WWE is one of the biggest entertainment industries in the world, and its champions are some of the most recognizable figures in pop culture. From legends like Hulk Hogan and The Rock to current stars like Roman Reigns and Becky Lynch, these wrestlers have become synonymous with the championship belts they've won. But the history of these belts goes far beyond their current holders. Each has a unique story and design that reflects the era in which it was introduced. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just curious about the world of wrestling, this comprehensive guide to WWE champions belts will take you on a journey through the evolution of these iconic symbols of success. So, strap on your championship belt and dive into the rich history of WWE champions belts!

The History of WWE Champions Belts

The history of WWE champions belts can be traced back to the early days of professional wrestling, where a committee determined champions. This system was replaced in the 1950s when the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) was formed to unify the various regional wrestling promotions across the United States. The NWA introduced the first world championship belt, a simple design with a gold plate and a black leather strap.

In 1963, the WWE (then known as the World Wide Wrestling Federation or WWWF) was formed, and it introduced its version of the world championship belt. This version was a more elaborate design with a gold plate and white leather strap. Over the years, the WWE has introduced various championship belts for different weight classes and divisions.

The design of the championship belts has evolved over the years to reflect the changing times. In the 1980s, the WWE championship belt was a large gold plate with red and green gems, synonymous with Hulk Hogan's reign as champion. In the 1990s, the design was updated to a more modern look with a larger WWE logo.

Different Types of WWE Champions Belts

The WWE has introduced various championship belts over the years for different weight classes and divisions. The most prestigious championship belt is the WWE Championship, which Roman Reigns currently hold. This belt is a large gold plate with a red leather strap.

The WWE also has championship belts for tag teams, women's wrestling, and cruiserweights. The tag team championship belt is a large silver plate with a blue leather strap. The women's championship belt is a large gold plate with a white leather strap. The cruiserweight championship belt is a smaller design with a purple leather strap.

The Most Iconic WWE Champions Belts

The most iconic WWE championship belts are those that legendary wrestlers have held. The WWE championship belt synonymous with Hulk Hogan's reign as champion in the 1980s is one of the most iconic championship belts in wrestling history. The Intercontinental championship belt, introduced in 1979, has also become an iconic design. The belt is a large white plate with a red and gold design currently held by Apollo Crews.

The current design of the WWE championship belt, introduced in 2014, has also become iconic. The belt is a large gold plate with a red leather strap and a modern WWE logo.

Champions Who Have Held Multiple Belts

Many wrestlers have held multiple championship belts throughout their careers. One of the most notable is Ric Flair, who has held 16 world championship belts. John Cena has also held numerous championship belts, including the WWE and United States championships.

Triple H is another wrestler who has held multiple championship belts, including the WWE and Intercontinental championships. The Rock has held multiple championship belts, including the WWE and Intercontinental championships.

The Process of Creating a WWE Champions Belt

The process of creating a WWE champions belt is a long and detailed one. It starts with a concept design created by the WWE's creative team. The concept design is then sent to a manufacturer who creates a belt prototype. The prototype is then sent back to the WWE for approval.

Once the prototype is approved, the manufacturer creates the final version of the belt. The final version is then sent to the WWE, where it is used in matches and presented to the champion.

The Significance of Winning a WWE Champions Belt

Winning a WWE champions belt is a significant achievement for any wrestler. It symbolizes their success and recognition of their hard work and talent. The championship belt represents the pinnacle of achievement in professional wrestling and is highly coveted by wrestlers worldwide.

The championship belt also represents a responsibility for the champion. They are expected to represent the WWE and the championship belt with honor and respect. They are also likely to defend the championship against all challengers.

Controversies Surrounding WWE Champions Belts

There have been controversies surrounding WWE champions belts over the years. One of the most notable controversies was the Montreal Screwjob in 1997, where Bret Hart was stripped of the WWE championship belt during a match with Shawn Michaels. This incident led to a rift between Hart and the WWE that lasted for many years.

Another controversy surrounding WWE champions belts is the use of replica belts. Many fans purchase replica championship belts, which can be expensive, and some wrestlers have been known to use replica belts in their matches.

Collecting WWE Champions Belts

Collecting WWE champions belts has become a popular hobby for professional wrestling fans. There are many replica championship belts available for purchase, and some fans collect vintage championship belts from the past.

Collecting WWE champions belts can be expensive, with some vintage championship belts fetching high prices at auctions. However, for die-hard fans of professional wrestling, collecting championship belts is a way to connect with the rich history of the industry.

Conclusion

WWE champions belts are more than just symbols of success in professional wrestling. They are iconic designs that reflect the changing times and the wrestlers who have held them. From the simple gold plate of the NWA world championship belt to the modern design of the current WWE championship belt, each championship belt has a unique story and design.

Whether you're a die-hard fan or just curious about the world of wrestling, this comprehensive guide to WWE champions belts has taken you on a journey through the evolution of these iconic symbols of success. From Hulk Hogan to Roman Reigns, the champions who have held these belts have become synonymous with the WWE and pop culture. So, strap on your championship belt and enjoy the rich history of WWE champions belts!