Top seven stars who defeated The Rock for the WWE Championship

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, a name etched in the annals of wrestling history, held the WWE Championship high 10 times during his electrifying seven-year run with WWE from 1996 to 2003. His unparalleled charisma, impeccable mic skills, and exceptional in-ring abilities catapulted him to superstardom, transforming him into a mainstream icon.

While The Rock’s reign as the WWE Champion was nothing short of spectacular, there were seven extraordinary superstars who managed to achieve the unthinkable – defeating The Great One for the coveted WWE Championship.

7. Stone Cold Steve Austin (1999, 2001):

The epic rivalry between Stone Cold Steve Austin and The Rock is the stuff of legends, with their matches becoming defining moments in WWE history. Austin managed the unthinkable, defeating The Rock not once but twice for the WWE Championship. At Wrestlemania 15 and 17, Austin emerged victorious, showcasing his tenacity and resilience in the face of The Rock’s formidable challenge. These victories solidified Austin’s legacy as one of the greatest WWE superstars of all time.

6. Brock Lesnar (2002):

Brock Lesnar, the “Next Big Thing,” made an indelible mark in WWE by dismantling every opponent in his path. At SummerSlam 2002, Lesnar faced The Rock in the main event. In a display of raw power and unmatched aggression, Lesnar defeated The Rock, becoming the youngest Undisputed Champion in WWE history. This victory catapulted Lesnar into superstardom, setting the stage for his dominant reign in the years to come.

5. Triple H (2000):

The bitter and intense rivalry between Triple H and The Rock culminated in a classic Iron Match at Judgement Day 2000. In a battle that tested their physical and mental fortitude, Triple H emerged victorious, claiming the WWE Championship. This victory showcased Triple H’s resilience and determination, proving that he could match The Great One move for move. Their clashes became the stuff of legends, captivating audiences worldwide.

4. Mankind (1999):

Mankind, the enigmatic alter ego of Mick Foley, engaged in a memorable and often brutal feud with The Rock. Their rivalry reached its peak in 1999 when, on an episode of RAW, Mankind shocked the world by defeating The People’s Champion for the WWE Championship. This victory, characterized by its emotional intensity and sheer unpredictability, became an iconic moment in WWE history. Mankind’s triumph at Halftime Heat further cemented his place as a worthy adversary to The Rock.

3. Chris Jericho (2001):

Chris Jericho, a versatile and accomplished wrestler, achieved a milestone that few can boast of. At Vengeance 2001, Jericho faced not only The Rock but also Stone Cold Steve Austin on the same night. Against all odds, Jericho emerged victorious, becoming the Undisputed Champion and etching his name in WWE history. His victory over The Rock showcased his determination and solidified his status as one of the all-time greats in the wrestling world.

2. Kurt Angle (2000):

Kurt Angle, an Olympic gold medalist and a prodigious talent, wasted no time in making an impact in WWE. Shortly after his debut, Angle faced The Rock at No Mercy 2000. In a match that showcased technical brilliance and raw athleticism, Angle emerged victorious, capturing the WWE Championship. Although The Rock would eventually regain the title, Angle’s triumph was a testament to his exceptional abilities and marked a defining moment in his wrestling career.

1. John Cena (2013):

John Cena, the face of WWE in his own right, had a rivalry with The Rock that spanned from 2011 to 2013. Their epic clashes culminated in a thrilling main event at Wrestlemania 29. Cena, driven by determination and resilience, managed to topple The Rock, recapturing the WWE Championship. This victory not only symbolized Cena’s prowess but also marked the end of an era as The Rock bid farewell to active competition after this monumental match.

Conclusion

In the grand tapestry of WWE’s rich history, these seven superstars stand as a testament to The Rock’s greatness. Each victory not only showcased their skill and determination but also marked a significant chapter in the ever-evolving saga of professional wrestling. As fans reminisce about these iconic moments, they continue to celebrate the enduring legacy of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and the remarkable competitors who dared to challenge and conquer The Great One.

The impact of these victories resonates through the ages, immortalizing the fierce spirit of competition that defines the world of WWE. The Rock may have been a ten-time WWE Champion, but these seven superstars proved that even the mightiest can be brought down by those with enough skill, determination, and heart. As we look back on these historic moments, we are reminded of the essence of WWE – where legends are made, and greatness is earned, one epic match at a time.

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