The Observer's Ring
A Chronicle of Wrestling & MMA Excellence: Celebrating the Annual Wrestling Observer Newsletter Awards.
Discover the Awards ๐ Top Performers โญDive in with Flashcard Learning!
๐ฎ Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game๐ฎ
Wrestling Observer Newsletter Awards
Genesis of Recognition
Established by Dave Meltzer, the Wrestling Observer Newsletter (WON) awards began informally in 1980. Initially a poll among friends and correspondents, they evolved into a significant annual recognition of achievements in professional wrestling and mixed martial arts (MMA). The awards cover a wide spectrum of categories, from individual performance to promotional success, reflecting the dynamic nature of these industries.
The Voting Process
The awards are determined by the readership of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, primarily dedicated fans, though some industry insiders are also said to participate. For "Category A" awards, a points system is used: five points for first choice, three for second, and two for third. "Category B" awards are based on a single top choice, with some exceptions like the Shad Gaspard/Jon Huber Memorial Award, decided by a committee.
Evolution and Scope
Initially focused solely on professional wrestling, the awards expanded to include MMA in 1997 with the creation of "Shootfighter of the Year" and "Shoot Match of the Year." While some awards remain open to both disciplines, others were later designated specifically for professional wrestling or MMA. This dual focus acknowledges the intertwined yet distinct nature of these combat sports.
Wrestler of the Year
Lou Thesz/Ric Flair Award
This prestigious award, named after wrestling legends Lou Thesz and Ric Flair, recognizes the most outstanding professional wrestler of the year. It is considered one of the most significant accolades in the industry, highlighting consistent excellence and impact across multiple promotions.
Most Outstanding Fighter
This award specifically recognizes the top performer in mixed martial arts. It acknowledges fighters who have demonstrated exceptional skill, impact, and consistent high-level performances within the MMA landscape.
Tag Team of the Year
Unifying Excellence
The Tag Team of the Year award celebrates the most impactful and successful tag team duo over a calendar year. This award recognizes their chemistry, in-ring performances, and contributions to the tag team division across various promotions.
Pro Wrestling Match of the Year
Pinnacle Performance
This award honors the single greatest professional wrestling match of the year. It recognizes exceptional storytelling, athletic execution, and the overall impact of a bout on fans and the industry.
MMA Match of the Year
This award recognizes the most outstanding fight in mixed martial arts. It highlights bouts that delivered exceptional action, drama, and memorable moments, often becoming benchmarks for the sport.
Best Major Wrestling Show
Event Excellence
This award recognizes the most outstanding major wrestling event of the year. It highlights shows that delivered exceptional match quality, memorable moments, and overall fan satisfaction, setting a high standard for live wrestling events.
Feud of the Year
Narrative Conflict
The Feud of the Year award recognizes the most compelling and well-executed rivalry between wrestlers or factions. It highlights the narrative depth, emotional investment, and sustained conflict that elevates the sport.
Rookie of the Year
Emerging Talent
This award recognizes the most impressive newcomer to the professional wrestling scene. It honors wrestlers who made a significant impact in their debut year, showcasing potential and promise for future stardom.
Most Valuable Player
US/Canada MVP
This award recognizes the most valuable performer in the United States and Canada, considering their overall impact, drawing power, and performance across promotions.
Japan MVP
This award specifically honors the most valuable performer in Japanese professional wrestling, acknowledging their contributions and impact within the vibrant Japanese wrestling scene.
Mexico MVP
Recognizing the standout performer in Mexican wrestling, this award highlights the talent and influence of wrestlers within the rich tradition of Lucha Libre.
Europe MVP
This award acknowledges the most valuable performer in European professional wrestling, celebrating their contributions to the growing wrestling scene across the continent.
Non-Heavyweight MVP
The Danny Hodge Memorial Award (Non-Heavyweight MVP) honors the most valuable wrestler who does not fit the traditional heavyweight mold, recognizing technical skill, agility, and impact regardless of size.
Women's Wrestling MVP
This award celebrates the most outstanding female wrestler of the year, recognizing their performances and contributions to women's professional wrestling.
Women's MMA MVP
This award recognizes the most valuable female fighter in mixed martial arts, highlighting their achievements and impact in the sport.
Promotion of the Year
Industry Leader
This award honors the professional wrestling promotion that demonstrated the most significant overall success, innovation, and impact throughout the year, considering their business acumen and creative output.
Best Announcer
Jim Ross Award
Named after legendary announcer Jim Ross, this award recognizes the best television announcer in wrestling or MMA. It highlights those who enhance the viewing experience through their commentary, play-by-play, and ability to capture the excitement of the action.
Specialty Awards
Bruiser Brody Award (Best Brawler)
Honoring the legacy of Bruiser Brody, this award recognizes wrestlers who excel in a hard-hitting, physical style of combat.
Best Flying Wrestler
This award recognizes wrestlers who consistently display exceptional aerial maneuvers and high-flying offense, adding a dynamic and spectacular element to their matches.
Most Overrated
This award is a critical assessment, recognizing wrestlers perceived to receive more acclaim or attention than their in-ring performance or overall contribution warrants.
Most Underrated
This award recognizes wrestlers whose talent, work ethic, or contributions are perceived to be undervalued or not fully appreciated by the audience or management.
Best Brawler
The Bruiser Brody Memorial Award recognizes wrestlers who excel in a hard-hitting, physical style of combat.
Best Flying Wrestler
This award recognizes wrestlers who consistently display exceptional aerial maneuvers and high-flying offense, adding a dynamic and spectacular element to their matches.
Most Overrated
This award is a critical assessment, recognizing wrestlers perceived to receive more acclaim or attention than their in-ring performance or overall contribution warrants.
Most Underrated
This award recognizes wrestlers whose talent, work ethic, or contributions are perceived to be undervalued or not fully appreciated by the audience or management.
Best Non-Wrestler
This award recognizes individuals who significantly impact wrestling or MMA without being active competitors, such as managers, promoters, or announcers.
Teacher's Corner
Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio
Click here to open the "List Of Wrestling Observer Newsletter Awards" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit
Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.
True or False?
Test Your Knowledge!
Gamer's Corner
Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?
Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!
Play now
References
References
Feedback & Support
To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.
Disclaimer
Important Notice
This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.
This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional consultation regarding wrestling, MMA, or any related industry. Always refer to official sources and consult with qualified professionals for specific needs.
The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.