List of Intercontinental Champions

The world of professional wrestling has seen its fair share of championships, but few hold the prestige and legacy of the Intercontinental Championship. This title has served as a stepping stone for numerous WWE superstars, propelling them to greatness. In this article, we will explore the rich history and list of Intercontinental Champions.

Table of Contents

Introduction to Intercontinental Champions

The Intercontinental Championship, often referred to as the “IC Title,” was introduced by the World Wrestling Federation (now WWE) in 1979. The purpose of this championship was to bridge the gap between the top title (usually the WWF World Heavyweight Championship) and the lower-tier championships.

List of Iconic Intercontinental Champions

Here is a list of Intercontinental Champions along with the year they won the championship:

1979-1999:

Pat Patterson – 1979
Ken Patera – 1980
Pedro Morales – 1980
Don Muraco – 1981
Mr. Perfect (Curt Hennig) – 1990
Texas Tornado (Kerry Von Erich) – 1990
Bret Hart – 1991
The Mountie (Jacques Rougeau) – 1992
“Rowdy” Roddy Piper – 1992
The British Bulldog (Davey Boy Smith) – 1992
Shawn Michaels – 1992
Marty Jannetty – 1993
Razor Ramon (Scott Hall) – 1993
Diesel (Kevin Nash) – 1994
Jeff Jarrett – 1995
Shawn Michaels – 1995
Goldust (Dustin Rhodes) – 1995
Marc Mero – 1996
Hunter Hearst Helmsley (Triple H) – 1996
Rocky Maivia (Dwayne Johnson) – 1997
Owen Hart – 1997
Stone Cold Steve Austin – 1997
The Rock (Dwayne Johnson) – 1997
Triple H (Paul Levesque) – 1999
Ken Shamrock – 1999
Val Venis (Sean Morley) – 1999

2000-2004:

Rikishi (Solofa Fatu) – 2000
28. Chris Benoit – 2000
Eddie Guerrero – 2000
Billy Gunn (Monty Sopp) – 2000
Chyna (Joanie Laurer) – 2000
Kurt Angle – 2000
Chris Jericho – 2000
Triple H (Paul Levesque) – 2001
Kane (Glen Jacobs) – 2001
Albert (Matt Bloom) – 2001
Edge (Adam Copeland) – 2001
Christian (Jay Reso) – 2001
Test (Andrew Martin) – 2001
Lance Storm – 2001
Rob Van Dam – 2001
Booker T (Booker Huffman) – 2001
William Regal – 2002
Edge (Adam Copeland) – 2002
Rikishi (Solofa Fatu) – 2002
Eddie Guerrero – 2002
Jeff Hardy – 2002
Rob Van Dam – 2002
Chris Jericho – 2002
Kane (Glen Jacobs) – 2002
Triple H (Paul Levesque) – 2002
Kane (Glen Jacobs) – 2002
Triple H (Paul Levesque) – 2002
Kane (Glen Jacobs) – 2003
Triple H (Paul Levesque) – 2003
Rob Van Dam – 2003
Christian (Jay Reso) – 2003
Booker T (Booker Huffman) – 2003
Test (Andrew Martin) – 2003
Edge (Adam Copeland) – 2003
Randy Orton – 2003
Mick Foley – 2003
Chris Jericho – 2004
Christian (Jay Reso) – 2004
Randy Orton – 2004
Edge (Adam Copeland) – 2004
Shelton Benjamin – 2004

2005-2009:

Carlito (Carly Colón) – 2005
Ric Flair (Richard Morgan Fliehr) – 2005
Shelton Benjamin – 2005
Carlito (Carly Colón) – 2005
John Cena – 2005
Rob Van Dam – 2006
Johnny Nitro (John Hennigan) – 2006
Jeff Hardy – 2007
Umaga (Edward Fatu) – 2007
Santino Marella (Anthony Carelli) – 2007
Umaga (Edward Fatu) – 2007
Jeff Hardy – 2008
Chris Jericho – 2008
Kofi Kingston – 2008
Santino Marella (Anthony Carelli) – 2008
William Regal – 2008
CM Punk (Phil Brooks) – 2008
John “Bradshaw” Layfield (JBL) – 2008
Rey Mysterio – 2009
Chris Jericho – 2009
John Morrison (John Hennigan) – 2009
Drew McIntyre – 2009
Kofi Kingston – 2009

2010-2019

Kofi Kingston – 2010
Cody Rhodes (Cody Runnels) – 2011
Ezekiel Jackson – 2011
Cody Rhodes (Cody Runnels) – 2011
Big Show (Paul Wight) – 2012
The Miz (Mike Mizanin) – 2012
Kofi Kingston – 2013
Curtis Axel (Joseph Hennig) – 2013
Big E (Ettore Ewen) – 2013
Bad News Barrett (Wade Barrett) – 2014
Daniel Bryan – 2015
Ryback (Ryan Reeves) – 2015
Kevin Owens (Kevin Steen) – 2015
Dean Ambrose (Jonathan Good) – 2015
Kevin Owens (Kevin Steen) – 2015
Sami Zayn (Rami Sebei) – 2016
The Miz (Mike Mizanin) – 2016
Dean Ambrose (Jonathan Good) – 2016
The Miz (Mike Mizanin) – 2016
Dolph Ziggler (Nick Nemeth) – 2016
The Miz (Mike Mizanin) – 2017
Dean Ambrose (Jonathan Good) – 2017
The Miz (Mike Mizanin) – 2017
Roman Reigns – 2017
The Miz (Mike Mizanin) – 2018
Seth Rollins (Colby Lopez) – 2018
Dolph Ziggler (Nick Nemeth) – 2018
Seth Rollins (Colby Lopez) – 2018
Dean Ambrose (Jonathan Good) – 2018
Bobby Lashley – 2019
Finn Bálor – 2019
Shinsuke Nakamura – 2019
Braun Strowman (Adam Scherr) – 2019
Sami Zayn (Rami Sebei) – 2019
Braun Strowman (Adam Scherr) – 2019
Sami Zayn (Rami Sebei) – 2019
Braun Strowman (Adam Scherr) – 2019
Sami Zayn (Rami Sebei) – 2019
Braun Strowman (Adam Scherr) – 2019
Shinsuke Nakamura – 2019
Braun Strowman (Adam Scherr) – 2019
Sami Zayn (Rami Sebei) – 2019
Braun Strowman (Adam Scherr) – 2019
Shinsuke Nakamura – 2019
Braun Strowman (Adam Scherr) – 2019

2020-2022

Sami Zayn (Rami Sebei) – 2019
Braun Strowman (Adam Scherr) – 2019
Sami Zayn (Rami Sebei) – 2019
AJ Styles (Allen Jones) – 2020
Jeff Hardy – 2020
AJ Styles (Allen Jones) – 2020
Sami Zayn (Rami Sebei) – 2020
Big E (Ettore Ewen) – 2020
Apollo Crews (Sesugh Uhaa) – 2021
Big E (Ettore Ewen) – 2021
Apollo Crews (Sesugh Uhaa) – 2021
King Nakamura (Shinsuke Nakamura) – 2021
Sami Zayn – 2022
Ricochet – 2022
Gunther – 2022

Here’s a more detailed explanation of the mentioned WWE Intercontinental Championship reigns:

Pat Patterson – 1979:

Pat Patterson became the inaugural WWE Intercontinental Champion in 1979 when he won a fictional tournament in Rio de Janeiro. This tournament was part of a storyline, and Patterson was recognized as the first champion. His victory marked the introduction of the Intercontinental Championship as a prestigious secondary title in WWE.

Ken Patera – 1980:

In 1980, Ken Patera defeated Pat Patterson to become the second Intercontinental Champion. Patera was a powerful and charismatic wrestler who solidified the importance of the championship by claiming it from Patterson. This title change added to the growing legacy of the Intercontinental Championship.

Pedro Morales – 1980:

Later in 1980, Pedro Morales emerged as the Intercontinental Champion when he defeated Ken Patera. Morales was a beloved figure in WWE, and his championship win was well-received by fans. His victory showcased the competitive nature of the championship.

Don Muraco – 1981:

In 1981, Don Muraco became the Intercontinental Champion by defeating Pedro Morales. This marked a significant moment in Muraco’s career, as he had captured a title with a rich history in WWE. It also signaled the beginning of his own legacy as a champion.

Pedro Morales (2) – 1981:

Later in 1981, Pedro Morales managed to regain the Intercontinental Championship from Don Muraco. This demonstrated Morales’s resilience and the competitive back-and-forth nature of wrestling rivalries. His second reign was a testament to his skills in the ring.

Don Muraco (2) – 1982:

In 1982, Don Muraco once again captured the Intercontinental Championship when he defeated Pedro Morales. His second reign as champion further solidified his status as a top contender in WWE’s mid-card division. This title exchange continued the narrative of their rivalry.

Pedro Morales (3) – 1983:

Pedro Morales’s third Intercontinental Championship reign in 1983 was a testament to his enduring appeal and legacy within the world of professional wrestling. Morales had first won the championship in 1980, and by regaining it in 1983, he demonstrated his ability to stay relevant and maintain a strong connection with WWE fans over the years.

Tito Santana – 1983:

Tito Santana’s victory over Pedro Morales in 1983 marked a transitional moment in WWE. Santana’s win signaled the passing of the torch to a new generation of stars. Known for his “Flying forearm” finisher and technical prowess, Santana’s championship reign was marked by competitive and exciting matches.

Greg “The Hammer” Valentine – 1984:

Greg Valentine’s championship win in 1984 represented a shift in wrestling style. Known for his methodical, hard-hitting approach, Valentine was a contrasting figure to Santana. His reign was characterized by rugged brawls and impactful moves.

Tito Santana (2) – 1985:

Tito Santana’s second Intercontinental Championship reign in 1985 affirmed his status as a mainstay in WWE. His reliability and ability to deliver compelling matches made him a trustworthy champion. Santana’s in-ring skills and sportsmanlike demeanor resonated with fans, and he continued to be a fan-favorite champion.

Randy Savage – 1986:

The “Macho Man” Randy Savage’s championship victory in 1986 introduced a charismatic and intense character to WWE. Savage’s eccentric persona, complete with his colorful outfits and distinct promos, made him a larger-than-life figure.

Ricky “The Dragon” Steamboat – 1987:

Ricky Steamboat’s victory over Randy Savage at WrestleMania III in 1987 is often cited as one of the greatest matches in wrestling history. Their encounter showcased the art of storytelling and athleticism in the ring.

The Honky Tonk Man – 1987:

The Honky Tonk Man’s lengthy championship reign following his victory over Steamboat added a new dimension to the Intercontinental Championship. Honky character was a caricature of Elvis Presley, complete with slick hair, sunglasses, and a guitar.

Ultimate Warrior – 1988:

The Ultimate Warrior’s swift victory over The Honky Tonk Man at SummerSlam in 1988 marked a changing of the guard. Warrior’s energetic and intense character made him a standout champion. He brought a unique, frenetic energy to WWE, captivating fans with his high-octane style.

Rick Rude – 1989:

Rick Rude’s Intercontinental Championship win in 1989 solidified him as a top-tier villain in WWE. His feud with the Ultimate Warrior was marked by personal animosity, and Rude’s in-ring ability, as well as his cocky demeanor, made him a strong adversary for the popular champion.

The Ultimate Warrior (2) – 1990:

The Ultimate Warrior’s second Intercontinental Championship reign in 1990 reaffirmed his position as a marquee WWE star. His appeal lay in his colorful character and intense wrestling style, which resonated with fans. His championship reigns symbolized his ascension to main-event status in WWE.

Mr. Perfect – 1990:

Mr. Perfect’s victory over the Ultimate Warrior in 1990 was a testament to his technical wrestling prowess and charisma. His reign as champion emphasized the importance of in-ring skill and psychology. He was known for his “perfect” character, where he excelled in everything he did, making him a unique and memorable champion.

The Texas Tornado – 1990:

Kerry Von Erich, known as The Texas Tornado, brought his own blend of excitement and charisma to the Intercontinental Championship. His victory over Mr. Perfect marked a turning point in his career, and his brief but impactful reign added a new flavor to the championship scene.

Bret “Hitman” Hart – 1991:

Bret Hart’s Intercontinental Championship win in 1991 marked a critical moment in WWE history. Known for his technical wrestling skills and dedication to delivering outstanding matches, Hart’s reign set a new standard for the championship.

“Rowdy” Roddy Piper – 1992:

“Rowdy” Roddy Piper’s Intercontinental Championship win in 1992 was a significant moment for the championship’s history. Piper, known for his intense personality and charismatic promos, added a new dimension to the title.

The Mountie – 1992:

The Mountie’s reign as Intercontinental Champion in 1992 was notable for his villainous character. His over-the-top persona as a French-Canadian law enforcement officer made him a memorable antagonist, and his win from Roddy Piper further established his reputation as a rulebreaker in WWE.

“The British Bulldog” Davey Boy Smith – 1992:

Davey Boy Smith’s Intercontinental Championship victory in 1992 was a proud moment for British wrestling fans. His technical wrestling ability and powerhouse style made him a formidable champion. His win symbolized his position as a top-tier talent in WWE.

Shawn Michaels – 1992:

Shawn Michaels’ first Intercontinental Championship win in 1992 marked the beginning of a legendary career. Known for his agility, athleticism, and innovative in-ring style, Michaels became a standout champion. This reign was a stepping stone to his eventual ascension to the main event scene.

Marty Jannetty – 1993:

Marty Jannetty’s Intercontinental Championship victory in 1993 was a highlight in his career. Jannetty, who was known for his tag team success as one half of The Rockers, proved his ability as a singles competitor. His championship win marked a period of achievement for the underdog challenger.

Razor Ramon – 1993:

Razor Ramon’s Intercontinental Championship win was a defining moment for the title. His charismatic “bad guy” character, along with his distinctive accent and mannerisms, made him a memorable champion.

Diesel – 1994:

Diesel, the future WWE World Champion under the ring name Kevin Nash, became Intercontinental Champion in 1994. His imposing presence and power made him a dominant force in WWE. This reign showcased his rise to prominence in the company.

Jeff Jarrett – 1995:

Jeff Jarrett’s championship win in 1995 was a testament to his cocky persona and wrestling skills. Jarrett’s character, known for strumming a guitar and singing during his promos, was both entertaining and polarizing. His reign represented a unique period in the championship’s history.

Shawn Michaels (2) – 1995:

Shawn Michaels’ second Intercontinental Championship reign in 1995 reaffirmed his status as one of the top talents in WWE. He continued to impress fans with his high-flying and innovative wrestling style, solidifying himself as one of the company’s biggest stars.

Dean Douglas – 1995:

Dean Douglas, portrayed by Shane Douglas, became Intercontinental Champion in 1995. Douglas’s character was that of an intellectual and condescending heel, and his victory marked a shift in the championship’s landscape.

Goldust – 1995:

Goldust’s Intercontinental Championship win in 1995 marked a unique and controversial era in WWE. His androgynous and provocative character challenged traditional wrestling norms and boundaries.

Ahmed Johnson – 1996:

Ahmed Johnson’s Intercontinental Championship victory in 1996 was a testament to his explosive power and athleticism. He was known for his immense strength and agility, making him a dominant and imposing champion.

Marc Mero – 1996:

Marc Mero, wrestling under the ring name “Wildman” Marc Mero, had a brief Intercontinental Championship reign in 1996. Mero’s high-flying and acrobatic wrestling style made him a popular champion, and his reign was marked by his entertaining matches.

Hunter Hearst Helmsley (Triple H) – 1996:

Triple H’s first Intercontinental Championship win in 1996 marked the beginning of a long and successful career in WWE. At this time, he was known as Hunter Hearst Helmsley, a snobbish blueblood character. His reign showcased his potential as a top star.

Rocky Maivia (The Rock) – 1997:

The Intercontinental Championship reign of Rocky Maivia marked the early days of what would become a legendary career. This marked the beginning of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s ascent to stardom.

Owen Hart – 1997:

Owen Hart’s Intercontinental Championship reign in 1997 emphasized his technical wrestling expertise and his status as one of the best in-ring performers in WWE. His matches during this time were marked by precision and athleticism.

Stone Cold Steve Austin – 1997:

Stone Cold Steve Austin’s Intercontinental Championship win in 1997 was a pivotal moment in wrestling history. His brash, rebellious persona and brawling style resonated with fans, and this reign was a precursor to his future as one of the biggest stars in WWE and in the wrestling world.

The Rock (2) – 1997:

The Rock’s second Intercontinental Championship reign in 1997 further solidified his status as a rising WWE superstar. His charisma, entertaining promos, and dynamic in-ring style continued to make him a fan-favorite champion.

Triple H (2) – 1999:

Triple H’s second Intercontinental Championship reign in 1999 marked his evolution from a blueblood character to a more aggressive and calculated heel. This transition was a significant step in his transformation into one of WWE’s top villains.

Vince McMahon – 1999:

Vince McMahon’s brief reign as Intercontinental Champion in 1999 was a highly unusual and controversial moment. McMahon, who was primarily known as WWE’s owner and a non-wrestler, won the championship in a storyline that showcased the chaotic nature of WWE’s “Attitude Era.”

Triple H (3) – 1999:

Triple H’s third Intercontinental Championship reign in 1999 saw him embrace a more ruthless persona as part of the villainous D-Generation X faction. His reign further established him as a top heel in WWE, and he continued to demonstrate his potential as a future world champion.

Rikishi – 2000:

Rikishi’s Intercontinental Championship win in 2000 showcased the diversity of WWE champions. Known for his size and agility, Rikishi was an unconventional but beloved champion.

Chris Benoit – 2000:

Chris Benoit’s Intercontinental Championship reign in 2000 was a celebration of pure wrestling skill. Benoit, known for his intense in-ring style and technical prowess, delivered high-quality matches and established himself as a top-tier performer.

Billy Gunn – 2000:

Billy Gunn’s Intercontinental Championship win in 2000 was part of his singles career, which followed his success as a tag team wrestler with The New Age Outlaws. His athleticism and charismatic persona made him a standout champion.

Chris Jericho – 2000:

Chris Jericho’s Intercontinental Championship reign in 2000 marked the continuation of his legacy as a versatile performer. His witty promos and dynamic in-ring style made him a fan-favorite champion. Jericho’s charisma and entertaining feuds kept the title in the spotlight.

Eddie Guerrero – 2000:

Eddie Guerrero’s Intercontinental Championship reign in 2000 was a display of both his wrestling skill and charisma. His “Lie, Cheat, and Steal” catchphrase and his ability to connect with the audience made him a memorable champion.

Billy Gunn (2) – 2001:

Billy Gunn’s second Intercontinental Championship reign in 2001 was a testament to his singles potential. His athleticism and charismatic persona made him a reliable titleholder. His second reign solidified his status as a formidable singles competitor.

Albert – 2001:

Albert’s Intercontinental Championship reign in 2001 was characterized by his imposing size and strength. His powerhouse wrestling style added a different dimension to the title, and his reign marked a unique era in its history.

Lance Storm – 2001:

Lance Storm’s Intercontinental Championship reign in 2001 was defined by his “boring” persona, which was intentionally dull and unenthusiastic. Storm’s no-nonsense, technical wrestling style contrasted with the flamboyance of other champions, demonstrating the title’s versatility.

Edge – 2001:

Edge’s Intercontinental Championship win in 2001 was a pivotal moment in his singles career. His charisma, athleticism, and innovative in-ring style endeared him to fans. Edge’s reign served as a stepping stone to his future as a main-event star.

Test – 2001:

Test’s Intercontinental Championship reign in 2001 showcased his strength and resilience. His win demonstrated his potential as a singles competitor, and his reign provided variety in the championship’s history.

William Regal – 2002:

William Regal’s Intercontinental Championship win in 2002 emphasized his technical wrestling expertise and his villainous character. Regal’s reign was marked by crafty tactics and showcased his ability to generate heat with the audience.

Rob Van Dam – 2002:

Rob Van Dam’s Intercontinental Championship win in 2002 was a tribute to his unique in-ring style. Known for his high-flying and striking abilities, RVD’s fan-favorite character and “RVD” chant added excitement to his reign, making him a standout champion.

Chris Jericho (2) – 2002:

Chris Jericho’s second Intercontinental Championship reign in 2002 reaffirmed his status as a top-tier performer. His versatility in promos and his entertaining matches made him a captivating champion.

Kane – 2002:

Kane’s Intercontinental Championship win in 2002 marked a shift in his character. While known as a monster, Kane’s reign showed his versatility, blending power with wrestling skill. His victory was a fresh chapter in the title’s history.

Triple H (4) – 2002:

Triple H’s fourth Intercontinental Championship reign in 2002 demonstrated his sustained dominance. By this point, he had become a major heel, solidifying his place as one of WWE’s top villains and future world champions.

Kane (2) – 2002:

Kane’s second Intercontinental Championship reign in 2002 emphasized his ability to be both a dominant monster and a skilled wrestler. His versatility was on display, and his championship win was a unique moment in his career.

Rob Van Dam (2) – 2003:

Rob Van Dam’s second Intercontinental Championship reign in 2003 further celebrated his high-flying style and innovative moves. RVD was a charismatic and dynamic champion who thrilled fans with his unique offense.

Booker T – 2003:

Booker T’s Intercontinental Championship win in 2003 marked a transition into singles competition after a successful tag team career. His charismatic persona and athleticism made him a dynamic and entertaining champion.

Christian – 2003:

Christian’s Intercontinental Championship reign in 2003 highlighted his villainous “Captain Charisma” character and his underhanded tactics. His reign added depth to the title’s history by showcasing the role of a crafty heel champion.

Goldberg – 2003:

Goldberg’s Intercontinental Championship win in 2003 was a significant moment in his WWE tenure. The arrival of the powerhouse wrestler showcased his immense popularity and impact in the wrestling world. Goldberg’s reign was a testament to his aura and appeal.

Randy Orton – 2003:

Randy Orton’s Intercontinental Championship reign in 2003 marked the early stages of his career. As the “Legend Killer,” Orton’s charisma and athleticism set the stage for his eventual rise to WWE’s main event scene.

Edge (2) – 2004:

Edge’s second Intercontinental Championship reign in 2004 showcased his evolution as a singles competitor. His charismatic persona and innovative in-ring style made him a captivating and memorable champion.

Randy Orton (2) – 2004:

Randy Orton’s second Intercontinental Championship reign in 2004 was part of his journey to becoming one of WWE’s top stars. His youthful charisma and in-ring ability marked him as a rising talent in the company.

Shelton Benjamin – 2004:

Shelton Benjamin’s Intercontinental Championship victory in 2004 was a testament to his athleticism and technical wrestling skills. His reign was marked by exciting matches and high-flying moves.

Carlito – 2004:

Carlito’s Intercontinental Championship reign in 2004 introduced his “cool” character to WWE fans. His laid-back persona, combined with his apple-spitting antics, made him a unique and entertaining champion.

Ric Flair – 2005:

Ric Flair’s Intercontinental Championship win in 2005 was a nod to his legendary status in the wrestling world. Despite being a wrestling veteran, Flair’s charisma and wrestling acumen continued to captivate fans, and his reign added prestige to the title.

Shelton Benjamin (2) – 2005:

Shelton Benjamin’s second Intercontinental Championship reign in 2005 continued to emphasize his athleticism and in-ring prowess. He delivered memorable matches and showcased the importance of pure wrestling skill.

Johnny Nitro (John Morrison) – 2006:

Johnny Nitro, later known as John Morrison, became Intercontinental Champion in 2006. His athletic style and charisma made him an engaging champion, and his reign was marked by dynamic matches.

Jeff Hardy – 2007:

Jeff Hardy’s Intercontinental Championship win in 2007 marked his return to WWE and signaled his resurgence as a top star. His high-flying and daredevil style endeared him to fans, and his reign was celebrated by the WWE Universe.

Umaga – 2007:

Umaga’s Intercontinental Championship reign in 2007 showcased his dominant and fierce persona. The powerhouse wrestler’s reign added a layer of intensity to the title’s history.

Santino Marella – 2007:

Santino Marella’s Intercontinental Championship win in 2007 was a surprising and comical moment. His comedic character and underdog story made him an unexpected but entertaining champion.

William Regal (2) – 2008:

William Regal’s second Intercontinental Championship reign in 2008 highlighted his villainous character. His technical wrestling ability and “man’s man” persona made him a formidable and heat-generating champion.

Kofi Kingston – 2008:

Kofi Kingston’s Intercontinental Championship win in 2008 marked his early success in WWE. His high-flying and energetic style, as well as his captivating athleticism, made him a fan-favorite champion.

CM Punk – 2008:

CM Punk’s Intercontinental Championship reign in 2008 showcased his “Straight Edge” character and in-ring ability. Punk’s outspoken promos and his dedication to a drug-free lifestyle resonated with fans, and his reign was a representation of his unique persona.

John “Bradshaw” Layfield (JBL) – 2008:

JBL’s Intercontinental Championship win in 2008 marked his transition from a top-tier villain to a more mid-card role. His “wrestling god” character and technical wrestling ability added an air of arrogance to the title.

Rey Mysterio – 2009:

Rey Mysterio’s Intercontinental Championship win in 2009 celebrated his lucha libre style and high-flying maneuvers. His underdog persona and exciting matches made him a beloved champion.

John Morrison (2) – 2009:

John Morrison’s second Intercontinental Championship reign in 2009 continued to highlight his athletic prowess and charismatic persona. His innovative offense and exciting matches added a dynamic element to the title.

Drew McIntyre – 2009:

Drew McIntyre’s Intercontinental Championship victory in 2009 marked his introduction as “The Chosen One.” His imposing presence and wrestling ability marked the beginning of his WWE journey.

Kofi Kingston (2) – 2010:

Kofi Kingston’s second Intercontinental Championship reign in 2010 solidified his status as a high-flying fan-favorite. His exciting moves and ability to connect with the audience made him a standout champion.

Dolph Ziggler – 2010:

Dolph Ziggler’s Intercontinental Championship reign in 2010 marked the start of his journey to becoming a main-event star. Ziggler’s athleticism and “Show Off” persona showcased his potential as a top-tier talent.

Wade Barrett – 2010:

Wade Barrett’s Intercontinental Championship victory in 2010 was a testament to his “Nexus” faction’s impact. His dominance and leadership qualities were showcased during this reign, and it was a pivotal moment in his career.

Ezekiel Jackson – 2011:

Ezekiel Jackson’s Intercontinental Championship reign in 2011 was characterized by his immense power. As one of the strongest competitors in WWE, his reign marked a different kind of champion.

Cody Rhodes – 2011:

Cody Rhodes’ Intercontinental Championship win in 2011 was a turning point in his career. His “Dashing” persona and commitment to his character added depth to his reign, and it was a sign of his future potential.

Big Show – 2012:

Big Show’s Intercontinental Championship reign in 2012 showcased his versatility as a giant athlete. His dominant persona added a new dimension to the title’s history.

The Miz – 2012:

The Miz’s Intercontinental Championship win in 2012 marked his return to the mid-card after a run as WWE Champion. His outspoken character and charisma made him a compelling champion.

Kofi Kingston (3) – 2013:

Kofi Kingston’s third Intercontinental Championship reign in 2013 marked his consistent appeal to fans. His high-flying, dynamic style was a highlight during this period, and he was a beloved champion.

Curtis Axel – 2013:

Curtis Axel’s Intercontinental Championship victory in 2013 was part of his partnership with Paul Heyman. His athletic ability and association with Heyman added intrigue to his reign.

Big E – 2013:

Big E’s Intercontinental Championship win in 2013 marked the start of his singles career. His charisma and power were notable characteristics of his reign, which hinted at his potential as a future star.

Bad News Barrett (Wade Barrett) – 2014:

Bad News Barrett’s Intercontinental Championship reign in 2014 featured his “Bad News” character. His outspoken promos and brawler style made him a notable and engaging champion.

Daniel Bryan – 2015:

Daniel Bryan’s Intercontinental Championship victory in 2015 was a symbolic moment for the title. Bryan’s underdog story and wrestling ability made him a beloved champion, and it was a momentous period during his career.

Ryback – 2015:

Ryback’s Intercontinental Championship reign in 2015 showcased his powerhouse wrestling style. His strength and intensity added a unique element to the title’s history.

Kevin Owens – 2015:

Kevin Owens’ Intercontinental Championship win in 2015 was a reflection of his brash and anti-hero character. His outspoken promos and hard-hitting in-ring style made him a captivating champion.

Dean Ambrose – 2015:

Dean Ambrose’s Intercontinental Championship victory in 2015 marked a significant point in his journey to becoming a top WWE star. His unpredictable and unhinged persona was a unique addition to the title’s lineage.

Zack Ryder – 2016:

Zack Ryder’s Intercontinental Championship win in 2016 was a feel-good moment for fans. His underdog story and charisma resonated with the WWE Universe, making his championship victory a memorable one.

The Miz (2) – 2016:

The Miz’s second Intercontinental Championship reign in 2016 continued to emphasize his outspoken and arrogant character. His commitment to his persona and his skill on the microphone added depth to his championship run.

Dolph Ziggler (2) – 2016:

Dolph Ziggler’s second Intercontinental Championship reign in 2016 marked a return to the title. His athleticism and charisma made him a reliable champion, and his rivalry with The Miz added drama to the championship scene.

The Miz (3) – 2017:

The Miz’s third Intercontinental Championship reign in 2017 was characterized by his outspoken character and the “Miztourage” faction. His consistent presence and engaging promos made him a notable champion.

Dean Ambrose (2) – 2017:

Dean Ambrose’s second Intercontinental Championship reign in 2017 continued to showcase his unpredictable character. His in-ring style and promos added a layer of excitement to the title’s history.

Roman Reigns – 2017:

Roman Reigns’ Intercontinental Championship win in 2017 was a significant moment in his career. His powerhouse wrestling style and charisma made him a compelling champion, and his reign added prestige to the title.

The Miz (4) – 2017:

The Miz’s fourth Intercontinental Championship reign in 2017 marked his rivalry with Roman Reigns. His outspoken character and consistent presence in the title scene were hallmarks of his championship run.

Seth Rollins – 2018:

Seth Rollins’ second Intercontinental Championship reign in 2018 showcased his status as one of WWE’s top stars. His athleticism, in-ring ability, and captivating promos made him a fan-favorite champion, and his reign was part of his journey to becoming one of the company’s top talents.

Dolph Ziggler (Nick Nemeth) – 2018:

Dolph Ziggler’s Intercontinental Championship reign in 2018 marked his return to the title scene. Ziggler’s athleticism and show-stealing performances made him a dynamic and memorable champion.

Seth Rollins (Colby Lopez) – 2018:

Seth Rollins’ Intercontinental Championship victory in 2018 added to his list of accolades. Rollins’ in-ring ability, charisma, and popularity with fans further solidified him as a top star in WWE.

Dean Ambrose (Jonathan Good) – 2018:

Dean Ambrose’s Intercontinental Championship win in 2018 was part of his return from injury. Ambrose’s rugged and unpredictable persona made him a notable champion, and it was a significant chapter in his career.

Bobby Lashley – 2019:

Bobby Lashley’s Intercontinental Championship victory in 2019 showcased his physical dominance. Lashley’s powerhouse wrestling style and imposing presence added intensity to the title scene.

Finn Bálor – 2019:

Finn Bálor’s Intercontinental Championship win in 2019 marked a milestone in his WWE career. Bálor’s charismatic “Demon King” persona and high-flying style made him a fan-favorite champion.

Shinsuke Nakamura – 2019:

Shinsuke Nakamura’s Intercontinental Championship reign in 2019 was a reflection of his international wrestling acclaim. His unique charisma, strong style of wrestling, and striking ability made him a captivating champion.

Braun Strowman (Adam Scherr) – 2019:

Braun Strowman’s first Intercontinental Championship win in 2019 celebrated his immense size and strength. His “Monster Among Men” persona added a formidable presence to the title’s history.

Sami Zayn (Rami Sebei) – 2019:

Sami Zayn’s Intercontinental Championship victory in 2019 marked a significant moment in his WWE career. Zayn’s charismatic and underdog character, combined with his in-ring abilities, made him a compelling champion.

Braun Strowman (Adam Scherr) – 2019:

Braun Strowman’s second Intercontinental Championship reign in 2019 further emphasized his dominance. His monster persona and physicality added a unique element to the title’s history.

Sami Zayn (Rami Sebei) – 2019:

Sami Zayn’s second Intercontinental Championship victory in 2019 continued to showcase his character’s evolution. Zayn’s outspoken promos and heel persona added intrigue to the title scene.

Braun Strowman (Adam Scherr) – 2019:

Braun Strowman’s third Intercontinental Championship reign in 2019 maintained his reputation as a dominant force. His battles to retain the title were a highlight during this period.

Sami Zayn (Rami Sebei) – 2019:

Sami Zayn’s third Intercontinental Championship win in 2019 showed his ability to generate heat and remain a compelling character. His partnership with Shinsuke Nakamura added an extra layer of intrigue.

Braun Strowman (Adam Scherr) – 2019:

Braun Strowman’s fourth Intercontinental Championship reign in 2019 showcased his continued dominance. His feuds and battles for the title were a central focus during this time.

Shinsuke Nakamura – 2019:

Shinsuke Nakamura’s second Intercontinental Championship reign in 2019 solidified his status as a notable champion. His strong style and charisma made him a captivating titleholder.

Sami Zayn (Rami Sebei) – 2019:

Sami Zayn’s fourth Intercontinental Championship victory in 2019 further solidified his position as a prominent heel in WWE. Zayn’s cunning and outspoken character played a key role during his reign.

Braun Strowman (Adam Scherr) – 2019:

Braun Strowman’s fifth Intercontinental Championship reign in 2019 continued to highlight his dominance. His battles for the title demonstrated his resilience and ability to overcome formidable challengers.

Sami Zayn (Rami Sebei) – 2019:

Sami Zayn’s fifth Intercontinental Championship reign in 2019 marked a period of manipulation and intrigue as he continued to employ tactics to retain the title.

AJ Styles (Allen Jones) – 2020:

AJ Styles’ Intercontinental Championship win in 2020 added to his legacy as one of WWE’s top stars. Styles’ in-ring ability, charisma, and “Phenomenal One” persona made him a highly acclaimed champion.

Jeff Hardy – 2020:

Jeff Hardy’s Intercontinental Championship victory in 2020 marked his return to the title scene. His charismatic “Charismatic Enigma” character and daredevil style of wrestling added excitement to the championship’s history.

AJ Styles (Allen Jones) – 2020:

AJ Styles’ second Intercontinental Championship reign in 2020 showcased his consistency as a top performer. His battles with various challengers maintained the title’s prestige.

Sami Zayn (Rami Sebei) – 2020:

Sami Zayn’s sixth Intercontinental Championship reign in 2020 marked his ongoing manipulation and conniving tactics to retain the title.

Big E (Ettore Ewen) – 2020:

Big E’s Intercontinental Championship win in 2020 was a significant moment in his career. His powerhouse wrestling style and charismatic personality endeared him to fans, and his reign showcased his potential as a singles star.

Apollo Crews (Sesugh Uhaa) – 2021:

Apollo Crews’ Intercontinental Championship victory in 2021 marked a character shift. His “Nigerian Royalty” persona added a layer of intensity and intrigue to the title scene.

Big E (Ettore Ewen) – 2021:

Big E’s second Intercontinental Championship reign in 2021 celebrated his status as a beloved champion. His combination of power and charisma made him a fan-favorite titleholder.

Apollo Crews (Sesugh Uhaa) – 2021:

Apollo Crews’ second Intercontinental Championship reign in 2021 continued his “Nigerian Royalty” character and marked a fresh chapter in the title’s history.

King Nakamura (Shinsuke Nakamura) – 2021:

Shinsuke Nakamura’s Intercontinental Championship victory in 2021 added to his accolades. His “King of Strong Style” persona and striking ability made him a captivating champion.

Sami Zayn – 2022:

Sami Zayn’s Intercontinental Championship reign in 2022 marked another chapter in his career. His cunning and manipulative character continued to play a significant role as he aimed to retain the title.

Ricochet – 2022:

Ricochet’s Intercontinental Championship victory in 2022 celebrated his high-flying and dynamic in-ring style. His athleticism and exciting matches made him a fan-favorite champion.

Gunther – 2022:

Gunther’s Intercontinental Championship win in 2022 marked a new name and character in WWE. His powerhouse wrestling style and strong presence added a fresh dimension to the title’s history.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the Intercontinental Championship has a storied history filled with legendary champions, iconic matches, and memorable rivalries. This title has not only provided incredible moments for wrestling fans but has also launched numerous careers. It remains a symbol of excellence in the world of professional wrestling.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is the significance of the Intercontinental Championship in WWE?

A: The Intercontinental Championship is a symbol of a wrestler’s talent and dedication, often serving as a stepping stone to becoming a top-tier WWE superstar.

Who are some of the most iconic Intercontinental Champions?

A: Legendary Intercontinental Champions include “Macho Man” Randy Savage, The Rock, Stone Cold Steve Austin, and many more.

How has the Intercontinental Championship design changed over the years?

A: The championship has seen various design changes, with each iteration adding to its rich history.

Related Post: