The 1980s marked a significant era in professional wrestling, transforming it into a mainstream spectacle. The World Wrestling Federation (WWF, now WWE) became a cultural juggernaut, and several superstars emerged, capturing the hearts and imaginations of fans worldwide.
Here the Top 10 Greatest WWE Wrestlers from the 80s, who left an indelible mark on the industry and influenced future generations.
Hulk Hogan
Hulk Hogan, born Terry Gene Bollea, is arguably the most iconic figure in wrestling history. His charisma, larger-than-life persona, and catchphrase “Hulkamania” transcended wrestling, making him a household name. Hogan’s dramatic entrance, tearing off his shirt, and his catchphrases, such as “Whatcha gonna do, brother?” became synonymous with the WWF.
Hogan’s feud with Andre the Giant culminated in their legendary match at WrestleMania III in 1987, where Hogan body-slammed the 520-pound giant, a moment etched in wrestling lore. His influence extended beyond the ring, with roles in movies and television, further cementing his status as a cultural icon. Hogan’s impact on wrestling and popular culture is immeasurable, making him the face of 1980s wrestling.
“Macho Man” Randy Savage
Randy Savage, known for his flamboyant attire, raspy voice, and intense persona, was a wrestling genius. Born Randall Mario Poffo, Savage’s matches were technical masterpieces, showcasing his in-ring prowess and psychological storytelling. His partnership with Miss Elizabeth added a layer of drama and intrigue, making their storylines must-watch television.
Savage’s match against Ricky “The Dragon” Steamboat at WrestleMania III is often hailed as one of the greatest wrestling matches of all time. His ability to oscillate between a villain (heel) and a hero (face) kept audiences engaged throughout his career. Savage’s “Ooh yeah!” catchphrase and signature flying elbow drop from the top rope are iconic, making him one of the most memorable wrestlers of the 1980s.
Andre the Giant
Standing at 7’4″ and weighing over 500 pounds, Andre the Giant was a spectacle unto himself. Born André René Roussimoff, his sheer size and strength made him a unique attraction in the wrestling world. Despite his imposing presence, Andre was known for his gentle demeanor outside the ring.
Andre’s feud with Hulk Hogan, culminating in their WrestleMania III match, is one of the most famous rivalries in wrestling history. His role in “The Princess Bride” showcased his crossover appeal. Andre’s contribution to wrestling is celebrated, and he was the first inductee into the WWE Hall of Fame in 1993. His legacy as a larger-than-life figure in wrestling endures to this day.
Ric Flair
Known as “The Nature Boy,” Ric Flair is one of the most charismatic and skilled wrestlers of all time. With his flashy robes, signature “Wooo!” catchphrase, and unparalleled mic skills, Flair captivated audiences. His in-ring ability and storytelling were second to none, making his matches unforgettable.
Flair’s feuds with Dusty Rhodes, Ricky Steamboat, and Harley Race are legendary, and his contributions to wrestling earned him numerous championships, including 16 World Titles. Flair’s influence extended beyond the 1980s, as he continued to be a central figure in wrestling for decades. His impact on the industry is profound, and his legacy as one of the greatest wrestlers of all time is unquestioned.
“Rowdy” Roddy Piper
Roddy Piper, with his quick wit, fiery persona, and iconic kilt, was one of the greatest heels (villains) in wrestling history. Born Roderick George Toombs, Piper’s ability to incite crowds with his promos made him a standout performer. His “Piper’s Pit” segments were revolutionary, setting the standard for wrestling interviews and segments.
Piper’s feud with Hulk Hogan, which led to the first WrestleMania, was pivotal in establishing the WWF’s prominence. Piper’s transition to acting, most notably in John Carpenter’s “They Live,” showcased his versatility and crossover appeal. His influence on wrestling, particularly in character development and promos, remains significant.
Bret “The Hitman” Hart
Bret Hart, known as “The Excellence of Execution,” is celebrated for his technical wrestling skills and in-ring storytelling. As a member of the famous Hart wrestling family, Bret’s journey in the WWF began as part of the tag team The Hart Foundation with Jim “The Anvil” Neidhart. Their matches were known for their technical prowess and teamwork.
Hart’s transition to a singles competitor saw him achieve great success, winning multiple Intercontinental and WWF Championships. His matches were often cited as clinics in wrestling technique, with his rivalry against Shawn Michaels culminating in the infamous “Montreal Screwjob.” Bret’s legacy as one of the best technical wrestlers in history is well-earned, and his influence on future generations is undeniable.
“Million Dollar Man” Ted DiBiase
Ted DiBiase, with his “Million Dollar Man” persona, epitomized the lavish, arrogant heel of the 1980s. DiBiase’s character, who flaunted his wealth and claimed “Everybody has a price,” was a perfect villain for the era. His in-ring skills and ability to generate heat from the audience made him a top performer.
DiBiase’s introduction of the Million Dollar Championship, a custom-made belt symbolizing his wealth, added to his character’s allure. His feuds with top stars like Hulk Hogan and Randy Savage were integral to many WWF storylines. DiBiase’s influence on wrestling characters and storylines is profound, and his legacy as one of the greatest heels endures.
Ricky “The Dragon” Steamboat
Ricky Steamboat, known for his grace and athleticism, was one of the most respected wrestlers of the 1980s. His matches were marked by their technical brilliance and high-flying maneuvers. Steamboat’s feud with Randy Savage, particularly their WrestleMania III match, is considered one of the greatest in wrestling history.
Steamboat’s ability to connect with the audience as a babyface (hero) made him a beloved figure. His rivalry with Ric Flair in the NWA (National Wrestling Alliance) further solidified his status as one of the best in-ring performers. Steamboat’s legacy is defined by his sportsmanship and in-ring excellence, making him a true wrestling legend.
Jake “The Snake” Roberts
Jake Roberts, with his psychological mind games and pet snake Damien, brought a unique and dark element to wrestling. Roberts’ promos were chilling, and his ability to build tension and fear made him a compelling character. His finishing move, the DDT, became one of the most famous moves in wrestling.
Roberts’ feuds with Ricky Steamboat, Andre the Giant, and “Macho Man” Randy Savage were highlights of his career. Despite his struggles, Roberts’ impact on wrestling psychology and character development is significant. His innovative approach to promos and storytelling continues to influence wrestlers today.
“Superfly” Jimmy Snuka
Superfly Jimmy Snuka, born James Reiher Snuka, was a pioneering Fijian professional wrestler known for his high-flying, acrobatic style in the 1980s. His signature move, the “Superfly Splash,” captivated audiences and helped popularise the World Wrestling Federation (WWF, now WWE). Snuka’s charisma and athleticism made him a fan favorite, significantly contributing to the WWF’s early national expansion.
However, Snuka’s legacy is marred by controversy. In 1983, his girlfriend Nancy Argentino was found dead under suspicious circumstances, leading to a reopened case in 2013. Snuka was charged with third-degree murder and involuntary manslaughter in 2015, but he was deemed unfit for trial due to poor health. Despite his legal troubles, Snuka’s impact on wrestling endures, influencing future generations of high-flying wrestlers.
Impact of 80s on Wrestling
The 1980s were a transformative period for professional wrestling. The rise of cable television and the WWF’s innovative use of pay-per-view events allowed wrestling to reach a broader audience than ever before. The 1980s had a profound impact on WWE wrestling, transforming it into a global entertainment powerhouse.
This era saw the rise of iconic superstars like Hulk Hogan, “Macho Man” Randy Savage, and Andre the Giant, who became household names and drove mainstream popularity. Vince McMahon’s vision of turning wrestling into a larger-than-life spectacle led to the creation of WrestleMania, the flagship event that continues to be a cornerstone of WWE.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 1980s were a transformative decade for WWE, marked by the emergence of legendary wrestlers who not only defined an era but also left an enduring legacy in the world of professional wrestling.
The 10 Greatest WWE Wrestlers from the 80s, including icons like Hulk Hogan, “Macho Man” Randy Savage, and Ric Flair, each brought their unique flair and charisma to the ring, contributing to WWE’s evolution from a regional promotion to a global entertainment juggernaut. Their unforgettable matches and larger-than-life personas captivated audiences and set new standards for the industry.
The impact of these wrestlers extends beyond their in-ring accomplishments, as they played pivotal roles in shaping WWE’s brand and culture. Their influence is still felt today, inspiring a new generation of wrestlers and continuing to entertain fans worldwide.
As we look back at the 80s and celebrate these wrestling legends, it’s clear that their contributions helped lay the foundation for WWE’s enduring success and solidified their places in the annals of wrestling history. Also, check out the top 5 wrestlers with the most eliminations.
