In the world of professional wrestling, few characters have left as indelible a mark as The Iron Sheik. Known for his anti-American persona in the ring, his real-life personality was equally ...

The Iron Sheik became WWE Champion the day after Christmas in 1983 when he defeated Bob Backlund at Madison Square Garden. The victory was a controversial one, as Backlund's manager Arnold ...

That happened in late-1983, which coincided with Iron Sheik becoming WWF Champion. Thus, Sheiky baby was a true first. He was the original and first out and out WWF World Champion of the era.

However, that wasn't even really a thing until after Hogan had won the WWF Title from The Iron Sheik in January 1984. In truth, it took until halfway through the decade for Hulk to become the man.