The Motor City Machine Guns (Alex Shelley & Chris Sabin), the tag team that is considered by many fans to be the best in the industry, recently saw the end of a full-time run under the WWE banner, and now fans and members of the industry alike are anticipating their next move. To understand why there is so much buzz right now, one only has to look at the Guns' accomplishments and contributions to the industry through the years.
Alex Shelley and Chris Sabin were TNA originals who did not receive the attention that they deserved over the years, with X Division Championship reigns being their biggest accomplishment. Shelley and Sabin finally discovered their TNA niche in 2007, when they were united as The Motor City Machine Guns and eventually won the TNA World Tag Team Championship.
As WWE Tag Team Champions, three-time TNA World Tag Team Champions, ROH World Tag Team Champions, IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Champions, NJPW STRONG Openweight Tag Team Champions, and the holders of many other championships internationally, the Motor City Machine Guns have been a dominant force in almost every notable promotion they have been in. With a combination of chemistry, innovation, technical moves, and high-flying maneuvers, the Guns have been show stealers on more than one occasion.
One of the highlights of the Motor City Machine Guns being a part of the SmackDown brand was their matches with #DIY, Johnny Gargano and Tommaso Ciampa. Although Ciampa had not been in the ring with the Guns before then, Gargano teamed with former XPW World Tag Team Champion Josh Prohibition to wrestle them at an independent event in 2007. Gargano had also wrestled Alex Shelley and Chris Sabin in singles matches. But the October 2024 Motor City Machine Guns vs. #DIY match was the first.
Another highlight was the Motor City Machine Guns' match with The Bloodline, Tama Tonga and Tonga Loa. The Motor City Machine Guns appeared in NJPW during the time that Tama Tonga and Tonga Loa were wrestling for them regularly, but the two teams had never faced off. During Tama Tonga & Tonga Loa’s time in NJPW, they held the IWGP Tag Team Championship a record seven times, gaining them the reputation of being a great tag team. With the Guns having an exceptional reputation as well, this match taking place for the first time in their careers was exciting for fans. The Guns captured the WWE Tag Team Championship in this match.
Additionally, Alex Shelley and Chris Sabin, seasoned veterans of the ring, had matches with Austin Theory & Grayson Waller, rising stars who were still early in their careers. The matches between the Motor City Machine Guns and A-Town Down Under were valuable learning experiences for Theory and Waller.
It's also worth noting that before joining WWE full-time in October 2024, Alex Shelley and Chris Sabin both worked with WWE in the past. In 2019, they were guest coaches at the WWE Performance Center on separate occasions.
I love wrestling. I am the Multiple Man of the industry: a thousand lives inna thousand different places. Thanks everyone who helped me get this far. pic.twitter.com/t2VKTpnUL6
In addition, in 2020, Alex Shelley teamed with Kushida for NXT live events and as a participant in that year’s Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic tournament.
The professional wrestling landscape changed significantly with the wave of WWE releases this past April. A release is not only an exit; it is a market resetting. When a top-tier asset hits the open market, it creates immediate speculation, anticipation, and forecasting. One of those premium assets on that market spent the last seven years under the WWE umbrella internationally- Kay Lee Ray.
You saw Kay Lee Ray become the longest-reigning NXT UK Women's Champion in history. You saw her set NXT ablaze as Alba Fyre. You saw her give in to her dark side while teaming with Isla Dawn in NXT as they became the final WWE NXT Women's Tag Team Champions and later on became WWE Women's Tag Team Champions. And you saw her pull duty as a member of the Secret Hervice. When all of that is combined with what Ray has accomplished outside of WWE, what the wrestling world has in store becomes clearer, wherever she lands next.
The UK Independent Scene
Years before being a member of WWE's developmental system, Kay Lee Ray began her career on the UK independent scene, where she captured many championships. Ray is a 3-time former Insane Championship Wrestling (ICW) Women's World Champion (with her first reign being the sixth-longest in the championship's history), a former EVE Champion, and she became the first WOS Women's Champion.
Japan
Early in her career, Kay Lee Ray wrestled in Japan for JWP and Gatoh Move Pro Wrestling from 2012 to 2013, and STARDOM from 2016 to 2018. These experiences enhanced her aggressiveness and technical skills.
The US
Kay Lee Ray first began wrestling in the US in 2014, and worked for SHIMMER, SHINE, and ZERO1 USA. She also appeared in TNA three times for TNA British Boot Camp, a reality program which featured UK-based talents competing for a TNA contract.
In 2015, Kay Lee Ray made her first appearance in NXT and later participated in WWE Mae Young Classic 2017, signing her first contract with WWE two years later.
All of Kay Lee Ray's accomplishments brought her to that point, acknowledging her status as an international star.
With Kay Lee Ray now on the next chapter of her career, there are many places where she fits into the current wrestling ecosystem globally:
Because Kay Lee Ray is familiar with being in the ring with a wide range of pro-wrestling styles from all over the world, there are many wrestlers in Tony Khan’s women’s divisions in AEW who she could adapt to and have matches with that would entertain fans, such as technically-gifted wrestlers like Serena Deeb and Deonna Purrazzo, and Mina Shirakawa with her hybrid Japanese/American style.
When Kay Lee Ray was in TNA in 2014, she was as a pro-wrestler earlier in her career, trying to get an opportunity. If she returned to TNA now, it would be as one of the biggest names on the Knockouts roster, who could have matches with fellow veterans like Ash By Elegance or newer generation wrestlers like Elayna Black
Kay Lee Ray has evolved since her time in STARDOM. Most of the time that she was there was a developmental learning experience for her, as she was expanding her craft and coming into her own. If Ray were to return to STARDOM at this point in her career, it would be as a seasoned veteran who could have matches with current top STARDOM wrestlers, including Saya Kamitani, Starlight Kid, and AZM.
A 3-time holder of the ICW Women's World Championship, Kay Lee Ray's roots run deep in the promotion. If she decides to return to the UK wrestling scene, ICW would be a natural landing spot for a homecoming and would take its women's division to another level.
Another UK-based promotion that Kay Lee Ray has a history with, Pro-Wrestling: EVE, began teasing a mystery appearance not long after she was released from WWE, which has caused many fans to believe that the former EVE Champion will be returning to the promotion. EVE was one of the promotions that Ray wrestled in the most while she was on the UK independent wrestling scene, so it's a strong possibility.
Alba Fyre provided television exposure, and now the world-class level Kay Lee Ray is back on the market. It will be very interesting to see what happens next.
In the spring of 2023, when Vince McMahon officially put WWE on the market, it was expected that either Disney, the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund (PIF), Comcast, or Endeavor would buy WWE. Endeavor was the successful buyer and merged it with its subsidiary, UFC, to create TKO, but what if Tony Khan had secured the winning bid in an acquisition that changed the industry and merged the two largest entities in the pro-wrestling industry under one man's control?
While TKO is a public company driven by quarterly earnings and shareholder value that needs to focus on immediate profit-maximization, Tony Khan runs his sports teams (the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Fulham Football Club) as private entities- he would have been able to prioritize long-term coordination between AEW and WWE. Rather than dissolving WWE into AEW, Khan would likely have operated them as separate brands under a single umbrella, WWE remaining a global touring entity, while AEW continues as an alternative.
For the first time in the history of both brands, there would be an exchange of talent between the two. WWE Superstars like Randy Orton could appear on AEW Dynamite for one-off matches, and AEW stars Kenny Omega and Will Ospreay would be able to perform at WrestleMania.
We could have seen matches between AEW and WWE talent that were previously not possible, through a cross-brand pay-per-view event:
Kenny Omega vs. CM Punk
Gunther vs. Chris Jericho
Will Ospreay vs. Randy Orton
Cody Rhodes vs. Adam Copeland
Christian Cage vs. Roman Reigns
MJF vs. The Miz
Brock Lesnar vs. Claudio Castagnoli
Rey Mysterio vs. Jon Moxley
Kazuchika Okada vs. Seth Rollins
Johnny TV vs. Sami Zayn
Drew McIntyre vs. Samoa Joe
Rhea Ripley vs. Mercedes Moné
Adam Page vs. Shinsuke Nakamura
Hikaru Shida vs. IYO SKY
The competition between AEW and WWE for talent, TV deals, and fans would be over, with a dominance similar to WWE's in the post-WCW era in 2001, and the ripple effects would be felt globally. Small promotions would have become developmental feeders, while ROH and NXT likely would have been merged into a single, global scouting system. Without being able to play AEW and WWE against each other for bigger contracts, talent would have lost some leverage in salary negotiations, although they would be pleased with the AEW-style travel schedule, which has roughly 68% fewer events than WWE's. In addition, AEW has a flexible contract model that potentially would allow WWE Superstars to appear in many other promotions.
While many of WWE’s corporate staff would probably be retained for their logistical expertise, the company's booking strategy would likely change, with in-ring work and athleticism becoming prioritized, showcasing a diverse range of wrestling styles, from high-flying artistry to demonstrations of technical skills. This would create a stronger emphasis on showcasing the individual journeys and in-ring capabilities of its wrestlers. More attention being put on in-ring work and showcasing a variety of wrestling styles would make WWE more appealing to die-hard wrestling fans.
The most significant shift would have happened at the negotiation table. Tony Khan would have unified the libraries of WWE, AEW, WCW, ECW, the AWA, World Class Championship Wrestling, and the GWF- the majority of US professional wrestling history would be under one owner, creating an unparalleled content library that would represent the largest repository of wrestling content in existence. He would have licensed the library to partners while maintaining ROH/AEW content on a smaller proprietary platform, eventually consolidating them after existing contracts expired. Later, a deal to make HBO Max the home for the entire historical library while airing current AEW/WWE shows could be negotiated.
With WWE's booking strategy likely changing, casual wrestling fans who prefer a highly polished and entertaining product that prioritizes spectacle and mainstream appeal would possibly be dissatisfied with AEW's booking strategy. This would have created a massive gap in the market for a new, WWE-style promotion to form, competing against the now-combined Tony Khan-owned entity.
For this reason, it may be for the best that Tony Khan's bid for WWE was not successful. While fans and talent alike would celebrate new possibilities and the end of political barriers, there would be less competition and one less promotion to cater to the different tastes and preferences of wrestling fans. Plus, for a wrestling company, thriving in a competitive market is often better than having less competition, as it forces innovation, improves product quality, and forces companies to think of ways to utilize talent better and refine their storytelling. While less competition reduces immediate pressure, having a healthy, competitive landscape -where multiple companies exist and succeed- is better for the overall health of the industry.
The winter of 2026 will forever be remembered as the season that two of the most talented wrestlers laced their boots for the final time. One was AJ Styles, who proved himself over and over again by dominating in major companies internationally as a two-time former WWE Champion, a WWE Grand Slam Champion, a two-time former TNA World Champion, and a two-time former IWGP Heavyweight Champion. The other was Hiroshi Tanahashi, an icon who has been at the forefront of NJPW during very important times, cementing his place as one of the most respected wrestlers in Japanese wrestling.
In the span of just twenty-seven days, the professional wrestling landscape lost two of its most resilient foundations. On January 4, 2026, at NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 20, Hiroshi Tanahashi wrestled his last match in the Tokyo Dome, where he had many classic contests during his career, with him being considered one of the greatest performers in Tokyo Dome history, headlining a record 11 NJPW January 4 Tokyo Dome shows. Less than a month later, on January 31, AJ Styles threw up the P1 on his gloves one more time in the center of the ring at WWE Royal Rumble 2026.
Their careers ended on opposite sides of the globe, but their journeys were remarkably parallel. More than wrestlers, one was the Ace of Aces, while the other was Phenomenal in every one of his matches, and both of them were top-tier, foundational, and generation-defining performers for major companies.
To understand why their retirements feel so linked, we have to go back to exactly twenty years. Before AJ Styles became "The Face That Runs the Place" in WWE or Hiroshi Tanahashi became the Ace of NJPW, they crossed paths in a TNA ring.
In January 2006, at TNA Final Resolution, Hiroshi Tanahashi made his first appearance in an American pro-wrestling company. He faced AJ Styles in a special attraction between two wrestlers who were established stars in their respective companies.
The most cited matches between AJ Styles and Hiroshi Tanahashi took place in 2014 and 2015. Styles joined NJPW and adapted to the company's unique style of intense, action-packed, fast-paced matches, and Tanahashi was one of his frequent opponents.
At King Of Pro-Wrestling on October 13, 2014, Hiroshi Tanahashi defeated AJ Styles to win his record-breaking 7th IWGP Heavyweight Championship, in a match that was considered the best of that year by many fans. It can be seen in its entirety via the NJPW World streaming service.
AJ Styles reclaimed the IWGP Heavyweight Championship on February 11, 2015, at The New Beginning in Osaka, in a match that became bloody. You can see it in its entirety on NJPW World here.
The match between AJ Styles and Hiroshi Tanahashi on August 14, 2015, at G1 Climax 25 is considered a masterpiece by many fans, and can be seen on NJPW World. The G1 Climax tournament reached a new level of international recognition that year, and Tanahashi was the winner of this match, securing his place in the finals and going on to win the tournament.
The AJ Styles vs. Hiroshi Tanahashi matches in 2014 and 2015 made both men fully realize that they speak the same in-ring language, as their seamless chemistry was proof of it. Styles and Tanahashi have expressed immense mutual respect, praising each other as one of the best in the world.
Something very noteworthy about their dual retirements is what their farewell tours were like. With WWE's current administration allowing Superstars more input into their characters and how they are used, and with Hiroshi Tanahashi now the President and Representative Director of NJPW, both he and AJ Styles could have spent their final months as professional wrestlers in the center of the spotlights of their respective companies, and they earned the right to do so. However, neither one of them did that.
Hiroshi Tanahashi spent his final year having more tag team matches than singles matches, helping newer generations of wrestlers grow and evolve. Meanwhile, AJ Styles focused on tag teaming as well, becoming WWE World Tag Team Champions with Dragon Lee, helping elevate Lee to his first championship on the WWE main roster.
Also, the events where AJ Styles and Hiroshi Tanahashi's pro-wrestling careers concluded are equally symbolic, full-circle events. After headlining a record 11 Tokyo Dome main events, Tanahashi finished his legendary 26-year career at that same venue, which he helped rebuild. Meanwhile, Royal Rumble is the same event where AJ Styles made his WWE debut 10 years earlier, beginning one of the most dominant and decorated WWE careers of the modern era.
With AJ Styles and Hiroshi Tanahashi now moved on from full-time in-ring competition, the statistics -the championships, the merchandise sales- although notable, matter less than the example they set, that pro-wrestlers can follow. Styles and Tanahashi proved that blending technical wrestling and psychology with high-paced athleticism is a key to success in the pro-wrestling industry.
We're entering an era where fans are no longer only spectators, but active participants in the action. Interactive viewing experiences are revolutionizing how they engage with professional wrestling, blurring the lines between the digital and physical realms.
One of the most fundamental interactive elements is the live chat. Comment sections during streams are no longer only spaces for post-match reactions. They're very active communities where fans share real-time commentary, debate, and connect with fellow enthusiasts. This creates a sense of shared experience, making viewers realize that they're a part of something.
Beyond chatting, live polls are becoming increasingly popular. Imagine predicting the outcome of a championship match, or even voting on match stipulations- This concept of fan voting isn't entirely new to wrestling. On July 9, 1994, "WCW Saturday Night" introduced "WCW Interactive", where fans could vote for the main event. WWE also had interactive Premium Live Events (Taboo Tuesday/Cyber Sunday) from 2004 to 2008, where fans voted online or via text message on opponents and match stipulations.
This drive for fan participation combined with a new level of fan desire for it, even while limited by the technology of the time, confirmed that participation promotes investment, and paved the way for more sophisticated interactive experiences in the future. Today, we're seeing integrated approaches in this new degree of interaction, that empowers fans and makes them feel invested in the outcome. Q&A sessions with wrestlers or commentators further bridge the gap between performers and their audience, creating a more personal and intimate connection.
With that said, interactive viewing goes beyond polls and chats. It's about gamifying the entire experience. Some platforms are experimenting with features that allow viewers to earn points for correctly predicting match outcomes or completing challenges. These points can then be redeemed for exclusive content, merchandise, or even virtual meet-and-greets.
Beginning in the fall of 2025, ESPN's new direct-to-consumer service became the exclusive U.S. domestic home of all WWE PLEs, as a part of the company's multi-platform domination, and it provides a strong base for future interactive and gamified viewing. The ESPN App's core utility includes integrated game stats and multiview options, which are standard features designed to level up engagement with live sports. Importantly, the platform has a separate agreement with DraftKings as its exclusive sportsbook and odds provider, creating a potential pathway for WWE to integrate live polling, prediction, or betting-style game features alongside the live action on the same viewing screen. This partnership enables the kind of real-time fan engagement seen in DraftKings' popular fantasy and prediction contests, directly integrated into the viewing experience.
For AEW, a significant portion of their current interactive and gamification strategy is centralized in their console video game, AEW: Fight Forever, which, while not a direct streaming integration, acts as a complementary interactive hub. This arcade-style wrestling game allows fans to directly engage with the AEW roster through various modes, including a Road to Elite career mode that simulates the life of an AEW wrestler. The game further implements gamification through various non-wrestling minigames (like "AEW Pop Quiz") and a Stadium Stampede battle royale mode, offering a highly interactive experience separate from their live weekly broadcasts.
While not officially integrated into the streaming services, dedicated third-party platforms like DropTheBelt add a layer of strategic depth and competitive excitement to the viewing experience as an example of fantasy wrestling gamification, driving engagement with weekly programs from promotions like WWE and AEW. This platform enables fans to draft teams and awards points based not only on match wins, but on specific in-show actions that encourage deeper viewing, such as a Backstage Beatdown, using a Foreign Object, or putting an opponent Through The Announcer Table. The system scores shows the same night, making it a real-time, high-stakes viewing experience for fantasy league participants.
Imagine a fantasy wrestling league integrated directly into a streaming platform.
The future of interactive wrestling viewing is even more immersive. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies hold immense potential. Imagine watching a live event from a ringside perspective, or even stepping into the ring as a virtual wrestler.
AR could overlay interactive elements onto live broadcasts, such as wrestler profiles, real-time statistics, and even virtual merchandise that fans can "try on." The metaverse opens up even more possibilities, allowing fans to create their own virtual wrestling worlds and interact with other fans in immersive environments.
Implementing interactive features requires careful planning and execution. Platforms must ensure a seamless and user-friendly experience, while also mitigating the risks of online harassment or disruptive behavior. Moderation and community guidelines are essential.
Furthermore, promotions must find a balance between interactive elements and the core drama and spectacle of wrestling. Interactivity should enhance the viewing experience, not take away from the foundation of the industry.
Interactive viewing is not only a trend; it's a foundational shift in how we consume entertainment. By embracing these technologies and creating a feeling of togetherness, wrestling promotions can create a more engaging and immersive experience for fans, having long-term success in the digital age.
The finale of John Cena’s legendary career is upon WWE, as the Last Time Is Now Tournament to determine who will face the 17-time World Champion in his final match is underway. Meanwhile, the shifting betting odds predict the tournament's outcome.
Online casino database and online gambling authority Casino Guru News has released the latest odds. Note that in the betting world, the lower the number, the higher the implied probability of winning.
The Frontrunners
Gunther (+160): John Cena has never had a match with Gunther, who is currently at the top of the betting board. If Gunther wins the tournament, Cena's final match will be a fresh, never-before-seen match.
Cody Rhodes (+175): Since Cody Rhodes returned to WWE, he has had two matches with John Cena, with both men claiming a victory. If Rhodes is Cena's final opponent, the match would be a rubber match.
The Rock and The Miz (+180): The Rock and The Miz have the same odds, but with The Rock's extremely busy Hollywood schedule, it's unlikely that he's fully prepared to perform in the ring at this time- although he has been full of surprises as a WWE Superstar. In The Miz's case, he is among the short list of Superstars who have defeated John Cena at WrestleMania- will The Miz also add to his resume that he was Cena's final opponent?
Beyond the frontrunners, other notable odds include:
Rusev (+200): In Rusev's first singles match with John Cena, Rusev was victorious by referee decision. If he is Cena's final opponent next month, Cena will be facing a competitor who not only had pushed him to his limits before, but is more experienced and versatile than he was 10 years ago when they had their first match against each other.
Sheamus (+225): Only seven months after making his debut on WWE-TV, Sheamus defeated John Cena for the WWE Championship in December 2009. Cena regained it in February 2010 at Elimination Chamber in the match of the same name, but Sheamus became champion again in June 2010 at Fatal 4-Way in a match of the same name, pinning Cena for the win. If Sheamus is Cena's final opponent, he will likely deliver a challenging match.
Dominik Mysterio (+250): After recently losing the WWE Intercontinental Champion to John Cena, Dominik Mysterio has two reasons to want to be John Cena's final opponent- not only to receive that distinction, but also to get an opportunity to try to even the score.
Jey Uso (+300): 2025 has been a significant and largely successful year for Jey Uso, marked by major career milestones- winning the Royal Rumble at the beginning of the year, being a part of the main event scene, and becoming a world champion for the first time in his career. Having a singles match with John Cena for the first time, in Cena's final match, would make the end of Uso's year just as noteworthy as it began.
The betting lines confirm that the speculation around the outcome of the Last Time Is Now Tournament is a powerful driver of interest. And for whoever John Cena's final opponent is, it will be a monumental moment in their career.
A four-time WWE Champion, a three-time World Heavyweight Champion, a WWE Hall of Famer, and one of the greatest wrestlers of all time, WWE Legend The Undertaker is still one of the biggest names in the industry, even while retired from the ring. Few wrestlers in professional wrestling history can lay claim to the impact, mystique, and longevity that his character had throughout his career. For over three decades, he portrayed "The Phenom" with unparalleled commitment, evolving his persona through five distinct phases that captivated generations of fans. From the mysterious Deadman to the tough American Badass, The Undertaker's ability to reinvent his character was not just a demonstration of his mind for the business and performing capacity, but also a masterclass in character longevity in a constantly shifting industry.
Phase 1: The Deadman Arises (1990-1998)
When The Undertaker debuted at Survivor Series 1990, the wrestling world had never seen anything like him before. Introduced with Brother Love as his manager, Paul Bearer became The Undertaker's manager two months later. He was similar to a supernatural horror movie monster.
Appearance: Grey (later purple) gloves, black trench coat, pale makeup, and an unblinking stare.
Abilities: Immune to pain and sitting up after taking significant punishment. While usually slow in the ring, he would suddenly attack opponents with a burst of energy and aggressiveness.
Entrance: Slow and brooding, accompanied by variations of funeral dirge-style music.
Notable Opponents: Hulk Hogan, Shawn Michaels, Bret Hart. When The Undertaker faced Hulk Hogan at Survivor Series 1991, The Deadman became WWE Champion for the first time in his career, only one year after his debut in the company.
An unstoppable force of darkness, The Undertaker was an unprecedented character that instantly stood out in the colorful landscape of early '90s WWE. This "Deadman" persona established him as intriguing and powerful, creating a foundation of mystery that kept WWE fans talking and would stay with him for years.
Phase 2: Lord of Darkness & Ministry of Darkness (1998-1999)
During the Attitude Era -a period of edgy content, pushing boundaries, and often sparking controversy- The Undertaker's persona went from being dark to being blatantly evil, and dictatorial like a cult leader. He began wearing gothic, sinister-style clothing, and although the Undertaker character already had supernatural abilities, this version was more powerful. During promos, The Undertaker talked more often, commanding respect.
Abilities: The Undertaker character displayed the capability to summon lightning and manipulate fire.
Ministry of Darkness: This was the peak of The Undertaker's reign as Lord of Darkness. Leading an evil faction that featured Paul Bearer, Bradshaw, Viscera,
Faarooq, Mideon, and The Brood (Edge, Christian, Gangrel), The Undertaker attempted to seize control of the WWE, going as far as sacrificing Steve Austin, and attempting to force Stephanie McMahon into a dark ceremony marriage.
Brand Impact: This era featured The Undertaker character at his most evil and powerful, a force of terror that reflected the edgier, darker themes of the Attitude Era. The Undertaker was no longer only a phenom; he was a dark ruler. It frightened children and made people in general uncomfortable, which is exactly what he wanted. Many young fans were scared of the Deadman persona of the early 1990s. As those same fans matured into adults, their fear was resparked by the more complex and sinister Lord of Darkness and his ministry, who engaged in dark rituals and psychological torture, seeming more like a cult leader than a wrestler. The Undertaker proved that while the character had evolved, his capacity to create unease remained strong across generations.
Phase 3: The American Badass & Big Evil (2000-2003)
Feeling that his character was a little stale because the gimmick was confining him and preventing him from engaging in cutting-edge promos that defined the Attitude Era, The Undertaker wanted to shift his character. The result was the American Badass version of the character (referred to as "Big Evil" while The Undertaker was a vicious, arrogant heel who demanded respect), which allowed him to keep some elements of the original character while introducing more of Mark Calaway's -the man behind the character- real personality, such as his real-life interest in motorcycles. The American Badass made its debut at Judgment Day 2000 during a match between The Rock and Triple H. Returning from injury, The Undertaker made a surprise appearance, speeding to the ring on a Harley Davidson, looking nothing like a "Deadman" or Lord of Darkness.
Appearance: A biker look, consisting of a bandana, leather vest, sunglasses, and jeans (which were replaced by leather pants while he was Big Evil). The Undertaker also wore fingerless MMA-style gloves. His demeanor was bold, tough, and no-nonsense.
Personality: No longer only making promos based around death or darkness, The Undertaker spoke freely, trash-talked, and showed the true extent of his promo skills.
In-Ring Style: This version of The Undertaker was faster than the previous versions, utilizing a more fast-paced style, as opposed to the previous, usually stalking, slow-moving style.
Brand Impact: This change allowed The Undertaker to display a completely different side of his character, connect with a new audience (motorcycle fans and riders), and to wrestle and perform outside of the boundaries of a gimmick based around horror.
Phase 4: The Return of The Deadman (2004-2020)
At WrestleMania XX in 2004, The Undertaker returned to his roots, becoming "The Deadman" once again, with revenge on his mind after Kane had buried him alive almost four months earlier. Also, elements of the "American Badass" grittiness were integrated into his classic Deadman persona.
Appearance: While the original Deadman had long hair that often obscured his face and pale face paint around the eyes to emphasize his zombie-like nature and stone-faced demeanor, this version of The Deadman had his American Badass look with grounded intensity, resulting in a more focused, intense expression. He began wearing a black trench coat again, but continued to wear fingerless MMA-style gloves.
Entrance: The classic slow walk and gong returned, now with the aura of the legendary status that The Undertaker had reached at this point.
In-Ring Style: The Undertaker retained the fast-paced style of the American Badass/Big Evil version of his character. In addition, while brawling and power moves continued to be a prominent part of The Undertaker's in-ring style, he also used holds and submissions (such as his "Hell's Gate" submission), showcasing his technical skills.
Utilization: The Streak at WrestleMania became the focal point of The Undertaker's career, and was the biggest topic of conversation about the event. Seeing him defend The Streak at WrestleMania was more important than a championship. Beginning in 2011, The Undertaker's appearances were limited, with WWE wanting to utilize him as a special attraction.
Brand Impact: With The Deadman back and evolved, The Undertaker became the measuring stick for new talent and was a respected figure whose appearances were a must-see, with viewership numbers rising when he would make pre-announced appearances on WWE-TV.
Phase 5: The Unholy Trinity (2020)
This version of The Undertaker was the unified persona that was presented in his final match, a cinematic "Boneyard Match" with AJ Styles at WrestleMania 36. It was a unification of The Deadman, The American Badass, and the man behind all of the versions of The Undertaker character, Mark Calaway. This blend allowed him to use the supernatural aspect of The Deadman (which was revealed towards the end of the match) while also being a trash-talking American Badass, and acknowledging the personal life of Calaway- the match was made as a result of Styles verbally disrespecting Calaway's wife, Michelle McCool.
The Undertaker's journey from an undead entity to a dark lord to a biker, and then back to a "deadman," before combining the character with the man behind the character is a masterclass in character evolution. Mark Calaway’s ability to adapt, combined with his unwavering dedication to the character, ensured that The Undertaker remained fresh, dynamic, and a unique presence in professional wrestling, leaving a permanent mark that will likely never be duplicated.
From a financial standpoint, the Undisputed WWE Championship is the most valuable title in the sports entertainment industry. Being the Undisputed WWE Champion gives a talent the distinction of being the face of the biggest drawing sports entertainment company in the world, and its design has always been a physical expression of the era it represents. More than a piece of gold and leather, the title is a visual anchor for a champion’s legacy and a tangible symbol of the company's own evolving identity.
From classic leatherwork to modern corporate logos, here is a look at the major eras of the Undisputed WWE Championship's style evolution.
The Original WWE Championship (1963-1971):
This championship title was established following WWE's (then known as Capitol Wrestling Corporation) separation from the NWA (which was acting in the role of a governing body for regional wrestling promotions) over a disputed title change- Lou Thesz had won the NWA World Heavyweight Championship, but WWE didn't think he would draw money in the northeast territory. Buddy Rogers was proclaimed WWE Champion on April 25, 1963, and was presented as having won a tournament to become the inaugural champion of WWE. His reign ended 22 days later, after being defeated by Bruno Sammartino on May 17, 1963, who would go on to hold the championship for a record-breaking 2,803 days, cementing the title's early legacy as the premier prize of the company.
It should also be noted that this title actually belonged to Buddy Rogers- prior to becoming WWE Champion, he was defending the title as a United States Championship. Not long after Sammartino became WWE Champion, an authentic and official title was commissioned. "WWWF" was written on it, being that the company was known as the World Wide Wrestling Federation at this point
The "Blue Velvet" Title (1971-1972):
This unique championship title is distinguished by its vibrant blue velvet strap with green trim, which is why pro-wrestling fans and title collectors often refer to it descriptively as the "Blue Velvet" WWWF Championship to differentiate it from the black leather titles from that era. The title was held by Pedro Morales, who became champion on February 8, 1971 and held it before the title was replaced with a new design in 1972.
Pedro Morales Title (1972-1983):
This title is sometimes called the "Pedro Morales title," as he was the first champion to use this particular design. The main plate of this championship is notable for featuring a prominent eagle, establishing a fresh look for a new era of the promotion. Morales was champion for a reign of 1,027 days, making him the fifth-longest reigning world champion in the company's history.
The Big Green Title (1983-1984):
The "Big Green Title" is the popular nickname for this iconic design of the WWE Championship title, which was introduced in January 1983. This title design featured a large central plate and several side plates, commemorating previous champions, and is closely associated with the Bob Backlund (the first holder of this title), The Iron Sheik, and especially, Hulk Hogan. This was the first WWE Championship that he held, and his win is a significant moment that has been replayed and referenced frequently, likely more often than many other championship wins due to its historical importance, marking the beginning of Hulkamania.
Hogan Titles (1984-1988):
Hulk Hogan's first WWE Championship reign, which began in January 1984 and lasted 1,474 days until February 1988 and is the third-longest in history to date, saw him carry a series of titles, which were only held by him. The initial title is sometimes referred to as the "Hogan 84", and he later transitioned to another design, often referred to by wrestling fans and collectors as the "Hogan '85", which was an updated version of the WWE Championship title, with "WWF" on it (the company's name at the time). Lastly, he had a title that is often called the "Hogan '86", which had a slightly changed look (which included a globe) and retained a similar overall style to the previous championships.
Winged Eagle (1988-1998):
A favorite title design of many, the Winged Eagle title featured a central plate with a detailed eagle with outstretched wings over a globe, which was fitting, considering WWE significantly expanded its global footprint during this period. Legends who held this title include Hulk Hogan, Shawn Michaels, and The Undertaker.
Big Eagle (1998-2002)
Existing with the edgy "Attitude Era," this title was a larger, bolder version of its predecessor. The title retained the eagle but featured a heavier plate and a more aggressive look. It became synonymous with the anti-establishment champion of the time, Steve Austin.
This title also briefly existed in a personalized "Smoking Skull" version for him, reflecting Austin's rebellious persona.
The Undisputed Championship (2002-2005):
This title represented the unification of the WWE Championship and the World Heavyweight Championship, which occurred when Chris Jericho won both championships in December 2001 in a "Unification" match, becoming WWE Undisputed World Heavyweight Champion. After his win, Jericho would carry both physical titles. He was defeated for the championship by Triple H at WrestleMania X8 in March 2002, and the Undisputed Championship title made its first appearance the next month. The title featured a black strap with a simpler gold plate design.
The Spinner Titles (2005-2013):
One of the most financially successful designs, this title was customized for John Cena and featured a large, central WWE logo that could physically spin. Due to it being a huge revenue driver for the company in terms of merchandise sales, WWE ultimately decided to keep it as the company's official title design until 2013. In fact, custom, similarly designed titles associated with Edge and The Miz were created during their reigns as WWE Champions during this period.
The Logo Title (2013-Present)
The first version of the current WWE Championship title design, which prominently features the WWE logo and focuses on the brand, was introduced in 2013, during The Rock's eighth reign as WWE Champion, in a segment on a February 2013 episode of, "Raw".
In 2023, a new version of this title was introduced, with the text "UNDISPUTED CHAMPION" replacing "CHAMPION" at the bottom, due to Roman Reigns unifying the WWE Championship with the WWE Universal Championship in a "Winner Takes All" match at WrestleMania 38 in 2022. After he carried both physical titles into the next year, the new title (named the, "Undisputed WWE Universal Championship" at that time) was presented to him by Triple H to congratulate Reigns on surpassing 1,000 days as champion.
The traditional side plates are replaced with customizable plates that feature the current champion's individual logo, being a mobile billboard for the star's personal brand.
The Undisputed WWE Championship's evolution into a brand-focused title mirrors the shift in WWE itself- going from its days of being a wrestling federation to becoming a global entertainment and integrated media company. The modern title is both a prestigious versatile asset built for a digital world as WWE maintains its multi-platform domination, and the title also continues to have value as a merchandise-driver as a part of the company's merchandise branding and other diversified revenue streams.
This week, the tense, competitive environment of WWE LFG (Legends & Future Greats) showed its second-ever winners being crowned, but for those watching the progression of talent, one victory felt particularly destined: that of Dani Sekelsky.
Dani Sekelsky’s win, securing her coveted NXT contract, wasn’t a surprise- it was the logical conclusion of a journey fueled by relentless commitment and a personality that refused to be ignored. Below is a breakdown of why Sekelsky is not only a WWE NXT Superstar, but a genuine Future Great for the main WWE roster.
The Foundation: Unshakeable Commitment and Work Ethic
In a developmental system built on hard work, Dani Sekelsky stands out. WWE's recruiting strategy prioritizes athletic skill and experience, and she entered the WWE Performance Center with an elite athlete's discipline forged in the highly ambitious world of Big Ten cheerleading, where she was awarded for her athletic ability.
Showing a commitment to the craft, Dani Sekelsky is already a good wrestler who is visibly improving with every match, demonstrating incredible sponge-like ability to absorb coaching and immediately implement it. In addition, the intense conditioning, the long hours of drilling, and the emotional resilience required to compete on a show like WWE LFG are all second nature to her, due to her work ethic.
The Performance Edge: Speed and Agility
The most successful wrestlers are captivating performers. Dani Sekelsky shines in this department, leveraging her background in all-star, collegiate, and professional cheerleading (NFL) to create a fast and high-flying in-ring style.
The It Factor: Versatility, Charisma, and Superstar Potential for the Main Roster
One of the things that stood out the most about Dani Sekelsky during her time on WWE LFG was her versatility and passion as a performer. This versatility is the true sign of a future WWE Superstar who can excel in any role, whether she’s an enthusiastic face or a confident, arrogant heel. Personality-wise, Sekelsky has shown the ability to create an instant connection with an audience with her infectious charisma and energy, whether they are watching on television or at a live event- this type of presence is one of the ingredients of a WWE Superstar.
Dani Sekelsky has proven she can utilize the grounded wrestling style (including The Undertaker's, "Hell's Gate finisher", which she uses with his blessing) just as well as she can deliver aerial maneuvers. This hybrid skillset means Sekelsky can have a compelling match with a Superstar of any style.
Dani Sekelsky is proof that when you combine talent with spirit and unbreakable work principles, success isn't just possible- it's inevitable. Now that she has the NXT contract, the sky is truly the limit. I'm looking forward to watching The Shooting Star fly on Tuesday nights.
