What Was WWE Called in the 80s?

In the 1980s, World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) went by a different name. Back then, it was known as the World Wrestling Federation (WWF). This was a significant era for professional wrestling, as it saw the rise of larger-than-life characters and epic storylines that captivated audiences around the world.

The Birth of WWF

During the 1970s, Vincent J. McMahon established Capitol Wrestling Corporation (CWC), which later became known as the World Wrestling Federation. McMahon Sr. had a vision to take professional wrestling to new heights and turn it into a global phenomenon.

Under his guidance, the WWF gained popularity and expanded its reach throughout North America. However, it wasn’t until the 1980s that the company truly flourished and became known as an entertainment powerhouse.

The Rock ‘n’ Wrestling Connection

One of the key factors that propelled WWF’s success in the 80s was the “Rock ‘n’ Wrestling Connection.” This term referred to the crossover between professional wrestling and pop culture music.

With celebrities like Cyndi Lauper getting involved in storylines and accompanying wrestlers to the ring, WWF started attracting mainstream attention. The combination of athletic prowess and vibrant personalities made for must-see television.

The Hulkamania Era

No discussion about WWF in the 80s would be complete without mentioning Hulk Hogan. Hogan became an icon during this time and played a pivotal role in bringing professional wrestling into popular culture.

His larger-than-life persona, colorful attire, and catchy catchphrases like “Whatcha gonna do when Hulkamania runs wild on you?” resonated with fans of all ages. Hogan’s popularity skyrocketed, making him one of the most recognizable wrestlers of all time.

The Attitude Era Emerges

While the 80s were filled with charismatic heroes, the early seeds of change were planted during this decade. The emergence of edgier characters and storylines set the stage for what would become known as the “Attitude Era” in the late 90s.

Wrestlers like “Macho Man” Randy Savage, “Rowdy” Roddy Piper, and The Ultimate Warrior pushed boundaries and captivated audiences with their intense rivalries and electrifying performances.

A Legal Battle and Rebranding

Despite its success, WWF faced a legal battle in the early 2000s. The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) claimed trademark infringement on the initials WWF, leading to a rebranding. In 2002, the company changed its name to World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE).

Although the name may have changed, WWE continued to build on the foundation laid in the 80s. It remains a global phenomenon today and has produced countless wrestling superstars who owe their success to that iconic era.

In Conclusion

The World Wrestling Federation (WWF) was what WWE was called in the 1980s. This decade marked a turning point for professional wrestling, as it became more than just a sport – it became entertainment.

The combination of larger-than-life characters, captivating storylines, and crossover appeal with pop culture made WWF a force to be reckoned with. Despite a legal battle and subsequent rebranding, the legacy of the 80s lives on in WWE’s continued success.