WWE has announced that Thunderbolt Patterson will be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2024, as first reported by Andscape.
Patterson is considered a hugely influential, yet often overlooked, figure in the history of pro wrestling and sports entertainment.
Working with Dory Funk Sr. in Texas, Patterson was known for his incredible interviews with a delivery inspired by Black Southern pastors.
He also captured titles across North America defeating the likes of Bruiser Brody and WWE Hall of Famer The Sheik, and famously teamed with (and later feuded against) Ole Anderson, which helped launch the legendary Four Horsemen.
A contemporary of Dusty Rhodes, Patterson was often credited with inspiring the American Dream’s charismatic persona.
Following his retirement in 1985, Patterson would have one more match at WCW Slamboree 1993, teaming with Brad Armstrong to face Ivan Koloff and Baron von Raschke in a “Legends Reunion Match.”
Beyond his talents as a performer, the 2019 Lou Thesz Award recipient was known to be an advocate for the health and welfare of competitors outside the ring, speaking out against poor working conditions in the 1970s.
Patterson joins Muhammad Ali, the U.S. Express, Bull Nakano, and Paul Heyman in being inducted ahead of WrestleMania 40, taking place April 6 and 7 from Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
The WWE Hall of Fame induction ceremony takes place following SmackDown on Friday, April 5.