I hate click bait headlines. They’re deceptive, annoying, and they make you feel dumb. But websites use them because they work. They hit a nerve, they earn your click, and they serve you endless ads.
I’m not going to serve you endless ads, outside promoting my own books. And I am not going to bury the lead. So here’s the bottom line: the George Tragos/ Lou Thesz Hall of Fame is not bucket list material because it should be a regular visit for every true wrestling fan.Â
I’m an avid supporter of the Dan Gable Museum and the TNTHOF. I have been since I made my first visit in 2017. I don’t attend the Hall of Fame every year, but I’ve settled into an every 3 years pattern… which means I’m due for a trip next summer.
The Hall of Fame weekend is not like other fan fests where you, the fans, are over here and they, the wrestlers, are way, way over there behind six sets of velvet ropes. Everyone mingles. Everyone shares a drink, a slice of pizza, and stories. So many stories.
The TNTHOF gives you access like no other event I’ve attended. You want to say hello to Sgt. Slaughter? That’s why he’s here. Go over and shake his hand. If you’re in a bar, by all means, buy him a beer. Same goes for every other legend who frequents the Waterloo, Iowa tradition.
I’ve had the pleasure of hearing stories from a number of people over the years: Joe Malenko, Rick McCord, Baron Von Rashke, Koji Miyamoto, and my favorite Waterloo regular, Rock Riddle. I’ve become friends with fellow historians and collectors. I love seeing Chris Owens and his traveling Andre exhibit. I enjoyed the Nebraska Pro Wrestling Hall of Fame display in 2024. The museum itself always has a fantastic display of memorabilia to explore, and the silent auction items are well worth a look.
You’ll get some wrestling at the TNTHOF as well. They put on a great show mixing legends with local and national indie talent. Wrestlers come from far and wide to be seen and get some coaching. It’s all about networking in pro wrestling, like any other career, and the smart ones know this is a place that can change their lives.
Oh yeah, you’ll gain some friends while you’re in Waterloo too. You’ll connect on Facebook or over text. You’ll feel the peer pressure to buy a ticket for next year, and the next. And here’s the best part: it’s so much more affordable than anything WWE hosts!
The TNTHOF weekend kicks off in two days, so yes, it’s a little late to get there this year. This is your notice to plan for 2027. Get your All Access Pass early. By all means book the hotel downtown and stay where the wrestlers stay. Bring some spending money for autographs, for vendors, and buying a round for your favorite superstar in attendance.
The TNTHOF is not a bucket list item. It’s a tradition, a family reunion you’ll want to experience over and over.
Shameless plug: I’ve attended the TNTHOF three times, and all three visits are covered in my latest book Eat Sleep Wrestle Tonight. So, you know, buy the book now, read up on what you’re missing, and mark your calendar for 2027.
