We've heard his name mentioned quite a bit over the past few weeks, and WWE has now confirmed that the Great Muta will be inducted into this year's Hall of Fame.
During the latest episode of The Bump, Ric Flair officially announced that the Japanese legend will be joining Rey Mysterio in the HOF class of 2023.
Though Muta has competed in WCW, he actually never appeared in the WWE, so this is a somewhat surprising development.
Check out the company's statement below.
Muta began his career in NJPW, where he made a name for himself before heading to WCW, where he battled with the likes of Sting, Lex Luger and even “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, then going by his “Stunning” nickname. The iconic competitor won titles all over the globe, becoming a nine-time heavyweight champion in the process.
Muta’s legacy includes being an innovator of moves that are still used to this day, including the Muta Lock submission hold and the Shining Wizard, used currently by SmackDown Superstar Tegan Nox. In addition, he often sprayed mysterious mist into his opponents’ eyes, inspiring future Superstars such as Tajiri and Asuka to utilize the devastating strategy.
Though not the inventor of the moonsault, Muta’s perfection of it wowed audiences dating back to the 1980s. Muta wrestled for over 39 years, but hung up his boots this year, facing off against current WWE Superstar Shinsuke Nakamura in one of his final matches.
WWE congratulates The Great Muta on his worthy inclusion into the WWE Hall of Fame.