A superstar’s first night in WWE can shape their entire legacy. When the lights dim, the crowd buzzes, and a new face enters the ring. Some wrestlers burst onto the scene with unthinkable impact, while others arrive in surprise moments. No matter if it’s a surprise attack, a blockbuster promo, or an open challenge acceptance, debuts fill the audience with thrill and excitement.
Surprise debuts bring shock, excitement, and unpredictability right to the center of the WWE ring. In a single moment, a wrestler can become an instant contender and spark rivalries. Let’s take a look at the best debuts in WWE history.
10. Ronda Rousey
At the conclusion of the first Women’s Royal Rumble in 2018, Ronda Rousey made a surprise appearance, confronting champions Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss, as well as Asuka.
9. Rey Mysterio
Debuting on the July 25, 2002 episode of SmackDown, Rey Mysterio faced Chavo Guerrero in a thrilling match that showcased his high-flying style.
8. Sting
Making his long-awaited WWE debut at Survivor Series (2014), Sting confronted Triple H and The Authority, aiding Team Cena’s victory. His arrival ended years of speculation and fulfilled fans’ desires to see the WCW icon in a WWE ring.
Sting makes his WWE debut! pic.twitter.com/zO3rEcWfi8
— 2000’s WWE (@2000s_WWE) March 3, 2024
Also Read: Ranking the Top 10 Worst WWE Returns of All Time
7. The Shield (Roman Reigns, Seth Rollins, and Dean Ambrose)
At Survivor Series (2012), The Shield debuted by attacking Ryback during the WWE Championship triple threat match, aiding CM Punk’s retention.
6. AJ Styles
Entering as the third participant in the 2016 Royal Rumble, AJ Styles made a surprise debut that electrified the audience.
5. Brock Lesnar
Debuting on the March 18, 2002 episode of Raw, Brock Lesnar attacked several wrestlers during a Hardcore Championship match, backed by Paul Heyman.
Brock Lesnar makes his WWE debut! pic.twitter.com/lEvbm3f1gu
— 2000’s WWE (@2000s_WWE) July 20, 2024
Also Read: Ranking the 10 Best WWE Storylines of All Time
4. John Cena
Answering Kurt Angle’s open challenge on the June 27, 2002 episode of SmackDown, John Cena made a strong impression with “ruthless aggression” in his WWE debut.
3. Chris Jericho
On the August 9, 1999 episode of Raw, a countdown clock culminated during The Rock’s promo, heralding Chris Jericho’s WWE debut. Jericho interrupted The Rock, leading to a memorable exchange.
2. The Undertaker
Introduced at Survivor Series (1990) as the mystery partner for Ted DiBiase’s Million Dollar Team, The Undertaker’s ominous presence was quickly clear as he eliminated multiple opponents.
November 22nd 1990. 27 years ago today The Undertaker made his WWE debut. #WWE @MDMTedDiBiase pic.twitter.com/0x2rmn5eyO
— WWE Today In History 🌐 (@WWE__History) November 22, 2017
Also Read: Ranking the Top 10 Most Controversial WWE Matches of All Time
Which is the greatest debut in WWE history?
Kane
At Badd Blood: In Your House (1997), during the inaugural Hell in a Cell match between The Undertaker and Shawn Michaels, Kane made his shocking debut. Accompanied by Paul Bearer, he tore the cell door off its hinges and delivered a Tombstone Piledriver to The Undertaker.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
Which debut involved tearing the door off Hell in a Cell?
Kane’s first appearance at Badd Blood: In Your House (1997) saw him ripping open the cell, confronting The Undertaker, and delivering a Tombstone Piledriver.
Who debuted as Ted DiBiase’s partner at Survivor Series 1990?
The Undertaker joined WWE at Survivor Series as a mystery partner, immediately dominating his first match.
Which debut featured a countdown clock and verbal showdown with The Rock?
Chris Jericho interrupted The Rock’s promo on August 9, 1999, marking his memorable entry into WWE.
