Antonio Gates is Canton bound.

The legendary tight end, who revolutionized the position and how it was played, was officially etched into the Pro Football Hall of Fame as one of the four members of the Class of 2025.

And who better to break the news than a Hall of Fame teammate who was right next to him through most of his career.

As Gates made his way into his room, what he didn't expect to see was legendary Chargers running back LaDanian Tomlinson standing there waiting for him to greet him.

"Gatesy," a smiling Tomlinson said as tight end entered the room.

Gates was immediately overcome with emotion, smiling wide as the realization hit.

And then, Tomlinson gave him the news he has been waiting for.

"It's my honor to welcome you to the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2025," Tomlinson told Gates.

The two embraced, as it's safe to say Gates wasn't expecting to be surprised in that manner.

"Y'all are good with this stuff," Gates said with a laugh.

It was an emotional moment for Gates not only for the honor of being inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, but because of recent personal loss.

Gates revealed he had recently lost his father, and shared his appreciation for the special moment in what's been an emotional time.

"I just lost my dad, just buried my dad a week ago Saturday. He would always talk about being a competitor, being tough," Gates said. "Man, it's tough. Thank you."

Gates' moment finally arrived on Thursday, and one of the all-time greats was fired up to make it official.

"I just want to say what's up to all my Chargers fans, Chargers nation," Gates said. "I'm a 2025 Hall of Famer.

"Can't thank you enough about your support over the years and I'm telling you what, I'm so happy and so grateful to be a part of the Chargers organization," Gates added. "See you soon. Bolt up."