According to PWInsider.com, the late pro wrestling legend Sputnik Monroe has been selected as an inductee into the 2025 Memphis Sports Hall of Fame. He is the second professional wrestler to be honored by this hall, following Jerry Lawler's induction in 2022.
Monroe was not only a legendary heel in the wrestling world but also a civil rights activist. He was frequently arrested for his actions and was known for hiring a Black attorney. He would appear in court, pay a fine, and then continue advocating for his cause. A multi-time World Champion, Monroe was inducted into the NWA Hall of Fame in 2012 with the Hall's Humanitarian Award, and he was also honored in the WWE Hall of Fame in 2018.
The Memphis Sports Hall of Fame celebrates the area's top athletes, coaches, and contributors while inspiring and educating new athletes about Memphis' rich sporting history. Inductees are chosen by an 18-member advisory board. The other inductees for the 2025 class include Tony Allen, Tommy Buford, Matt Cain, Fred Horton, Joye Lee-McNelis, Bubba Luckett, Curtis Person Sr., Lucy Wener, and Carrie Yerty.
