13 years ago today, The Rock replaced the spinner belt with the new WWE Championship design!

Thirteen years ago today, a historic moment reshaped the look — and the legacy — of the WWE Championship. On a memorable episode of WWE programming in 2013, The Rock walked into the arena as champion and did something no one expected: he retired the famous spinner belt and revealed a brand-new WWE Championship design.
For nearly eight years, the spinner title had been one of the most recognizable championships in wrestling history. Originally introduced by John Cena in 2005, the belt perfectly matched Cena’s hip-hop persona and flashy character. The spinning WWE logo became iconic, controversial, and unforgettable. Some fans loved its modern style, while others felt it didn’t represent the prestige of a world championship. Either way, it defined an entire era of WWE.
By 2013, WWE was entering a new phase. The company wanted a championship that symbolized legacy rather than personality — something timeless rather than trendy. That’s where The Rock stepped in.
During his championship reign heading into WrestleMania 29, The Rock unveiled the redesigned title in the ring. The spinner was gone. In its place stood a bold, large WWE logo plated in gold with a sleek, modern finish and removable side plates. The championship instantly felt prestigious again — less like a prop and more like a crown.
The reveal was more than just cosmetic. It represented WWE transitioning from the “Ruthless Aggression” style into a more corporate global brand identity. The new title would go on to be held by multiple superstars and eventually evolve into the current championship lineage still seen today.
Fans instantly understood the symbolism: The Rock, one of the biggest icons in wrestling history, was passing WWE into a new generation. The spinner belt belonged to an era defined by John Cena. The new championship belonged to WWE’s future.
Looking back, that night wasn’t just about a new design — it was about respect for tradition. Championships in wrestling carry history, and redesigns mark turning points. When The Rock lifted the new title high above his head, it signaled that WWE was ready to honor its past while stepping forward into a new legacy.
Thirteen years later, the moment still stands as one of the most important visual changes in WWE championship history.