Professional wrestling has seen some of the greatest athletes and entertainers rise to iconic status. WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment), formerly known as WWF, played a significant role in shaping the careers of these legends. Over the decades, these wrestlers became household names, representing power, showmanship, and unforgettable rivalries.
Many of the legends who helped build WWE into the global phenomenon it is today are still alive, continuing to influence the industry and its fans. Let’s look at the top WWE Legends Still Alive, their careers, contributions to wrestling, and what they are up to today.
1. Hulk Hogan
Hulk Hogan, born Terry Bollea, is arguably the most famous WWE wrestler ever. Rising to prominence in the 1980s, Hogan became the face of WWE during the “Golden Era.” His larger-than-life persona, signature moves like the “Leg Drop,” and catchphrases like “Whatcha gonna do when Hulkamania runs wild on you?” defined a generation of wrestling
Legacy: Hogan’s rivalry with wrestlers like André the Giant and Macho Man Randy Savage cemented his status as an all-time great. He was the main attraction for the first nine WrestleManias and later moved to WCW, where he turned heel and led the nWo (New World Order) faction.
Life after WWE: Although his career had ups and downs, including controversies and health issues, Hulk Hogan remains a beloved figure. He makes occasional appearances in WWE and is active in the world of entertainment and business.
2. The Undertaker
The Undertaker, whose real name is Mark Calaway, is another WWE legend still alive today. Known for his dark, supernatural character, The Undertaker had a career of over 30 years. His WrestleMania streak (21-0) is one of the most iconic records in WWE history.
Legacy: The Undertaker’s matches with Shawn Michaels, Triple H, and Brock Lesnar are widely regarded as some of the best in wrestling history. His character evolved over the years, from the dead to the American Badass, but his impact on the industry never wavered.
Life after WWE: The Undertaker officially retired in 2020, concluding his in-ring career with a “Final Farewell” at Survivor Series. Post-retirement, he is enjoying life with his family and has launched a speaking tour where he shares his experiences from his wrestling career.
3. Ric Flair
“The Nature Boy” Ric Flair is synonymous with wrestling excellence. Known for his flamboyant robes, charisma, and the iconic “Woooo!” catchphrase, Flair is a 16-time world champion and a true pioneer of modern wrestling.
Legacy: Ric Flair’s rivalry with Dusty Rhodes, leadership of the Four Horsemen, and ability to elevate anyone in the ring made him one of the greatest wrestlers ever. Flair’s influence spans across generations, as he’s revered by both fans and peers alike.
Life after WWE: Despite battling severe health problems in recent years, Flair remains active in wrestling. He has appeared in various WWE segments and enjoys his role as a manager and mentor to younger talents, including his daughter Charlotte Flair, who is a top WWE star today.
4. Stone Cold Steve Austin
Stone Cold Steve Austin, born Steve Williams, was the biggest star of WWE’s Attitude Era in the late 1990s. His anti-authority persona and beer-drinking antics made him the ultimate fan favorite, leading to unforgettable moments with Vince McMahon.
Legacy: Austin is a six-time WWE Champion and headlined multiple WrestleMania. His feuds with The Rock, Bret Hart, and The Undertaker are legendary. Austin’s “Stone Cold Stunner” is one of the most famous finishing moves in wrestling history.
Life after WWE: Austin retired from in-ring competition in 2003 due to neck injuries but remains heavily involved with WWE. He has hosted TV shows and his podcast and continues to make special appearances at WWE events, including as a guest host at WrestleMania.
5. Shawn Michaels
Shawn Michaels, known as “The Heartbreak Kid,” is one of WWE’s most charismatic and technically gifted wrestlers. Known for his high-flying moves and incredible athleticism, Michaels delivered unforgettable matches during his career.
Legacy: Michaels’ rivalries with Bret Hart, Triple H, and The Undertaker produced some of WWE’s most iconic moments. His performances in matches like the Ladder Match at WrestleMania X and his Hell in a Cell match against The Undertaker are considered some of the best in wrestling history.
Life after WWE: After retiring in 2010, Michaels has worked behind the scenes with WWE, helping train the next generation of superstars. He occasionally appears on WWE TV during reunion events and as part of NXT’s coaching team.
6. Bret “The Hitman” Hart
Bret Hart is known for his technical mastery and storytelling ability inside the ring. As one of the best pure wrestlers in WWE history, Hart earned the moniker “The Excellence of Execution.”
Legacy: Hart was a five-time WWE Champion and headlined multiple WrestleMania. His Iron Man match against Shawn Michaels at WrestleMania XII, and his rivalry with Steve Austin are hallmarks of his illustrious career.
Life after WWE: Bret Hart’s career was cut short due to a concussion, but he continues to be involved in wrestling through appearances and interviews. Although his relationship with WWE was strained after the infamous Montreal Screwjob, he has reconciled with the company and was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame.
7. Triple H
Paul Levesque, better known as Triple H, has done it all in WWE—he’s been a wrestler, an executive, and a key figure behind the success of WWE’s developmental brand, NXT. Triple H’s “Cerebral Assassin” persona and numerous championships have made him a cornerstone of the industry.
Legacy: As a 14-time world champion, Triple H was vital during the Attitude Era and beyond. His rivalries with The Rock, Mick Foley, and Shawn Michaels solidified his status as one of the most fabulous heels in WWE history.
Life after WWE: Although Triple H has transitioned into a backstage role, helping run WWE’s day-to-day operations, he still occasionally appears. His work with NXT has been highly praised, and his influence on WWE’s future remains strong.
8. The Rock
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson is one of the biggest stars to emerge from WWE, transcending the wrestling business to become a Hollywood megastar. But before he was a box office sensation, The Rock was one of the most electrifying men in sports entertainment.
Legacy: The Rock is a 10-time world champion famous for his intense rivalries with Stone Cold Steve Austin, Triple H, and John Cena. His charisma and ability to cut some of the best promos in wrestling history made him a fan favorite.
Life after WWE: While The Rock’s focus has shifted to his movie career, he still makes special appearances in WWE. He remains one of the most beloved figures in wrestling and is often mentioned as a future WWE Hall of Famer.
Faqs About Top WWE Legends Still Alive
Who is the greatest WWE legend still alive?
Hulk Hogan is considered one of the greatest WWE legends due to his impact on the industry, mainstream appeal, and long-lasting legacy.
Is The Undertaker still involved with WWE?
Yes, The Undertaker occasionally makes special appearances but officially retired in 2020. He remains connected to the industry through interviews and fan events.
Which WWE legend became a Hollywood star?
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson transitioned from wrestling to acting and is now one of the biggest movie stars in the world, with box office hits like Fast & Furious and Jumanji.
Has Bret Hart returned to WWE after the Montreal Screwjob?
Yes, Bret Hart returned to WWE in 2010, reconciled with the company, and was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame.
What role does Triple H have in WWE now?
Triple H is a WWE executive overseeing the developmental brand NXT and contributing to the company’s overall operations.
Conclusion
These WWE legends have carved out a lasting legacy in professional wrestling, leaving behind a trail of memorable matches, iconic moments, and lasting influence. Though many have retired from active competition, they continue to be involved in the business through special appearances, behind-the-scenes roles, or media ventures.
WWE’s legacy is built upon the shoulders of these icons, and their stories will continue to inspire fans for generations to come.
