The new IRL Hall of Legends has 42 inaugural members: 26 post-1954 men, 10 pre-1954 men, and six women's-game greats.
Jason Taumalolo is the only current international player inducted.
The North Queensland Cowboys forward was honoured on Thursday evening.
His induction recognises his international impact.
Taumalolo's switch from New Zealand to Tonga before the 2017 World Cup is widely regarded as a defining moment.
The move helped expand Pasifika representation and encouraged players to represent their heritage nations.
Taumalolo represented Tonga against Samoa in 2013, then made 10 New Zealand appearances between 2014 and 2017.
He has since played 24 Tests for Tonga.
IRL chairman Troy Grant said the inductees' influence extended beyond the field and promised further inductions.
Eligibility requires significant international contribution and national Hall of Fame recognition, an IRL Golden Cap for 50 Tests, or the IRL Golden Boot/RLIF International Player of the Year Award.