Qualifying Credentials:NWA World Champion (1961), WWWF Champion (1963), WWE Hall Of Fame
The original "Nature Boy" was one of Lou Thesz's top rivals through the 50s and 60s. Became the inaugural world champion when Capitol Wrestling formed the World Wide Wrestling Federation (WWWF) in 1963. The WWWF would eventually morph into WWE, so Rogers is recognized as the first WWE Champion. This also makes Rogers the first man to hold both the NWA and WWE Titles.
Qualifying Credentials: IWGP Champion (1987), WWE Hall OF Fame (2010)
The inaugural IWGP Champion. One of the most respected men in Japan wrestling, both as an in ring competitor and as a promoter. Nicknamed "The Vince McMahon of Japan", as he is the founder of the New Japan promotion. Defeated Ric Flair in a match that drew 190,000 people. Has an unrecognized WWWF title win over Bob Backlund in 1979.
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