When was the WWE founded?
Today, the WWE stands as the largest professional wrestling company in the world. It has cultivated a rich legacy by promoting some of the most successful wrestlers, captivating storylines, and iconic moments in the history of sports entertainment. With its global reach, WWE broadcasts its programs to more than 150 countries, captivating audiences with high-profile shows and stars.
The transformation of multiple stars such as John Cena, The Rock, and Batista into truly global celebrities has helped the organization stay relevant in modern times. Still, the WWE has existed since the early 1950s, in some form or another.
When did WWE first come up?
The roots of WWE can be traced back to its establishment in the early 1950s when it was founded as Capitol Wrestling Corporation (CWC) in 1953. Over the years, the company underwent several name changes, each marking a significant chapter in its evolution. In 1963, it became known as the World Wide Wrestling Federation (WWWF), and in 1979, it transitioned to the World Wrestling Federation (WWF). Finally, in 2002, the company adopted its current name, World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). Since 2011, WWE has exclusively used the WWE brand for its promotion.
The present-day entity of WWE traces its roots back to Titan Sports, Inc., which was established in 1979 in South Yarmouth, Massachusetts. In 1982, Titan Sports acquired Capitol Wrestling Corporation, the holding company for the World Wrestling Federation (WWF).
Over the years, the company underwent several name changes, from World Wrestling Federation, Inc. in 1998 to World Wrestling Federation Entertainment, Inc. in 1999, and finally, World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. in 2002. Since 2011, the company has officially branded itself solely as WWE, while its legal name remained unchanged.
WWE was formed in its present form in April 2011
On April 7, 2011, WWE made a noteworthy announcement. The company declared that it would no longer use the full name “World Wrestling Entertainment” and would exclusively refer to itself as WWE, transforming the latter into an orphan initialism.
The strategic move aimed to showcase WWE’s expanding global entertainment ventures beyond the wrestling ring. The company set its sights on acquiring entertainment companies and prioritizing television, live events, and film production.
WWE’s new business model was exemplified by the relaunch of Tough Enough, a non-scripted program, and the highly anticipated launch of the WWE Network, initially scheduled for 2012 but ultimately delayed until 2014.
Despite these changes, it is important to note that the legal name of the company remains World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. This distinction allows WWE to retain its historical identity while embracing the WWE brand’s worldwide recognition.
The transition from WWF to WWE marked a significant turning point in the company’s journey. It symbolized WWE’s commitment to entertainment and its determination to expand its reach far beyond the confines of professional wrestling. With a renewed focus on television, live events, and film production, WWE has continued to captivate audiences worldwide and solidify its status as a dominant force in the entertainment industry.
Watch the greatest WWE matches ever below:
