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The World Heavyweight Championship, also known as the "big gold belt," is one of the most prestigious and sought-after titles in professional wrestling. Originally created by Jim Crockett Promotions in 1986, the belt has since been used by various wrestling organizations, including WWE.
The Origins Of "The Big Gold Belt"
The "big gold belt" was first introduced by Jim Crockett Promotions as a replacement for their original World Heavyweight Championship belt, which had become outdated and worn. Designed by Charles Crumrine, the new belt was a work of art. The belt was made of genuine gold and leather, making it one of the most expensive championship belts in wrestling history. Upon laying his eyes on the magnificent championship belt, Jim Crockett Jr. was instantly captivated and enamored by its grandeur and beauty.
Determined to make it the new world heavyweight championship title, Crockett eagerly commissioned the creation of the belt to become the ultimate prize in professional wrestling. The prestigious title was subsequently bestowed upon the reigning champion, the legendary 'Nature Boy' Ric Flair. However, a mishap occurred during the presentation of the belt - the nameplate incorrectly spelled Flair's name as 'Rick' instead of 'Ric'. Recognizing the gravity of the error, the nameplate was promptly returned to be redone with the proper spelling of the wrestling icon's name.
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The Debut Of "The Big Gold Belt"
On February 14th, 1986, the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) unveiled its new world title at the "Battle of the Belts II" event in Florida. The title, which had been meticulously crafted by Charles Crumrine, was to be defended by the legendary Ric Flair against his worthy opponent Barry Windham. As Flair made his entrance into the ring with the belt secured around his waist, the crowd erupted into a frenzy of excitement and anticipation for what was to come. The following week, on February 22nd, 1986, the NWA's Saturday night program featured the first-ever television debut of the newly minted world title.
As Flair proudly displayed the belt, it was wrapped in a regal blue velvet covering, adding to its mystique and grandeur. Tony Schiavone and David Crockett were both present during the interview segment, witnessing firsthand the unveiling of the prestigious belt. The origin of the nickname "The Big Gold Belt" has been a topic of debate among wrestling enthusiasts for years. Some believe that it was David Crockett who first referred to the belt as such during a Flair match shortly after its debut. However, there are also accounts of Flair himself using the moniker during interviews, which may have contributed to its widespread adoption. Regardless of its origins, "The Big Gold Belt" remains a beloved and iconic title in the world of professional wrestling, and continues to be sought after by wrestlers around the globe
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How "The Big Gold Belt" Made It To WWE
After its debut in the NWA, the "Big Gold Belt" continued to be used as the world championship title in various wrestling promotions. In 1988, billionaire Ted Turner, who was starting his own wrestling promotion known as World Championship Wrestling (WCW), acquired Jim Crockett Promotions and the rights to the NWA World Heavyweight Championship and with it, the coveted "Big Gold Belt". This marked a significant moment in the history of the title, as it became the centerpiece of the newly formed WCW and was defended on its programming. Under the banner of WCW, the "Big Gold Belt" became a symbol of prestige and honor, representing the very best in professional wrestling.
In 2001, WWE acquired WCW, and with it, the "big gold belt." Initially, the belt was used as a secondary championship in WWE, known as the WCW title with the WWE Championship remaining the company's top title. But after the invasion storyline ended, the WCW name was dropped, and it eventually became the World Heavyweight Championship. However, in 2001, the "big gold belt" was merged with the WWE Championship to create the Undisputed Championship, which was held by wrestling icons such as Brock Lesnar and The Rock.
In 2002, after WWE's brand extension draft the titles were split again and WWE's own version of the big gold belt was introduced. Over the years, the "big gold belt" has undergone various redesigns and modifications, but it remains one of the most recognizable and iconic championship belts in wrestling history. It has been held by some of the greatest wrestlers of all time, including Ric Flair, The Undertaker, and Triple H.
