The gimmick that has stood the test of timeThe Attitude Era was the best time in WWE. Back when the television rating was at a 14, most things were acceptable. Even if they weren’t, the line was pushed to the max. So, how can this era of WWE superstar gimmicks stack up to gimmicks like Stone Cold Steve Austin or The Rock? Quite simply, they can’t. They can certainly draw inspiration from them, though. One of the best gimmicks from the attitude era is The Rock. His unique word play and eyebrow raising displays propelled his career to the highest of any superstar of his time. Another great gimmick is the Undertaker. To this day, when the Undertaker’s music hits and he slowly saunters down the ramp, people appear trance-like by the sight of him. The newest WWE superstars should strife to find a gimmick that will hold this same type of reaction 30 years down the line when someone mentions their name. Even though none can possibly match the great superstars of the attitude era, some have come close.Here are the 5 best gimmicks since the attitude era -
#5 John Cena
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John Cena is one of the most recognizable WWE superstars of this era. He has captured the hearts of many with his superhero characteristics and ‘Never Give Up’ slogan. Since he threw away the backwards hat and chain, he has adapted his character to almost reflect himself. This realization makes people connect with him.
There are many children who are fans of John Cena. He is the biggest wish with the Make A Wish Foundation. His speeches bring hope to those who are discouraged. I guess that’s why many consider him to be a true superhero. It could also be the fact that his strength is superhuman. He truly never gives up within a match and finds some kind of inner strength to carry on.
#4 The Shield
The impact of The Shield debuting in the WWE is comparable to the NWO invading WCW. It was utter destruction. The way the trio brought such entertaining gimmicks made them so fun to watch. Dean Ambrose has a way with words, so much so that it captivates you. Seth Rollins has fast and high flying moves.
Then, there is Roman Reigns. He has the strength to pull it all together. When they single out a target, they execute in a brutal beatdown. It leaves their opponent lying in absolute dismay. All three members of the Shield are for going to be talked about years down the line.
#3 Aj Lee
Probably one of the best divas since the attitude era, AJ Lee has brought a whole other type of entertainment to WWE programming. Her crazy antics and ever-changing lovers made her different from the other divas in the locker room.
She was not one of the barbie-doll model types, but her small frame and spunky attitude made fans love her. She was the anti-diva of sorts. Many women don’t look like the divas in the locker room, so to finally come across one that looks like the average women made her relatable. She was admired by the fans for being herself in most instances. Let’s hope the crazy bits were only a part of her gimmick.
#2 Brock Lesnar
The reappearance of Brock Lesnar has impacted the WWE greatly. He is now marketed as a unstoppable beast. The violent temper has brought a lot of very entertaining segments, especially ones featuring Michael Cole getting an F-5.
With Paul Hayman as his marketer, the Brock Lesnar gimmick has taken new heights and after signing with WWE again, he has been at many more shows, to much of the fans delight. It is expected that Brock Lesnar will raise hell when he arrives and that’s what is so great about his gimmick.
#1 The Wyatt Family
The mystic that surrounds Bray Wyatt as he makes his way slowly down the ramp is a sight to see. The creepy debut of Bray Wyatt, alongside Luke Harper and Eric Rowan, has been one of the best since the Undertaker.
His smooth talking, coupled with the intensity of evil that he evokes is phenomenal. If there is anyone to replace that mystique that the Undertaker has, it could very well be Bray Wyatt. The reuniting of Luke Harper and Bray Wyatt came at a time, where many of the acts seemed to be continuing on the same storyline each night. Now with the addition of Braun Stowman, the Wyatt family has just exceeded to a whole new creep factor.
