The Complete History of the WWE Championship - Part 2

The Iron Sheik (December 26, 1983 - January 23, 1984)

The Iron Sheik: The transition between the pre-TV era and Hulkamania

Like Ivan Koloff and Stan Stasiak before him, The Iron Sheik was the very definition of a transitional champion.

The title change was a colossal upset when it occurred in December 1983, bringing to a close Bob Backlund's near six year title run as titleholder.

There was a degree of controversy in the outcome. As Sheik held Backlund in the Camel Clutch, Backlund's manager at the time, Arnold Skaaland, threw in the towel on Backlund's behalf, gifting the title to Sheik.

Backlund was incensed at Skaaland, as he stated that he had no intention of submitting to Sheik. The finish protected Backlund, but the outgoing champion would never receive a rematch.

The transition had begun. Backlund and the pre-cable television era were out and Hulkamania and the MTV generation were in.