WWE Trading Cards Poised for Growth as Topps Reclaims License
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The WWE trading card market is on the verge of a major resurgence, fueled by Topps’ return as the official card manufacturer and the company’s landmark streaming deal with Netflix. As WWE reaches new audiences, interest in its trading cards is rising rapidly, with many collectors and analysts believing wrestling cards could become the next breakout segment in the hobby.
Wrestling Cards Are Gaining Momentum
Recent data suggests that WWE trading cards are experiencing substantial growth. CardLadder’s wrestling index, which tracks sales of key wrestling cards, has risen 25% over the past three months, making it the fastest-growing sports card category—outpacing even Pokémon, which saw only half that growth.Additionally, December 2023 saw a new all-time record sale for a wrestling card. A 1982 Wrestling All-Stars Hulk Hogan PSA 9 (one of just 17 in existence) sold for $132,000, surpassing the previous record of $126,000 set by The Rock’s 2022 Panini Black Prizm 1/1.
WWE’s Netflix Deal Drives Increased Collector Interest
One of the biggest factors contributing to the growth of WWE trading cards is the promotion’s transition to Netflix. According to eBay data, searches for WWE items increased to 2,700 per hour in 2024, a 5% rise from 2023.But the most significant spikes came on January 6, when WWE debuted on Netflix. On that day, searches for WWE cards and memorabilia jumped another 5%, with individual wrestlers seeing even bigger increases:
- Rhea Ripley – Over 100% increase
- Roman Reigns – Over 50% increase
- CM Punk – Over 40% increase
- Liv Morgan – Nearly 40% increase
- Solo Sikoa – Over 30% increase
- Drew McIntyre – Nearly 30% increase
- Jey Uso – Nearly 30% increase
- Seth Rollins – Over 20% increase
Topps Returns as WWE’s Trading Card Manufacturer
After several years under Panini, WWE trading cards are back under the Topps banner, with a renewed focus on storytelling and innovation. Topps senior vice president of product Clay Luraschi sees this as the perfect moment for wrestling cards to take off.“I think WWE is primed for an incredible run in trading cards,” Luraschi said. “I’ve seen it bubbling up over the last five, six years, and now it’s just perfect timing. And with all the things we’re going to be doing this year—some of which haven’t been done before—it’s going to add to that excitement.”A key focus for Topps’ new WWE products will be capturing the personalities of superstars in a way that hasn’t been done before.
“The storytelling element is what makes WWE different,” Luraschi explained. “The personalities are so strong, and that’s what we’re really going to bring out in trading cards this time.”
2024 Topps WWE Chrome: The First Release Under the New Deal
The first major WWE trading card release under Topps’ new deal is the 2024 Topps WWE Chrome set, featuring:- 12 packs per hobby box (8 cards per pack)
- Two autographs per box
- Retail price: $169.99 per box
Autographed Cards with Unique Wrestler Inscriptions
One of the most exciting features of the WWE Chrome set is the unique autograph inscriptions, where wrestlers have added personal catchphrases or messages. Some of the most sought-after include:- Cody Rhodes – "Story Finished!"
- Jey Uso – "YEET!"
- Roman Reigns – "Acknowledge Me"
- Tiffany Stratton – "It’s Tiffy Time!"
- X-Pac – "I Got Two Words for Ya!"
The Rock’s Long-Awaited Return to WWE Trading Cards
Perhaps the biggest draw in 2024 WWE Chrome is the return of The Rock’s first autographed WWE cards since 1998. His highly anticipated Topps autographs feature three different inscriptions:- "Aloha"
- "Smell It?"
- "Rock Final Boss"
“The Rock is always on anyone’s list,” Luraschi said. “Making a comeback in trading cards—you can’t do it without his presence.”
What’s Next for WWE Trading Cards?
Celebrating WWE’s 40th Anniversary in Cards
Since 2024 marks the 40th anniversary of the first WWE trading card release, Topps Chrome includes special inserts that pay tribute to the iconic 1985 set.“I’m geeking out because I collected that set,” Luraschi admitted. “I still remember the packs and the design—it’s great to bring that nostalgia back.”
John Cena’s Farewell Tour Gets Special Card Tributes
With John Cena’s farewell tour beginning in 2025, Topps is planning multiple tribute cards throughout the year. WWE Chrome features a special Cena insert, but more collectible tributes will be included across future products.“You’ll see tributes to Cena throughout the year,” Luraschi said. “Someone like him—who’s had such a massive impact on WWE—deserves something special.”
Could WWE Introduce Debut Patch Cards?
One of the biggest questions in the hobby is whether WWE will follow in the footsteps of MLB and MLS by introducing Debut Patch cards. These one-of-a-kind rookie cards, featuring game-worn patches from a wrestler’s first match, could become the ultimate chase card for WWE collectors.“You’ve gotta guess that we’re having the discussion,” Luraschi teased. “It’s something we’re toying around with.”
Who Are the Hottest Wrestlers in the Collecting Market?
Most Searched Wrestlers on eBay (2024):
- Hulk Hogan
- Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson
- John Cena
- Cody Rhodes
- CM Punk
Fastest-Rising Wrestlers in Card Popularity (2024):
- Swerve Strickland – Over 470% increase
- Lola Vice – Over 450% increase
- Uncle Howdy – Over 260% increase
- Jordynne Grace – Over 200% increase
- Sol Ruca – Over 130% increase
- Ethan Page – Over 110% increase
Final Thoughts: WWE Cards Are Primed for a Boom
With Topps reclaiming the WWE license, a growing collector base, and WWE’s expansion onto Netflix, wrestling cards are in prime position for massive growth.Between The Rock’s first autograph in over two decades, tributes to John Cena, and potential WWE Debut Patch cards, 2024 is shaping up to be a groundbreaking year for WWE collectors.
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