Prior to the arrival of Hulk Hogan in 1994, Sting was the undisputed face of WCW, the company's franchise star. The most popular babyface in the Ted Turner-owned organization, he was the clear cut choice for heavyweight champion as Lex Luger's reign came was set to come to an end in early 1992. The Stinger defeated Luger at the legendary SuperBrawl 2 pay-per-view on February 29, ending a rivalry between the two that stemmed from their previous friendship. From that moment on, Sting would embark on a title reign that saw him engage in a rivalry with the Dangerous Alliance which threatened his very career, let alone his status as champion. Despite the constant challenge of the likes of Arn Anderson, Rick Rude, Larry Zbyszko and a very young Steve Austin, the champion was able to hold onto the title that defined him. Then he ran into the the monstrous Big Van Vader and his 134 days as titleholder came to a crushing end. Having endured a severe rib injury suffered at the hands of the super heavyweight, Sting valiantly defended his title at the Great American Bash in June but could not stop the monolithic No.1 contender. He lost the title and, surprisingly enough, would never again hold it for that length of time again.
Erik Beaston is a freelance pro wrestling writer who likes long walks in the park, dandelions and has not quite figured out that this introduction is not for Match.com. He resides in Parts Unknown, where he hosts weekly cookouts with Kane, The Ultimate Warrior, Papa Shango and The Boogeyman. Be jealous.