It had been speculated for a year that the Great Muta would be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame, and it became official yesterday.  The now-retired Japanese legend will be making his first official appearance on live WWE programming at the induction ceremony.

Keiji Mutoh began his career in 1984 s part of the New Japan Pro Wresting Dojo, and he gained experience in his native country and abroad, most notably by adopting the Great Muta gimmick in the NWA, where he dazzled fans with his unique style.  He won the Television Title in 1989, but returned to New Japan shortly after, where he would compete both under his real name and as his painted-face alter ego.

Muta was a top star in Japan throughout the next 20 years, winning every title worth having.  This included the IWGP Heavyweight (4), IWGP Tag Team (6), the G1, All-Japan Triple Crown (3), and All-Japan Tag Team (5).  He also started his own promotion, Wrestle-1.

While Muta never wrestled under the WWE banner, his influence in the current product is universally known. 

On our latest Notinhalloffame list of those to consider for the WWE Hall of Fame, Muta was ranked at #18.  He will be removed following the announcement of the full class.

The ceremony will take place on March 31, just before Wrestlemania.

We here at Noinhalloffame.com would like to congratulate the Great Muta for his impending honor.