The WWE Intercontinental Championship has a rich history spanning over four decades, with numerous legendary wrestlers holding the prestigious title.
As Jey Uso begins his reign as the current champion after beating Bron Breakker on RAW, let’s explore some of the greatest Intercontinental Champions of all time and consider whether Uso has the potential to join their ranks.
Legendary Reigns
The Honky Tonk Man’s Record-Breaking Run
For 35 years, The Honky Tonk Man held the record for the longest single reign as Intercontinental Champion, lasting an impressive 454 days. His dastardly tactics and ability to retain the title through various means made him one of the most memorable champions in WWE history.
Randy Savage’s Workhorse Era
“Macho Man” Randy Savage’s 413-day reign brought immense prestige to the Intercontinental Championship.Â
His stellar matches, including the classic bout against Ricky Steamboat at WrestleMania 3, solidified the title’s importance and his place among the greatest champions.
Chris Jericho’s Multiple Reigns
Chris Jericho holds the record for the most Intercontinental Championship reigns with nine.Â
His consistent excellence and ability to reinvent himself with each title run make him a strong contender for the greatest Intercontinental Champion of all time.
Modern Era Standouts
The Miz’s Resurgence
The Miz has held the Intercontinental Championship eight times, second only to Jericho. His work in elevating the title’s prestige, particularly during his feuds with Dolph Ziggler, has earned him a place among the best champions in recent years.
Gunther’s Record-Breaking Reign
In September 2023, Gunther surpassed The Honky Tonk Man’s long-standing record, holding the title for over 479 days. His impressive in-ring performances and dominant reign have quickly established him as one of the greatest Intercontinental Champions in WWE history.
Could Jey Uso Join the Ranks?
As the new Intercontinental Champion, Jey Uso has the opportunity to create his own legacy. While it’s too early to predict the impact of his reign, Uso’s popularity, in-ring skills, and family pedigree give him the potential to become a memorable champion.
To join the ranks of the all-time greats, Uso will need to:
- Have a lengthy and impactful reign
- Elevate the prestige of the championship
- Deliver memorable matches and feuds
Only time will tell if Uso can rise to the challenge and etch his name alongside the legendary Intercontinental Champions of the past.
