The WWE Championship stands as the pinnacle of achievement in sports entertainment, reserved for those capable of embodying the WWE brand. However, deciding who truly deserves this prestigious title has often led to controversial choices throughout its 62-year history, with some champions, like Mr. Perfect and Scott Hall, not receiving widespread acclaim.
Unfortunately, not everyone crowned WWE Champion was the ideal pick. Many titleholders failed to deliver unforgettable wrestling matches, prompting a review of their in-ring performances and justifications for their reigns.
10. Jinder Mahal
Known as the “Modern Maharaja,” Jinder Mahal’s 170-day WWE Championship reign starting May 21, 2017, was marked by controversy. Although he helped WWE tap into the Indian market, Mahal’s in-ring work was often criticized for lacking classic match quality despite facing top stars like John Cena, AJ Styles, and Shinsuke Nakamura.
9. The Iron Sheik
A transitional champion during WWE’s earlier days, the Iron Sheik held the title for 28 days starting December 26, 1983, with 16 successful defenses. Though he filled the role well, his matches were decent but never elevated his opponents or produced classics.
8. Big Show
Known as the “World’s Largest Athlete,” Big Show had two WWE Championship reigns totaling 78 days. Despite participating in many matches with elite wrestlers such as Chris Jericho and Kurt Angle, his in-ring skills often fell short, resulting in less memorable championship bouts.
7. Kane
Kane’s impressive size earned him a WWE Championship reign on June 28, 1998, though it lasted only a day. His stature placed him in the spotlight, but he never became a reliable or standout wrestler, often playing a supporting role in multi-person matches rather than carrying main events.
6. Bobby Lashley
Loved by fans, Bobby Lashley held the WWE Championship twice, including a 196-day tenure starting March 1, 2021, and defended the title eight times. Though he was at a career peak, he struggled to deliver classic in-ring moments, reflecting the overall improvement in WWE champions’ match quality over time.
5. Sycho Sid
Sid Eudy, known as Sycho Sid, had two WWE Championship reigns totaling 97 days. Despite his imposing height, his in-ring abilities were limited, and while he faced great wrestlers like Bret Hart and Triple H, his performances rarely created must-see matches.
4. Vince McMahon
In a controversial move, WWE owner Vince McMahon booked himself as WWE Champion for six days in September 1999. Though he participated in numerous matches, none were considered classics, with most serving to enhance his character’s dominance over top stars.
3. Yokozuna
Weighing nearly 600 pounds, Yokozuna had two WWE Championship reigns, including a 280-day run starting June 13, 1993. His size made him marketable but heavily restricted his mobility and in-ring style, limiting his ability to deliver great matches.
2. Stan Stasiak
Stan Stasiak held the WWE Championship for just nine days from December 1, 1973, during an era marked by legendary champions like Bruno Sammartino. Known for his heart punch finisher rather than wrestling prowess, Stasiak is often forgotten in WWE’s title history.
1. Sergeant Slaughter
A notable figure of the 1980s, Sergeant Slaughter held the WWE Championship for 64 days starting January 19, 1991. Although prominent, his matches didn’t always showcase the reliability or quality expected from a top WWE Champion, impacting his legacy.
Fan Take: This rundown of WWE Champions who fell short in delivering exceptional wrestling highlights the complexities behind championship decisions. For WWE fans, it underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing storytelling and in-ring performance, which is crucial for preserving the title’s prestige and evolving the sport.
