The long-anticipated moment finally arrived on Saturday as Chicago Bears icon Steve McMichael was officially inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Known affectionately as “Mongo,” McMichael, who was diagnosed with ALS in 2021, could not travel to Canton for the event. Instead, he witnessed the celebration from his bedside, proudly wearing his gold Hall of Fame jacket alongside several of his Hall of Fame peers.
When McMichael’s Hall of Fame bust was unveiled in his room, it was met with a standing ovation from the crowd in Canton, creating a deeply emotional and memorable moment.
This moment 🧡💙 pic.twitter.com/oNbcRiYKkV
— Chicago Bears (@ChicagoBears) August 3, 2024
McMichael’s NFL career spanned 15 seasons, during which he became a key member of the Bears’ legendary defense. He played a pivotal role in the team’s Super Bowl XX victory, earned two Pro Bowl selections, and was twice named a First Team All-Pro. His impressive career stats include 92.5 sacks, the second-highest total in Chicago Bears history.
In a pre-recorded video, McMichael’s sister, Kathy, delivered a heartfelt speech written by the former defensive tackle and wrestler before he lost his ability to speak.
“Hey Chicago Bears fans and Mongo fans. Woohoo! I’m in the Hall of Fame, baby!” the speech began with enthusiasm.
“Woohoo I’m in the Hall of Fame baby”
— Chicago Bears (@ChicagoBears) August 3, 2024
Mongo’s sister Kathy delivers his speech 💙 pic.twitter.com/2k8G2NAkfK
Although the speech was brief, it stood out as one of the most touching and memorable moments of the ceremony. For McMichael, it was the culmination of a lifelong dream—a well-deserved recognition of his legacy as a Bears and NFL legend.
