Who Has the Rights to WWE Trading Cards?

When it comes to the world of professional wrestling, there is no denying the popularity of WWE trading cards. These collectible cards have become a favorite among fans, offering a chance to own a piece of their favorite wrestlers’ legacies. However, determining who has the rights to produce these coveted cards can be a complex matter.

The WWE and Licensing

The WWE, short for World Wrestling Entertainment, is a global entertainment company that produces professional wrestling events and related merchandise. As part of their licensing agreements, they grant certain companies the rights to create and distribute trading cards featuring their wrestlers.

Topps: The Exclusive Licensee

For many years now, Topps has been the exclusive licensee for WWE trading cards. This means that they have the sole right to produce and distribute these collectibles. Topps has been in the trading card industry for decades and is known for its high-quality products.

Under this agreement, Topps has created various types of WWE trading cards, including base sets, autographed cards, relic cards (featuring pieces of actual wrestling gear), and even special event-specific sets.

The Impact on Collectors

This exclusive partnership between WWE and Topps has had a significant impact on collectors. It has allowed for consistency in the quality and design of the cards, making them more desirable among fans. Additionally, having a single company as the exclusive licensee ensures that there is no confusion or competition when it comes to authentic WWE trading cards.

However, some collectors argue that having only one licensee limits creativity and variety in the market. They believe that opening up licensing agreements to multiple companies could lead to more innovative designs and unique card offerings.

The Role of Wrestlers

While the WWE holds the licensing rights, it is important to note that individual wrestlers also play a role in the trading card industry. Wrestlers often sign contracts with Topps or other trading card companies to provide autographs for special edition cards. These autographed cards are highly sought after by collectors and can significantly increase the value of a trading card.

Other Wrestling Trading Card Companies

Although Topps has the exclusive license for WWE trading cards, there are other companies in the market that produce wrestling-themed trading cards. These companies often focus on independent wrestling promotions or retired wrestlers who are not under contract with WWE.

Ring of Honor: Known as ROH, this independent wrestling promotion has its own line of trading cards featuring their roster of talent.
Impact Wrestling: Formerly known as TNA (Total Nonstop Action), this company produces trading cards featuring their current and past wrestlers.
Panini America: While primarily known for their sports trading cards, Panini America has also released some wrestling-themed sets featuring non-WWE talent.

In Conclusion

The rights to WWE trading cards are held exclusively by Topps. This partnership ensures consistency and authenticity in the market, making WWE trading cards highly desirable among collectors.

However, there are also other wrestling-related trading card companies that cater to different wrestling promotions and non-WWE talent. Ultimately, it is up to collectors to decide which cards they want to add to their collections based on personal preferences and favorite wrestlers.