WCW World Heavyweight Championship

The WCW World Heavyweight Championship belt used from 1991 to mid-1994, often referred to as the "WCW Classic" belt, is a distinctive and historically significant design that bridged the transition from the NWA to WCW's standalone identity.

Design Features

• Center Plate: This belt featured a large, gold-plated center plate with a prominent globe design, symbolizing the international prestige of the championship. The inscription "World Heavyweight Wrestling Champion" was emblazoned across the plate, with the WCW logo positioned above.

• Side Plates: Flanking the center were two side plates on each side, each adorned with unique designs that complemented the central theme.

• Strap: The plates were mounted on a black leather strap, measuring approximately 4 feet 1 inch in length and weighing over 4 pounds. The strap was fastened by snaps on each side and could fit up to a 46-inch waist.

This belt was introduced after Ric Flair's departure in 1991, when WCW needed a new championship belt. The initial version was a temporary design, but it was soon replaced by this more refined version, which became the standard until mid-1994.

Legacy and Notable Holders

During its tenure, this championship belt was held by several prominent wrestlers, including:

• Lex Luger: Crowned the inaugural WCW World Heavyweight Champion under this design at The Great American Bash in 1991.

• Sting: A fan favourite who held the title during this era, further solidifying his status as a WCW icon.

• Big Van Vader: Known for his dominant reigns and intense rivalries, Vader was a key figure in the early '90s WCW scene.

• Ron Simmons: Made history by becoming the first African American to win the WCW World Heavyweight Championship in 1992.

In December 1993, Ric Flair defeated Vader at Starrcade to unify this championship with the WCW International World Heavyweight Championship (represented by the "Big Gold Belt"). Following this unification, the "Big Gold Belt" became the sole representation of the WCW World Heavyweight Championship, and the 1991–1994 design was retired.

What you get:

WCW World Champion design.

Hand etched onto 4mm thick, zinc plates. Electroplated in 24kt gold and mounted to a hand-tooled genuine leather strap.