Chicago Sun-Times: 'Mania' to be Hall of an event

WrestleMania 21 already had a series of great matches and plenty of title defenses lined up, but the WWE added some big-time star power to the show last week.

First off, in an announcement that was long overdue, it was revealed that Hulk Hogan will be among the inductees to the WWE Hall of Fame. The addition of the Hulkster was expected, but it certainly wasn't considered a sure thing. People can make the argument that Ric Flair was the greatest champion and that names such as Steve Austin, The Rock and Bret Hart were the biggest stars, but Hogan is the man who made wrestling what it is today.

It did not take Hogan long after defeating the Iron Sheik for the WWE title at Madison Square Garden to launch Hulkamania" and propel wrestling to mainstream acceptance. The Hall of Fame induction ceremonies have been great for the fans, but the Hall becomes much more legitimate with Hogan.

Another 2005 inductee will be busy during WrestleMania. Rowdy" Roddy Piper will bring the wildly popular Piper's Pit" segment back to the WWE. Piper is probably the best wrestler in history on the mike, and he will need every bit of his abilities April 3 because his guest will be the returning Austin. Austin has not been known as someone who takes a lot of lip in the ring, and I can't imagine this meeting won't end in a Stone Cold Stunner to Piper.

Either way, Austin in Piper's Pit" might be the most anticipated part of the card.