A burning question arises: What is the pinnacle of championship glory in North America?
As Roman Reigns, the 2026 Men's Royal Rumble winner, sets his sights on the WWE World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania 42, it evokes memories of a thought-provoking inquiry by Pro Wrestling Illustrated (PWI). Back in the 1990s, PWI, the leading wrestling magazine of its time, conducted an annual poll, inviting industry insiders to share their insights on the state of wrestling. This unique survey, sent to champions, referees, promoters, journalists, and broadcasters, offered an insider's perspective on the sport and its key figures.
Among the most intriguing questions was: Which heavyweight championship reigns supreme in North America? At that time, the choices were clear: the WWE Championship or the WCW World Heavyweight Championship. The answer, however, was fluid, influenced by the success of promotions and the impact of champions.
Fast forward to the present, with Reigns' ambitious direction and in homage to that era of kayfabe journalism, we pose the same question to our readers from WWE, NXT, TNA, AAA, CMLL, and AEW: Which championship truly defines North American wrestling excellence?
My personal choice? The NXT North American Championship.
When PWI asked this question, it was all about prestige: which world title held the most weight? Even in 2026, the world championship remains the pinnacle. But today, a title's importance is earned through action, visibility, and making it an indispensable part of the wrestling landscape.
As the saying goes, "the title doesn't make the man; the man makes the title."
Ethan Page, the NXT North American Champion for over 250 days, embodies this adage. Despite being a secondary title on WWE's developmental brand, Page has carried himself with the aura of a world champion. As a heel, he's the arrogant antagonist fans love to hate, yet he's not afraid to inject comedy into his matches, boosting the credibility of his challengers.
During his reign, Page has defended the title over 20 times across NXT and AAA, in house shows, on TV, and at premium live events. Each defense has been an unpredictable thrill, with challengers like Ricky Saints, El Hijo de Dr. Wagner Jr., and even TNA's authority figure Santino Marella, coming agonizingly close to snatching the title from Page's grasp.
While the NXT North American Championship may never reach the heights of the NXT title, let alone a world championship, Page has proven that a champion's value can elevate any title.
So, dear readers, which title do you believe holds the most significance in North American wrestling? Share your thoughts in the comments. Let's spark a lively discussion and explore the diverse opinions within our wrestling community!
