Ranking the Legends: Every WWE King of the Ring Winner from Worst to Best

The History of WWE's King of the Ring

The King of the Ring is more than just a title; it’s a prestigious tournament that has shaped careers and created legends in the world of professional wrestling. Established in 1985, this annual event has seen numerous Superstars don the crown, each leaving their indelible mark on WWE history. From its inception, the tournament has served as a launchpad for rising stars and a crowning achievement for established ones.

Ranking the Kings

As we rank every King of the Ring winner from worst to best, we take into consideration not only their performance in the tournament but also their overall contributions to WWE, fan reception, and lasting legacy. Here’s our comprehensive list:

8. Billy Gunn (1999)

While Billy Gunn was a talented wrestler, his reign as King of the Ring was largely overshadowed by the popularity of The Attitude Era. His character did not resonate strongly with fans, resulting in a forgettable run.

7. Mabel (1995)

Mabel's victory in 1995 came at a time when larger-than-life characters were in vogue. Although he brought a unique presence to the ring, his in-ring skills and charisma left much to be desired, earning him a low spot on our list.

6. King Corbin (2019)

Baron Corbin’s win in 2019 was met with mixed reactions. His character work has been divisive among fans, but he managed to establish himself as a formidable heel during his reign, making him a memorable King, albeit for the wrong reasons.

5. Bret Hart (1991)

Bret Hart's tournament victory in 1991 solidified his status as a top athlete in the company. His technical prowess and storytelling ability in the ring made him a fan favorite, but his time as King was short-lived compared to others.

4. Owen Hart (1994)

Owen Hart's 1994 win was not only a significant moment in his career but also added depth to his storyline with Bret Hart. His charisma and in-ring talent made him a beloved figure, and his reign as King is often fondly remembered.

3. Steve Austin (1996)

Steve Austin's victory in 1996 marked the beginning of his rise to superstardom. This win transformed him into a household name and helped propel the WWE into the Attitude Era, making him one of the most iconic Kings.

2. Kurt Angle (2000)

Kurt Angle’s skills as a wrestler and performer shone brightly during his 2000 King of the Ring win. His combination of technical ability and charisma made him a standout, earning him a special place in the hearts of fans.

1. Randy Orton (2003)

Randy Orton’s 2003 victory in the King of the Ring tournament marked the beginning of his legendary career in WWE. His youthful energy, combined with his impressive in-ring capabilities, helped establish him as one of the best in the company, making his reign memorable and impactful.

Conclusion

The legacy of the King of the Ring tournament continues to influence WWE today. As fans reflect on these winners, it’s clear that each King brought a unique flavor to the competition, but only a few have managed to leave a lasting impact that cements their place in wrestling history.