Top five best WWE Survivor Series debuts

The history of WWE Survivor Series is studded with moments that defined eras, and among these, the debut of iconic superstars stands out as a testament to the event's legacy. Let's take a trip down memory lane and revisit the top five best Survivor Series debuts that left an indelible mark on the landscape of professional wrestling.

5. The Shield (Survivor Series 2012)

In the modern era, The Shield, Seth Rollins, Roman Reigns, and Dean Ambrose made an emphatic WWE debut at Survivor Series 2012. The trio, unknown to a significant portion of the WWE Universe at the time, played a pivotal role in the main event. Aligning with CM Punk, they assisted him in retaining his WWE Championship against John Cena and Ryback.

The Shield's triple powerbombing of Ryback through an announce table left an indelible mark. The subsequent dominance of Rollins, Reigns, and Ambrose, both as stable and as individual stars, showcased the profound impact of their Survivor Series debut. The Shield's legacy extends to multiple world championships and headline status, marking them as one of WWE's most successful stables.

4. Sting (Survivor Series 2014)

Sting, one of wrestling's most talked-about icons, made a long-awaited WWE debut at Survivor Series 2014. Avoiding WWE for years due to loyalty to WCW, Sting's debut was shrouded in anticipation. During the main event, Team Cena faced Team Authority, and the Stinger's arrival turned the tide in favor of Team Cena.

Sting's impact was immediate, as he confronted Triple H, hitting him with a Scorpion Death Drop. This debut, while delivering excitement, also set the stage for a WrestleMania 31 match in 2015, which Sting lost. Despite subsequent challenges, Sting's Survivor Series debut remains a monumental moment, showcasing the convergence of a wrestling legend with WWE's biggest stage.

3. Kurt Angle (Survivor Series 1999)

Olympic gold medalist Kurt Angle brought his unparalleled athleticism to WWE, making a memorable debut at Survivor Series 1999. Despite signing with WWE in 1998, Angle's televised debut took over a year. In a quick squash match against Shawn Stasiak, Angle showcased both his in-ring prowess and mic skills.

Angle's American hero gimmick, based on his 1996 Olympic gold medal win, quickly endeared him to fans. Survivor Series became the launch pad for one of the greatest rookie years in WWE history. Angle's debut match, although deemed "okay" by the man himself, set the stage for an illustrious career that culminated in his Hall of Fame induction in 2016.

2. The Undertaker (Survivor Series 1990)

The Undertaker, WWE's legendary Phenom, made a chilling debut at Survivor Series 1990 as the mystery partner on Ted DiBiase's team. Nicknamed "The Deadman," The Undertaker's impact on Survivor Series and WWE as a whole is immeasurable. From eliminating opponents in his debut match to establishing an unprecedented WrestleMania streak, The Undertaker's legacy began at Survivor Series.

In a match against The Dream Team, The Undertaker's mysterious aura captivated the audience. Despite being counted out, The Deadman made an unforgettable impact. This debut marked the beginning of a 30-year career, and in a full-circle moment, The Undertaker officially retired during his 'Final Farewell' at Survivor Series in 2020.

1. The Rock (Survivor Series 1996)

Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, now a global superstar, emerged onto the WWE scene in a surprising turn of events at Survivor Series 1996. Initially billed as "Rocky Maivia," a nod to his father and grandfather's ring names, The Rock's white-meat hero character struggled to connect with fans. However, fate had other plans, and a year later, he joined the Nation of Domination, transforming into the electrifying and trash-talking Rock we all know today.

The Rock's debut match saw him as the sole survivor in a traditional Survivor Series elimination match. Reflecting on this historic moment, The Rock revealed a conversation with Vince McMahon just minutes before his debut. McMahon's words, "You’re either gonna f****** sink or you’re gonna swim it’s New York City. It’s up to you," set the stage for The Rock's journey. While the initial version of Rocky Maivia may have "sunk," it paved the way for The Rock to swim, becoming a 10-time world champion and headlining five WrestleMania.

Conclusion

In the annals of Survivor Series history, these debuts stand as pillars, shaping the landscape of professional wrestling and contributing to the event's enduring legacy. As we celebrate the rich tapestry of Survivor Series, we salute these moments that ignited the spark of greatness in WWE's most iconic superstars.