Have you ever wondered what standards are used to judge a wrestler’s greatness? Are the win-loss records, titles and longevity enough to declare the greatest WWE wrestlers? Or is it their popularity, influence and legacy that transcends beyond the ring?
As we talk about these great wrestlers, we’ll also witness these players’ charisma, athleticism, and sheer dedication that set them apart. We shall consider multiple aspects of wrestlers and give them a comprehensive ranking based on a well-rounded evaluation of their performances, charismatic appeal, and longevity. So, get ready to be pinned to the edge of your seat as we unravel the tales of some of the legendary WWE wrestlers of all time.
Also before jumping on the list, here’s an interesting WWE fact— WWE used to be called WWF, which stood for World Wrestling Federation. In 2002, they had to change it to WWE due to a legal issue with the World Wildlife Fund, which also used WWF. This name change adds an interesting twist to WWE’s history in the world of professional wrestling.
10 Best Legendary Wrestlers of All Times:
The game of wrestling extends beyond the bare numbers or accomplishments of wrestlers. Several factors determine a wrestler’s brilliance, and these frequently ignite fervent discussions among fans and experts alike. We have ranked these players based on their in-ring competence, the evolution of their personas, success in championships and their charismatic mic skills.
1. The Undertaker
People of all age groups unanimously love this haunting force of darkness. His wrestling career is a testament to unparalleled longevity and iconic sportsmanship in the ring.
In-ring competence
No one can equate his talent for gripping stories with each action and gesture. Every aspect of his performance conveyed a story, from the ominous entrance to the accuracy of his Chokeslam and the stupendous Tombstone Piledriver.
Persona Evolution
He changed from the paranormal “Deadman” to the intrepid “American Badass.” This development demonstrated his ability to fit in with many time periods and captivate followers with exciting, novel personas.
Success in championships
- His 21-0 undefeated streak at WrestleMania is an iconic achievement.
- One of WWE’s most famous competitions, the Royal Rumble, was won by The Undertaker in 2007.
- The Undertaker was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2021 to recognize his influence on the business.
Charisma and mic-skills
The instant he enters the arena, everyone is drawn to him. Even though he is not known for giving extensive advertisements, his few words leave a great impact. Expressions like “Rest in Peace” and “Austin 3:16” have gained notoriety.
Latest Buzz
The Undertaker unexpectedly made a comeback to the series in the most recent episode of NXT. He did so after Bron Breakker’s match against Carmelo Hayes as the American Badass instead of the Deadman.
2. Steve Austin
Austin’s career is a tribute to his unmatched charisma and in-ring prowess. Through his consistent performances, he has positioned himself as an extraordinary wrestler in WWE.
In-ring competence
Famous for his technical prowess and ferocity, his “Stone Cold Stunner” finisher gave audiences the chills. Even after 1997, he continued distributing stunners like candy bars on Halloween, although he was more of a brawler and an entertainer than a wrestler.
Persona Evolution
Stone Cold’s on-screen evolution is a tale of defiance, from Stunning Steve to the Texas Rattlesnake. He was a true rebel because of his disobedient demeanour, the classic “Austin 3:16” commercial, and his love for a cold beer.
Success in championships
- Austin fought night in and night out, earning 12 WWE championships while serving as the tag team champion four times, the intercontinental champion twice, and the WWE champion six times.
- Austin held the Million Dollar Championship as part of his ongoing rivalry with “The Million Dollar Man” Ted DiBiase.
- In 1996, Austin won the King of the Ring competition.
Charisma and mic-skills
Steve connected with the audience with his bold, no-nonsense approach to the promos. He had a talent for shocking opponents after a theatrical mic drop to close a promo. During the 1996 King of the Ring event, the tagline “Austin 3:16” became viral and contributed to his ascent to fame. Due to his charismatic mic-skills, he served as WWE’s Attitude Era’s spokesperson in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Latest Buzz
He has also acted in a few Hollywood movies. Austin now talks about anything and everything that pops into his brain and shares tales from his new life and unbelievable past adventures through his podcasts
3. Dwayne Johnson
Dwayne Douglas Johnson, or “The Rock”, is a name familiar to millions of people worldwide. His charisma and athleticism have made him one of the greatest WWE wrestlers and a renowned actor.
In-ring competence
The in-ring skill of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson goes beyond typical wrestling. His technical prowess led him to carry out techniques precisely, which gave his in-ring narrative more depth. His characteristic moves, such as the Rock Bottom and People’s Elbow, became household names, with each performance narrating a tale of power.
Persona Evolution
The Rock’s on-screen development and personal evolution as a human is evidence of his adaptability. From being a blue-chipper to “The People’s Champ” to eventually becoming a Hollywood megastar, he attracted fans at every turn.
Success Championships
- He won the WWE Tag Team Championships with various partners, showcasing his adaptability and collaboration.
- The Rock earned the titles of Triple Crown and Grand Slam Champion after taking home several prestigious WWE awards.
- In 2000, he triumphed in the King of the Ring competition, which featured the enduring “This Is Your Life” section.
Charisma and mic-skills
His commanding presence and mic skills weren’t what many wrestlers could possess. His Slogans like “Just bring it” were nothing short of electrifying!
Latest Buzz
Even outside of the wrestling arena, Dwayne Johnson’s path is still inspiring and in the news. His successful forays into the fitness gear sector with Project Rock and the alcoholic beverage sector with Teremana Tequila have attracted a lot of attention.
4. Paul Levesque (Triple H)
Paul Levesque, better known by his ring name Triple H, is a well-known WWE icon. His strategic brilliance and relentless pursuit of excellence have solidified his legacy as a cornerstone of professional wrestling.
In-ring competence
Triple H had set the bar high for technical prowess with his mind-gripping repertoire and power moves. His involvement in legendary battles, like Hell in a Cell and No Disqualification matches, demonstrated his determination to push the limits.
Persona Evolution
Changing from a Blueblood to a King of Kings, Triple H’s character evolution is evidence of his openness to novelty. He made his acting debut as the wealthy Hunter Hearst Helmsley in The Blueblood, adopting a completely different demeanour.
Success in championships:
- In 1997, Triple H achieved a notable accomplishment in the WWE by winning the renowned King of the Ring competition.
- He repeatedly held the WWE Championship title and won millions of hearts.
- He held the Intercontinental and Tag Team Championships during his tenure, demonstrating his flexibility in singles and tag team action.
Charisma and Mic-Skills
He produced gripping and frequently intense promos that drew viewers into his rivalries, and due to this, he is often dubbed as a “manipulative mastermind”.
Latest Buzz
After suffering from a cardiac arrest, the legend had confirmed his retirement. He has been essential to the growth and success of NXT, WWE’s developmental brand.
5. Hulk Hogan
Hulk Hogan, real name Terry Eugene Bollea, is one of the top WWE wrestlers with his outsized personality. His larger-than-life persona made him a pioneer who not only defined an era in WWE but forever etched his name in the hearts of millions of people globally.
In-ring competence
In the face of difficulty, Hogan was well-known for his physical prowess and strong manoeuvres, such as the Atomic Leg Drop and Hulking Up. He is always known for creating a distinctive in-ring experience.
Persona Evolution
The Hulkamania era was characterized by his demeanour that encouraged followers to uphold moral principles. But he became a villain when he joined the nWo and adopted his “Hollywood” persona.
Success in championships
- He is a proud holder of the WWE Championship six times.
- He consistently won World Heavyweight Championships and WWE Tag Team Championships.
- He emerged victorious in the King of the Ring competition in 1986, one of his noteworthy career achievements.
Charisma and mic-skills
Despite his tendency to ramble, his capacity to deliver captivating promos and magnetic presence not only delighted viewers but also often influenced the course of storylines.
Latest Buzz
Hulk Hogan last competed in WWE roughly 15 years ago. At the wedding celebration of his friend, he announced his engagement with a yoga instructor.
Also Read: Triple H’s Blueprint for Success in 2024: WWE’s Rising Stars Revealed
6. Shawn Michaels
Shawn Michaels, referred to as “The Heartbreak Kid” or “HBK,” is a show-stopping virtuoso in the ring. His unparalleled charisma has earned him the moniker of Mr. WrestleMania and has solidified his place as one of the greatest WWE wrestler.
In-Ring Competence
His aerial acrobatics, especially the superkick from Sweet Chin Music, continue to be the talk. Michaels’ bouts were always full of gripping narratives with an emotional appeal that never fails to amuse audiences.
Persona Evolution
From a Rocker to “The Heartbreak Kid”, the evolution of this persona propelled him into the pinnacles of the WWE. Being a founding member of D-Generation X allowed him to show off his witty and edgy side through famous actions and catchphrases like ‘”You’d Better Step Hard” and “I was the attitude in this place before it was a catchphrase,”
Championship success
- He was a champion in both the WWE and the WCW, and his success carried over to the World Heavyweight Championship.
- He proved his prowess in both singles and tag team competitions during his successful reign as the Intercontinental Champion.
- He won the WWE Tag Team Championships with Marty Jannetty and “Stone Cold” showcasing his teamwork.
- Won the European Championship in the singles competition.
Mic-Skills and Charisma
His memorable promos were distinguished by humour and passionate delivery. His catchphrases, “Are you ready?” have become synonymous with him. His capacity for expressing a range of emotions and engaging the audience sets him apart from his peers.
Latest Buzz
Currently, Shawn Michaels is a coach at the WWE Performance Center. In NXT, where the two closest friends collaborate to book superstars on the roster, he serves as Triple H’s right-hand man.
7. Mick Foley
Mick Foley is a fearless, multifaceted performer who pushed the boundaries of pain and storytelling, leaving an indelible mark on WWE with his distinct personas like Mankind, Cactus Jack, and Dude Love.
In-ring competence
His ring personas, such as Cactus Jack, are well-known for their vicious brawls, barbed wire, and thumbtacks used in hardcore wrestling. His swift adaptability between a hardcore brawler and a technical wrestler as needed also amuses his fans and opponents alike.
Persona Evolution
From Mankind to Dude Love, his persona includes a variety of identities, each endowed with a special appeal. Foley’s real-life attitude sharply contrasts the hardcore, unpredictable Cactus Jack persona. Foley’s charisma was on full show as the cool and laid-back Dude Love character.
Success in championships
- Art Abrams Lifetime Achievement Award was bestowed to him in 2011 by a non-profit fraternal organization named Cauliflower Alley Club.
- Foley has won the world heavyweight championship four times, thrice in the WWF and once in the TNA.
- With eight WWF Tag Team Championships, two ECW World Tag Team Championships, and one WCW World Tag Team Championship, he has won the title 11 times.
Charisma and mic-skills
He had a distinctive ability to create scathing promos on full display in ECW, a.k.a “Extreme Championship Wrestling, which was active from 1992 to 2001. Foley’s genuine enthusiasm for wrestling and his willingness to put up with severe punishment struck a chord with fans.
Latest Buzz
Off late, Foley has dabbled in stand-up comedy, telling amusing stories from his time as a professional wrestler. He also played the role of Dick Valentine in one episode of the television show “Heels.” in 2021. It is a drama series that gives viewers a fictitious view of the world of professional wrestling.
8. Randy Savage
Randy Savage, the “Macho Man,” earned the title of the greatest WWE wrestler due to his unparalleled charisma. This flamboyant ring maestro was known for his intense energy, memorable catchphrases, and iconic elbow drop.
In-ring competence
Savage was a master in making quick movements and high-flying tricks. His flexibility in the ring was highlighted by his technical abilities, which ranged from suplexes to blows.
Persona Evolution
From Savage’s to Macho, he showed his capacity for self-reinvention.
Initially, he adopted the colourful-attired and charismatic “Macho Man” and then to the gritty NWO faction in WCW, which everyone admired.
Success in championships
- He ranked ninth among the top 500 singles wrestlers of the “PWI Years” in 2003.
- Four times winner of the WCW World Heavyweight Championship
- He also won three times as the NWA Mid-America Heavyweight Champions
Charisma and mic-skills
His ferocious, high-intensity commercials and catchphrases like “Ooh yeah!” were a treat to watch. He also delivers raw emotions effortlessly that captivate his audience. His outrageous demeanour, sunglasses, and raspy voice were loved by his fans worldwide.
Latest Buzz
The tragic passing of Randy Savage happened On May 20, 2011, at the age of 58 from what is thought to have been a heart attack. Savage was given voice acting jobs for numerous television and film projects thanks to his distinctive voice.
9. Ric Flair
Few have ever come close to the perfection exhibited by this “The Nature Boy”. This sixteen-time world champion has earned numerous titles like ‘The Stylin’, Profilin’, Limousine Ridin’, Jet Flyin’, Kiss Stealin’, Wheelin’ N’ Dealin’ Son of a Gun’ and is known to be one of the greatest professional wrestlers in history.
In-ring competence
Flair was an expert in grips, counters, and mat work. He was known for his technical wizardry. Flair guided the audience through emotional ups and downs during his matches, proving his expertise in ring psychology.
Persona Evolution
The flashy “Nature Boy” persona, with its opulent robes and demeanour, made him one of the most alluring wrestlers. As one can anticipate, there was drama in Ric Flair’s farewell match. Before leaving the ring during his farewell match, the “Nature Boy” pretended to have a heart attack before poking Jay Lethal in the eye, adding more drama to the set.
Success in championships
- Flair had a record-breaking 16-time World Heavyweight Champion, including the NWA and WCW world heavyweight titles.
- He was also successful in tag team competitions, taking home the NWA/WCW World Tag Team Championship.
- He was inducted twice into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2008 and 2012.
Charisma and mic-skills
His extravagant promos were popular in which he declared himself the “limousine-riding, jet-flying and kiss-stealing, thereby harbouring a fan base on its own. Flair’s promos occasionally spiralled out of control.
Latest Buzz
Several documentaries and biographies have been made to honour Flair’s career. Flair underwent surgery to remove an obstruction from his colon on August 14, 2017, in Georgia.
10. John Cena
John Cena, one of the greatest of all time, also hailed as “The Champ,” is a larger-than-life figure, philanthropist, and 16-time world champion. His unwavering hustle, loyalty, and respect have made him the face of WWE and a global sports and entertainment icon.
In-ring competence
Cenatiena’s wrestling style, combined with some of the most brutal finishing moves like Stepover Toehold Facelock, Five-Knuckle Shuffle, and the Attitude Adjustment, brought a craze and vogue to the ring.
Persona Evolution
The famous rap album “You Can’t See Me!” released in 2005, is a testimonial for this talented persona’s ability to craft rhymes. From a brazen rapper to a Hollywood celebrity, his transformation has been electrifying like his power matches. He was known as the “Doctor of Thuganomics” because of his flawless rhymes and freestyle promos.
Success in championships
- In 2006, 2007, and 2013, he ranked first among the top 500 singles wrestlers in the PWI.
- He has been a winner of the WWE United States Championship five times.
- With Rico Constantino, he won the OVW Southern Tag Team Championship.
Charisma and mic-skills
His dynamic promos offered genuine sentiments. The famous Cena’s catchphrases like “Never Give Up” and “The Champ is Here” displayed honesty and created a bond with the younger audiences.
Latest Buzz
This October, Cena made his debut televised appearance and addressed the fans. He greeted the crowd for their warm greeting and said that although many talk about NXT being the future, they fail to realize that “NXT was making history that night”.
Conclusion
With this, we conclude our list of 10 greatest WWE wrestlers of all time. A wrestler’s popularity is often influenced not just by the triumphs in the ring but also by the artistry, passion, and dedication they bring to the sport. These pro wrestlers had a lasting impression on the sport, each with their unique ability to create gripping in-ring narratives. Beyond victories and conflicts, they had left a lasting legacy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Question 1: Is Undertaker the greatest wrestler of all time?
All wrestling fans, young and old, are admirers of The Undertaker. People have witnessed him humiliate even the biggest names in the industry at Wrestlemania in the previous two decades.
Question 2: Who is the best wrestler in the world now?
Tyson Smith, better known as Kenny Omega, from Canada, has held several championships, including the AEW World Championship, Impact World Championship, AAA Mega Championship, and IWGP Heavyweight Championship1. He was voted Wrestler of the Year by Sports Illustrated in 2017 and finished first on Pro Wrestling Illustrated’s list of the best 500 male wrestlers in 2018 and 2021.
Question 3: Who is more powerful, Undertaker or John Cena?
The crowd loved the distinctive personalities of both. Based on their ring prowess, Undertaker is more powerful. His wrestling technique is more power-based than Cena’s. It includes a variety of moves, including aerial manoeuvres, mat wrestling, submission manoeuvres, and, of course, The Tombstone.
Question 4: Is WWE real or just acting?
World Wrestling Entertainment is planned and choreographed. The results of bouts, the plotlines, and the characters that wrestlers play are predetermined and are all a part of a scripted story. But the WWE wrestlers exhibit highly real physical athleticism despite the plotlines, and feuds are made for entertainment and are referred to as “sports entertainment.”
Question 5: Who is the best female wrestler in WWE history?
Trish Stratus, a seven-time WWE Women’s Champion, is acclaimed as one of the finest female wrestlers. She first appeared on the scene in 2000 as a manager and rapidly established her dominance inside the ring, setting the bar for women’s wrestling throughout her career.