Albany, NY — October 11–12, 2025 — The International Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame (IPWHF) will celebrate its 2025 Induction and Awards Weekend in Albany, New York, with a full slate of festivities honoring the sport’s storied past and legendary figures. The weekend will include special events at the MVP Arena and the Crown Plaza Desmond Hotel, highlighted by the induction of the Class of 2025 and the 80th birthday celebration of Bill Apter, one of wrestling’s most influential journalists.

Saturday, October 11, 2025

4:00–6:30 p.m. | Gathering at the Museum
MVP Arena, 51 South Pearl Street, Albany, NY
The weekend begins with an exclusive gathering at the IPWHF Museum, where guests will get the first public viewing of the Class of 2025 bronze plaques. Donations will be accepted at the door.

6:30–8:30 p.m. | Bill Apter’s 80th Birthday Bash
MVP Arena, 51 South Pearl Street, Albany, NY
The celebration continues as the IPWHF honors Bill Apter, widely regarded as the greatest journalist in professional wrestling history, with a live and interactive “Apter Chats” featuring stars and personalities from across the wrestling world.
Fans who have purchased a full-price dinner ticket receive complimentary admission; general admission is available for $20.

Sunday, October 12, 2025

1:00–3:00 p.m. | Tour the Museum
MVP Arena, 51 South Pearl Street, Albany, NY
Fans can explore the IPWHF Museum and its exhibits chronicling wrestling’s rich global legacy. Donations will be accepted at the door.

6:00–10:00 p.m. | 2025 Induction Ceremony and Awards Dinner
Crown Plaza Desmond Hotel, 660 Shaker Road, Albany, NY
The evening begins with “6:05 WTBS – Wrestlers Talkin’ Before The Show”, a cocktail hour that nods to wrestling’s classic television heritage. The Awards and Induction Ceremony follows at 7:00 p.m., hosted by Dave LaGreca, Bill Apter, and Mac Davis. Tickets for this event must be purchased in advance.

Class of 2025 Inductees and Honorees

• Trish Stratus – One of the most influential women in wrestling history, celebrated for her trailblazing career in WWE and beyond.
• Tito Santana – Multi-time champion and beloved figure; his induction will occur at a later date due to scheduling.
• Tony Atlas & Rocky Johnson – Pioneering tag team and cultural icons, whose impact broke barriers in professional wrestling.
• Johnny Rodz – Legendary wrestler and trainer whose influence continues through generations of talent.
• Clarence Bouldin – Recipient of the Trailblazer Award, honoring his lasting contributions and groundbreaking work in the sport.
• Billy Corgan (NWA President) – Recipient of the Excelsior Award, recognizing his leadership and preservation of wrestling’s traditions through the National Wrestling Alliance.

Founded as a non-profit organization, the International Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame is dedicated to preserving and honoring professional wrestling’s global history. The IPWHF aims to highlight the contributions of individuals from diverse backgrounds and cultures who have shaped the sport throughout its evolution.

For more information or to support the Hall, visit www.prowrestlinghall.org.

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