#49. Jerry “The King” Lawler
Achievements/Accolades:
- 35-time AWA Southern Heavyweight Champion
- 10-time AWA Southern Tag Team Champion
- 52-time Memphis Wrestling Heavyweight Champion
- 10-time NWA Southern Heavyweight Champion
- WWE Hall of Fame (Class of 2007)
Opinions on final placement:
“Most fans only know Jerry “The King” Lawler as the jovial announcer on Monday Night Raw, but he’s undoubtedly one of the greatest professional wrestlers of all time. His in-ring debut was in 1970 & he still competes on occasion to this day! It’s truly remarkable. The rich history of this business is much better because of Jerry Lawler. His ability to work both babyface & heel allowed him to be the man in the Memphis Territory for 40 years, accumulating numerous championships including the AWA World Heavyweight Championship. Like Gagne, Lawler was also responsible for creating some of the most memorable gimmicks in history including The Rock n Roll Express, Kamala & many others. Jerry Lawler undoubtedly deserves his spot in the Top 50, and 49 seems like it could be a rip-off for The King.” — Jay Alletto
“Possibly the most forgotten pro wrestler in history. Should be higher if you truly look at his career. High profile matches with anyone and everyone and put butts in seats. His only crime was doing it for a smaller promotion for so long.” — Zack Heydorn
“With a career spanning nearly half a century, as both a wrestler and commentator, Jerry “The King” Lawler is very deserving of his spot at #49 on our list. The Memphis icon, who has won more championships than he owns ugly shirts, has been the most beloved, and most hated wrestler of his era. Although I had him slightly higher, at #44, a spot in our top 50 is very fitting for “The King.” — Matt Burgess
“For me, Lawler’s in-ring contributions warrant a place on this list alone, not to mention his work as a commentator, making up one half of greatest announce table in wrestling history, along side Jim Ross. Honestly, it’s a shame that Lawler isn’t praised more for his in-ring work and his contributions to the business. I think it would be a huge injustice if Lawler wasn’t on this list.” — Eron Ramadanov
