Introduction

The WWE Universal Championship Belt is one of the most prestigious titles in expert wrestling. Introduced by WWE in 2016, this name became created as an alternative international championship following the emblem split between Raw and SmackDown. Over the years, the Universal Championship has been held by a number of the greatest superstars in WWE records, cementing its importance in the enterprise.

History and Evolution of the WWE Universal Championship

The WWE Universal Championship changed into formally delivered on July 25, 2016, all through an episode of Monday Night Raw by then-General Manager Mick Foley and Commissioner Stephanie McMahon. The want for a brand new world name arose after the WWE Championship became specific to SmackDown following the draft.

The first-ever Universal Champion became topped at SummerSlam 2016, where Finn Bálor defeated Seth Rollins to win the title. Unfortunately, Bálor had to relinquish the championship because of harm, setting the stage for future champions.

Design and Features of the Universal Title

The WWE Universal Championship Belt is understood for its formidable and eye-catching layout. The belt carefully resembles the WWE Championship but features specific color schemes depending on its assigned emblem.

Key Features:

Strap Color: Originally debuted in crimson for Raw, later changed to blue for SmackDown.

Center Plate: Features the large WWE emblem in gold with a customizable facet plate machine.

Materials: Crafted from first-rate leather-based and steel plates, giving it an true championship experience.

Custom Side Plates: Champions can personalize the belt with their unique brand or logo.

Throughout its records, the belt has seen minor changes, however its prestige stays intact.

Notable WWE Universal Champions

The Universal Championship has been held by means of severa iconic superstars, every leaving a lasting mark on its legacy. Some of the maximum tremendous champions encompass:

Finn Bálor (First Champion, 2016)

Became the primary-ever Universal Champion at SummerSlam 2016.

Had to vacate the title the subsequent night time because of damage.

Brock Lesnar (Multiple-Time Champion)

Dominated the title scene with ancient reigns.

Defended the championship in opposition to pinnacle superstars like Roman Reigns and Braun Strowman.

Roman Reigns (Longest Reign, 2020-2023)

Held the Universal Championship for over 1,000 days, making him the longest-reigning Universal Champion in history.

Defended it towards top challengers like John Cena, Edge, and Cody Rhodes.

Seth Rollins, Kevin Owens, and Bray Wyatt

Each had memorable reigns that contributed to the championship's status.

Iconic Matches for the Universal Title

Several unforgettable fits have helped outline the legacy of the WWE Universal Championship. Some of the most memorable bouts include:

Finn Bálor vs. Seth Rollins (SummerSlam 2016) – The ancient first fit for the Universal Title.

Brock Lesnar vs. Roman Reigns (WrestleMania 34 & 38) – Hard-hitting encounters among two of WWE's largest stars.

The Fiend vs. Seth Rollins (Hell in a Cell 2019) – A arguable fit that ended with The Fiend's identify victory.

Roman Reigns vs. Edge vs. Daniel Bryan (WrestleMania 37) – A exciting triple-chance suit.

Each of those matches played a critical position in establishing the status of the championship.

WWE Universal Championship vs. WWE Championship

Many fans frequently examine the Universal Championship with the WWE Championship, questioning which name holds more status. While the WWE Championship has been round because 1963 and is steeped in history, the Universal Championship has quickly risen in importance because of its excessive-profile suits and dominant champions.

Here are a few key differences:

WWE Championship: Recognized as WWE's top title with a wealthy records.

Universal Championship: Created in 2016 but has end up a centerpiece of WWE storytelling.

Brand Association: The WWE Championship has switched manufacturers more than one times, while the Universal Championship was specific to Raw earlier than shifting to SmackDown.

Both titles keep significant prestige, with their importance determined by way of the champion and ongoing storylines.

 The Future of the Universal Championship Belt

The WWE Universal Championship has already cemented itself as one of the most vast titles in professional wrestling. With WWE constantly evolving, the future of the championship stays shiny. Some capacity traits consist of:

New Belt Design: WWE might also introduce a brand new search for the Universal Championship.

More Crossover Matches: Possible name unifications or inter-brand championship bouts.

Emerging Superstars: Young wrestlers like Bron Breakker and Austin Theory may want to form the following era of champions.

 Conclusion

The WWE Universal Championship Belt has end up one of the maximum prestigious titles in expert wrestling due to the fact its introduction in 2016. With legendary champions, unforgettable matches, and a specific layout, the title has earned its place in WWE records. As WWE keeps to evolve, the Universal Championship will continue to be a symbol of greatness for years yet to come.