Latest news with #WorldHeavyweightChampion
Yahoo
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Jey Uso retains the World Title on the anniversary of his WWE debut
With the world title on the line and the referee down, interference ran rampant as a Samoan warrior emerged victorious, still the champion. For a moment, it felt like a throwback to the days when Roman Reigns ruled the ring. Instead, it was Jey Uso who stood tall, successfully defending his title against Logan Paul at Saturday Night's Main Event. After the show, Uso reflected on his journey to becoming World Heavyweight Champion, which began exactly 15 years ago that Saturday. Advertisement 'I appreciate every single one of y'all, man, on my journey, and it's still going. From the bottom of my heart, man, I love y'all,' said Uso as he spoke to the fans in Tampa's Yuengling Center. That emotional moment was grounded in history. Uso referenced his time in Tampa, where he and his brother Jimmy once wrestled for Florida Championship Wrestling, WWE's developmental system before NXT. For over a decade, Jey and Jimmy dominated WWE's tag team scene, culminating in 2023, when the twin duo headlined WrestleMania 39 and Money in the Bank. In many ways, Uso's ascension mirrors that of WWE Hall of Famer Bret Hart. For nearly seven years, Hart and his partner Jim Neidhart were arguably WWE's preeminent tag team. As the Hart Foundation, they captured two world tag team titles and had several memorable encounters with the British Bulldogs, Demolition, and The Rockers. After the team amicably parted ways, Hart began climbing the ranks of WWE's singles division. In 1991, he defeated Mr. Perfect at SummerSlam to win the Intercontinental Title. At WrestleMania VIII in 1992, he won the title a second time, defeating one of the faces of WWE's golden era, Rowdy Roddy Piper. Before the year was through, Hart defeated the legendary Ric Flair to win his first of five WWE Championships. Advertisement Similarly, Uso captured the Intercontinental Title last year before going on to dethrone Gunther at WrestleMania 41 to win the World Championship. But unlike 'The Hitman,' Uso has faced criticism from some fans online, who argue that his in-ring skills don't measure up to past champions like Hart. However, focusing solely on in-ring technique misses what pro wrestling is truly about: storytelling, mic work, and emotional connection. In that regard, Uso is as good as anyone who came before him. 'There's just this magical connection between him, and when he's in that ocean of people that are loving what he does that becomes undeniable,' said Paul Levesque, WWE's Chief Content Officer, after WrestleMania. Levesque praised Uso's work not just for being a guy with a trendy catchphrase but for how he has grown as a performer. 'I think everybody saw something different in Jey over the last couple of years in that Bloodline story and the way he handled himself,' said Levesque of Uso's time as Reigns' understudy. Advertisement Still, to cement Uso as a legitimate champion, WWE needs to present his title reign with more authority. Since capturing the title, Uso has had three matches with questionable finishes. He was disqualified against Seth Rollins in what was Uso's first title defense. Two weeks later, 'Main Event' Jey beat Bron Breakker by DQ in a non-title match. Both matches were on Raw, and each was plagued by outside interference. At Saturday Night's Main Event, Uso defeated Paul, but again, the involvement of John Cena and Cody Rhodes took the luster off Uso's first successful title defense. Next, Uso will team with Cody Rhodes to face John Cena and Logan Paul at Money in the Bank on June 7. Two nights later, he'll face Gunther in a rematch on the June 9 episode of Raw. Another strong win over 'The Ring General' could cement Uso's credibility heading into SummerSlam—WWE's second-biggest event—where he's expected to play a major role. More from
India.com
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- India.com
Randy Ortan to CM Punk: 7 full-time WWE superstars with MOST World titles
From legends such as Randy Orton to fan-favourites such as CM Punk, these year-round WWE performers have made their mark in history by accumulating the most World Championship reigns. Take a look at the top seven title collectors still active today. Randy Orton, WWE legend for over two decades and "The Viper," is the highest world championship reign holder in active male wrestlers with fourteen titles. His career that has lasted over two decades is a testament to his longevity and persistence in WWE's high-stakes title bouts. Roman Reigns's leadership position in WWE is confirmed by his six world championships, as evidence of his repeated success. His record-shattering long Universal Championship reign, more than 1300 days, is evidence of his dominance. Reigns's enduring success stems from a combination of strong stage presence, in-ring ability, and effective story-telling ability. Seth Rollins' repeated success has cemented his place as one of the best WWE performers. A five-time world champion, with both the WWE and Universal titles, he has just added the first-ever World Heavyweight Championship to his list. His versatility and hard work have earned him a fan favorite status and a constant contender for titles. CM Punk's 2023 return to WWE, after a decade away, was a major comeback for the performer. A five-time world champion with prior reigns as both WWE Champion and World Heavyweight Champion, Punk's return has rekindled familiar feuds and brought fresh energy to the championship landscape. Sheamus is one of the top WWE wrestlers and has won four world championships, highlighting his forceful style and persistent presence in title hunt. His career, defined by his aggressive style and multiple championships achieved (such as the WWE Championship and World Heavyweight Championship), has persisted even when he was challenged by injuries. He is still an important contender. Drew McIntyre's career is the best example of an incredible return story in WWE. His three world championship holds, including two during the COVID-19 pandemic, have made him one of the top wrestlers and a fan favorite. Rey Mysterio, one of the best wrestlers to date, has never failed to surpass expectations in his career. This three-time world title holder's inspirational underdog story and energetic wrestling style have gained him international popularity across the globe. He remains a prized and busy WWE wrestler, consistently giving great performances at top shows.
International Business Times
11-05-2025
- Entertainment
- International Business Times
How Did Sabu Die? EWC Legend and WWE Star Terry Brunk Died Suddenly Aged 60 Weeks After His Final Match
Wrestling pioneer Terry Brunk, better known as Sabu, and one of the most popular hardcore wrestlers of his time in ECW in the 1990s and a short stint in WWE in the mid-2000s, has died, reported. Sabu was active in the ring as recently as last month, competing in what was his final match during WrestleMania weekend in Las Vegas. He was 60, and his cause of death was not disclosed. His last known public appearance was at the Tri-State Wrestling Alliance reunion convention held in Philadelphia last weekend, sources said. Sabu nicknamed 'The Human Highlight Reel', was hailed by WWE as a 'trailblazer' and an 'extreme lunatic'. Death of a Legend Sabu was known for his daring and reckless in-ring style. In one bout, he tore apart his bicep when barbed wire was used instead of ropes. In another instance, he reportedly "reattached own jaw" and sealed a cut using superglue. "AEW and the wrestling world mourns the passing of Sabu," AEW said in a statement. "From barbed wire battles to unforgettable high-risk moments, Sabu gave everything to professional wrestling. Our thoughts are with his family, his friends and his fans." A high-flying performer known for his hardcore bouts involving tables, ladders, chairs, and barbed wire, Sabu earned the nickname "the suicidal, homicidal, genocidal, death-defying maniac." Sabu, the nephew of wrestling legend The Sheik, became a two-time ECW World Heavyweight Champion, also winning the ECW World Television Title and three Tag Team Championships. He was a key figure in the rise of hardcore wrestling during the 1990s. After a run with TNA, Sabu joined WWE in 2006 when the company, having previously acquired ECW, launched a new weekly program dedicated to the brand. Always a Star Sabu was a part of the ECW Originals team that won over The New Breed in an eight-man tag match at WrestleMania 23 on April 1, 2007. He was released by WWE the next month. Throughout his career, Sabu also competed in WCW, New Japan Pro-Wrestling, and AAA, while continuing to wrestle on the independent circuit. In 2023, he made two appearances for AEW, including serving as the special enforcer for a match between Adam Cole and Chris Jericho. Rob Van Dam, a veteran wrestler and former ECW tag team partner of Sabu, paid tribute on X by sharing an emoji of an upward-pointing index finger, referencing Sabu's iconic gesture. Taz, another prominent ECW alum who later worked with WWE and now serves as a commentator for AEW, expressed his grief over the news, saying it "breaks my heart." "I would not have had the career that I have had, and I've been blessed to have, if it wasn't for Sabu. That man got me over, and he didn't have to get me over, and he did," Taz said in a video posted on X. "A great heart and soul. I'm gonna miss him immensely."
Irish Daily Star
26-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Daily Star
Ric Flair's iconic 'WOOOOO!' catchphrase keeps him in the spotlight decades after WWE fame
Three years after putting on his wrestling boots for what he's called his last-ever match, Ric Flair has said he's more popular than ever . Throughout an illustrious career in the squared circle which lasted nearly five decades, Flair tallied considerable accomplishments, including reigns as an 8-time NWA World Heavyweight Champion, 6-time WCW World Heavyweight Champion, and two-time WWF Champion. Despite the 76-year-old's prediction that Cody Rhodes would stop John Cena from doing so at WrestleMania 41 , which featured a controversial appearance from Travis Scott , Cena recently surpassed Flair's hallmark of 16 WWE world championships. In July 2022, Flair hung up his wrestling cape for good in a grudge match featuring Jeff Jarrett and Jay Lethal, with Andrade El Idolo by his side, during the 'Ric Flair's Last Match' event. Read More Related Articles Tom Brady's pre-Draft comments on Shedeur Sanders come to light after dramatic slide Read More Related Articles Shedeur Sanders breaks silence as five quarterbacks taken before him in NFL Draft Flair became an international sensation not only through his shiny mane, flashy attire, and boundless charisma but also thanks to his famous catchphrase that has endured over the decades. Almost 50 years after he first toyed with his trademark "WOOOOO!", the chant has embedded itself into contemporary culture. While racking up around 3,000 miles every week driving to wrestling events in the 1970s, Flair often had Jerry Lee Lewis tunes accompanying him. It was Lewis' sharp "woo!" from his 1961 hit 'Great Balls of Fire' that caught Flair's attention and led him to incorporate it into his television promos. The "WOOOOO!" shout began as Flair's signature call and quickly captured the hearts of audiences nationwide, who would yell it out in unity when he stepped into the wrestling ring. Today, the "WOOOOO!" can be heard well outside the confines of wrestling arenas. "I just look at it now, it's flattering," Flair shared exclusively with Mirror U.S. Sports . "It keeps me relevant and probably more recognized now than I've ever been." Flair believes he might be more recognized now that he's ever been (Image: Getty Images) Notably, prominent rappers and musicians like Metro Boomin, Offset, Snoop Dogg, and Bad Bunny have woven the distinctive cheer into their music whilst shining the spotlight on Flair in their videos. "They made that song 'Ric Flair Drip' ... and that took off," Flair remarked. "Snoop said I was bling before bling was bling, and pretty soon I made that thing for Bad Bunny. I've become really, really close friends with Post Malone. It's just amazing." Numerous sports teams from leagues all over North America are celebrating big moments like an NFL first down or an MLB homerun with the famed "WOOOOO!" "14 National Hockey League teams use it after they score a goal," cited Flair. Even the drinks industry hasn't escaped the "WOOOOO!" with Flair launching WOOOOO! Energy in 2023, his "better-for-you" energy drink infused with functional mushrooms. Keen to broaden its market reach, he's exploring overseas distribution options, including partners in Shanghai. Flair quipped, "If we get in China and Japan, I'll be hard to locate. I'll be doing one of these [interviews] from my own 747." Flair's iconic 'WOOOOO!' has been featured in several popular songs (Image: Getty Images) However, despite the popularity of the "WOOOOO!", Flair acknowledged that few people respect its trademarked status. "it's impossible to enforce it. We've tried," he admitted. "I'd have to sue everybody." That hasn't stopped Flair from going after several businesses that have used the "WOOOOO!" without permission, though with limited success. "I've tried it with a car dealership here that uses it in Vegas. They just tear up the letters and throw them away," he said. One notable exception is McDonald's, which complied with Flair's request. "The only person we shut down was McDonald's, because they did it in a commercial," he said. "And rather than pay me - that commercial had to have cost them millions to produce or hundreds of thousands anyway - they just elected not to pay me and took it down." For now, though, Flair is content to see his iconic "WOOOOO!" thriving in popular culture and sports.
Forbes
19-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
WWE WrestleMania 41 Results: Jey Uso Wins First World Title
Jey Uso shocked the world by winning the 2025 WWE Royal Rumble. (Credit: WWE/WWE via Getty Images) Jey Uso defeated Gunther at WWE WrestleMania 41 to become the new World Heavyweight Champion, and he did it by taking a page out of Gunther's playbook. Kicking off WWE's two-night extravanganza in Allegiant Stadium, the leader of the Yeet movement blasted Gunther with a spear and a barrage of top rope splashes before tapping out Gunther to his own sleeper submission, forcing 'The Ring General' to call it quits for the first time in his WWE career. Uso's incredible win capped off what has been a meteoric rise in popularity for the longtime tag team performer over the course of the past year. An eight-time WWE tag team champion, Uso became the breakout star of The Bloodline saga in late 2024 and left WWE with no choice but to push him to the moon. At WrestleMania 41, he reached the apex of WWE when, after playing mind games with Gunther all match, he used Gunther's own move to put him away. What a rise for Uso, too. As Uso surpassed top stars like Roman Reigns and CM Punk to become WWE's top merchandise seller, the Yeet movement catapulted Uso to not one but two of the most shocking upsets in WWE history. The first came in February when Uso, in arguably the most star-studded men's Royal Rumble match ever, last eliminated 16-time world champion John Cena to punch his ticket to WrestleMania 41. The second came tonight in Las Vegas when Uso defeated Gunther to end the dominant star's World Heavyweight Champion reign. During his stint in WWE, Gunther has been one of the most protected stars in the company, dominating in NXT before having the greatest Intercontinental Championship reign ever and then transitioning to another dominant title run as World Heavyweight Champion. Even Uso himself had previously lost multiple title matches to Gunther, which is one of the many reasons why it was so surprising when Uso won the Royal Rumble and then set his sights on Gunther, the man he'd already failed to beat twice. En route to WrestleMania 41, the story told between Gunther and Uso wasn't exactly an epic one. It focused on far too many in-ring segments that followed the same script, and WWE even utilized Uso's viral botched finish against Austin Theory to craft the idea that Uso was 'slipping' during his feud with Gunther. WWE shifted its focus to Uso doubting himself after his previous losses to Gunther, building up the possibility that he'd fail yet again. But a loss on 'The Grandest Stage of Them All?' Uso wasn't going to let that happen. In similar fashion to stars like Daniel Bryan and Kofi Kingston before him, Uso's soaring popularity forced WWE's hand. In a WWE loaded with megastars like Reigns, Punk and Cody Rhodes, Uso has been generating arguably the loudest crowd reactions in WWE despite any supposed backlash to his push. It became apparent that as Uso had crowds chanting his entrance song and dancing along with him, just as they were in Allegiant Stadium, that he was experiencing the type of organic rise that is impossible to create forcefully. Uso was able to stand out on his own despite his ties to The Bloodline, the main purpose of which was to create new stars. That's exactly what it accomplished, too. Uso became, like his nickname says, 'Main Event' Jey Uso, and now, he can forever add one more accolade to his name: World Heavyweight Champion.
