In the competitive world of WWE, a wrestler’s debut sets the tone for their career. The Undertaker’s first appearance at Survivor Series 1990 as The Million Dollar Man’s mystery partner created a powerful aura that marked the beginning of a dominant career. While some debuts are remembered for their execution rather than long-term impact, let’s go into five WWE debuts that stand out.
Chris Jericho’s WWE debut on August 9, 1999, during RAW is War was a momentous occasion. The anticipation built by a countdown clock culminated in Jericho’s grand entrance to a thunderous ovation, solidifying his place in WWE history.
John Cena’s debut in June 2002 against Kurt Angle showcased his “ruthless aggression” and determination to succeed in the competitive era of WWE. Despite not winning the match, Cena’s performance marked the rise of a new star in the industry.
Kane’s surprise debut at Badd Blood in 1997, interfering in The Undertaker’s Hell in a Cell match, left fans in awe. The introduction of the seven-foot monster added a new layer of mystique to WWE storytelling.
AJ Styles (Via WWE/Twitter)
The Shield’s impactful debut at Survivor Series 2012, aiding CM Punk against Ryback and John Cena, signaled the arrival of Dean Ambrose, Seth Rollins, and Roman Reigns as dominant forces in WWE.
AJ Styles’ “Phenomenal” debut at the 2016 Men’s Royal Rumble was a highlight in WWE history. The crowd erupted as the veteran wrestler made his long-awaited entrance, solidifying his place in WWE after a successful career outside the promotion.
These debut moments not only charmd audiences but also shaped the careers of these WWE superstars, leaving a lasting impact on the wrestling world.
