WWE Legends contracts allow the company to use wrestlers' likenesses for merchandising and promotion, while giving some of the money to the wrestler or their estate. For the purposes of our discussions here, one of the most lucrative pieces of that merchandise is WWE games. WWE 2K25, for example, includes legends such as Andre The Giant, Booker T, and the American Dream Dusty Rhodes. Emmer Jean Harris, wife of James Harris, better known to fans as Kamala, the Ugandan Giant, has announced a WWE Legends deal for the late superstar.
"We couldn't be prouder that James' s legacy is back home where it belongs," Harris said.
Starting the business in 1978, Kamala worked all over the world feuding with everyone from the Von Erichs to The Undertaker. There are rumors that he may be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame this year.
His character didn't speak, but got himself completely over without words. His facepaint, reckless abandon in the ring and signature patting of his ample belly is an indelible part of wrestling history. I got to see him work in a small venue here in Texas. My friend and I were the only Black people in the building other than Kamala. So when the obligatory "USA, USA!" chant broke out during his match, we started what may have been the first and only "Uganda" chant of Kamala's career.
He leapt to the top rope and acknowledged us, and we were instantly 12-year old kids watching him battle Kerry Von Erich again. Such is the magic of pro wrestling. I hope his Legends deal eventually puts him in WWE games, so I can put the fear of Uganda into modern opponents. Thanks for all the memories, Kamala.