Prestige and Glamor of WWE's Iconic Raw Championship Ring

The Rich History Behind the WWE Raw Championship Ring

In professional wrestling, championship belts signify glory, victory, and being the top performer in your promotion. And in WWE, the pinnacle title on the weekly Monday Night Raw program is simply known as the WWE Championship. For over half a century, this iconic belt has been worn by the biggest names in sports entertainment. Let's take a journey through the rich history behind the custom-made physical Raw Championship rings rewarded to those lucky enough to hold this prestigious prize.

Origins and Evolutions of the Design

When WWE was still known as the World Wide Wrestling Federation (WWWF) in the 1960s and 1970s, several early title belt designs featured a simple round face plate. Bruno Sammartino, Superstar Billy Graham, and Bob Backlund proudly wore these early championship prizes during their lengthy reigns atop the WWWF mountain. The 1980s brought a rebranding to simply the WWF, along with a refreshed title look of a more rectangular face plate decorated with flags and intricate side plate designs under the likes of The Iron Sheik, Hulk Hogan, Randy Savage, and more.

In the late 1990s, as the company transitioned fully to WWE, the familiar style of the "winged eagle" championship was unveiled. Sporting a prominent eagle centered on the belt face, this Title was worn during the rise of mega stars like Bret Hart, Shawn Michaels, Stone Cold Steve Austin, The Rock, Triple H, and others. It captured an exciting period in WWE history and became a very popular classic design.

The Modern Design and Custom Championship Rings

In 2002, the current style of WWE Title was introduced, dubbed the WWE Undisputed Championship. Featuring another updated face design, this Title's most iconic visual is perhaps the prominent beveled side plates with recessed panels intended for customization. These signature side plates would be the perfect showcase specifically to display the massive Raw logo for champions of that weekly program.

During a special ceremony, these titleholders would be presented with a one-of-a-kind custom commemorative ring matching their dazzling title belts. These special rings are cast in stainless steel cores with 10K white gold plating, featuring diamond accents and brilliant genuine stones, ranging from rubies to emerald cuts.

The Prestige Behind the Gold

For the modern WWE superstar, there is no greater achievement than to be crowned THE Raw Champion, the top talent in that brand. Holding this Title represents untold fame, glory, and recognition as the standard bearer of their promotion. Legends like John Cena, Randy Orton, Triple H, Brock Lesnar and current record-setting champion Roman Reigns have all staked their claim as THE guy in WWE by wearing these beautiful gold Raw plates.

And with every new amazing champion comes a brand new lavish ring matching that stunning title belt. These brilliant pieces of jewelry combine old school wrestling tradition with modern glitz and glamor, cementing these competitors' place in history. Truly, the Raw Championship represents the ultimate prize for anyone striving for greatness in WWE.

Life Outside the Ring for WWE Superstars

WWE superstars captivate audiences with their charismatic personas and athletic feats between the ropes. But what about their lives outside the ring? Let's pull back the curtain and take a glimpse into their world.

Philanthropy and Community Outreach

Many WWE superstars actively dedicate time towards philanthropic causes and community enrichment. Top stars like John Cena and The Miz have collectively granted over 650 wishes for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. The company itself also donates millions each year to groups like Susan G. Komen, GLAAD, Special Olympics, and Boys & Girls Clubs of America.

Individual talents also support causes important to them. Becky Lynch promotes gender equality, Kofi Kingston helps underprivileged communities abroad, and Titus O’Neil launched The Bullard Family Foundation supporting children and families in need.

Family and Personal Lives

Though they seem larger-than-life on television, many superstars maintain low key lifestyles outside the ring focused on family. 16 time champion John Cena proposed to Shay Shariatzadeh in 2020. The Miz lives in a modest home in Austin, TX with his wife, two daughters, and pets. Surprisingly, extravagant personalities like The New Day also lead quiet home lives around loved ones when not touring.

Other talents pursue education, creative endeavors, and entertainment opportunities. Wade Barrett earned his masters degree in politics. Mick Foley became a best-selling author. AJ Mendez designs comic books. And Miro owns an esports gaming organization.

Preparing Mind and Body

Even during downtime, WWE stars dedicate tons of effort honing their wrestling skills at the WWE Performance Center in Orlando, FL. With seven training rings, world-class trainers, cutting edge equipment, and diverse talents to work with, this facility helps talent take abilities to the next level through hard work and determination.

Self care is also a necessity with year-round travel, promoting, training, and competing. Stars like Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins stick to strict diet and fitness regimens out of the ring focused on fueling their bodies properly. Proper rest and preventing injury are also pivotal.

WWE superstars may seem supernatural on television, but they deal with life’s ups and downs like anyone. However, their passion shines through in their mission to constantly learn, grow, and inspire worldwide audiences with their extraordinary gifts and talents.

FAQs

What are some of the iconic designs used for the WWE Championship belt over the years?

Some iconic designs include the simple round face plates used in the 60s/70s, the rectangular plates with flags and intricate side panels in the 80s, the popular "winged eagle" design in the 90s, and the current customizable side plate version debuting in 2002.

How are the custom championship rings presented to title holders?

During a special ceremony, the dazzling custom rings matching the title belts are presented. They are cast in stainless steel and plated in 10K white gold, featuring diamond and genuine stone accents.

Which WWE stars have dedicated significant time towards philanthropic causes?

John Cena and The Miz have collectively granted over 650 wishes working with the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Many other stars like Becky Lynch, Kofi Kingston, and Titus O'Neil support various causes close to their hearts as well.

Where do WWE athletes train and condition outside the ring?

The state-of-the-art WWE Performance Center in Orlando features seven training rings, expert coaches, advanced equipment, and a diverse talent roster aimed at taking abilities to elite levels through rigorous preparation.