Image via WWE.com
In the pantheon of pro wrestling, there has always been the haves and have-nots. Whether it is the grimy underbelly of Extreme Championship Wrestling (or the even grimier backyard wrestling scene) to the sparkling spectacle that is Wrestlemania, pro wrestling has had its share of colorful financial personalities over time. So with the stock market a hot topic day in and day out in our climate, I wanted to take a look back at some of the biggest wrestling personalities ever that made it a point to showcase how well off they were. This list is in no particular order and is meant to spotlight the superstars who have showed crowds around the world what it really means to live the “high life”. So without further ado let’s get into our list.
“Million Dollar Man” Ted DiBiase: As one of the greatest villians in pro wrestling history, DiBiase is also noted by many as one of the greatest technical wrestlers in WWE history. With his sidekick (and noted Twitter personality) Virgil by his side, the Million Dollar Man was a thorn in the side of both Hulk Hogan and the “Macho Man” Randy Savage. As his name would suggest, DiBiase was not bullish about his wealth — from his iconic “Million Dollar Championship” to his flashy ring entrances, DiBiase was a great heel for the 1980’s. Later on in life, DiBiase would become an ordained minister and would hold multiple championship belts in his career. DiBiase also headlined the 2010 WWE Hall of Fame ceremony, being inducted by his sons.
Ric Flair: As potentially the greatest World Heavyweight Champion of all time, Ric Flair made a name for himself by showing off his lavish lifestyle and his ability to not only look the best but be the best. His famous quote “the stylin’, profilin’, limousine riding, jet flying, kiss-stealing, wheelin’ and dealin’ son of a gun,” is famous in wrestling lore. As one of the co-founders of both the Four Horseman and Evolution, Flair’s legacy is one of the greatest of all time. Also special consideration needs to be given for his love of sneakers and his cameo on Complex’s Sneaker Shopping.
John “Bradshaw” Layfield: As a former member of both the APA and the Acolytes (don’t forget about The New Blackjacks as well), Bradshaw changed his image in a major way in 2004 when he transitioned to J.B.L. Billed as a Texas millionaire, J.B.L. ran roughshod over the heavyweight division for one of the longest championship reigns in the company’s history. His feuds with Eddie Guerrero, the Undertaker and Booker T were solid battles all throughout this period. His persona rubbed plenty of people the wrong way, but his time as one of the greatest heels of the 2000’s left a memorable mark on the company.
Honorable mention, The McMahon Family: This is more of an honorary induction because it really goes without saying that the McMahons are the epitome of wealth and power in wrestling lore. As the ruling family of the WWE, Vince and Co. are the strongest powerhouse in the wrestling world especially with son-in-law and COO Triple H in tow. However, the most special kudos need to go to son Shane’s entrance music video during his time as a competitor. Now if you are a fan of wrestling drop a comment below with your favorite of the above group.
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