Ranking Every Universal Championship Title Change From Worst To Best
Not every Universal Champion received a proper reception from the WWE Universe.
Stephanie McMahon and Mick Foley introduced the Universal Championship four years ago when their show, Monday Night RAW, did not have a world title. After the brand extension, SmackDown Live! got the WWE World Heavyweight Championship, leaving the flagship show without a premier crown for its Superstars. Hence, the brand's Commissioner and General Manager unveiled a red strap that resembled the pre-existing titles.
The fans did not like its design, but 'The Billion Dollar Princess' ensured the wrestling universe that the fan favourites would rule them with this piece of gold. Finn Bálor and Kevin Owens were the first two wrestlers to win this championship, and it seemed like finally, the company was investing in its future. However, Vince McMahon proved the fans wrong once again by bringing the part-timers into the mix.
The fact that Goldberg and Brock Lesnar have won the belt for a total of five times highlights how much WWE relies on the legends. Although a majority of the Universal title changes have disappointed the followers of Sports Entertainment, there have been a few positive developments as well. Here's a look at the ranking of every Universal title change from worst to best.
12. Goldberg Wins The Title From 'The Fiend' Bray Wyatt
In one of the most shocking moments in pro wrestling history, a 53-year-old Goldberg (who could not even execute his finisher properly) defeated the most protected Superstar on SmackDown to win the brand's most sumptuous prize. When 'The Icon' squashed Dolph Ziggler at SummerSlam, it seemed like he would never come back to the squared circle.
However, Vince McMahon's desire to have a 'Battle of Spears' at WrestleMania 36 compelled the former WCW wrestler to return. 'The Fiend' Bray Wyatt was the hottest thing on Friday nights, and given the way he beat Daniel Bryan in a stellar bout at Royal Rumble, very few fans expected him to drop the title ahead of the 'Showcase of Immortals.'
Unfortunately, Roman Reigns could not perform at the 'Show of Shows', and the move to put the championship on the Hall of Famer proved to be a total flop. His reign lasted just for 37 days before Braun Strowman pinned him in one of the most random world title bouts ever.