Legends of today: 10 active wrestlers who are already legendary

The word 'legend' isn't thrown about lightly in the world of pro wrestling. Typically, a wrestler has to be retired and/or dead to earn such a lofty designation.

But this is not always the case. Sometimes, a wrestler comes down the pike and proves that they are indeed legendary even early in their career. We salute those heroes who inspire fans and wrestlers alike to make the best even better.

Here are ten active wrestlers who are already legends.

#1 Christopher Daniels

One of the few men to wrestle for WCW, ECW, WWE, ROH and TNA, Daniels has always been regarded as one of the greatest in ring talents in the industry.

The belts he has collected over the years attest to his greatness. Daniels has held the ROH World title, the TNA X Division championship as well as tag titles in both those promotions. He has also won thirty other titles for various independent promotions and is as well traveled and worldly as a wrestler can possibly be.

But it's Daniels's charisma and rock steady work on the microphone that gives him that extra edge.

Why he's already a legend: With a career spanning nearly three decades, numerous accolades, and the absolute unconditional respect of fans and peers alike, Daniels is a living legend who still puts on top quality matches well into his forties.

#2 Goldust

Dustin Runnels was once concerned that he would never step out of his father's shadow, the legendary Dusty Rhodes.

So when he made the jump from WCW to WWE, he developed a new persona, a character so well crafted in appearance and sensibilities that he remains active and relevant today; Goldust.

If you go back and look at some of the most iconic moments in sports entertainment history, you'll find Goldust front and center. From his controversial homophobia inducing gimmick to his impersonations of other wrestlers to his Hollywood Lot brawl with Roddy Piper, Goldust has racked up a lot of notches on his belt.

Why he's a legend: It's simple; You will NEVER forget the name of...Goldust! His unique appearance, smooth technical work in the ring, and longevity have made him a household name among wrestling fans.

#3 Asuka

As Kana, she terrified opponents and played mind games. As Asuka, her toughness and skill are without peer. Either way, Asuka has made a career out of defying expectations of what a woman wrestler is supposed to look like, behave, and--most importantly--wrestle.

Why she's a legend: From her championship victories in Japan to her long unbeaten streak in WWE, to her mass media appeal, Asuka is a living legend in her own time. Her in-ring skills are superb, and she carries herself like a champion even without a title belt.

#4 Seth Rollins

When the Shield was together, Seth Rollins had a tendency to be thought of as the lowest ranking member of that group. He didn't have Roman's size or Dean's smooth yet intense delivery on the mic.

Who would have thought he'd end up shining brighter than both of his former brethren? Seth Rollins has proved to be WWE's most valuable player, smoothly transitioning from heel to face and from the tag to singles divisions. We see him as akin to Shawn Michaels in that he is a smaller, lighter athlete who can still credibly brawl with the big men.

Why he's a legend: Whether it's ROH, the indies, NXT, or Raw and Smackdown, Rollins always seems to have a gold title belt around his waist. Great men don't seek out accolades; they have them thrust upon them, and it seems everyone is eager to put a title on Seth. His in-ring skills are impressive, but his mic skills have really come a long way from when he dyed his hair two different colors.

#5 The Briscoes

The staunch ROH loyalists continue to dazzle audiences around the world with their mix of brawling, high flying, and surprisingly technical wrestling despite their 'redneck' appearance and gimmick.

Whether teaming up or working as singles stars, Jay and Mark continue to raise the bar each time they step between the ropes.

Why they are legends: Wrestling fans can't get enough of 'dem boys,' and their collection of title belts from all over the world solidify their status as elite wrestlers. It's their over the top personalities and fantastic interviews that really make the Briscoes legendary, however.

#6 Matt Hardy

Prior to adopting his 'broken/woken' character, Matt Hardy was thought of as a capable and marketable mid-carder, and nothing more while his brother Jeff was considered main event talent. Had he not become Broken Matt Hardy, he likely would not have made it onto this list in spite of his numerous accolades.

The Broken character showcased Matt's supreme understanding of wrestling psychology. Every wrestling critic and promoter thought it was doomed to fail, even Impact who ultimately took a chance on Hardy's vision. It paid off tremendously and helped wrestling evolve into the modern era.

Why he's a legend: Matt's longevity, technical skill, rabid fan base, and innovative and creative drives place him firmly in the category of living legend.

#7 Chris Jericho

Every time you think Jericho is done with wrestling for good, or can no longer make a major impact, he comes up with something new.

He turned heel when his cheerful Y2J persona grew stale and came up with The List, which has spawned thousands of internet memes. Now working with New Japan, Jericho proves that he is still relevant and marketable even into middle age.

Why he's a legend: Jericho's dazzling in-ring work, boundless charisma, and magnificent delivery on the mike combine with his numerous world title reigns to make him truly legendary.

#8 Kazuchika Okada

The Rainmaker held onto the coveted, prestigious IWGP Heavyweight title for nearly two years, never letting it slip from his iron grasp until his most celebrated rival managed to get it off of him.

Combining drive, charisma, force of will, and some of the best technical wrestling in the world, Okada continues to shine even without the IWGP strap.

Why he's a legend: Okada, along with Omega, have put NJPW on the pro wrestling zeitgeist. His fantastic wrestling ability and strong presence combine with his decorated career to make him a living legend.

#9 AJ Styles

The phenomenal one has experienced one of the best WWE runs in history and he's just getting started. His performance, work ethic, and agility are unparalleled in the WWE.

Why he's a legend: AJ Styles has held titles in WCW, TNA, NJPW, ROH, PWG, the indies, and of course WWE. He may not be the household name in non-wrestling fandom like Hulk Hogan, but every wrestling fan on Earth knows his name and what he's about; being Phenomenal.

#10 Kenny Omega

Kenny Omega is thought to be the best active wrestler, period, in the industry today. Devastating strikes, tightly cinched suplexes, and the ability to fly through the air have made Omega the talk of the wrestling world and the most sought-after talent.

Why he's a legend: Omega's tremendous talent both in the ring and on the mike are only part of the formula for his legendary status. His ability to utilize social media to connect with his fans, participation in events like video game contests with the New Day, and innovative techniques help propel him to the top of our list.

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There you have it; Ten active wrestlers who are already legends. Who else do you think will be thought of as a legend of wrestling? Please comment and let us know.