Thunderbolt Patterson is headed to the WWE Hall of Fame.
Earlier today, WWE announced that Thunderbolt Patterson will be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame as part of the 2024 class.
Patterson will join Muhammad Ali, Paul Heyman, Bull Nakano, and the U.S. Express’ Mike Rotunda and Barry Windham as the first four acts to be inducted into this year’s class the night before WrestleMania 40.
From WWE:
“Thunderbolt Patterson will be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2024.
A hugely influential, although often overlooked, figure in sports-entertainment history, Patterson’s captivating abilities on the microphone inspired a generation of talkers that followed in his footsteps.
Growing up in Iowa, Patterson moved to Texas and worked with legendary promoter Dory Funk Sr. (father of WWE Hall of Famers Dory Funk Jr. and Terry Funk) where he began performing incredible interviews using a delivery inspired by Black Southern pastors.
Patterson backed up his talents on the microphone in the ring as he captured titles across North America while defeating iconic opponents like Bruiser Brody and WWE Hall of Famer The Sheik. Thunderbolt was also a decorated tag team competitor, most famously teaming with Ole Anderson before their partnership erupted into a brutal rivalry, which helped launch the legendary Four Horsemen.
Patterson was also a contemporary of WWE Hall of Famer Dusty Rhodes, and was often credited with inspiring The American Dream’s charismatic persona.
Patterson’s work as a captivating performer was self-evident, but he was also a fierce advocate for the health and welfare of competitors outside of the ring.
His legacy as a showman with his signature quick punches, his incredible blend of power and speed, and his compassion for his fellow man live on as his influence can still be seen in the ring today.”
– WWE on Thunderbolt Patterson Being Inducted Into 2024 Hall of Fame Class
The 2024 WWE Hall of Fame ceremony takes place on Friday, April 5 from the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
BodySlam will provide all updates on the next inductees into the WWE Hall of Fame as they become available.
