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Nikki Bella, Natalya and Other WWE Stars React to Stephanie McMahon’s Hall of Fame Announcement

By Monika Thapa • Published Sep 22, 2025 10:10 EDT
Stephanie McMahon

WWE announced Stephanie McMahon as the first inductee into the WWE Hall of Fame induction class of 2026 on September 20, 2025, at WWE’s inaugural Wrestlepalooza event held at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana.

The announcement was made in a surprise and memorable manner by WWE Hall of Famer The Undertaker, who arrived ringside in his “American Badass” persona on a motorcycle. Rather than heading to the ring, The Undertaker stopped by Stephanie McMahon’s seat ringside in the crowd.

They shared light banter, recalling their long-standing friendship, with The Undertaker asking McMahon if she was ready. He then officially announced her as the first inductee for the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2026.

WWE Stars Congratulate Stephanie McMahon

After the announcement, stars like The Bella Twins, Natalya, Torrie Wilson, and others logged onto social media to congratulate The Billion Dollar Princess. Check out some of the moments below:

Natalya: Congratulations @StephMcMahon. You’ve been an amazing character in front of the camera. But behind the scenes, you’ve always been there, no matter how busy you are. I’m very happy for you!!!!!!

Michin: Overdue 🙌 you deserve it 💙💙

Zelina Vega: The most deserving. We love you Momma Steph🩵 @StephMcMahon

The Bella Twins: Omgosh Steph!!! 🥰🥹 Congrats!! Love this so much!!! 🤍✨🙏🏼

Torrie Wilson: This is amazing. So happy for Steph! ❤️💕

Michelle McCool: Y’all- she’s literally just THE best in all sense of the word! Onscreen. offscreen. boss, friend, you name it ->she’s it!!! Congrats @stephaniemcmahon for an overdue, well-deserved honor! #HallOFFame2026 #BestHeelEver

Even though Steph was unable to reply to each and every congratulatory wish she received, she did find time to respond to Michelle McCool.

“Thank you [Michelle McCool] I am beyond overwhelmed! Honored to join you,” Steph wrote on her IG story.

It was an emotional night for Stephanie McMahon as she had no idea that Triple H and others had planned to induct her into the Hall of Fame. The moment visibly moved Stephanie as she thought that The Dead Man was on the show, only to wish her an early happy birthday for her 49th birthday on September 24.