Understanding WWE Custom Side Plates
WWE custom side plates are personalized, removable metallic components affixed to the sides of modern WWE championship belts. These plates serve to uniquely identify the reigning champion, replacing standard WWE logo plates that are typically present when a title is vacant or newly introduced.
The primary function of these plates is to visually represent and honor the current titleholder. Each set is distinctively designed, often incorporating the champion’s personal logo, name, signature catchphrases, or imagery intrinsically linked to their wrestling persona. This bespoke customization adds a significant layer of individuality to the championship, making it more closely associated with the superstar holding it.
Design, Implementation, and Collectibility
The design process for custom side plates focuses on reflecting the champion’s character and brand. Key features include:
- Unique Artwork: Logos, stylized typography, and symbolic imagery specific to the wrestler.
- Material and Finish: Crafted from metal, often with finishes that complement the main plates of the championship belt.
This feature became a prominent aspect of WWE championship designs following the unveiling of the redesigned WWE Championship by The Rock in 2013. Since then, most major WWE championships across Raw and SmackDown have incorporated custom side plates. Upon a superstar winning a relevant title, they are typically presented with the championship belt already fitted with their personalized plates, or these are added shortly after their victory, enhancing the ceremonial aspect of a title win.
For enthusiasts and collectors, replica championship belts and individual sets of custom side plates for numerous past and present superstars are made available through official WWE merchandising outlets. This allows fans the opportunity to personalize their own replica titles or to collect the plates of their favorite performers, establishing them as sought-after items in wrestling memorabilia.
