When Did the WWE Championship Belt Change?

The WWE Championship Belt holds a special place in the hearts of wrestling fans around the world. It is a symbol of excellence, power, and prestige in the world of professional wrestling.

Over the years, the design of the WWE Championship Belt has evolved to reflect changing times and champions. Let’s take a closer look at when and how this iconic belt has changed.

The Original WWE Championship Belt

The very first WWE Championship Belt was introduced in 1963. It was a simple design featuring a gold-plated eagle on a blue leather strap. This classic belt became synonymous with legendary champions like Bruno Sammartino, Pedro Morales, and Bob Backlund.

As time went on, the WWE Championship Belt underwent several modifications to keep up with the ever-evolving landscape of professional wrestling.

The Attitude Era: A Bold Change

In the late 1990s, WWE entered an era known as “The Attitude Era.” This period brought about significant changes not only in storylines and characters but also in the design of the championship belt.

The iconic “Big Eagle” belt made its debut during this era. It featured a larger eagle design with intricate details, surrounded by bold gold plates. The strap itself was made from black leather to give it a more edgy and modern look.

The Spinner Belt: A Controversial Design

In 2005, John Cena became WWE Champion and introduced a completely unique design for the championship belt – the Spinner Belt. This design featured a large spinning WWE logo in the center of the main plate.

This bold move sparked controversy among fans who felt that it deviated too far from tradition. However, it became one of the most recognizable championship belts in WWE history due to Cena’s long reign as champion.

The Current WWE Championship Belt

In 2013, WWE unveiled the current design of the WWE Championship Belt. This design brought back a more traditional look while incorporating modern elements.

The current belt features a large, detailed eagle in the center, similar to the original design. The main plate is adorned with intricate patterns and gold accents, giving it a regal appearance. The strap is made from black leather with red and white stitching.

Customized Side Plates

One notable feature of the current WWE Championship Belt is the ability to customize side plates. Superstars can now have their own unique side plates featuring their logos or symbols. This customization adds a personal touch to the championship belt and allows champions to showcase their individuality.

In Conclusion

The WWE Championship Belt has undergone several transformations throughout its history. From the classic design of the past to the bold changes of “The Attitude Era” and the controversial Spinner Belt, each iteration reflects the spirit of its time.

The current WWE Championship Belt combines elements from both tradition and modernity, creating a visually stunning piece that represents excellence in professional wrestling. As wrestling continues to evolve, it will be fascinating to see how this iconic belt may change in the future.