From The Rock to Bianca Belair: The 15 Greatest Black Wrestlers of All Time

For decades, Black wrestlers have played a vital role in shaping the professional wrestling industry. Despite facing numerous challenges, these superstars broke barriers, dominated championships, and left a lasting impact on the sport and pop culture. BET recently released a list of the 15 greatest Black wrestlers of all time, recognizing those who redefined the industry and inspired generations. Here’s a closer look at the wrestlers who made the list.

15. Jazz

A trailblazer in women's wrestling, Jazz brought intensity and legitimacy to the ring. As a two-time WWE Women’s Champion, she dominated during the Ruthless Aggression Era and later continued her legacy in ECW and the independent scene.

14. Shelton Benjamin

One of the most athletic competitors in WWE history, Shelton Benjamin amazed fans with his high-flying ability and technical prowess. As a multiple-time Intercontinental, United States, and Tag Team Champion, he proved his excellence time and time again.

13. Naomi

Naomi’s glow isn’t just a gimmick—it’s a statement. The former SmackDown Women’s Champion brought charisma, athleticism, and innovation to the ring, paving the way for more Black women in wrestling.

12. Jacqueline

A true pioneer, Jacqueline was one of the first Black women to hold the WWE Women’s Championship. She also became the first African American woman inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame, solidifying her legacy as a trailblazer.

11. Big E

As a member of The New Day and a former WWE Champion, Big E brought entertainment, power, and positivity to the industry. His WWE Championship win was a defining moment for representation in wrestling.

10. D-Von Dudley

One-half of one of the greatest tag teams in wrestling history, D-Von Dudley was instrumental in the Dudley Boyz’s success. With multiple Tag Team Championships across WWE, ECW, and TNA, his influence on the tag division is undeniable.

9. Bianca Belair

Bianca Belair’s rise to superstardom has been nothing short of phenomenal. As the longest-reigning Black singles champion in WWE history with a 420-day Raw Women’s Championship reign, her dominance and athleticism continue to inspire fans worldwide.

8. Bobby Lashley

A powerhouse in both WWE and MMA, Bobby Lashley has held multiple World Championships and solidified himself as one of the most dominant competitors of his generation.

7. Ron Simmons/Farooq

Ron Simmons shattered barriers when he became the first recognized Black World Champion in wrestling history, winning the WCW World Heavyweight Championship in 1992. His legacy continued in WWE as the leader of the Nation of Domination and later as a Hall of Fame inductee.

6. Junkyard Dog

A beloved figure in wrestling history, Junkyard Dog's charisma and power made him a fan favorite. His contributions to desegregating wrestling and his impact on 1980s WWE and Mid-South Wrestling are legendary.

5. Mercedes Moné (Sasha Banks)

One of the most influential women in wrestling history, Mercedes Moné (formerly Sasha Banks) revolutionized women’s wrestling. As a multiple-time WWE Women’s Champion and the first Black woman to headline WrestleMania, her legacy is set in stone.

4. Mark Henry

The World’s Strongest Man became a dominant force in WWE, winning the World Heavyweight Championship and leading the Hall of Pain era. His strength, longevity, and advocacy for Black wrestlers have cemented his legacy.

3. Kofi Kingston

Kofi Kingston made history at WrestleMania 35, becoming the first African-born WWE Champion. His incredible athleticism and journey from mid-card to world champion make him one of the most inspirational figures in wrestling.

2. The Rock

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson is not only one of the greatest Black wrestlers but also one of the most famous wrestlers of all time. As a 10-time world champion, he electrified the industry with his charisma, athleticism, and crossover appeal in Hollywood.

1. Booker T

A five-time WCW Champion and WWE Hall of Famer, Booker T's career is the epitome of excellence. From Harlem Heat to his singles success, he overcame adversity to become one of the most decorated Black wrestlers ever.

Conclusion

This list celebrates the Black wrestlers who redefined the sport and left an enduring legacy. From legends of the past to modern-day icons, these superstars have not only dominated the ring but have also inspired countless fans around the world. As wrestling continues to evolve, their influence will continue to shape the future of the industry.