5 Superstars whose first Championship in WWE was the world title

#3 Four-time WWE World Champion Sheamus

One of WWE's most stunning main-event rises came in 2009, as Sheamus went from debuting on ECW to dethroning John Cena on RAW in a matter of months. The Celtic Warrior was pushed straight to the top, as he won a Tables Match to become WWE Champion at Cena's expense.

Sheamus may not have remained a permanent headliner in the company, but his early push laid the foundation for a fulfilling career. He won multiple other world titles, as well as the United States and Tag Team Championships.

While he has spent over a decade in Vince McMahon's promotion, Sheamus might be at the top of his game right now. His in-ring form over the past year has been magnificent, with some hard-hitting matches against various stars on RAW.

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#2 Two-time WWE Champion AJ Styles

Another superstar who became WWE Champion before winning everything else, AJ Styles came to the company following an incredible career away from it. He blew expectations out of the water almost instantly.

Styles impressed everybody in his first few months in the promotion, with stellar rivalries with both Roman Reigns and John Cena. The Phenomenal One won the WWE Championship three weeks after pinning Cena clean at SummerSlam 2016, enjoying a brilliant title reign.

The following years saw him move across the card, be it on his own or with a faction or tag team partner. AJ Styles has been Champion every year since he joined WWE, most recently holding tag team gold with Omos.