The world of WWE trading cards is on the edge of a blockbuster renaissance as Topps re-enters the arena, ready to reclaim its crown as the official trading card manufacturer for wrestling. With the buzz surrounding the announcement of a groundbreaking streaming deal between WWE and Netflix, fans and collectors alike are prepared for an electrifying boom in the trading card market, which has long been in the shadows. As new heights of interest in wrestling memorabilia are reached, savvy analysts predict that WWE cards could very well be the next big thing in the vibrant world of collectibles.
Given that the trading card market is witnessing something of a metamorphosis, it’s no surprise that recent data suggests a significant upswing in the sales of WWE trading cards. For instance, CardLadder’s wrestling index, a financial barometer for card sales, reports an eye-popping 25% increase in the last quarter alone. This remarkable gain position WWE cards as the fastest-growing segment among sport card collectors, overshadowing even the much-coveted Pokémon cards, which can a smidge behind with a mere 12% increase.
Things really spiced up in December 2023 when the exclusive auction of a 1982 Wrestling All-Stars Hulk Hogan card (PSA 9, one of only 17 in existence, no less!) fetched a jaw-dropping $132,000. This glorious sale not only shattered the previous record but also set the stage for what appears to be a momentum-laden resurgence in the WWE trading card scene.
What’s contributing to this exhilarating surge? Primarily, WWE’s cutting-edge leap into the Netflix universe has been a catalyst, creating a domino effect that has rekindled fan interest. Data unveiled by eBay indicates a staggering 2,700 hourly searches for WWE merchandise—an increase of 5% from 2023. However, the real fireworks erupted on January 6, the day the Netflix partnership launched. On that fateful day, searches for WWE cards and memorabilia spiked another 5%, amplifying the interest in cards showcasing particular superstar gems:
Rhea Ripley enjoyed a whopping surge over 100% in searches, whereas Roman Reigns ignited a 50% jump, drawing the attention of past and present fans. CM Punk also has his fair share of love, with a notable 40% increase, while Liv Morgan, Solo Sikoa, Drew McIntyre, and Jey Uso snagged nearly 30% in search growth. Even fan-favorite Seth Rollins saw a surge of over 20%.
Clearly, WWE’s crossover into newer streaming territory is luring newcomers, igniting a fervor for trading cards featuring iconic wrestlers and beloved champions.
Now, let’s talk Topps. After spending a few years under Panini’s watchful eye, the top name in collectibles is back in town, looking to weave a compelling narrative that both honors the past and shapes the future. Clay Luraschi, Topps’ Senior Vice President of Product, is clearly brimming with excitement, stating that the moment for WWE trading cards couldn’t be more apt. Topps aims to reignite the storytelling magic that defines WWE, and fan engagement with compelling character portrayals is expected to be at the forefront.
Get ready collectors, the 2024 Topps WWE Chrome set is set to take the spotlight as the first major release under the new partnership! Each hobby box will contain 12 packs with eight cards each, and, you guessed it, two autographs per box—all for the retail price of $169.99. One particularly tantalizing feature of this release is the unique autograph inscriptions from wrestlers, including Cody Rhodes with “Story Finished!” and Roman Reigns commanding cardholders to “Acknowledge Me.”
One of the most exciting elements is introducing The Rock’s first autographed WWE cards since 1998. His autographs will boast three unique inscriptions, making it a coveted addition to any serious collector’s trove. The set also features a dual autograph card combining the legendary signatures of The Rock and “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, a guaranteed chase card that collectors would be hard-pressed to pass up.
Wrestling nerds, rejoice! The 2024 year is particularly special as it marks the 40th anniversary of WWE trading cards. To commemorate this milestone, Topps Chrome is weaving nostalgic inserts that harken back to the classic 1985 design, a nostalgic thrill for those who collected the original lineup.
And what about John Cena, you ask? As he embarks on his farewell tour beginning in 2025, fans can expect multiple tribute cards throughout the year. Topps is rolling out a special Cena insert in WWE Chrome, with more magnetic collectibles to come as the year unfolds.
As the trading card realm braces for an audacious resurgence, speculation abounds. Will WWE enter the world of debut patch cards like their MLB and MLS counterparts? The prospect is tantalizing, and Luraschi teased that discussions are in the works—a tantalizing idea that could elevate WWE cards to new heights.
In the frenzy of collecting, wrestling card aficionados are keeping their eyes peeled for the six hottest wrestlers dominating market searches. According to eBay analysis, Hulk Hogan, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, and John Cena continue to hold their ground as the top treasures sought by collectors. Meanwhile, a rising crop of new names, including Swerve Strickland, Lola Vice, and Uncle Howdy, is catching fire—a sure sign that the future of WWE trading cards promises to be as exhilarating as the dramatic matches in the ring.
With Topps back in the game, a flourishing collector interest, and WWE’s expanding reach with Netflix, the wrestling trading card phenomenon is aligning perfectly for a dazzling upswing. This year promises to be an epic chapter for WWE trading cards, setting the stage for an electrifying evolution in the hobby—one where every card could turn into a future treasure.
