Why Andre The Giant is one of the greatest WWE Fighters of All-Time

By Ali Hammad February 09, 2024 02:49

Photo by WWE

Among their ranks was Andre the Giant – "The Eighth Wonder of The World" who cut a massive presence in professional wrestling. Andre The Giant is perhaps best remembered for his time in the WWE (when it was still referred to as WWF) and a monumental figure due to standing at what many believe 7'4" or over and carrying an approximate weight of around 500 pounds.

Unmatched Physical Presence

Andre has an undeniable mythic standing in WWE, and at 7-foot-4, he towers over the vast majority of his opponents, which helped make him a monster as far back as anyone can remember. His incredible height carries an enormous body mass in the ring, which makes him a unique sight to see. His larger-than-life persona not only created an intimidating aspect to his opponents but also brought a theatrical presence and drama every time he entered the ring.

Unbeatable Streak

Andre the Giant was virtually undefeated in the wrestling universe during his career. In the ring a reputation of being beyond powerful—he was known to chuck aside fighters who were often significantly smaller than him. That type of run was instrumental in solidifying his standing as one of the greatest WWE competitors ever.

Iconic Matches and Rivalries

A true legend in the WWE, Andre the Giant took part in some of wrestling's most iconic matches and feuds. His most famous match maybe was against Hulk Hogan At WrestleMania III in 1987, where he suffered his first defeat on a TV show. This match, and the before of it, attracted listeners to show Andre could still be a draw in this late stage of his career by creating moments only memorable for audiences today.

Cultural Impact

Though he was not a champion, Andre the Giant had many cultural achievements. His roles in films, such as "The Princess Bride," and on TV made him a darling to pop culture. That crossover appeal made the WWE a big deal and further solidified Andre's place among the most well known personas in wrestling circles.

Enduring Legacy

Andre the Giant's legacy continued to resonate in the wrestling world even after his death. He is celebrated and remembered annually in the "Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal" at WrestleMania.

Personal Charisma

For all his wrestling reputation, outside the ring, Andre was known for how easygoing and personable he could be despite being a giant of a man. Despite his imposing look, he transcended his size and developed a larger-than-life personality that made him very popular amongst both fans and fellow wrestlers. This added a layer of accessibility to his wrestling talent; while irreverent and callous in terms of kayfabe sponsorship (WWE), it endeared him even further with the audience at large — as well as within professional wrestling.

Andre the Giant undeniably shaped WWE and wrestling as a whole. His larger-than-life physical stature, unrivaled undefeated streak, unforgettable and classic matches/rivalries, amazing cultural influence/marking power, unmistakably impact/legacy inspiring story, and sheer personal confront resonance his greatest WWE fighters of all times. Andre The Giant will always be remembered as a legend in the world of professional wrestling, his legacy still outstripping that of any superstar on Earth today.