Introduction to WWE Side Plates
WWE side plates are a distinctive feature of the championship belts used in the World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) universe. These custom, interchangeable plates allow for a unique personalization of WWE’s prestigious titles, reflecting the individuality of each champion. This collection page explores the world of WWE side plates, including their history, design elements, and the role they play in the sport's storytelling.
The Evolution of WWE Side Plates
Origins of Customization in Championship Belts
The concept of customizing championship belts has been a part of professional wrestling for decades. Historically, side plates were used to add personal touches to the belts, such as logos, initials, or symbolic designs that represented the individual champion. WWE took this tradition a step further by introducing a system of interchangeable side plates, allowing for greater flexibility and personalization.
Introduction of Interchangeable Side Plates
WWE officially introduced the concept of interchangeable side plates in 2014 with the unveiling of the new WWE World Heavyweight Championship. This innovation allowed champions to replace the side plates with customized versions that featured their own logos, initials, or other personal designs. The ability to change the side plates added a new layer of personalization and significance to the championship titles, enhancing the storytelling aspect of WWE’s programming.
Design Features of WWE Side Plates
Customization and Personalization
One of the most notable features of WWE side plates is their customization. Each set of side plates is designed to be unique to the champion holding the title. This can include personalized logos, initials, or other symbols that reflect the champion's persona or achievements. The customization process allows for a direct connection between the champion and the title, making each championship belt truly one-of-a-kind.
Materials and Craftsmanship
WWE side plates are crafted from high-quality materials to ensure durability and visual appeal. Typically made from metal or metal alloys, the side plates feature intricate detailing and finishes that match the overall design of the championship belt. The craftsmanship involved in creating these side plates is meticulous, with attention given to both the design and functionality of the plates. The result is a polished, professional look that complements the grandeur of WWE’s championship titles.
Interchangeable Mechanism
The design of WWE side plates includes an interchangeable mechanism that allows for easy replacement. This mechanism ensures that side plates can be swapped out quickly and securely, without compromising the integrity of the belt. The interchangeable system typically involves a set of screws or clasps that hold the side plates in place, making it simple for WWE to update the belt with new designs or personalize it for different champions.
Notable WWE Side Plates
WWE World Heavyweight Championship Side Plates
Design and Customization
The WWE World Heavyweight Championship features a prominent set of side plates that can be customized with various designs. The initial set of side plates included the WWE logo, but over time, these have been replaced with personalized versions for different champions. The customization options for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship side plates include logos, initials, and other elements that reflect the champion’s identity.
Significant Champions
Over the years, the WWE World Heavyweight Championship has been held by several prominent wrestlers, each of whom has had their own set of customized side plates. Notable champions include Seth Rollins, who had side plates featuring his emblematic "Architect" logo, and Roman Reigns, who has sported side plates with his signature “Tribal Chief” design. These customizations add a personal touch to the championship, enhancing its significance for each holder.
WWE Universal Championship Side Plates
Design and Features
The WWE Universal Championship, introduced in 2016, also features customizable side plates. The design of the side plates for this title includes the universal logo and can be personalized with the champion's name or logo. The ability to swap out these side plates allows the championship to reflect the individuality of its current holder while maintaining the belt’s overall aesthetic.
Key Holders
The WWE Universal Championship has been held by several top stars, including Brock Lesnar, Finn Bálor, and Bray Wyatt. Each champion has had their own set of customized side plates, showcasing their unique branding and achievements. For example, Bray Wyatt's "Fiend" logo was a notable customization during his reign, adding a distinctive element to the championship belt.
WWE Intercontinental Championship Side Plates
Design Elements
The WWE Intercontinental Championship features side plates that can be customized to reflect the current champion's identity. The design often includes the traditional intercontinental globe logo, with additional space for personalized elements. The side plates for this title are crafted to match the classic design of the Intercontinental Championship, blending modern customization with historical elements.
Notable Champions
The WWE Intercontinental Championship has been held by numerous renowned wrestlers, each bringing their own flair to the title through custom side plates. Champions such as Shinsuke Nakamura and Ricochet have had unique designs that highlighted their personal styles and achievements. These customizations enhance the legacy of the Intercontinental Championship by adding a personalized touch for each champion.
WWE United States Championship Side Plates
Customization and Aesthetic
The WWE United States Championship features customizable side plates that align with the title’s patriotic theme. The design often incorporates elements of the American flag or other national symbols, with space for additional personalization. The side plates are crafted to complement the overall look of the United States Championship, ensuring a cohesive and stylish appearance.
Prominent Reigns
The WWE United States Championship has been held by several notable wrestlers, each contributing to the title’s history with their own custom side plates. Champions like John Cena and AJ Styles have had personalized designs that reflect their unique personas and achievements. These custom side plates add a personal dimension to the championship, celebrating each champion’s impact on WWE.
The Appeal of WWE Side Plates
Personalization and Storytelling
WWE side plates play a crucial role in the storytelling aspect of professional wrestling. By allowing champions to personalize their titles, WWE enhances the connection between the wrestler and the championship. This personalization adds depth to the champion’s character and reinforces their significance within the promotion. Side plates become a symbol of the champion’s journey and accomplishments, contributing to the overall narrative of WWE.
Collectibility and Fan Engagement
For fans and collectors, WWE side plates offer a unique opportunity to own a piece of wrestling history. Custom side plates can be highly collectible, with designs that reflect significant moments or prominent champions. Collectors often seek out specific side plates that feature their favorite wrestlers or historical designs, adding to the appeal and value of these items. The ability to customize and collect side plates also enhances fan engagement, allowing supporters to celebrate their favorite stars in a tangible way.
Display and Presentation
Side plates are not only functional but also serve as a key element of the championship belt’s presentation. The ability to display different sets of side plates allows for a versatile and dynamic display of the title. Whether showcased in a collection or worn by a champion, the side plates contribute to the visual impact of the belt, making it a standout piece in any wrestling memorabilia collection.
Collecting WWE Side Plates
Building a Collection
Collecting WWE side plates can be a rewarding endeavor for fans and memorabilia enthusiasts. To build a collection, it is helpful to focus on specific themes or titles, such as those associated with particular champions or historic moments. Collectors can seek out side plates from various WWE titles, including the World Heavyweight Championship, Universal Championship, and Intercontinental Championship, among others.
Authenticity and Value
When collecting WWE side plates, authenticity is a key consideration. Authentic side plates are typically produced by WWE and feature high-quality materials and craftsmanship. Collectors should verify the provenance of each side plate to ensure its legitimacy and value. Limited-edition or historically significant side plates may hold higher value and appeal, making them prized additions to any collection.
Display and Care
Proper display and care of WWE side plates are essential for preserving their condition and value. Collectors can use display cases or shelves to showcase their side plates, protecting them from dust and damage. Regular cleaning and maintenance will help maintain the appearance and integrity of the side plates, ensuring that they remain a valuable part of the collection.
The Future of WWE Side Plates
Innovations and Trends
As WWE continues to evolve, the design and functionality of side plates may also change. Future innovations may include new customization options, advanced materials, or updated designs that reflect emerging trends in professional wrestling. Fans and collectors can look forward to continued creativity and innovation in the realm of WWE side plates, enhancing their appeal and significance.
Expanding Customization Options
The future may also bring expanded customization options for WWE side plates. WWE may introduce new themes, designs, or personalization choices that allow for even greater individuality and expression. This expansion will provide fans and champions with more opportunities to celebrate their unique identities and achievements through their championship titles.
Conclusion: Celebrating the Legacy of WWE Side Plates
WWE side plates represent a unique and dynamic aspect of the championship belts used in professional wrestling. Through their customization and personalization, side plates add depth and individuality to the titles, enhancing the storytelling and significance of each championship. Whether for fans, collectors, or champions, side plates offer a tangible connection to WWE’s rich history and evolving narrative.
The legacy of WWE side plates is a testament to the promotion’s commitment to excellence and innovation. By allowing champions to personalize their titles, WWE enhances the connection between the wrestlers and their championships, celebrating their achievements and contributions. For collectors and fans, side plates provide a valuable and engaging way to celebrate their passion for wrestling and their favorite stars.
As WWE continues to grow and evolve, the legacy of side plates will endure, reflecting the dynamic nature of professional wrestling and the ongoing evolution of its championship titles. Whether you are a dedicated collector or a passionate fan, WWE side plates offer a meaningful and exciting way to connect with the sport’s storied history and vibrant.
