10 Wrestlers Who Gained Nothing From Becoming World Champion

6. Christian

Christian World Champion
WWE.com

Though he’ll likely join long-time partner Edge in the WWE Hall Of Fame sooner rather than later, Christian’s World Title legacy isn’t half as decorated as 'The Rated R Superstar's. Debuting in 1998, it took 'Captain Charisma' until 2011 to eventually win the big one, but his two World Heavyweight Title reigns will ultimately go down as two of the least memorable in WWE history.

Christian first took the gold after defeating Alberto Del Rio in the wake of Edge’s retirement, but he was defeated by Randy Orton just two days later. He faced 'The Legend Killer’ in rematches at Over The Limit and Capitol Punishment, but lost on both occasions, before eventually regaining the belt via disqualification at Money In The Bank.

This “victory” undermined Christian’s second reign from day one, as he’d won the belt through Orton’s stupidity, and not his own actions. 28 days later, the Canadian dropped the title without a single defence, before losing another rematch shortly after.

Orton’s dominance of the feud only left Christian looking weaker, and he never felt like a major player again. 'Captain Charisma' shuffled back to the midcard shortly afterwards, before injuries eventually forced his quiet retirement.

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Andy has been with WhatCulture for eight years and is currently WhatCulture's Wrestling Channel Manager. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.