The New World Order (nWo) was a revolutionary stable in World Championship Wrestling (WCW) that had a significant impact on the professional wrestling industry during the late 1990s. The nWo is widely regarded as one of the most significant storylines in wrestling history, as it revolutionized the industry and changed the landscape of WCW.
The nWo was conceived as an outsider group that sought to take over WCW. The nWo’s rebellious nature, anti-establishment attitude, and “cool” factor resonated with fans. Their black and white merchandise, spray-painted “nWo” logos, and rebellious slogans became iconic symbols of the group. The nWo T-shirts and merchandise were hot sellers and a testament to the faction’s enormous popularity.
While the group went through various iterations and member changes, below is a list of the most notable nWo members, ranked based on their impact and importance within the faction.
- Hollywood Hulk Hogan
Hulk Hogan was the central figure and catalyst for the nWo’s formation. Hogan’s decision to turn heel was a major turning point in the wrestling industry, and it helped to make the nWo one of the most popular factions in wrestling history.
His turn from the virtuous hero to the villainous leader of the nWo shocked the wrestling world and redefined his career. Hogan’s association with the nWo brought a new level of intensity and unpredictability to WCW, solidifying the group’s dominance.
2. Scott Hall
Scott Hall’s arrival in WCW as “The Outsider” was one of the pivotal moments in the nWo’s inception. He, along with Kevin Nash, invaded WCW and declared themselves the “Outsiders” from the rival company, implying an invasion storyline. This event ignited the nWo storyline and set the stage for the stable’s takeover. all was a charismatic and talented wrestler, and he quickly became one of the most popular members of the nWo.
Hall was a popular wrestler before joining the nWo, having wrestled in the WWF under the ring name Razor Ramon. As Razor Ramon, Hall was a two-time Intercontinental Champion and one of the most popular wrestlers in the company. However, he was unhappy with his position in the WWF and left the company in 1996.
3. Kevin Nash
Kevin Nash, together with Scott Hall, formed the Outsiders, establishing their dominance within the nWo. Nash’s imposing presence and athleticism made him a formidable force within the group. His powerbomb finisher, known as the “Jackknife,” was devastating and played a crucial role in establishing the nWo as a dominant faction.
Nash was a popular wrestler before joining the nWo, having wrestled in the WWF under the ring name Diesel. As Diesel, Nash was a two-time WWF World Heavyweight Champion and one of the most popular wrestlers in the company. However, he was unhappy with his position in the WWF and left the company in 1996.
Nash’s defection to WCW was a major coup for the company, and it helped to legitimize the nWo. Nash was a charismatic and talented wrestler, and he quickly became one of the most popular members of the nWo. He feuded with some of the biggest names in WCW, including Hulk Hogan, Diamond Dallas Page, and Sting.
Nash’s time in the nWo was marked by success. He won the WCW World Heavyweight Championship on four occasions, and he was one of the most prominent members of the group. He also helped to create some of the most memorable moments in nWo history, such as the Fingerpoke of Doom and the nWo Wolfpac split.
4. Eric Bischoff
While not an in-ring performer, Eric Bischoff’s role as the on-screen authority figure for WCW and his alliance with the nWo had a massive impact on the storyline. Bischoff’s real-life power as WCW’s executive gave the nWo an aura of legitimacy and blurred the lines between fiction and reality, making their actions feel more consequential.
Eric Bischoff is one of the most successful and influential figures in professional wrestling history. He was instrumental in the creation of the nWo, and he helped to turn WCW into a major competitor to the WWF.
5. Syxx
Syxx, also known as Sean Waltman, was the sixth member of the New World Order (nWo) in World Championship Wrestling (WCW). He joined the nWo in 1996 after being recruited by Kevin Nash and Scott Hall.
Syxx injected a youthful energy into the nWo. His high-flying moveset and fast-paced wrestling style made him a standout member of the group. Syxx’s charisma and in-ring abilities helped keep the nWo fresh and appealing to fans.
6. “Macho Man” Randy Savage
“Macho Man” Randy Savage joined the New World Order (NWO) on December 29, 1996. This was a highly anticipated and surprising moment in professional wrestling, as Savage had previously been a fan-favorite and had a long history of feuding with the NWO. His decision to join the group marked a significant turning point in his career and had a major impact on the wrestling landscape at the time.
As part of the NWO, Savage adopted a more aggressive and unpredictable persona. He became known for his rebellious attitude, often causing chaos and wreaking havoc in the ring. Savage’s natural intensity blended well with the NWO’s anti-establishment image, making him a perfect fit for the group.
During his time in the NWO, Savage had several notable feuds and matches. He had a legendary rivalry with Diamond Dallas Page (DDP), which culminated in a match at Spring Stampede 1997, where Savage famously hit DDP with his signature move, the flying elbow drop, from the top of a steel cage. Savage also had memorable matches against other WCW stars, such as Lex Luger, Sting, and Ric Flair.
Savage’s association with the NWO helped elevate his status as one of WCW’s biggest stars. He remained a prominent member of the stable until its eventual split into multiple factions in 1998. After the NWO disbanded, Savage continued to have a successful career in WCW, feuding with various wrestlers and capturing multiple championships.
7. The Giant
Standing at an impressive height of over seven feet tall, The Giant brought a formidable presence and strength to the NWO. He initially debuted in WCW as a member of the Dungeon of Doom stable, portraying a monstrous and imposing character. He quickly gained attention due to his immense size and dominance in the ring. However, in 1996, The Giant shocked the wrestling world by betraying his former allies in the Dungeon of Doom and aligning himself with the NWO.
Joining the NWO was a major turning point in The Giant’s career, as it propelled him into the spotlight and allowed him to showcase his skills on a larger stage. As a member of the NWO, The Giant became known for his destructive force and his willingness to use his size to his advantage.
During his time in the NWO, The Giant was involved in several high-profile matches and feuds. He had memorable rivalries with WCW stars such as Hulk Hogan, Kevin Nash, and Diamond Dallas Page (DDP). The Giant’s battles with Hogan, in particular, became legendary, with their encounters often featuring dramatic moments and intense confrontations.
In addition to his in-ring contributions, The Giant played a key role in the storytelling and dynamics of the NWO. He was often portrayed as a dominant enforcer for the faction, using his size and power to intimidate opponents and protect his NWO allies. The Giant’s presence added a sense of legitimacy and physicality to the group, enhancing its aura of dominance.
8. Konnan
Konnan’s involvement in the NWO brought a unique style and presence to the group. Prior to joining the NWO, Konnan had already made a name for himself in the wrestling world. He had achieved success in various promotions, including Mexico’s AAA (Asistencia Asesoría y Administración) and the United States’ Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW).
Konnan’s arrival in the NWO occurred in 1997, when he aligned himself with the faction’s Wolfpac sub-group. The Wolfpac was formed as a splinter faction within the NWO, and it aimed to rebel against the NWO Hollywood faction led by Hollywood Hogan. Konnan’s inclusion in the Wolfpac brought a Latino flavor and added diversity to the group.
As a member of the NWO Wolfpac, Konnan played a significant role in the faction’s storylines and rivalries. Konnan’s in-ring style, which blended high-flying maneuvers with a hard-hitting approach, made him a crowd favorite and a dynamic presence within the NWO.
One of Konnan’s most memorable contributions to the NWO was his catchphrase, “Yo, yo, yo, yo, yo!” He popularized this chant, which became synonymous with his character and would often be heard during his matches and promos.
Konnan’s involvement in the NWO showcased his ability to adapt to different wrestling environments and thrive in a prominent faction. He brought his unique charisma, high-energy style, and connection with the audience to the group, helping to elevate the NWO’s rebellious and edgy image.
9. Dennis Rodman
Dennis Rodman, known for his successful basketball career in the NBA, also had a brief but memorable stint as a member of the New World Order (NWO). Rodman’s involvement with the NWO brought a unique crossover appeal and garnered significant attention for both professional wrestling and basketball fans.
In 1997, Dennis Rodman, who was playing for the Chicago Bulls in the NBA at the time, made a surprising foray into the world of professional wrestling by joining the NWO. Rodman’s celebrity status and eccentric personality made him an ideal fit for the NWO’s rebellious and larger-than-life image.
Rodman’s association with the NWO allowed him to participate in high-profile matches and storylines. One of his notable moments was his tag team partnership with Hulk Hogan, a prominent figure in the NWO, as they faced off against other wrestlers. Rodman’s involvement in wrestling generated significant media attention, crossing over into mainstream news and expanding the reach of the NWO.
In addition to his in-ring appearances, Rodman’s presence helped bring a crossover audience to WCW and further heightened the NWO’s popularity. His involvement also helped bridge the gap between the worlds of professional wrestling and professional sports, as he brought a level of legitimacy and star power to the wrestling ring.
Rodman’s time in the NWO was relatively short-lived, as he balanced his wrestling commitments with his NBA career. However, his impact was significant, and his appearances in WCW during his basketball offseason helped increase the profile of the NWO and create memorable moments for fans.
10. Buff Bagwell
Buff Bagwell involvement in the NWO brought a charismatic and flashy presence to the group. In 1996, Bagwell shocked the wrestling world by turning his back on WCW and joining the NWO.
As a member of the NWO, Bagwell adopted a new persona known as “Buff Daddy” or “Buff Bagwell.” He became known for his flashy attire and his trademark flexing poses. Bagwell’s over-the-top personality and self-proclaimed “Buffness” made him a distinct character within the NWO.
Bagwell’s involvement in the NWO allowed him to engage in various feuds and storylines. He often teamed up with fellow NWO members and had notable rivalries with other WCW wrestlers. Bagwell’s matches were known for their entertainment value, and he frequently used his athleticism and showmanship to captivate audiences.
However, Bagwell’s time in the NWO was not without controversy. He was involved in a highly publicized backstage altercation with fellow NWO member Shane “Hurricane” Helms, which resulted in Bagwell’s temporary dismissal from the faction. Despite the incident, Bagwell returned to the NWO later on.
