WWE Hall of Fame Welcomes Natural Disasters

In an electrifying announcement, the WWE has confirmed that legendary tag team The Natural Disasters, consisting of John Tenta and Fred Ottman—better known as Earthquake and Typhoon—will officially be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame's 2025 Class this April. This ceremony is slated to take place on April 18 at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas in Winchester, Nevada, the night prior to the much-anticipated WrestleMania 41.

The Natural Disasters were an unstoppable force in the early 1990s, dominating the WWF tag team scene with their combined weight of over 800 pounds. Their impressive size and powerhouse personas captured the hearts of fans, making them an embodiment of the celebrated phrase by former WWE champion Big E: "big meaty men slapping meat." Their highlight reel includes a brief yet unforgettable stint as WWF Tag Team Champions, showcasing how they exemplified tag team wrestling at its finest—a concept that reflects the idea that sometimes, the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.

Before joining forces, the journeys of Tenta and Ottman into the wrestling world were quite different. Tenta, hailing from Surrey, British Columbia, embarked on a unique path that included a notable amateur wrestling career. As a teenager, he stood an imposing 6-foot-6 and over 300 pounds. After securing a wrestling scholarship to Louisiana State University, he competed against Olympic-caliber athletes and later ventured into sumo wrestling in Japan, where he remarkably remained undefeated in three lower divisions. Tenta's transition to professional wrestling began in 1987, where he honed his skills in Japan before making his memorable debut in the WWF.

Ottman, on the other hand, took a more conventional route as an accomplished powerlifter. Born in 1956, he quickly garnered attention for his extraordinary strength and physique—boasting 23-inch arms and an ability to lift over 700 pounds. His entry into professional wrestling was catalyzed by interactions with wrestlers at his local gym. After some initial training, he made his WWF debut in 1989 as the cheerful Tugboat, only to later align with Earthquake in a shocking twist that resulted in the formation of The Natural Disasters.

As a duo, Earthquake and Typhoon were marvels in their own right. Their signature moves included the devastating Earthquake Splash and the Tidal Wave, both of which showcased their immense strength and in-ring chemistry. Their style resonated with fans, creating a spectacle that combined raw power and entertainment.

Despite their impressive run that saw them win the WWF Tag Team Championship by toppling Money Inc. in July 1992, their journey faced ups and downs, from brief feuds with prominent teams to gradual phasing out of the division. Tenta continued to evolve his persona, wrestling under various gimmicks in WCW after his time in the WWF, while Ottman experienced infamy with his disastrous debut as the Shockmaster in WCW—a moment that remains a highlight (or lowlight) in wrestling history.

Today, both men are remembered not only for their physical prowess but also for their contributions to the wrestling industry as a whole. Tenta passed away in 2006, leaving behind a legacy as one of wrestling's most beloved gentle giants, remembered for his kindness both in and out of the ring. Ottman remains active in wrestling circles, frequently attending conventions and engaging with fans.

The induction of The Natural Disasters into the WWE Hall of Fame recognizes their significant impact on the tag team landscape, illustrating the enduring appeal of two larger-than-life characters who proved that in the world of wrestling, true greatness often comes in pairs. Don’t miss the tribute to these iconic figures—their legacy of strength, teamwork, and entertainment will forever reverberate through the halls of WWE history!