Owens said he will hold his own celebration at a later date.

“While I am incredibly appreciative of this opportunity, I have made the decision to publicly decline my invitation to attend the induction ceremony in Canton,” Owens said. “I have already shared this information with the Hall.

“After visiting Canton earlier this year, I came to the realisation that I wish to celebrate what will be one of the most memorable days of my life elsewhere. At a later date, I will announce where and when I will celebrate my induction.”

Owens didn’t divulge what about his visit to Canton led to his decision.

Owens was selected for induction on his third year on the ballot. He expressed dissatisfaction when passed over on his first two years of eligibility.

The Hall of Fame acknowledged Owens’ decision with a statement from Hall of Fame president and CEO David Baker.

“We are disappointed but will respect Terrell’s decision not to participate in the Enshrinement,” Baker said. “While unprecedented, the Pro Football Hall of Fame, the nearly 5,000 volunteers and the entire community are committed to celebrating the excellence of the Class of 2018 that will kick off the NFL’s 99th season.”

In addition to Owens, this year’s other inductees are general manager Bobby Beathard and players Robert Brazile, Brian Dawkins, Jerry Kramer, Ray Lewis, Randy Moss, and Brian Urlacher.

“As we do not want to detract from this great honor being enjoyed by the seven other members of the Class of 2018 … their family, friends and fans; the Pro Football Hall of Fame will have no further comment on the decision made by Terrell Owens,” Baker said.

Owens said in his statement that he is “truly humbled” and “honoured” to be joining the Hall of Fame. He also thanked the teams he played for during his 15-year career — the San Francisco 49ers, Philadelphia Eagles, Dallas Cowboys, Buffalo Bills, and Cincinnati Bengals.

“I am thankful for the relationships forged and the lessons learned while part of each team,” Owens said. “I wish to congratulate all past, current and future inductees. It is quite an honor to be part of such elite company. This honor is something that I will cherish forever.”

Owens ranks second in NFL history with 15,934 yards, third with 153 touchdown catches, and eighth with 1,078 yards. He was a six-time Pro Bowl selection.

Owens, an outspoken figure throughout this career, topped 1,000 yards nine times and caught a career-best 100 passes for the 49ers in 2002.