My list is a little different
1. The Rock (Dwayne Johnson)
- Reason: The Rock is arguably the most influential and popular wrestler on this list. His success transcends professional wrestling, making him a global icon in entertainment. His contributions to WWE's mainstream appeal and his legacy as one of the greatest talkers and performers in wrestling history are unmatched.
2. Junkyard Dog (JYD)
- Reason: JYD was one of the first Black wrestlers to become a true mainstream star in the 1980s. His charisma and connection with fans helped break racial barriers, particularly in the Southern wrestling territories, where he was a massive draw.
3. Booker T
- Reason: As a five-time WCW World Champion and WWE Hall of Famer, Booker T is one of the most decorated Black wrestlers in history. His in-ring skills, charisma, and later contributions as a commentator and mentor solidify his legacy.
4. Ron Simmons
- Reason: Ron Simmons made history as the first Black wrestler to win a recognized World Heavyweight Championship (WCW). His groundbreaking achievement paved the way for future Black champions in the industry.
5. Bianca Belair
- Reason: Bianca Belair is one of the most dominant and popular wrestlers of the modern era. Her historic WrestleMania 37 main event with Sasha Banks was a groundbreaking moment for Black women in wrestling.
6. Mark Henry
- Reason: Mark Henry's "Hall of Pain" era and his WWE World Heavyweight Championship win showcased his dominance. As an Olympic powerlifter and advocate for diversity, he has been a role model for many wrestlers.
7. Kofi Kingston
- Reason: Kofi's WWE Championship win at WrestleMania 35 was a historic moment for Black wrestlers. As part of The New Day, he has been a consistent fan favorite and a symbol of perseverance and positivity.
8. Bobby Lashley
- Reason: Lashley’s success in WWE and Impact Wrestling, along with his MMA background, makes him a unique and dominant figure. His leadership in "The Hurt Business" also celebrated Black excellence in wrestling.
9. Rocky Johnson
- Reason: As one-half of the first Black WWE Tag Team Champions (with Tony Atlas), Rocky Johnson broke barriers in the wrestling industry and laid the foundation for his son, The Rock, to become a global superstar.
10. Sasha Banks (Mercedes Moné)
- Reason: Sasha Banks is one of the most influential women in wrestling history. As a multi-time WWE Women’s Champion and a pioneer of women’s wrestling, she helped elevate the division to main-event status. Her work outside WWE as Mercedes Moné has further cemented her legacy.
11. Tony Atlas
- Reason: Tony Atlas was a trailblazer as one of the first Black stars in WWE. His tag team championship with Rocky Johnson was a significant milestone in wrestling history.
12. Jacqueline (Jacqueline Moore)
- Reason: Jacqueline was one of the first Black women to achieve major success in WWE, becoming a Women’s Champion and a trailblazer for women of color in wrestling.
13. Too Cold Scorpio
- Reason: Too Cold Scorpio was a pioneer of high-flying wrestling and innovation in the ring. His work in ECW, WCW, and Japan influenced a generation of wrestlers.
14. New Jack
- Reason: New Jack’s hardcore wrestling style and controversial persona made him a cult figure in ECW. While polarizing, his contributions to the hardcore wrestling genre are undeniable.
15. Butch Reed
- Reason: became a top star in Mid-South Wrestling, which was one of the most popular and competitive territories in the 1980s.
Honorable Mentions: Koko B Ware and Moose