The Most Surprising WWE Championship Wins in Women’s and Men’s Wrestling

Wrestling fans often enjoy the unpredictability of title matches, where upsets and twists can shock the entire audience. Both male and female wrestlers have claimed championships in ways that left fans awestruck, from debut matches to unexpected eliminations. This article will delve into some of the most surprising WWE Championship wins in the sport's history. Let's explore the stories, the moments, and the wrestlers who made impact with their victories.

Most Surprising Female WWE Championship Wins

WWE's women's division has always been full of surprises, and one of the most memorable came from a relative newcomer to the roster. Paige's debut match on RAW and her championship win against AJ Lee stands out. When Paige appeared on the scene in goth rock attire, nobody expected her to secure the win. This match not only catapulted Paige into the spotlight but also marked a turning point for NXT, enhancing the brand's visibility outside of its core fanbase. This little-known story shows that talent and hard work can break through even the toughest competition.

Another surprising win occurred early in Paige's career. Despite being a seasoned performer, she still managed to score an upset against go-to superstars. Her natural beauty and the dark, goth gimmick worked in perfect harmony to make her a standout wrestler.

Most Surprising Male WWE Championship Wins

Men's wrestling has also seen its share of shocking championship changes. In the male division, Edge's cash-in of the first Money in the Bank on John Cena remains a classic example. When this opportunity was introduced, nobody expected that Edge, a former legend, would take it and use it as leverage to cash in on his rival. The match at Elimination Chamber had already been intense and grueling, making Cena a tough target. However, Edge's strategic decision to go for the win added an unexpected layer to the story. It was a move that fans had never seen before and truly showcased Edge's genius and surprise factor in the ring.

The initial use of the Money in the Bank gimmick was a stroke of brilliance. Before that moment, it was considered a novelty rather than a serious strategy. The first time it was successfully used on Cena, however, it became a massive success, thanks to its perfect timing and the shock value it provided to the audience. Since then, the gimmick has become overused and often elicits groans from fans, but that first instance remains an unforgettable highlight.

Other Notable Upsets

There have been several other memorable instances where wrestlers took the unexpected route to win a championship. Here are three more notable examples:

Sgt Slaughter beating : This match not only marked a turncoat's victory over a beloved fan favorite, but it also added an extra layer of drama due to the timing, occurring during the Gulf War. The booking was criticized, but it remains a significant chapter in WWE history. Jinder Mahal beating : Much like Paige's victory, the idea of a seemingly weaker wrestler taking on a legendary opponent was daring. Not only did Jinder Mahal secure the title, but he also defended it successfully twice, making his championship win all the more shocking. Shawn Michaels (again): While Shawn Michaels is a legendary figure, his multiple championship wins remain surprising. Many fans have witnessed his return to the ring in various forms and his victory as both an active wrestler and a heel has provided memorable moments, particularly during the SmackDown Special event in 2016.

These matches not only altered the landscape of their respective reigns but also left a lasting impact on WWE's narrative. These victories remind us of the unpredictability and excitement that is inherent in professional wrestling, where anything can happen, and everything can be surprising.

Conclusion

The world of professional wrestling is filled with legendary moments, and the surprising victories of Paige, Edge, Jinder Mahal, and many others exemplify the genre's ability to entertain with unexpected twists. These matches not only captured the attention of fans worldwide but also showcased the skills, strategy, and sheer surprise of the wrestlers involved. Whether it's a debut match or an underdog tale, these moments continue to be celebrated and remembered in the annals of WWE history.