When Did Wrestling Figures Come Out?By Coder| August 31, 2023 Wrestling When Did Wrestling Figures Come Out? Wrestling figures have become a popular collectible item among fans of professional wrestling. These action figures allow fans to bring their favorite wrestlers into the comfort of their own homes, creating a sense of connection and nostalgia. But when did wrestling figures first make their way onto store shelves? The Early Days The origins of wrestling figures can be traced back to the 1980s. During this time, several toy companies recognized the growing popularity of professional wrestling and decided to capitalize on it by producing action figures based on well-known wrestlers. One of the earliest and most iconic lines of wrestling figures was produced by LJN Toys. In 1984, LJN released a series of large-sized rubber figures featuring popular wrestlers such as Hulk Hogan, Andre the Giant, and Randy Savage. These figures became an instant hit among fans and collectors alike, marking the beginning of a new era in wrestling merchandise. The Golden Age In the 1990s, wrestling figures entered what is often referred to as the “Golden Age” of collectibles. During this time, several toy companies competed for dominance in the market, resulting in a wide variety of figure lines featuring different styles and sizes. One notable line from this era was produced by Toy Biz. Starting in 1996, Toy Biz began releasing a series of highly detailed action figures based on World Championship Wrestling (WCW) and later World Wrestling Federation (WWF) superstars. These figures featured realistic sculpts and articulation, allowing for more dynamic posing options. Another popular line during this time was Jakks Pacific’s WWE Classic Superstars series. Launched in 2004, this line focused on recreating iconic moments from professional wrestling history, featuring both current and retired wrestlers. The figures in this series often came with accessories and detailed costumes, making them highly sought after by collectors. The Modern Era Today, wrestling figures continue to be a staple of the collectible toy market. Companies such as Mattel have taken the reins and continue to produce high-quality figures based on current WWE superstars. These figures often feature improved articulation, enhanced sculpting, and realistic detailing. Additionally, there has been a rise in independent companies producing wrestling figures catering to niche markets. These figures provide fans with the opportunity to collect lesser-known wrestlers or those from different promotions. In Conclusion Wrestling figures have come a long way since their humble beginnings in the 1980s. From LJN’s rubber giants to today’s highly detailed collectibles, these action figures have become an integral part of wrestling fandom. Whether you’re a fan of classic wrestlers or current superstars, there is undoubtedly a wrestling figure out there for you! Sources: “The History of Wrestling Figures” – WrestlingFigures.com “A Brief History of Wrestling Figures” – Ringside Collectibles Blog “The Evolution of Wrestling Action Figures” – ProWrestlingStories.com
