The world of WWE trading cards is gearing up for a spectacular revival, akin to a surprise return of a fan-favorite wrestler, and the stakes have never been higher. Not only is Topps reclaiming its place as the official card manufacturer for this vibrant market, but there’s a palpable buzz following WWE’s groundbreaking partnership with Netflix. The combination of these factors is setting the stage for a newfound demand that could transform the trading card scene into a roaring success, embracing a wave of new fans and seasoned collectors alike.
The current landscape suggests that the WWE trading cards are poised for substantial growth. According to CardLadder’s wrestling index—a tracker for sales of noteworthy wrestling cards—there has been a remarkable 25% increase in the trading card sales over the last three months. This surge has catapulted WWE cards ahead of other prominent card categories such as Pokémon, which only managed a meager half that increase. The fervor for wrestling cards is not merely a fleeting trend; it’s shaping up to become a significant segment within the collectibles hobby.
A notable highlight that has caught the attention of both collectors and casual fans alike occurred in December 2023, when a remarkable feat was achieved with the sale of a 1982 Wrestling All-Stars Hulk Hogan card—a PSA 9 rarity with only 17 in existence. It fetched a staggering $132,000, outdoing the previous record set by a card of The Rock from Panini, which sold for $126,000. This meteoric rise in card values not only reflects the nostalgia associated with these wrestling titans but also underscores the potential profitability of investing in these collectibles.
Now, what might the cause of such a passionate resurgence be? The answer lies predominantly in WWE’s electrifying transition to Netflix. With data from eBay revealing that searches for WWE merchandise surged to 2,700 per hour in 2024—which is 5% more than in 2023—it’s clear that the streaming platform is pulling in interest like a finely tuned wrestling wristlock. The excitement peaked on January 6, the day WWE premiered its content on Netflix; searches for related items, including trading cards, spiked dramatically, with some wrestlers seeing staggering increases in interest. For example, Rhea Ripley’s cards saw over a 100% increase in searches, and Roman Reigns wasn’t far behind with a hefty 50% uptick.
Amidst all this buzz, Topps has returned to the forefront of the wrestling card industry after several years under the Panini banner. With a renewed vision, Topps is infusing the market with fresh energy through exciting storytelling and innovative craft. Clay Luraschi, Topps’ senior vice president of product, has recognized the perfect storm brewing, asserting that WWE is ready to take trading cards to unprecedented heights. “Every moment we have been waiting for is now here,” he articulated with a palpable sense of enthusiasm.
Among the many strategies that Topps is implementing to entice collectors, one of the most thrilling aspects of the upcoming product line is the 2024 Topps WWE Chrome set. Anticipation is and understandably at an all-time high with collectible aficionados counting on this series to deliver the goods. The set will include 12 packs per hobby box with 8 cards in each, and collectors will be delighted to uncover not one, but two autographs in each box—the retail price set at a tantalizing $169.99.
But that’s not all; this Chrome set comes packed with unique wrestler inscriptions on the autographs, elevating a standard card into personal treasures that speak directly to fans. Catchphrases like “Story Finished!” from Cody Rhodes and “Acknowledge Me” from Roman Reigns add character to these cards, making them highly collectible.
Let’s not forget that one of the most sensational returns in 2024 is none other than The Rock, who has made a long-awaited comeback in the trading card realm. His autographed cards, which feature inscriptions such as “Aloha” and “Rock Final Boss,” will undoubtedly capture the interest of collectors. Moreover, the set boasts the first-ever dual autograph featuring The Rock alongside “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, a treat that will no doubt be a hot commodity.
As if all this excitement wasn’t enough, 2024 also marks the 40th anniversary of the original WWE trading cards. Topps is taking a trip down memory lane, planning special inserts that pay homage to the iconic 1985 set. Collectors are clamoring for a taste of nostalgia, and Luraschi’s own reminiscences about collecting those early cards amplifies the sentiment.
For fans of John Cena, the excitement extends further with special tribute cards marking Cena’s farewell tour slated to kick off in 2025. Topps has plans that hint at even more tributes scattered throughout future releases, showcasing the deep-rooted impact Cena has had on WWE.
And here’s a juicy tidbit on everyone’s lips—the possible introduction of Debut Patch cards to WWE trading cards. If curiosity flares from prior experiences in MLB and MLS, these one-of-a-kind rookie cards featuring game-worn patches from a wrestler’s first match could potentially create massive excitement among collectors. Luraschi has teased discussions around this possibility, leaving fans on the edge of their seats and desperately eager for announcements.
As the week progresses, the most searched wrestlers on eBay reveal a heavy-hitting lineup, with Hulk Hogan leading the charge, followed closely by Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and the ever-popular John Cena. Newer wrestling stars are also gaining traction, with Swerve Strickland and Lola Vice showcasing remarkable increases in card popularity.
As we reflect on this thrilling horizon, it’s clear that WWE trading cards are set to surmount new heights and break boundaries. With Topps at the wheel and WWE branching into the Netflix realm, the stage is set for a full-throttle explosion of interest and collecting madness. The prospect of fresh releases, coupled with a surge of new fans joining the ranks, makes it an exhilarating time to dive into the world of WWE trading cards. This saga is only beginning, and collectors across the globe are suitably braced for an amazing ride.
