How Bo Jackson Shaped the Future: A Legacy Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: November 23, 2025

A closer look at the lasting mark left by Bo Jackson—a timeline of influence.

Bo Jackson is a former professional baseball and football player, uniquely distinguished as the only athlete named an All-Star in both MLB and NFL. His success in multiple sports has cemented his reputation as one of the greatest all-around athletes of all time.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Legacy & Impact

1989: "Bo Knows" Advertising Campaign

In 1989, Nike launched the "Bo Knows" advertising campaign, featuring Bo Jackson and musician Bo Diddley, to promote a cross-training athletic shoe named for Jackson.

1990: "Bo Knows" Advertising Campaign Continues

In 1990, the "Bo Knows" advertising campaign by Nike continued, further popularizing Bo Jackson's name and image beyond sports.

1991: Featured in Tecmo Super Bowl

In 1991, Bo Jackson was featured in the video game Tecmo Super Bowl for the Nintendo Entertainment System, where he was nicknamed "Tecmo Bo" and was known for being nearly impossible to tackle.

October 31, 1992: Auburn Retires Jackson's Number

On October 31, 1992, Auburn University officially retired Bo Jackson's football number 34 during a halftime ceremony.

1992: Referenced in "Scenario" by A Tribe Called Quest

In 1992, Bo Jackson was referenced in the song "Scenario" by the American hip-hop group A Tribe Called Quest.

Loading Video...

1995: Referenced in "Here Comes the Hotstepper"

In 1995, Bo Jackson was referenced in Jamaican dancehall artist Ini Kamoze's biggest single, "Here Comes the Hotstepper."

Loading Video...

1996: College Football Hall of Fame Induction

In 1996, Bo Jackson was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame, recognizing his achievements in college football.

1997: Referenced in "Big Bad Mamma"

In 1997, Bo Jackson was referenced in the song "Big Bad Mamma" by Foxy Brown.

Loading Video...

2004: Appearance in NFL Street 2

In 2004, Bo Jackson made an appearance in the video game NFL Street 2.

2007: Ranked on ESPN's Top 25 Players List

In 2007, Bo Jackson was ranked #8 on ESPN's Top 25 Players In College Football History list.

2007: Nike Released Bo Jackson shoes

In 2007, Nike released a set of Nike Dunk shoes honoring Bo Jackson. The set featured three colorways based on previously released Nike shoes: the "Bo Knows" Trainer I, Trainer 91 and Medicine Ball Trainer III.

2009: Reflection on business career

In 2009, Bo Jackson reflected on his business career, stating, "I was good for sports, but sports was great to Bo Jackson."

2016: Inducted into Shrine of the Eternals

In 2016, Bo Jackson was inducted into the Baseball Reliquary's Shrine of the Eternals.

2016: Featured in Kia Sorento commercial

In 2016, referencing his video game character, Bo Jackson was featured in an advertisement for the Kia Sorento, driving the car into a virtual stadium. The ad references his video game character "Tecmo Bo".

2017: Expressed regret over playing football

In a 2017 interview with USA Today, Bo Jackson expressed regret over playing football, citing concerns about head injuries and CTE, and stating he would not allow his children to play the sport.

2021: Album Named After Bo Jackson

In 2021, Detroit rapper Boldy James named his album with The Alchemist after Bo Jackson, and also used his likeness for the 2021 album Super Tecmo Bo.

March 13, 2024: Election to Royals Hall of Fame

On March 13, 2024, it was announced that Bo Jackson had been elected to the Royals Hall of Fame and would be inducted before the team's June 29 game against Cleveland.