WWE’s finest: the top 10 superstars of the 2000s, ranked by fans

October 21, 2025 Kris Isaksen

The 2000s were a transformative era for WWE, marked by unforgettable rivalries, iconic personas, and some of the greatest matches ever seen. From locker room leaders to boundary-pushing innovators, these ten superstars defined the decade—and according to fans, they stood above the rest.

10. The Rock

Even as he transitioned into Hollywood stardom, The Rock’s sporadic WWE appearances in the 2000s still carried unmatched impact. His epic feuds with Stone Cold, Triple H, and later John Cena helped define the era. Every return felt like a seismic event, proving his charisma transcended the ring.

9. Rey Mysterio

Rey Mysterio shattered size stereotypes with his high-flying, lucha libre-inspired offense. His 2006 Royal Rumble victory and emotional title win at WrestleMania 22 were triumphs for underdogs everywhere. Beloved by fans of all ages, Mysterio became a cultural icon whose impact stretched far beyond championships.

8. Shawn Michaels

After a four-year retirement, Michaels returned in 2002 and somehow elevated his already legendary career. With unforgettable matches against the likes of Kurt Angle and Ric Flair, he proved his in-ring storytelling was second to none. HBK wasn't just back—he was better than ever.

7. Edge

Edge evolved from tag team daredevil to main event mastermind during the 2000s. His “Ultimate Opportunist” persona changed how championships were won, starting with the first-ever Money in the Bank cash-in. Whether hero or villain, Edge thrived on reinvention—and fans couldn’t look away.

6. Kane

Kane remained one of WWE’s most fearsome and reliable presences across the decade. His 2003 unmasking unveiled a more disturbed side, leading to chilling rivalries and storyline twists. As both a dominant singles competitor and tag team staple, Kane’s longevity made him a constant threat.

5. Triple H

Triple H ruled WWE’s main event scene in the 2000s with calculated dominance. As Evolution’s ruthless leader, he elevated rising stars like Batista and Orton while securing his own legacy. Whether manipulating behind the scenes or battling in the ring, “The Game” stayed at the top.

4. John Cena

Cena rose from “Doctor of Thuganomics” to WWE’s ultimate poster boy, captivating fans with his charisma and resilience. By the mid-2000s, he was headlining every major show and holding multiple world titles. Love him or hate him, Cena defined an entire generation of WWE.

3. Randy Orton

Orton’s ascent was fast, fierce, and unforgettable. As the youngest World Heavyweight Champion and the menacing “Legend Killer,” he brought calculated brutality to WWE’s main event picture. By decade’s end, Orton had firmly secured his place among the elite.

2. Stone Cold Steve Austin

Though injuries shortened his in-ring time, Austin’s early-2000s influence was undeniable. His WrestleMania showdown with The Rock and his role in the Invasion storyline kept fans glued to the screen. Even in part-time appearances, “Stone Cold” was a cultural force in and out of the ring.

1. The Undertaker

No one defined the 2000s quite like The Undertaker. From his “American Badass” reinvention to the return of the Deadman, he delivered some of the most iconic matches in history—including his legendary WrestleMania streak. His aura, storytelling, and leadership made him the era’s cornerstone.