The WWE has been a staple of American tradition for many years, and has produced a number of the most iconic sports activities and pop stars on the earth. From larger-than-life characters like Hulk Hogan and Andre the Large to modern-day fan favorites like Roman Reigns and Becky Lynch, there isn’t a scarcity of legend in WWE historical past. It is laborious to pinpoint the “greatest” of something in subjective area reminiscent of professional wrestling, however I feel we will all agree that these 5 wrestlers are among the many most iconic and influential of all time.
Probably the most vital elements in figuring out a wrestler’s legacy is their influence on the enterprise. Hogan helped to make the WWE mainstream within the Eighties, and his larger-than-life persona grew to become synonymous with skilled wrestling. Andre the Large was a real big within the ring, and his feud with Hogan remains to be one of the iconic in WWE historical past. Austin was the face of the WWE within the Nineteen Nineties, and his “Stone Chilly” persona helped to make the corporate extra edgy and in style than ever earlier than. Cena was the highest star of the WWE within the 2000s, and his record-setting 16 world championships is a testomony to his longevity and recognition.
It is tough to check wrestlers from totally different eras, however there is not any scarcity of expertise showcasing today. Roman Reigns is the present face of the WWE, and he has been one of the in style wrestlers within the firm for years. Becky Lynch is the reigning Uncooked Girls’s Champion, and he or she is without doubt one of the most profitable feminine wrestlers in WWE historical past. Seth Rollins is a former WWE Champion, and he is without doubt one of the hottest wrestlers within the firm amongst younger followers. Braun Strowman is a former Common Champion, and he is without doubt one of the strongest wrestlers within the WWE. These are just some of the various proficient wrestlers who’re at present showcasing within the WWE.
The Triumphant Reign of Roman Reigns
The Tribal Chief, Roman Reigns, has ascended to the head of sports activities leisure along with his unparalleled dominance within the WWE. Since capturing the Common Championship in 2020, Reigns has launched into a outstanding title reign that has shattered information and captivated the wrestling world.
Reigns’ reign has been characterised by an aura of invincibility. He has defended his title efficiently in opposition to numerous challengers, together with the likes of John Cena, Daniel Bryan, and Brock Lesnar. His iconic “Superman punch” and “spear” have turn out to be synonymous along with his devastating energy and dominance.
Past his in-ring accomplishments, Reigns has additionally established himself as a magnetic persona on the microphone. His promos are sometimes crammed with charismatic depth and unwavering confidence, leaving the WWE Universe each captivated and intimidated.
The desk beneath highlights a number of the key statistics and milestones of Roman Reigns’ record-breaking title reign:
| Statistic | Worth |
|---|---|
| Days as Common Champion | 840+ |
| Profitable Title Defenses | 30+ |
| Wins over Former World Champions | 10+ |
The Aerial Prowess of Seth Rollins
Seth Rollins is widely known as one of the agile and athletic performers in WWE historical past. His skill to soar by the air with ease has earned him the nickname “The Aerialist.”
Signature Strikes
Rollins’ signature aerial maneuver is the Curb Stomp, a devastating double underhook powerbomb that he usually delivers from the highest rope. He additionally makes use of the Phoenix Splash, a high-flying splash from the highest rope, and the Frog Splash, a 450 splash that he popularized in WWE.
Unveiling the “Frog Splash”
Rollins’ Frog Splash is a mesmerizing sight to behold. The transfer entails him leaping from the highest rope, executing a backflip, and touchdown feet-first on his opponent. It requires unimaginable timing, coordination, and core power. Rollins first unveiled the Frog Splash in 2015 in opposition to John Cena, cementing himself as a real aerial phenomenon.
This is a desk summarizing Seth Rollins’ aerial maneuvers:
| Transfer | Description |
|---|---|
| Curb Stomp | Double underhook powerbomb from the highest rope |
| Phoenix Splash | Excessive-flying splash from the highest rope |
| Frog Splash | 450 splash with a backflip |
The Phenomenal Celebrity: AJ Kinds
AJ Kinds is an American skilled wrestler, at present signed to WWE, the place he performs on the Uncooked model. He’s broadly thought to be one of many best skilled wrestlers of all time. Kinds is a two-time WWE Champion, a four-time TNA World Heavyweight Champion, and a three-time IWGP Heavyweight Champion. He has additionally received quite a few different championships in different promotions all through his profession.
TNA Wrestling
Kinds debuted in TNA in 2002, and rapidly grew to become one of many firm’s high stars. He received the TNA World Heavyweight Championship for the primary time in 2003, and held it for over 200 days. Kinds additionally received the X Division Championship twice, and was a member of the Fourtune secure. He left TNA in 2013 to affix WWE.
New Japan Professional-Wrestling
Kinds debuted in New Japan Professional-Wrestling (NJPW) in 2014, and rapidly established himself as one of many high wrestlers within the firm. He received the IWGP Heavyweight Championship for the primary time in 2014, and held it for over 300 days. Kinds additionally received the IWGP Intercontinental Championship twice. He left NJPW in 2016 to return to WWE.
Bullet Membership
Kinds was a pacesetter of the Bullet Membership secure throughout his time in NJPW. The Bullet Membership is a bunch of rebellious wrestlers who usually antagonize the followers. Kinds was a key member of the Bullet Membership, and helped cause them to a number of championships. He left the secure in 2016 to return to WWE.
| Championship | Reigns | Days Held |
|---|---|---|
| WWE Championship | 2 | 411 |
| TNA World Heavyweight Championship | 4 | 1162 |
| IWGP Heavyweight Championship | 3 | 838 |
| IWGP Intercontinental Championship | 2 | 393 |
| X Division Championship | 2 | 283 |
The Blueprint: John Cena
John Cena is undoubtedly one of many best WWE Superstars of all time. With an unprecedented 17 world championship reigns, Cena has cemented his legacy as a legend within the wrestling trade. Identified for his unwavering dedication and infectious enthusiasm, he has turn out to be a beloved determine amongst followers worldwide.
Early Profession
Cena’s journey to stardom started in 2002 along with his debut in Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVW). He rapidly rose by the ranks, profitable the OVW Heavyweight Championship twice. In 2004, he made his WWE debut on the SmackDown model, the place he quickly grew to become a fan favourite.
Hustle, Loyalty, Respect
Cena’s signature catchphrase, “Hustle, Loyalty, Respect,” completely encapsulates his unwavering dedication to the game. His relentless work ethic, unwavering loyalty to his followers, and unwavering respect for his opponents have earned him immense admiration.
Prolific Championship Reign
Cena’s championship reign is really unparalleled in WWE historical past. He has held the WWE Championship 13 instances, the World Heavyweight Championship 3 instances, and the USA Championship 5 instances. His skill to persistently ship charming performances and join with the viewers has made him a real champion in each sense of the phrase.
Iconic Rivalries
Cena’s profession has been marked by quite a few iconic rivalries which have cemented his standing as a legendary performer. His feuds with the likes of Triple H, Edge, CM Punk, and Roman Reigns have produced a number of the most unforgettable matches in WWE historical past.
One in every of Cena’s most memorable rivalries was with AJ Kinds. The 2 Superstars engaged in a collection of intense and extremely acclaimed matches, together with their basic encounter at SummerSlam 2016. Their rivalry was not solely a battle of talent and athleticism but in addition a testomony to Cena’s skill to raise his opponents to new heights.
One other iconic feud was with Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. Their rivalry started in 2011 and culminated in the principle occasion of WrestleMania XXVIII, the place Cena defeated The Rock to win his first WWE Championship. The match was a historic second for WWE and solidified Cena’s standing because the face of the corporate.
Cena’s rivalry with Brock Lesnar additionally deserves point out. Their feud started in 2014 and produced a number of the most brutal and bodily demanding matches in latest reminiscence. Cena’s skill to face up to Lesnar’s relentless assaults and in the end defeat him at SummerSlam 2014 is a testomony to his unimaginable resilience and dedication.
| Title | Date | Opponent |
|---|---|---|
| WWE Championship | June 29, 2005 | JBL |
| World Heavyweight Championship | April 3, 2011 | The Miz |
| United States Championship | July 5, 2014 | Alberto Del Rio |
The Beastslayer and Tribal Chief: Brock Lesnar
Early Life and Wrestling Profession
Brock Lesnar was born in Webster, South Dakota, in 1977. He excelled in newbie wrestling, profitable the NCAA Division I Nationwide Championship in 2000. Lesnar made his skilled wrestling debut in 2002 and rapidly gained recognition for his uncooked energy and intimidating presence.
WWE Debut and Rise to Stardom
Lesnar joined WWE in 2002 and rapidly established himself as a dominant pressure. He received the WWE Championship in 2003, turning into the youngest man to carry the title at age 25. Lesnar continued to dominate WWE, profitable the Royal Rumble in 2004 and headlining WrestleMania XX.
NFL Stint and Return to WWE
In 2004, Lesnar briefly left WWE to pursue a profession within the NFL. He performed for the Minnesota Vikings for one season earlier than returning to WWE in 2005. Lesnar continued to be a high star in WWE, profitable the WWE Championship once more in 2006.
Finish of WWE Run and UFC Profession
Lesnar left WWE in 2008 and launched into a profitable blended martial arts (MMA) profession. He fought within the UFC from 2008 to 2011, profitable the UFC Heavyweight Championship in 2009. Lesnar returned to WWE in 2012.
Current Success and Tribal Chief
Since his return to WWE, Lesnar has continued to be a dominant pressure. He received the Common Championship in 2017, 2018, and 2019. In 2020, Lesnar grew to become the Tribal Chief of the Anoa’i household and aligned himself with Paul Heyman. Lesnar has continued to dominate WWE, profitable the WWE Championship once more in 2021.
| Accomplishments |
|---|
| WWE Championship (5 instances) |
| Common Championship (3 instances) |
| Royal Rumble Winner (2004) |
| UFC Heavyweight Champion (2009) |
The Empress of Tomorrow: Asuka
Asuka, born Kanako Urai, is a famend Japanese skilled wrestler who has captivated the WWE Universe together with her distinctive abilities and enigmatic presence. Referred to as “The Empress of Tomorrow,” she is broadly thought to be one of many best feminine wrestlers of all time.
Early Profession and Dominance in NXT
Asuka made her WWE debut in 2015 and rapidly established herself as a pressure to be reckoned with within the NXT model. She launched into a formidable undefeated streak that lasted over two years, capturing the NXT Girls’s Championship and turning into a beloved fan favourite.
Debut and Success on the Essential Roster
In 2017, Asuka was promoted to the WWE important roster and made her extremely anticipated debut on the Royal Rumble. She dominated the match and eradicated a number of opponents earlier than in the end profitable. This victory set the stage for her profitable important roster profession, the place she held the Uncooked and SmackDown Girls’s Championships a number of instances.
Signature Strikes and Type
Asuka’s outstanding in-ring skills are characterised by her signature strikes, together with the Asuka Lock, a devastating submission maintain, and the Inexperienced Mist, a blinding spray that disorients her opponents. Her distinctive fashion combines high-flying maneuvers with technical prowess, making her an exhilarating and unpredictable competitor.
Desk of Victories
| Match | Opponent | End result |
|---|---|---|
| NXT TakeOver: Brooklyn III | Nia Jax | Victory |
| Royal Rumble 2018 | A number of Opponents | Victory |
| SummerSlam 2020 | Sasha Banks | Victory |
Accolades and Legacy
All through her illustrious profession, Asuka has amassed quite a few accolades, together with the NXT Girls’s Championship (twice), the Uncooked Girls’s Championship (twice), and the SmackDown Girls’s Championship (as soon as). She has additionally been acknowledged because the WWE Feminine Celebrity of the Yr (2017) and the Professional Wrestling Illustrated Girl of the Yr (2018). Asuka’s legacy as a pioneering feminine wrestler and one of the dominant performers in WWE historical past is firmly cemented.
The Queen of Harts: Natalya Neidhart
Natalya Neidhart, often known as Nattie, is a third-generation wrestler who has made a reputation for herself within the WWE. She is the daughter of legendary wrestler Jim “The Anvil” Neidhart and the niece of Bret “The Hitman” Hart.
Natalya’s journey to the WWE started in her youth when she skilled beneath her father and uncle. She made her WWE debut in 2007 and rapidly rose by the ranks, profitable the Divas Championship in 2010 and the SmackDown Girls’s Championship in 2017.
Nattie’s Legacy
Natalya is broadly thought to be one of many best feminine wrestlers of all time. She has held quite a few championships and has confronted a number of the most iconic names within the trade, together with Charlotte Aptitude, Becky Lynch, and Ronda Rousey.
Nattie’s Signature Strikes
- Sharpshooter
- Discus Clothesline
- Natalya Snap
- Cat’s Cradle Suplex
- German Suplex
- Electrical Chair Drop
- Working Bulldog
Nattie’s Championships
| Championship | Instances Held |
|---|---|
| WWE Divas Championship | 1 |
| WWE SmackDown Girls’s Championship | 1 |
| NXT Girls’s Championship | 1 |
The Cerebral Murderer: Triple H
Triple H is a 14-time world champion, making him one of the profitable wrestlers in WWE historical past. He’s additionally a member of the Corridor of Fame and has headlined a number of WrestleMania occasions. Triple H has been a significant pressure in WWE for over twenty years and is taken into account one of many best wrestlers of all time.
Early Life and Profession
Triple H, born Paul Michael Levesque, started his wrestling profession in 1992. He wrestled in varied unbiased promotions earlier than becoming a member of WCW in 1994. In WCW, he was often known as Terra Ryzing and later Hunter Hearst Helmsley. He received the WCW World Heavyweight Championship in 1999 and held the title for nearly a 12 months.
WWE Profession
Triple H joined WWE in 2000 and rapidly grew to become one of many firm’s high stars. He shaped the faction D-Era X (DX) with Shawn Michaels and was concerned in a few of WWE’s most memorable storylines.
World Heavyweight Championship Reigns
Triple H has received the WWE World Heavyweight Championship a document 14 instances. He first received the title in 2002 and has held it on a number of events since. Triple H is without doubt one of the most dominant world champions in WWE historical past.
Evolution
In 2003, Triple H shaped the faction Evolution with Ric Aptitude, Randy Orton, and Batista. Evolution was one of the profitable factions in WWE historical past and helped Triple H keep his standing as a high star.
Triple H’s Legacy
Triple H is without doubt one of the most embellished wrestlers in WWE historical past. He’s a 14-time world champion, a member of the Corridor of Fame, and has headlined a number of WrestleMania occasions. Triple H has been a significant pressure in WWE for over twenty years and is taken into account one of many best wrestlers of all time.
Quantity 8: His Relationship with Stephanie McMahon
Triple H’s marriage to Stephanie McMahon, the daughter of WWE CEO Vince McMahon, has been a significant a part of his storyline in recent times. The couple has been married since 2003 and has three daughters collectively. Triple H’s relationship with Stephanie has given him numerous energy and affect inside WWE.
| Yr | Partner | Youngsters |
|---|---|---|
| 2003 | Stephanie McMahon | 3 |
The Viper and Useless Man: Randy Orton and The Undertaker
Early Careers
Randy Orton debuted in 2002, rapidly rising by the ranks, whereas The Undertaker debuted in 1990, turning into a legend within the trade.
Signature Strikes
Orton’s signature transfer is the RKO, a devastating finisher. The Undertaker’s signature transfer is the Tombstone Piledriver, a robust ending maneuver.
Titles and Accomplishments
Each Orton and The Undertaker have received a number of world championships and different main titles all through their careers.
Feuds and Rivalries
Orton and The Undertaker have engaged in a number of memorable feuds, together with their iconic match at WrestleMania 31.
Character and Persona
Orton portrays a crafty and ruthless viper, whereas The Undertaker embodies the supernatural and mystical “Useless Man.”
Longevity
Orton and The Undertaker have persistently carried out at a excessive degree for over 20 years.
Legacy
Each Orton and The Undertaker are thought of two of the best wrestlers of all time and have left an indelible mark on the trade.
Memorable Moments
Orton’s 2003 cash-in of the Cash within the Financial institution contract is an iconic second, whereas The Undertaker’s streak at WrestleMania is famous.
Quantity 9: The Streak
The Undertaker’s 21-0 undefeated streak at WrestleMania is without doubt one of the most iconic feats in wrestling historical past. It started in 1991 and was lastly damaged by Brock Lesnar in 2014. The streak cemented The Undertaker’s standing as a residing legend and added to the mystique of his character.
| Wrestler | Win | Loss |
|---|---|---|
| Randy Orton | 1 | 2 |
| The Undertaker | 2 | 1 |
The Architect of the Protect: Dean Ambrose
Dean Ambrose, often known as Jon Moxley, is a former WWE wrestler who gained prominence as a member of The Protect, alongside Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins.
Early Life and Profession
Ambrose was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, and started wrestling in his teenagers. He wrestled for a number of unbiased promotions earlier than becoming a member of WWE’s developmental system in 2011.
The Protect
In 2012, Ambrose debuted on WWE tv as a member of The Protect, a rebellious trio that focused authority figures. The Protect rapidly grew to become one of the in style factions within the firm’s historical past.
Solo Profession
After The Protect disbanded in 2014, Ambrose launched into a profitable solo profession. He received the Intercontinental Championship thrice and the Hardcore Championship as soon as.
Lunatic Fringe
Ambrose’s unhinged persona earned him the nickname “Lunatic Fringe.” He was identified for his unpredictable and fearless fashion, usually partaking in brutal brawls.
Rivals
All through his WWE profession, Ambrose feuded with quite a few high stars, together with Triple H, The Miz, and Brock Lesnar.
Departures and Returns
Ambrose left WWE in 2019 however returned in 2021 as Jon Moxley, his former identify from the unbiased circuit.
Signature Strikes
Ambrose’s signature strikes included the DDT, Soiled Deeds (Double Underhook DDT), and Suicide Dive.
Impression on WWE
Ambrose performed a big position within the recognition of The Protect and helped elevate the Intercontinental Championship. His distinctive persona and in-ring fashion made him a fan favourite.
Legacy
Dean Ambrose will probably be remembered as one of the influential and charismatic wrestlers of the fashionable period. His contributions to WWE will proceed to be celebrated for years to come back.
Accomplishments
| Championship | Instances Gained |
|---|---|
| WWE Intercontinental Championship | 3 |
| WWE Hardcore Championship | 1 |
The Better of the WWE
WWE (World Wrestling Leisure) is a world leisure firm that has been charming audiences for many years with its larger-than-life characters, gripping storylines, and high-flying motion. Whereas private preferences could differ, there are a number of wrestlers, matches, and moments that stand out as one of the best that the WWE has to supply.
Probably the most iconic wrestlers in WWE historical past is Stone Chilly Steve Austin. Along with his signature “glass break” entrance music and rebellious perspective, Austin grew to become a fan favourite all through the Nineteen Nineties and early 2000s. His rivalry with The Rock is taken into account one of many best in WWE historical past.
One other legendary WWE famous person is The Undertaker. Identified for his darkish and mysterious persona, The Undertaker has been a mainstay within the firm for over three many years. His undefeated streak at WrestleMania, which lasted from 1991 to 2014, is without doubt one of the most spectacular feats in wrestling historical past.
When it comes to matches, the Hell in a Cell match between Shawn Michaels and The Undertaker at WrestleMania 26 is broadly thought to be one of many best of all time. The brutality and depth of the match, coupled with the gripping storyline behind it, made it a very unforgettable spectacle.
Individuals Additionally Ask
Who’s the most well-liked WWE wrestler?
It is a subjective query, however a number of the hottest WWE wrestlers through the years embrace Hulk Hogan, The Rock, Stone Chilly Steve Austin, John Cena, and The Undertaker.
What’s the greatest WWE match ever?
Once more, it is a matter of private opinion, however a number of the matches which might be continuously cited as one of the best of all time embrace the Hell in a Cell match between Shawn Michaels and The Undertaker at WrestleMania 26, the Iron Man match between Bret Hart and Shawn Michaels at WrestleMania XII, and the Royal Rumble match from 1992.
Who has essentially the most WWE championships?
John Cena holds the document for essentially the most WWE championships with 16 reigns. Different wrestlers who’ve received the title a number of instances embrace Hulk Hogan (6 reigns), The Rock (8 reigns), and Bruno Sammartino (7 reigns).
