Tyrese Haliburton Names Top 5 Favorite Wrestlers

Reddit [SquaredCircle]
Tyrese Haliburton, who plays basketball for the Indiana Pacers, decided to take a break from basketball and talk about his love for professional wrestling, sharing his all-time top five wrestlers. Haliburton’s decisions show not only his appreciation for the stars of WWE but also a deeper comprehension of the skill and charisma that make these athletes iconic. John Cena was Haliburton’s number one choice on his list, with Shawn Michaels, Shelton Benjamin, The Undertaker, and Roman Reigns following behind.
“[John] Cena one, HBK [Shawn Michaels], two, Shelton Benjamin, three, Undertaker, four. I gotta say, I probably say Roman Reigns five,” Haliburton revealed, confirming his status as an authentic WWE fan. His list pays homage to some of wrestling’s biggest personalities, with John Cena topping the list as a symbol of resilience and dedication, known for his legendary ‘Never Give Up’ mantra and 16 world championships.
Shawn Michaels is known for his unmatched charisma and unforgettable WrestleMania matches, ranking him second on Haliburton’s list. Especially against The Undertaker, he became a top choice for Haliburton and many other wrestling fans.
Haliburton’s inclusion of Shelton Benjamin in his top five might surprise casual fans, but it reflects a deep respect for Benjamin’s athleticism and in-ring prowess. Benjamin’s incredible agility and fearless style made him one of the most physically impressive WWE superstars, particularly during his standout moments in ladder matches and his work with Team Angle.
The Undertaker, one of wrestling’s most iconic characters, is placed fourth on Haliburton’s list. The Undertaker has earned legendary status due to his mystique and dedication to his craft, which has been a part of his career for three decades. His 21-0 WrestleMania streak and larger-than-life personality have made him one of the most enduring and influential figures in WWE.
Roman Reigns, who is currently the dominant force in WWE, is the final name on Haliburton’s top five. Known as ‘The Tribal Chief,’ Reigns has transformed himself into one of the biggest stars in wrestling, earning respect for his character work and captivating storylines as the leader of The Bloodline faction. Reigns’ two-year reign as the universal title has made him a modern-day icon, making him the perfect choice to complete Haliburton’s list.
Haliburton’s picks reflect a blend of eras and styles, showcasing his appreciation for wrestling’s rich history and evolving landscape. By including athletes from different generations, he underscores the lasting impact of these athletes, from Cena’s unmatched work ethic to Reigns’ current dominance. The list shows how the players who inspired him beyond the basketball court have left an impression on the young NBA star through wrestling’s larger-than-life personalities.
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