The WWE Elite 100 list represents the pinnacle of achievement, influence, and star power within WWE history. Compiling an ultimate roster requires evaluating in-ring excellence, character work, drawing power, championships, longevity, and cultural impact. While subjective, this list reflects a consensus built on these core metrics:
The Absolute Foundation (Top Tier Legends)
These names are non-negotiable inclusions, defining eras and wrestling itself:
- Hulk Hogan: The face of the Rock ‘n’ Wrestling era, mainstream breakthrough.
- Stone Cold Steve Austin: The defining anti-hero of the Attitude Era, massive draw.
- The Rock: Transcended wrestling to become a global icon, electrifying charisma.
- Ric Flair: “The Nature Boy,” the blueprint for wrestling excellence and arrogance (primarily NWA/WCW legacy solidified in WWE).
- John Cena: The face of WWE for over a decade, work ethic, record-tying champion.
- Undertaker: Unmatched character longevity and WrestleMania legacy (“The Streak”).
- Andre the Giant: The most famous wrestler globally for decades.
Ring General & Era Defining Icons
Masters of their craft who drove business and captivated audiences:
- Bret Hart: Technical excellence, defined the “New Generation”.
- Shawn Michaels: “Mr. WrestleMania,” incredible in-ring performer.
- Randy Savage: Intense charisma and ring psychology megastar.
- Triple H: Key figure behind the scenes and on-screen, reign of terror, Evolution.
- Bruno Sammartino: Held the WWE Championship for over 11 combined years, original icon.
- Roman Reigns: Modern era’s top star, record-breaking Universal Title run.
Revolutionaries & Trendsetters
Changed the game through style, presentation, or representation:
- Rey Mysterio: Pioneered high-flying lucha style in WWE, masked icon.
- Eddie Guerrero: Unforgettable charisma, in-ring genius, “Lie, Cheat, Steal”.
- Mick Foley (Cactus Jack/Mankind/Dude Love): Hardcore legend, incredible character versatility.
- Becky Lynch: “The Man,” central figure in the Women’s Evolution.
- Charlotte Flair: Record-setting champion, athleticism and pedigree.
- Sasha Banks / Mercedes Moné: Key driver of women’s main events, standout performer.
- Brock Lesnar: Legitimate aura, dominance as a part-time attraction.
Influential Pillars & Fan Favorites
Essential talents who delivered consistently and built legacies:
- Randy Orton: Longevity, legendary RKO, evolution of the Viper.
- Edge: Ultimate Opportunist, incredible tag and singles success.
- Kurt Angle: Olympic gold medalist, unmatched intensity and comedy blend.
- The Ultimate Warrior: Explosive charisma, defined early 90s for many fans.
- Dusty Rhodes: “The American Dream,” iconic promo, influenced generations.
- Roddy Piper: “Rowdy,” master heel and talker.
Essential Teams & Others Worthy
Recognizing crucial tag teams and more pivotal names:
- The Road Warriors / Legion of Doom: Most intimidating and influential tag team ever.
- DX (Shawn Michaels, Triple H, Chyna): Embodied Attitude Era rebelliousness.
- The Hart Foundation (Bret Hart & Jim Neidhart): Excellence of Execution and power.
- The Dudley Boyz: Hardcore innovators, 10-time WWE tag champs.
- Seth Rollins: Architect, current workhorse, multiple top titles.
- AJ Styles: Phenomenal One, elite in-ring talent across eras.
- Batista: Movie star breakout, Evolution powerhouse.
- Big Show: Giant athlete with surprising agility across decades.
- Jerry “The King” Lawler: Memphis legend, long-time commentator, in-ring resume.
Filling the remaining spots requires balancing respect for history with modern impact: names like Owen Hart, Ricky Steamboat, Mr. Perfect, Jake “The Snake” Roberts, Trish Stratus, Chyna, Booker T, Daniel Bryan/Bryan Danielson, Kevin Nash, Scott Hall, CM Punk, The Miz, Rhea Ripley, and many others have compelling arguments based on the criteria. No single list pleases everyone, but the Elite 100 captures the superstars who left an undeniable, lasting mark on WWE.
