Wrestling fans around the world have been captivated by the spectacle and excitement of World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). One aspect that adds to the grandeur of WWE matches is the championship belts. These iconic symbols of victory and excellence have become synonymous with the world of professional wrestling. In this article, we will explore the world of how many wwe belts are there, their history, and the various championships currently in existence.
Table of Content:
Introduction
When it comes to WWE, championship belts are more than just props; they represent the pinnacle of achievement for the wrestlers. Holding a title belt signifies that a wrestler is among the best in their respective division. But just how many WWE belts are there? Let’s dive into the fascinating world of WWE championship belts and uncover the current landscape.
Understanding WWE Belts:
WWE belts are physical representations of championships awarded to wrestlers who emerge victorious in their matches. These belts are not only prestigious accolades but also serve as storytelling devices within the wrestling narrative. Each belt has a unique design, often featuring intricate details and personalized elements that reflect the division it represents.
The History of WWE Championship Belts:
The history of WWE championship belts dates back several decades. The lineage can be traced to the early days of professional wrestling, where regional promotions had their own belts. As the wrestling landscape evolved and different promotions merged, the need for unified championships arose. This led to the establishment of the WWE Championship as the premier title within the company.
Current WWE Championship Belts:
WWE currently boasts an array of championship belts, each representing a specific division or brand. These belts are fiercely contested and serve as the driving force behind rivalries and storylines. Let’s explore some of the most prominent WWE championship belts today:
WWE Universal Championship:
The WWE Universal Championship is one of the most prestigious titles in WWE. It represents the top male superstar on the Raw brand. This belt has been held by legendary wrestlers like Roman Reigns, Seth Rollins, and Brock Lesnar.
WWE Championship:
The WWE Championship is the counterpart to the Universal Championship and represents the top male superstar on the SmackDown brand. Wrestlers like John Cena, Randy Orton, and AJ Styles have held this illustrious title.
Raw Women’s Championship:
The Raw Women’s Championship is the premier women’s title on the Raw brand. It has been held by trailblazing wrestlers such as Charlotte Flair, Becky Lynch, and Sasha Banks.
SmackDown Women’s Championship:
The SmackDown Women’s Championship is the female equivalent of the Raw Women’s Championship. Superstars like Bayley, Bianca Belair, and Asuka have showcased their skills while holding this coveted title.
Intercontinental Championship:
The Intercontinental Championship has a rich history and is often referred to as the workhorse title. It represents the mid-card division and has been held by legendary wrestlers such as Shawn Michaels, The Rock, and Bret Hart.
United States Championship:
The United States Championship is another prestigious mid-card title that showcases the talent of wrestlers on both Raw and SmackDown brands. Notable holders of this title include John Cena, Rey Mysterio, and Daniel Bryan.
Raw Tag Team Championship:
The Raw Tag Team Championship is awarded to the best tag team on the Raw brand. Teams like The New Day, The Hardy Boyz, and The Shield have left their mark on WWE while holding this title.
SmackDown Tag Team Championship:
The SmackDown Tag Team Championship serves as the counterpart to the Raw Tag Team Championship. The Usos, The New Day, and The Revival are among the teams that have held this prestigious title.
Cruiserweight Championship:
The Cruiserweight Championship is exclusive to WWE’s cruiserweight division, known for its high-flying and fast-paced action. Talented wrestlers like Neville, Cedric Alexander, and Kushida have thrilled fans while holding this title.
Other Prominent WWE Belts:
Apart from the main championships, WWE also has other belts that hold significance within the company. These belts are associated with developmental brands or have unique rules attached to them. Let’s take a closer look at some of these belts:
NXT Championship:
The NXT Championship is the top title in WWE’s developmental brand, NXT. It has been held by future main roster stars like Finn Balor, Shinsuke Nakamura, and Adam Cole.
NXT Women’s Championship:
The NXT Women’s Championship represents the top female talent within NXT. Superstars like Asuka, Shayna Baszler, and Rhea Ripley have made their mark on the division while holding this title.
NXT North American Championship:
The NXT North American Championship is a mid-card title within NXT and has provided a platform for emerging talents to shine. Notable champions include Johnny Gargano, Velveteen Dream, and Keith Lee.
NXT Tag Team Championship:
The NXT Tag Team Championship represents the best tag teams within NXT. Teams like The Undisputed Era, The Revival, and DIY (Johnny Gargano and Tommaso Ciampa) have showcased their chemistry while holding this title.
24/7 Championship:
The 24/7 Championship is a unique title that can be defended anytime, anywhere, as long as a referee is present. It has resulted in numerous comedic and unexpected moments, with a wide range of superstars holding the title for brief periods.
Retired WWE Belts:
Throughout WWE’s history, certain belts have been retired or consolidated due to changes in the company’s direction or storylines. Belts like the Hardcore Championship, European Championship, and Divas Championship have all been phased out, but their legacies remain a significant part of WWE’s rich history.
Conclusion:
WWE championship belts are more than mere accessories; they represent the pinnacle of achievement within the wrestling world. With a wide range of titles representing various divisions, WWE continues to captivate fans with its vibrant and competitive landscape. From the Universal Championship to the 24/7 Championship, each title carries its own legacy and adds to the excitement of WWE matches.
FAQs?
1. How many WWE belts are there in total?
There are currently several WWE championship belts in existence, each representing a specific division or brand. The exact number may vary over time due to the introduction of new belts or the retirement of older ones.
2. Which WWE belt is considered the most prestigious?
The WWE Championship and the Universal Championship are widely regarded as the most prestigious titles in WWE. These belts represent the top male superstars on their respective brands.
3. Are WWE belts purely decorative, or do they have significance within the storylines?
WWE belts are not just decorative props; they hold great significance within the wrestling storylines. Winning a championship belt signifies a wrestler’s achievement and often leads to compelling narratives and rivalries.
4. Can female wrestlers hold the same belts as male wrestlers?
Yes, female wrestlers in WWE can hold the same belts as their male counterparts. WWE has separate women’s championships, but there have been instances where female wrestlers have competed for and held traditionally male-exclusive titles.
5. Are WWE belts made of real gold and precious stones?
While WWE belts may have elements of gold plating and gemstones, they are primarily made of high-quality materials and craftsmanship. The belts are designed to be visually impressive and durable, but they do not contain solid gold or precious stones.