 Without question one of the best to ever lace a pair of boots, Eddie Guerrero came from a rich wrestling background. Son of legendary Mexican promoter Gory Guerrero, Eddie was born to wrestle. Of all his family, it was clear Eddie would climb the highest in the business. And that he did, winning matches and titles all over the world, making a tremendous name for himself. He came to the TWF shortly after it got going and quickly established himself as a top level superstar. But more than that, Eddie was one of the most loved superstars there ever was, always giving back to what gave him so much. Title reigns in the TWF included the Intercontinental and a run with the Rampage tag team titles with his partner, his nephew Chavo. But no matter what his in ring accomplishments, we remember Eddie for the man he was, the husband, the father, the son, the brother, the uncle. No one will ever forget the morning of November 13, 2005, when Eddie's time on Earth was cut way too short. But no one will ever forget his smile, his personality, his loving heart, either. Inside the TWF Hall of Fame, Eddie's spirit will be allowed to live for eternity. So with great, great pleasure, we welcome Eddie Guerrero, Latino Heat, into the TWF Hall of Fame.
Rowdy Roddy Piper March 31, 2007 The final entry into the Hall of Fame for 2007 is the one and only Hot Rod, Rowdy Roddy Piper. Piper will be best remembered for his time as TWF Commissioner, where he laid down the law and took no crap from anyone. It was the presence of this living legend that helped give the TWF it's identity in it's early stages. Piper will compete at WrestleMania 8, but win or lose, he is well deserving of this huge honor.
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Drew Blood March 31, 2007 Unquestionably one of the most successful superstars in TWF history, Drew Blood will be remembered for both his ability to get the best of his opponents both physically and psychologically. Drew Blood was also as good a mat technician as the TWF has ever seen. He also held both the World and Universal titles, as well as winning the Intercontinental and European during his stellar TWF career. Many fans felt Drew Blood gave up wrestling too soon and had his best years ahead of him, but don't rule out the possibility that you'll see him in a TWF ring again some day. But as a member of the class of 2007, we honor Drew Blood with his election to the TWF Hall of Fame.
> Ron Simmons March 31, 2007 Ron Simmons broke out onto the wrestling scene after a stellar football career at Florida State, where he remains one of the only players to ever have his jersey retired. After several great years in both the NWA and WCW, Simmons was one of the original signings for the TWF, forming the powerhouse team known as the Acolytes, with his good friend, Bradshaw. After the TWF implemented the roster split, this team was broken up forever. But it didn't take Simmons long to return to his glory as a singles star, acquiring the services of Teddy Long to help form one of the more infamous groups in TWF history- Civil Rights. With Simmons as the top gun of the group, he entered the first and only Gates of Hell match in TWF history at War in the Winter in December of 2002. Simmons was not the most recognizable star in the match, but he ended up becoming TWF World champion. At that year's Royal Rumble, Simmons put not only the title, but also his career on the line against The Undertaker, a match which would be his last. Simmons is being honored for his great athletic ability, his many contributions to this business, and a career which we will never forget.
Ken Shamrock March 31, 2007 "The World's Most Dangerous Man" earned his name and reputation in the UFC before coming to the TWF. Shamrock signed on with the company before it's launch in November 1999 and quickly established himself as one of it's top stars, winning the European title in a classic bout with Edge. Shamrock would go on to terrorize opponents with his blistering submission style, perfecting the ankle lock hold. Shamrock would also win the Intercontinental title during his tenure along with having great fueds with Val Venis and Travis Wakeman. When the UFC formed it's first working relationship with the TWF, Shamrock was instrumental in the deal, helping to make the UFC title a regular belt in the TWF. Shamrock was also the guest referee at WrestleMania 3 for the UFC-Hardcore title unification match between Wakeman and Rob Van Dam. Fans will always remember Shamrock for his fearless ways and punishing abilities and thus, it is with great pride we select Shamrock to the TWF Hall of Fame.
The Rock March 31, 2007 When the TWF opened it's doors, The Rock was arguably it's biggest star. He competed in the main event at the first WrestleMania, challenging The Undertaker for the World title in a First Blood steel cage match. That match is still considered one of the biggest in WrestleMania history. Although he came up short that night, The Rock would win the title 6 months later in a triple threat match on the September 30, 2000 edition of PrimeTime. But it was his matches with Travis Wakeman that stand out in the eyes of most fans, a series of battles that brought out the best in both men. The Rock was a guy who could've competed in the TWF for 15-20 years and even though you can't see him in one of our rings anymore, you can still catch his larger than life persona on the big screens of Hollywood. We here at the TWF are proud to welcome The Rock into the Hall of Fame.
Bret "Hitman" Hart May 16, 2008 Bret Hart will be remembered in the TWF for his classic matches with Steve Austin and Kurt Angle, but he'll be remembered on a broader for being perhaps the greatest technical wrestler in history. A product of the famed, Hart family, Bret's technical prowess and reputation as a ring general carried him to championships all over the world. We are pleased to honor the 'Hitman' with enshrinement into the TWF Hall of Fame.
Jeff Jarrett May 16, 2008 J-E-double F J-A-double R- E- double T, that's Double J, Jeff Jarrett. That was the way Jeff Jarrett would introduce himself to TWF fans, most of which he was never able to endear himself to, but those same fans could not deny the ability of Jarrett. Jarrett was one of the men who helped get the TWF off and running upon it's inception. Jarrett will always be remembered as the TWF's very first Intercontinental champion but he will be remembered more for his love and dedication to the professional wrestling business. We are proud to welcome Jeff Jarrett into the TWF Hall of Fame.
Joe "Animal" Laurinitis May 16, 2008 Animal was of course one half of what is widely considered the greatest tag team in wrestling history, the Road Warriors. Animal began his first stint in the TWF with his partner Hawk but that run was cut short by the tragic death of Hawk. After a brief layoff, Animal decided he wanted one more run in the wrestling business, and came back to form the New Road Warriors along with Heidenreich. With Heidenreich, Animal became one half of the TWF Tag Team champions, dedicating the victory to his late tag team partner, who is also a member of the TWF Hall of Fame. Animal retired from the ring in 2006 but there is no question that we are ecstatic to have him enshrined into the TWF Hall of Fame.
Trish Stratus May 16, 2008 Trish Stratus came to the TWF in February 2000, shortly after it's inception. Upon her arrival, it was very clear she was a beautiful woman. But no one would have guessed what she could do in the ring. For much of her career, she was the manager of Travis Wakeman, later marrying the "Technical Magician", live on Pay-Per-View. But what made Trish the complete package was the fact that she was able to become as good a female wrestler that there has ever been. Her athletic ability, combined with her desire to compete made her the most memorable diva of all time. Trish left the TWF in 2006, but even though she was no longer part of the active roster, she was rewarded with a lifetime contract, something given to very few. We are pleased to welcome Trish Stratus into the TWF Hall of Fame.
Ric Flair May 16, 2008 Widely considered the greatest wrestler to ever lace a pair of boots, Ric Flair belongs in any wrestling Hall of Fame. Although his career stretched some 36 years, Flair last stop was as part of the TWF. At WrestleMania 9, he became the first wrestler to go into the Hall of Fame as a member of the active roster, an honor he was very proud to have. After "stylin' and profilin'" all over the world, Flair and his 16 World championships are part of the TWF Hall of Fame, and we at the TWF are incredibly honored to be able to say that.
June 13, 2009 "Stone Cold" Steve Austin Easily one of the biggest, if not thee biggest superstar in wrestling history. A former 2 time TWF World champion, Stone Cold created a cult-like following and was by far one of the most beloved superstars that ever step foot in a TWF ring.
June 13, 2009 Jim Ross As the lead announcer of TWF Raw and TWF Rampage since it's inception, good ol' J.R. has become a household name as a broadcaster.
June 13, 2009 Jerry "The King" Lawler A one time wrestling great and legend in the city of Memphis, The King has been the color commentator and broadcast colleague of Jim Ross on Raw and Rampage since the TWF's birth.
June 13, 2009 Andrew "Test" Martin Test, real name Andrew Martin, competed in the TWF for many years and was known as one of the most athletic big men, winning the Intercontinental title two seperate times. He also competed on Rampage, PrimeTime, SlaughterHouse and Badlandz. But Test's wrestling career, and more importantly, his life, was cut short when he was found deceased in his Tampa apartment in March of 2009. He will always be remembered for his contributions to the TWF and the wrestling business in general. May he Rest in Peace.
June 13, 2009 Essa Rios Rios had 2 stints in the TWF, the first of which was very successful, including winning the TWF Lightheavyweight title 3 times. In his second stint, he was a member of the group La Familia on PrimeTime and along with his partners Super Crazy and Psychosis, the trio had some great matches. There are officials within the TWF who consider Rios the best lightheavyweight wrestler of all time.
July 31, 2010 Umaga
Eddie Fatu will long be remembered as one of the most gifted, agile big men the business ever saw. He came to the TWF as Ekmo, one half of the Island Boys, a team that quickly became Tag Team champions. With Rosey, he would later win the Rampage Tag Team titles en route to one of the more impressive title reigns the company has seen. He would later become Umaga, sending fear into the hearts of all his opponents. Tragically, Fatu passed away on December 4, 2009 at the young age of 36. A truly talented performer and a terrific man, Fatu will live in TWF lore for eternity.
July 31, 2010 Masahiro Chono and The Great Muta
Chono and Muta, two of the great Japanese exports, formed one of the best technical tag teams the TWF ever saw, winning the Tag Team titles. Muta can also be credited for helping for the group Extreme Japan 2000. No superstar envied the task of having to face either of these men, knowing the dangers of Muta's green mist and Chono's STF. Together, they were an incredible force. It is with great pleasure that the TWF makes arguably the top two Japanese superstars of all time, members of the Hall of Fame.
November 21, 2011 "The Rated R Superstar" Edge
Without question one of the top stars in TWF history. Edge was part of the inaugural TWF roster and would form a team with his best friend Christian. But as good as they were, Edge is remembered more for his trailblazing ways in the ring. There wasn't much he didn't accomplish. At the time of his retirement, he had held the Universal title more than any other superstar ever. He also held the Intercontinental title twice and both the European and Hardcore titles. In all, Edge captured 9 championships during the course of his career. He competed in the biggest matches and main evented WrestleMania on more than one occasion. Some of Edge's best and most memorable matches took place against his former partner Christian, Jordan Rockwell and Joe Corey. In the spring of 2011, after a nearly 12 year TWF career, injuries forced Edge to retire. But the mark he left on the industry is one that will never fade and one that will set the standard for all other superstars to reach.
