1. Hulk Hogan
Major Titles Held: 12
PWI Wrestler of the Year: 1987, 1991, 1994
The Hulkster ruled professional wrestling for two entire decades. Hogan’s marketability and appearances in movies and television helped turn the WWE into a billion dollar industry and paved the way for today’s high paid stars and elaborately produced shows. His in-ring ability; however left much to be desired, as he is widely regarded as a below average wrestler. Nevertheless Hogan rarely lost a match, even into his 50s.
2. Ric Flair
Major Titles Held: 16 (varies by source).
PWI Wrestler of the Year: 1981, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1989, 1992.
In short Ric Flair is wrestling. He has headlined every promotion he has ever been in from the 1970s to the early 2000s, winning multiple World Championships in each. Flair is legendary for being able to generate reactions from the crowd, with a mix of rule breaking and a flashy ring entrance.
3. Lou Thesz
Major Titles Held: 3
Longest Title duration (10 years)
Youngest Title Holder (Age 21)
A legend and innovator in the business, Thesz ascended the pro wrestling ranks in the 1930s and is generally credited for inventing many maneuvers. He was known as a “hooker” (a wrestler who used various legitimate moves to end matches with double crossing opponents who wouldn’t necessarily stick to the script). This ability along with a supremely fluid style allowed him to hold on to the title for over a decade while defeating all challengers.
