The first World Heavyweight Champion recognized by the WWE, “Nature Boy” Buddy Rogers was a flashy yet tough ring combatant.  Rogers was chosen by Vince Sr. and Toots Mondt to be their champion as they withdrew from the NWA.  Sadly, Rogers had a mild heart attack and had to drop the belt to Bruno Sammartino which prevented the Nature Boy from having much of a title reign.  Regardless, Rogers was a good draw in the North East and a decent choice to be the first champion of the WWE.

Andre the Giant was the man for whom the WWE Hall of Fame was created for and its first inductee.  Standing well over seven feet tall, Andre was actually quite agile in his youth and throughout his career was a featured attraction regardless of where he performed.  Loyal to Vince, Andre headlined Wrestlemania 3 putting over Hulk Hogan in what could very well have been the most anticipated match in wrestling history.  It is hard pressed to find anyone who is more worthy of being the first inductee to the WWE Hall of Fame.