The International Wrestling Grand Prix (IWGP) championship belts hold a special place in professional wrestling. They are symbols of honor and international recognition. Throughout this article, I will explore the history, importance, and impact of these belts on the wrestlers’ legacies as well as the sport itself.
History of IWGP Belts
The New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) is responsible for creating the IWGP belts which became synonymous with high-quality wrestlers from all over the world very fast. Since they were established during 1980s, these championships have been regarded as the highest point that can be reached in wrestling by any professional athlete worldwide.
Design and Craftsmanship
Every single one of them is made by hands so skilled that it seems like magic has been used instead – such attention to detail reflects not only deep-rooted traditions associated with this kind of entertainment but also respect towards it shown throughout many years now. These items are composed out of finest materials available such as leather or gold while their appearance boasts various patterns presenting great strength mixed with powerful skills required within pro wrestling matches where everything matters most; even life may depend on outcome sometimes… The lion mark which is a representation of strength and power is another feature that makes people recognize these unique belt designs instantly – besides being bold enough to wear golden plates around waist must certainly command some respect too!
The Path To Championship Glory
It takes more than just talent alone in order to win an IWGP title because you need lots of determination plus hard work alongside other things like sacrifices made along way among others before finally emerging victorious at top level where everyone strives reach someday anyway therefore becoming champion might be seen as ultimate proof showing one’s ability regardless how difficult this could seem before start or even during match itself when facing opponent who seems unbeatable no matter what happens next…
Notable Champions
Over years many famous names have held onto their respective titles thus becoming part history related not only those particular individuals but also whole industry itself – Antonio Inoki being one such person among others. Shinya Hashimoto who was another great wrestler that never let go easily once he got his hands on belt while Hiroshi Tanahashi managed successfully defend it against various rivals until Kazuchika Okada ended up becoming longest reigning champion ever thus far having won title five times altogether with four out these five matches being rated stars by Dave Meltzer who claimed they were simply too good for him give anything less than full marks each time around which says lot when comes professional wrestling
Global Impact and Legacy
These championships played huge role internationalization process taking into consideration fact they helped bring together people from different cultures speaking diverse languages across globe thanks wherefore multiculturalism became much appreciated especially among fans this kind sport. Moreover, many have seen them as bridge cultural gaps thereby making friends enemies between competitors representing nations worldwide hence fostering peace through understanding what each nation stands for bringing closer world communities affected by wars hatreds based solely race or religion alone… In short words – these belts represent universal appeal towards all things related to grappling sportsmanship.
Collectors and Fans
For collectors or enthusiasts alike there can never be enough IWGP belts since each one tells unique story behind it which may become valuable someday – some replicas being sought after due historical importance attached certain events witnessed while others serve reminder favorite moments during career such items are treasured decorations representing love passion shared games any true lover could spend hours talking about this topic without getting bored another person worth mentioning here would probably be Jim Cornette who has often expressed desire own version such championship himself if only had money required purchase though neither nor anyone else will ever get opportunity do so because these titles belong performers alone forevermore!