Who Was the First Wrestling Action Figure?

When it comes to action figures, wrestling fans have always been at the forefront of collecting and cherishing these miniature representations of their favorite wrestlers. But have you ever wondered who was responsible for creating the very first wrestling action figure? Let’s take a journey back in time and find out.

The Birth of Wrestling Action Figures

In the early 1980s, a toy company called LJN revolutionized the world of wrestling merchandise by introducing the first-ever line of wrestling action figures. These figures were larger than your typical action figure, standing at a whopping 8 inches tall.

One name that is synonymous with this era of wrestling action figures is that of Vince McMahon, the chairman and CEO of World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). McMahon saw the potential in creating merchandise based on his larger-than-life wrestlers and struck a deal with LJN to bring his vision to life.

The Iconic Hulk Hogan

While LJN’s line of wrestling action figures featured various popular wrestlers from that era, it was Hulk Hogan who became the poster boy for these toys. Hulk Hogan’s larger-than-life persona and immense popularity made him an obvious choice for LJN’s flagship figure.

Hulk Hogan, with his trademark yellow-and-red attire and bulging muscles, was immortalized as an action figure that could be cherished by fans forever. The figure featured multiple points of articulation, allowing fans to recreate their favorite Hogan moments inside their own homes.

A New Era: Hasbro Takes Over

In 1990, LJN lost its license to produce WWE action figures. This marked the end of an era, but it also paved the way for a new player in the game – Hasbro.

Hasbro, a renowned toy company, took over the production of wrestling action figures and introduced their own unique line. These figures were smaller in size compared to LJN’s offerings, standing at around 4-5 inches tall. However, what they lacked in size, they made up for in detail and playability.

The Undertaker: A Game-Changer

While Hulk Hogan was the face of LJN’s line of action figures, it was The Undertaker who became an iconic figure in Hasbro’s lineup. The Undertaker’s eerie persona and supernatural abilities made him a favorite among fans, and his action figure was no exception.

The Undertaker figure featured a unique feature – a button on its back that allowed it to perform a signature move called the Tombstone Piledriver. This added an extra layer of excitement and playability for fans who could now recreate The Undertaker’s infamous finishing move.

The Evolution Continues

Since then, numerous toy companies have taken up the mantle of producing wrestling action figures. Each company has brought its own unique style and innovation to the market.

From Jakks Pacific to Mattel, each era has seen improvements in sculpting accuracy, articulation range, and accessories that enhance the overall play experience.

In Conclusion

The first wrestling action figure was brought to life by LJN in collaboration with Vince McMahon, featuring none other than the legendary Hulk Hogan. This marked the beginning of a revolution in wrestling merchandise that continues to this day.

Over time, different companies have left their mark on the industry by introducing their own lines of wrestling action figures. These toys have become cherished collectibles for fans worldwide and a testament to the enduring popularity of professional wrestling.

So next time you hold a wrestling action figure in your hands, take a moment to appreciate the rich history behind it and the countless hours of joy it has brought to fans around the globe.