Sting

Biography

Sting, whose real name is Steve Borden, is one of professional wrestling’s most iconic figures. Known for his mysterious presence, unique persona, and career longevity, Sting has become synonymous with the very definition of a wrestling legend. Born on March 20, 1959, in Pueblo, Colorado, Sting rose to prominence through his captivating in-ring performances and his ability to connect with fans through his enigmatic character and powerful storytelling.

Sting is often referred to as The Icon, a nickname earned through his incredible career spanning decades, and his contributions to WCW (World Championship Wrestling) and WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment). Known for his face paint, signature Scorpion Deathlock submission move, and unwavering presence, Sting has solidified his legacy as one of professional wrestling's greatest competitors.

Early Life

Steve Borden grew up in a small town in Colorado and was an athlete during his school years. He attended Sudden Community College, playing football and pursuing his passion for athletics. His journey into professional wrestling came through a natural transition, as his athleticism and love for the performance arts would later define his wrestling persona.

Borden’s initial aspirations were to play professional sports, but he soon discovered wrestling as an outlet for his competitive spirit. After moving to California, he began training in the early 1980s, paving the way for his entry into the professional wrestling circuit.

Wrestling Career

Sting’s wrestling career spans over four decades, encompassing stints in WCW, WWE, and various other promotions. His career can be broken into several distinct phases:

Early Career (1985–1987)

Sting entered the professional wrestling scene in the mid-1980s and began working for Jim Crockett Promotions (JCP), the precursor to WCW. His first break came in 1987 when he adopted his "Stinger" persona and began performing under the name "Sting".

His athletic, high-energy wrestling style quickly made him a fan favorite. Sting's popularity grew because of his iconic look, which often included his signature face paint and his exciting in-ring performances.

WCW Dominance (1987–2001)

Sting became the face of WCW, the professional wrestling promotion that competed with WWE (formerly WWF) throughout the 1990s. His feuds and title reign cemented him as one of wrestling's most recognizable figures.

• Rivalry with Ric Flair: Sting’s first major rivalry was against the legendary Ric Flair, leading to unforgettable feuds and classic matches that showcased their chemistry in the ring. Their battles defined WCW’s most iconic storylines.
•  
• Crow Persona & the NWO Rivalry: One of the most notable transformations in Sting’s career came when he adopted the “Crow-like” dark and mysterious persona inspired by The Crow movie. His shift in character allowed him to feud with groups like nWo (New World Order), becoming a symbol of resistance to the group’s dominance in WCW.
•  
• WCW World Title Reigns: Sting captured the WCW World Heavyweight Championship multiple times throughout his career. His matches against Hulk Hogan, Goldberg, and others highlighted his importance as WCW's top star.
•  

Sting was central to WCW's biggest storylines and feuds, and his popularity helped maintain WCW’s standing against WWE's dominance during the Monday Night Wars.

WWE Transition (2001–Present)

After WCW’s closure in 2001, Sting transitioned into WWE programming, though he spent much of his initial post-WCW career away from the WWE spotlight. Sting's WWE debut came in 2014, as his in-ring return was a moment that fans had awaited for years.

• Debut at Survivor Series (2014): Sting made his first WWE appearance at Survivor Series, where he aligned with the authority in a dramatic, unexpected storyline.
•  
• WrestleMania Matches: His first major WrestleMania appearance came against Triple H at WrestleMania 31. Despite being well past his prime, Sting's performances proved he could still connect with fans and put on incredible matches.
•  
• Retirement and Return: Sting officially retired in 2020 but returned briefly for another round of matches in WWE and AEW, showcasing his passion for wrestling and his ability to stay connected with the wrestling world.
•  

AEW (All Elite Wrestling) Era

After retiring from WWE in 2020, Sting joined AEW (All Elite Wrestling) in 2020, continuing to showcase his presence as one of professional wrestling's most iconic performers. He has since wrestled in tag team matches and has served as a mentor and icon in the locker room, elevating AEW's product by bringing his legendary charisma and experience to the new promotion.

Sting's presence in AEW is symbolic of his enduring connection to the wrestling industry and his willingness to adapt to its changing landscape.

Signature Moves

Sting is famous for his finishing move, the Scorpion Deathlock, a variation of the classic leg lock. His other iconic moves include:

• Scorpion Death Drop: A devastating maneuver that demonstrated Sting's versatility and ability to shift momentum during a match.
•  
• Stinger Splash: A quick and devastating splash in the corner of the ring that has become a signature high-impact maneuver.
•  
• Deathdrop Variations: Sting’s quick and effective aerial moves solidified his place as one of the most innovative competitors of his time.

Sting’s in-ring ability, coupled with his charisma and storytelling, made his matches unforgettable.

Achievements

Throughout his illustrious career, Sting has amassed numerous championships, accolades, and achievements:

• WCW World Heavyweight Champion (multiple times)
• WWE World Heavyweight Champion
• Royal Rumble Winner in 2016
• 2x NWA World Heavyweight Champion
•  
• Inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2016 for his contributions to the sports and entertainment industry.
• Won numerous other championships throughout his WCW and WWE career.

Sting has headlined several WrestleManias and main-evented numerous pay-per-view events in WCW and WWE.

Personal Life

Outside the ring, Sting is a family man married to Sue Borden. Sting has been vocal about his faith and his journey through professional wrestling's highs and lows. His transformation in personal philosophy and discipline has been an inspiration to many fans and wrestlers alike.