5 WWE Superstars and storylines that were inspired by Game of Thrones
We often see WWE Superstars show respect to wrestling legends by replicating their move sets, mannerisms or catchphrases, but did you know that several of today’s current performers have also paid homage to their favourite TV series, Game of Thrones, by using aspects of the show in their own WWE personas?
Game of Thrones characters Daenerys Targaryen (Khaleesi), Cersei Lannister, Jaime Lannister, The Night King and White Walkers have all been portrayed on WWE television in one shape or form over the last few years, while Gregor Clegane (The Mountain) was even in attendance at NXT TakeOver: Unstoppable in May 2015.
In this article, let’s take a look at which WWE Superstars and storylines were inspired by characters and famous scenes from Game of Thrones.
#5 Seth Rollins’ character (2017 onwards)
You only need to have watched one or two of Seth Rollins’ matches (and be a Game of Thrones fan) to find out that several aspects of his character are taken from the hit TV series.
As often as Michael Cole likes to yell “The Big Dog!” and “It’s Boss Time!” when Roman Reigns and Sasha Banks make their respective entrances, the entire commentary team regularly reminds viewers that Rollins also goes by the name “The Kingslayer” – a moniker given to him after he slayed Triple H, aka “The King of Kings”, at WrestleMania 33.
The nickname is a nod to Game of Thrones character Jaime Lannister, who became known as “Kingslayer” after murdering Aerys Targaryen, aka "The Mad King".
Rollins’ Game of Thrones fandom was also on show at WrestleMania 34, where his attire and entrance was inspired by The Night King, while his Ripcord Knee finisher was briefly referred to as ‘King’s Landing’ in late 2017.
The most obvious GOT reference in a match involving Rollins came in April 2017 when, shortly after returning from a knee injury, he defeated Samoa Joe at the Payback pay-per-view. Commentator Corey Graves said following the victory, "Jaime Lannister figured out how to do it [win] with one hand… Seth Rollins did it with one leg!"