Introduction
Wrestling championships are more than just gold and leather—they represent history, prestige, and unforgettable moments. Over the years, some belts have disappeared, becoming rare relics of the past. Whether due to company closures, rebranding, or unique one-off designs, these championships are now almost impossible to find.
In this post, we’ll explore 10 rare wrestling belts you’ll never see again. From forgotten titles to short-lived designs, these championships hold a special place in wrestling history. If you’re a collector or just a fan of wrestling memorabilia, you’ll love this deep dive into the rarest belts ever created.
1. WCW Million Dollar Championship
Before Ted DiBiase’s famous WWF Million Dollar Championship, WCW introduced its own version in 1996. This belt was awarded to the winner of a battle royal at WCW World War 3, but it was quickly abandoned. Unlike the WWF’s diamond-encrusted design, WCW’s version was plainer, making it one of the most forgotten belts in wrestling history.
2. WWF European Championship
Debuting in 1997, the WWF European Championship was a mid-card title that helped elevate stars like Shawn Michaels, Triple H, and D’Lo Brown. The belt was retired in 2002 after being unified with the Intercontinental Championship. Its classic oval design with a blue globe centerplate makes it a favorite among collectors.
3. ECW FTW Heavyweight Championship
Created by Taz in 1998, the FTW (F* The World) Championship** was an unsanctioned ECW title. It was never officially recognized but became a symbol of rebellion. When ECW closed, the belt disappeared, making original versions extremely rare.
4. NWA World Television Championship (Mid-Atlantic Version)
Before the NWA became WCW, the World Television Championship was a major title in Mid-Atlantic Wrestling. Held by legends like Tully Blanchard and Arn Anderson, this belt featured a unique TV-shaped centerplate. After WCW’s rebranding, the title was retired, and authentic versions are nearly impossible to find.
5. WWE Hardcore Championship
The Hardcore Championship was known for its 24/7 rule, where the title could change hands anytime, anywhere. Introduced in 1998, it was retired in 2002. The belt’s scratched-up, makeshift design made it stand out, but genuine replicas are now collector’s items.
6. AWA World Women’s Championship
The American Wrestling Association (AWA) had a women’s division in the 1980s, and this title was briefly defended by stars like Sherri Martel. When the AWA folded, the belt vanished, making it one of the rarest women’s championships in wrestling history.
7. WWE Winged Eagle Belt (Original 1988 Version)
The Winged Eagle is one of the most beloved WWE Championship designs. However, the original 1988 version had a slightly different shape and darker gold finish compared to later versions. Authentic belts from this era are highly sought after by collectors.
8. TNA Global Championship
Introduced in 2008, the TNA Global Championship was meant to be a secondary world title. However, it was retired just a year later after Eric Young unified it with the TNA World Heavyweight Championship. Few replicas were made, making it a rare find.
9. UWF SportsChannel Television Championship
The Universal Wrestling Federation (UWF) had a short run in the 1990s, and this TV title was defended on SportsChannel America. When the UWF merged into other promotions, the belt was abandoned, and surviving copies are incredibly scarce.
10. WWE Light Heavyweight Championship (Original 1981 Design)
Before the Cruiserweight Championship, WWE had the Light Heavyweight Title in the early 1980s. The original design featured a sleek, smaller centerplate, unlike later versions. Since WWE rarely acknowledges this title, original belts are nearly extinct.
Conclusion
Wrestling belts come and go, but some disappear forever, becoming rare treasures for collectors. From the WCW Million Dollar Championship to the original WWE Light Heavyweight Title, these belts represent lost eras in wrestling history.