In 2003, Jakks Pacific continued its extensive line of World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) action figures, capturing the height of the “Ruthless Aggression” era. The figures from this year are known for their distinctive sculpts and articulation style, representing a significant period in wrestling figure collecting.
Key Series in 2003
Several distinct series were prominent in Jakks Pacific’s 2003 WWE offerings:
- Ruthless Aggression: This was a flagship series. Releases in 2003 included Series 1 through Series 5. These figures typically featured updated attires and sculpts for top WWE Superstars.
- Notable figures included: Brock Lesnar, Triple H, Kurt Angle, Rob Van Dam, John Cena (early figures), and Rey Mysterio.
- Figures often came with basic accessories like championship belts or character-specific items.
- Adrenaline: These were two-pack sets, often themed around tag teams or rivalries. Series 7 through Series 10 were released in 2003.
- Featured pairings such as The World’s Greatest Tag Team (Shelton Benjamin & Charlie Haas), Los Guerreros (Eddie & Chavo Guerrero), and various superstar combinations reflecting ongoing storylines.
- Finishing Moves: This line focused on specific signature maneuvers. Series 1, 2, and 3 saw releases, with figures often having action features or accessories related to their finishers.
- Examples included figures with spring-loaded features or unique props to replicate famous moves.
- Backlash Series: These were pay-per-view themed assortments. Backlash Series 1 and 2 were part of the 2003 lineup, often featuring event-specific attires.
- Draft Lottery Series: A special series reflecting the WWE brand split and superstar draft, featuring figures in their newly drafted brand attire.
Figure Characteristics
Jakks WWE figures from 2003 generally shared common traits:
- Articulation: Standard Jakks articulation of the time, which typically included neck, shoulders, elbows, wrists, waist, hips, and knees. Head sculpts often utilized Jakks’ “Real Scan” technology for enhanced likeness.
- Scale: Predominantly in the 6-7 inch scale, making them compatible with other figures and playsets in the Jakks WWE universe.
- Sculpts and Likenesses: While varying in precise accuracy, many figures captured recognizable likenesses, particularly with head sculpts. Body sculpts were often reused across different characters with new paint applications to represent unique attires.
- Accessories: Common accessories included championship belts (often molded plastic with sticker details), breakable tables, chairs, ladders, sledgehammers, and occasionally fabric items like shirts or entrance gear.
Collectibility Today
Many 2003 Jakks WWE figures are sought after by collectors for nostalgic reasons, representing key wrestlers and moments from the Ruthless Aggression era. While not as detailed or articulated as modern figures from companies like Mattel, they hold a special place for those who collected during that period. Certain figures, especially early releases of future main eventers, those with unique attires, or short-packed figures, can command notable prices on the secondary market.
