Superstars’ First WrestleMania Appearances: WWE Playlist
WrestleMania is the pinnacle of the WWE universe, where legends are made, careers are defined, and moments are etched in the annals of wrestling history. For every WWE Superstar, making their first appearance at the grandest stage of them all is a monumental moment, whether it’s the first time stepping foot in a WrestleMania ring or the debut of a career-defining storyline. These debuts often serve as a launching pad for future greatness, with some superstars going on to become icons of the wrestling world.
Let’s take a walk down memory lane and look at the first WrestleMania appearances of WWE superstars, celebrating the early moments that would shape their legacy in the industry.
The Rock – WrestleMania XIII (1997)
Before becoming one of the most recognizable names in both wrestling and Hollywood, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson made his WrestleMania debut at WrestleMania XIII in 1997. Back then, he was known as Rocky Maivia, a babyface character that leaned into his family’s Samoan heritage. The third-generation superstar faced off against The Sultan (Rikishi) for the Intercontinental Championship in a match that marked the beginning of a remarkable career.
While the fans weren’t fully behind him at first, this was just the start of The Rock’s journey toward becoming one of the greatest and most charismatic figures in wrestling history. His charisma, sharp wit, and larger-than-life presence would eventually make him the cornerstone of the WWE during the Attitude Era.
John Cena – WrestleMania XX (2004)
John Cena made his WrestleMania debut at WrestleMania XX in 2004, stepping into the ring for a United States Championship match against The Big Show. Cena, who had already been building a reputation with his “Doctor of Thuganomics” persona, took on a giant in a way that only he could. Though Cena didn’t win the title at this first WrestleMania appearance, his energetic and engaging presence showed fans that he had all the makings of a future megastar.
It wouldn’t be long before Cena became the face of the WWE, winning the WWE Championship countless times and solidifying himself as one of the most marketable and iconic figures in the history of professional wrestling. Cena’s rise from his first WrestleMania appearance to becoming the company’s leader was swift and impactful.
Stone Cold Steve Austin – WrestleMania XIII (1997)
Before he became “Stone Cold” and revolutionized the world of professional wrestling, Steve Austin made his WrestleMania debut at WrestleMania XIII in 1997. Although Austin was not the massive star he would soon become, his encounter with Bret “Hitman” Hart in a Submission match would change everything.
The match, which is remembered for its brutal intensity and Austin’s bloody struggle, is considered a pivotal moment in Austin’s career and in WWE’s transition into the Attitude Era. The moment when Austin passed out in the sharpshooter, refusing to give up despite the blood pouring from his face, is considered one of the most iconic moments in WrestleMania history.
This match cemented Austin’s status as a rebellious antihero and set the stage for his rise as one of the most beloved and influential wrestlers of all time.
The Undertaker – WrestleMania VII (1991)
The Undertaker made his first WrestleMania appearance at WrestleMania VII in 1991, marking the beginning of his legendary streak. In this match, he took on Jimmy “Superfly” Snuka and won decisively, beginning a 21-year streak of victories at the event. The eerie, larger-than-life persona that The Undertaker crafted over the years made him synonymous with WrestleMania, and his undefeated streak became a storyline that captivated fans for decades.
From his Deadman persona to his more recent American Badass character, The Undertaker became the cornerstone of WrestleMania, with his appearances becoming a near-religious experience for WWE fans worldwide. His legacy as The Phenom is forever intertwined with the showcase of the immortals.
Shawn Michaels – WrestleMania VI (1990)
Shawn Michaels made his WrestleMania debut as part of the tag team The Rockers at WrestleMania VI in 1990. Alongside Marty Jannetty, the duo faced off against The Barbarian and Haku in a tag-team match that showcased the high-flying, dynamic style that would become synonymous with Michaels’ career.
Though the match didn’t see The Rockers emerge victorious, it was the first step in a journey that would see Michaels evolve into Mr. WrestleMania. Michaels would go on to headline multiple WrestleManias, putting on some of the greatest matches in WWE history, including his iconic battles with The Undertaker at WrestleMania 25 and WrestleMania 26.
Becky Lynch – WrestleMania 34 (2018)
Becky Lynch made her long-awaited first WrestleMania appearance at WrestleMania 34 in 2018, where she, along with Charlotte Flair and Ronda Rousey, participated in a highly anticipated Triple Threat Match for the RAW Women’s Championship. While the match itself was significant, it wasn’t until later that year, at WrestleMania 35, that Becky would fully step into the spotlight as The Man, going on to become the first woman to headline WrestleMania in a singles match.
Her rise to fame and transformation into one of the most popular and respected superstars in WWE history was ignited by that first appearance. Her undeniable talent, charisma, and work ethic paved the way for her to become a key player in the Women’s Evolution and a dominant force in WWE.
Roman Reigns – WrestleMania 29 (2013)
Roman Reigns made his first WrestleMania appearance at WrestleMania 29 as part of the dominant Shield faction, alongside Seth Rollins and Dean Ambrose. The trio made an impact in their debut match against Randy Orton, Sheamus, and Big Show in a Six-Man Tag Team match, with Reigns showcasing his power and intensity as part of one of the most dominant factions in WWE history.
While this was just the beginning for Reigns, it was clear even back then that he had star potential. Since that debut, Reigns has gone on to become one of WWE’s biggest stars, headlining multiple WrestleManias and achieving multi-time Universal Champion status. His rise to the top of the WWE mountain culminated in his “Tribal Chief” persona, making him arguably the face of modern-day WWE.
Sasha Banks – WrestleMania 32 (2016)
Sasha Banks made her WrestleMania debut at WrestleMania 32 in 2016, competing in the first-ever WrestleMania Women’s Triple Threat match for the Divas Championship against Charlotte Flair and Becky Lynch. Despite the stiff competition, Sasha’s charisma, athleticism, and revolutionary approach to women’s wrestling marked her as a future trailblazer for the Women’s Evolution.
Though Charlotte would come out victorious, Sasha’s performance showcased her undeniable talent and set the stage for a future where she would go on to become one of the most celebrated superstars in WWE history. Her subsequent WWE SmackDown Women’s Championship wins and ground-breaking matches against opponents like Bianca Belair would further cement her legacy.
Conclusion: The Making of Legends
The first WrestleMania appearances of these WWE superstars were more than just matches—they were the beginning of careers that would shape the future of professional wrestling. Each debut is a testament to the hard work, determination, and passion required to rise to the top of the WWE, and the stories of these early moments inspire the next generation of WWE Superstars.
WrestleMania is where legends are born, and these superstars’ debuts remind us that the road to greatness is paved with unforgettable firsts, as they continue to build on their legacies with each passing year. Whether it’s through match quality, character development, or groundbreaking moments, these superstars’ first WrestleMania appearances will always remain pivotal chapters in their storied careers.
