10 WWE Wrestlers Whose Original Entrance Themes Were Better
Drew McIntyre
10. Shinsuke Nakamura
Shinsuke Nakamura’s early WWE run was defined in large part by the instant impact of his entrance. “The Rising Sun” perfectly complemented his expressive, babyface persona, transforming his walk to the ring into a moment the crowd eagerly participated in. The music, combined with Nakamura’s charisma, made his entrance feel like an event rather than a routine transition. Since turning heel, Nakamura has adopted “Sinister Samurai,” a theme that fits his darker character direction but lacks the same emotional pull. While it serves its purpose, the newer music doesn’t generate the energy, connection, or memorability that once made Nakamura’s entrance one of the most recognizable in WWE.
9. Charlotte Flair
Charlotte Flair’s current theme, “All Hail The Queen,” is a reworked version of a formula that once felt effortless. Her earlier theme, “Recognition,” struck the perfect balance between paying homage to Ric Flair’s legacy and establishing Charlotte’s own commanding presence. It was instantly recognizable and amplified the sense of importance surrounding her entrances. By comparison, the updated version lacks that same immediacy. It takes longer for crowds to register, and as a result, the impact of her entrance has subtly diminished during her recent return. While still fitting in tone, the newer theme doesn’t carry the same punch or instant identification that once helped define the 14-time champion's presentation.
8. Carlito
Carlito’s original WWE theme, “Cool,” remains one of the most fondly remembered songs from the Ruthless Aggression Era. The opening line alone established his character before he even appeared on screen. His current run alongside Judgment Day uses “Bad Apple,” which has more tempo but doesn’t complement Carlito’s personality or mannerisms the way the original did. The result is an entrance that feels less tailored to who he is.
7. Johnny Gargano
“Rebel Heart” was synonymous with Johnny Gargano’s rise in NXT, underscoring his journey both as a breakout singles star and as one half of DIY with Tommaso Ciampa. The song’s emotion and familiarity helped forge a deep connection with the audience, making his entrances feel personal and meaningful. Over time, however, repeated edits and shortened versions chipped away at that emotional impact. With Gargano’s main roster presentation already lacking consistency, the loss of the full version of his iconic theme further diminished the elements that once made him stand out. What was once a defining part of his identity now feels like a missed opportunity to recapture that magic.
6. Alexa Bliss
Alexa Bliss’ 2025 Royal Rumble return reminded fans just how popular she remains, but her updated theme highlighted what’s missing. “Spiteful” fit her original persona and championship-era dominance perfectly. While “The Fury” incorporates elements of that song, the darker adjustments made during her Fiend storyline removed much of the simplicity and identity fans associated with her most successful run.
5. Seth Rollins
Seth Rollins embraced “The Vision” as part of a loud, exaggerated character that once felt fresh and unpredictable. Over time, however, the singalong entrance and flamboyant style have begun to overshadow his credibility, especially when placed opposite stars like CM Punk and Roman Reigns. “The Second Coming” reflected a more serious version of Rollins, one that many fans feel would better suit him again as a top-tier threat.
4. Finn Bálor
The Judgment Day has helped Finn Bálor reestablish himself as a dangerous heel, but “I Am Danger” blends into the background rather than elevating his entrance. “Catch Your Breath” was instantly identifiable and became iconic when paired with The Demon King’s body paint and theatrics. Even years later, that theme remains closely tied to some of the Irishman's most memorable WWE moments, including winning the NXT and Universal titles in the past.
3. Bayley
Bayley’s early WWE success was inseparable from the upbeat tone of “Turn It Up.” The track amplified her underdog charm, perfectly matching her inflatable tube men entrances and fan-favorite status. While “Role Model” fits her evolved character, it doesn’t carry the same emotional weight, especially now that Bayley has transitioned back toward a babyface role.
2. Drew McIntyre
“Broken Dreams” remains one of the rare WWE entrance themes that fans still reference by name. Used during Drew McIntyre’s first run, its slower, lyrical opening added a dramatic weight to his entrance and helped establish a strong emotional connection with the audience. The song felt personal, reflective, and perfectly suited to McIntyre’s rise. While his current theme, “Gallantry,” fits his present-day warrior persona, it has never reached the same level of lasting resonance. “Broken Dreams” briefly returned at Clash at the Castle 2022 during McIntyre’s showdown with Roman Reigns, but the appearance was limited to a single night. That short-lived comeback only reinforced how deeply the original theme remains tied to McIntyre’s identity in the minds of fans.
1. Chris Jericho
Chris Jericho’s WWE career has gone through multiple reinventions, but none of his later entrance themes ever matched the impact of his earlier music. From his debut countdown-era presentation to the aggressive edge of “Break the Walls Down,” Y2J's original themes instantly communicated arrogance, danger, and star power before he even stepped through the curtain. The distorted sirens, sharp pacing, and recognizable opening made his entrance one of the most iconic of its era.
