The year 2020 proved to be a challenging one for many, bringing unexpected turns and shifting priorities. Yet, amidst global uncertainties, the world of WWE collectibles offered a vibrant escape and a reason to celebrate. For dedicated fans and collectors of Mattel WWE action figures, the year was unexpectedly bright, delivering a fantastic array of new additions to their prized collections.
As you’ve seen in the video above, Johnny Gargano, Candice LeRae, and Sam Roberts enthusiastically highlighted some of the standout Mattel WWE figures, playsets, and accessories that graced toy aisles. This wasn’t just about collecting; it was about finding joy and continuity in a beloved hobby. Let’s dive deeper into their top picks and the exciting reveals that made 2020 a memorable year for WWE figure collectors, offering insights and a closer look at what makes each item a must-have.
The Top 10 Mattel WWE Action Figures and Collectibles of 2020
The countdown featured a mix of iconic Superstars, innovative figure lines, and highly anticipated releases. Each pick not only showcased Mattel’s commitment to detail and authenticity but also celebrated key moments and legends from WWE history.
10. Masters of the WWE Universe New Day Man-E-Faces
Kicking off the list was a truly unique fusion: the Masters of the WWE Universe New Day figure, a Walmart exclusive. This collectible masterfully blends the iconic Man-E-Faces concept from the vintage Masters of the Universe line with the vibrant personalities of Big E, Kofi Kingston, and Xavier Woods. Imagine having three of WWE’s most charismatic Superstars in one dynamic figure! The twisting head mechanism allows collectors to seamlessly switch between the different New Day members, offering incredible display versatility. Complete with a comic, this figure is a testament to creative crossover appeal.
9. Ringside Collectibles Exclusive Firefly Funhouse Bray Wyatt
Bray Wyatt’s Firefly Funhouse captivated audiences with its surreal charm and sinister undertones. Mattel perfectly captured this unique world with the Ringside Collectibles exclusive Firefly Funhouse set. This wasn’t just a figure; it was an experience. The packaging cleverly unfolds to reveal an entire Funhouse environment, complete with miniature puppet versions of Abby the Witch, Mercy the Buzzard, Ramblin’ Rabbit, and The Boss. For fans who were both intrigued and slightly terrified by the Funhouse, this set offered a tangible piece of that bizarre yet brilliant segment of WWE programming. Imagine recreating your favorite Funhouse moments, safely, at home.
8. Elite Chyna & Triple H Two-Pack
A truly historic entry at number eight was the Elite Chyna and Triple H two-pack. This set was monumental for several reasons, primarily for finally delivering an Elite line Chyna figure, a character many collectors had long awaited. Chyna, the “Ninth Wonder of the World,” is depicted in her powerful glory, complete with the WWE Championship and European Championship. Coupled with a classic Triple H in his memorable green robe, both figures feature interchangeable hands, allowing for dynamic posing and realistic battle scenes. This release paid homage to a pivotal era in WWE history and a trailblazing Superstar.
7. Amazon Exclusive NXT WarGames Playset
For those who love to recreate epic showdowns, the Amazon exclusive NXT WarGames playset was a dream come true. This comprehensive set includes two rings, two connecting cages, breakaway ladders, a table, and a steel chair – everything needed to stage your very own WarGames match. The attention to detail in the destructive elements truly brings the chaos of the actual event to life. Imagine the possibilities for creative play, pitting your favorite NXT Superstars against each other in the ultimate enclosed environment. It’s a playset that encourages imaginative storytelling.
6. “Rowdy” Roddy Piper vs. Mr. T Elite Two-Pack
The rivalry between “Rowdy” Roddy Piper and Mr. T defined an era of celebrity involvement in wrestling, culminating in their iconic boxing match at WrestleMania 2. This Elite two-pack brilliantly captures that legendary encounter. The figures come with detailed entrance robes and, critically, swappable boxing gloves, allowing collectors to pose them both in their wrestling attire and ready for the squared circle. This set is a nostalgic trip for long-time fans and a perfect way to celebrate one of the most memorable non-wrestling matches in WWE history.
5. Undertaker & Drew McIntyre Slam Cycles
Speed and destruction came together with the Slam Cycles featuring The Undertaker and Drew McIntyre. These aren’t just cool-looking motorcycles; they’re built for action, featuring breakaway pieces that simulate the high-impact crashes seen in WWE. The Undertaker’s motorcycle is as iconic as the Deadman himself, and seeing Drew McIntyre with his own powerful ride adds a modern edge. Imagine the thrill of recreating a high-speed chase or a devastating smash-up with these figures. As Candice LeRae humorously suggested, the Undertaker’s motorcycle might just “rest in pieces” after a particularly intense collision!
4. The Return of the Legends Line (Series 8)
The return of the Legends line in 2020 was a major moment for many long-time collectors. Available exclusively at Target, Series 8 brought back beloved Superstars in intricate detail. This series featured Eddie Guerrero, the Ultimate Warrior, Jake “The Snake” Roberts, and “Mr. Wonderful” Paul Orndorff. The Ultimate Warrior figure, for instance, includes his iconic duster and a removable mask, capturing his unique presence. However, the Eddie Guerrero figure often stands out as a particular fan favorite, celebrated for its authentic representation of the beloved “Latino Heat.” The Legends line continues to be a treasure trove for fans of wrestling’s golden eras.
3. Decade of Domination Line
To celebrate a decade of partnership between Mattel and WWE, the Walmart exclusive Decade of Domination line was released. This series offered fresh takes on modern legends, emphasizing their enduring impact on the company. One notable figure from this line is the detailed Kane, a character whose long history and varied looks made this particular figure a highlight for many collectors. Another significant inclusion was a Triple H figure in his unique compression shorts, capturing a specific period following a leg injury. This line truly dominated toy aisles, as Johnny Gargano noted, by offering figures that represent Mattel’s commitment to capturing diverse moments in WWE history.
2. Undertaker 30th Anniversary Figure
Few Superstars command the respect and legacy of The Undertaker, and his 30th Anniversary in WWE was a monumental occasion. Mattel honored this milestone with a special 30th Anniversary action figure, exclusively available at Walmart. This figure depicts the Deadman in the gear he wore when he teamed with Roman Reigns against Drew McIntyre and Shane McMahon at WWE Extreme Rules 2019. The intricate details and high quality make it a perfect tribute to three decades of unparalleled dominance. Imagine displaying this figure as a centerpiece, celebrating one of the greatest careers in sports entertainment history, perhaps even alongside a Roman Reigns figure in similar attire, creating a powerful tag team display.
1. Ultimate Edition Wave 7: Hulk Hogan & The Fiend
Taking the top spot were the Ultimate Edition Wave 7 figures: Hollywood Hulk Hogan and The Fiend. The Ultimate Edition line is renowned among WWE figure collectors for its premium quality, boasting over 30 points of articulation, incredible detail, swappable parts, and extensive accessories including authentic entrance attire. The Fiend figure showcases his menacing presence, complete with his unique championship. Yet, the Hollywood Hulk Hogan figure was perhaps the most anticipated, a figure many NWO collectors had awaited for years. It features the NWO WCW Championship, a removable bandana, and, famously, an NWO shirt designed to rip down the front, perfectly mimicking Hogan’s iconic entrance. Imagine this Hollywood Hogan finally completing your NWO faction, standing alongside Scott Hall, Kevin Nash, and X-Pac in glorious detail.
Exciting Reveals: What’s to Come in Mattel WWE Figures?
Beyond the top ten, Johnny, Candice, and Sam offered a tantalizing glimpse into future releases, confirming that the world of Mattel WWE action figures would continue to surprise and delight in 2021 and beyond. These reveals showcase Mattel’s ongoing innovation and attention to fan demand, promising even more incredible additions for WWE figure collectors.
The Rock Reckin’ Slam Mobile
The Rock is known for his immense strength, and the new Reckin’ Slam Mobile takes that to a literal level. This playset features a blue car that The Rock, in his warm-up gear, can “flip over.” It’s designed for high-impact play, emphasizing the destruction and power associated with the Brahma Bull. Imagine The Rock demonstrating his sheer power by tossing vehicles around, setting the stage for a dramatic entrance or a post-match rampage. This reveal is a perfect blend of a beloved Superstar with interactive play features.
Basic Series 117
Basic Series 117 promises a strong lineup, including the Undertaker in his team-up gear with Roman Reigns, inspired by the 30th Anniversary tribute figure. Roman Reigns himself appears in a striking blue attire with his signature “Big Dog” logo, a design that truly pops. The series also marks Toni Storm’s first-time appearance in the line, complete with a chase variant in both blue and red attire, a highly sought-after feature for collectors. Additionally, Otis and Tucker are featured with their detailed torsos on display, a first for both, capturing their unique physiques. Otis’s face scan, in particular, has been highlighted as a fan favorite for its accurate portrayal.
Elite 83
Elite 83 is set to impress with figures like Edge, showcasing his gritty, grizzled look complete with hints of gray in his beard. This figure also comes with soft goods, adding a premium touch and enhanced realism. Another highlight is a smiling Drew McIntyre, presented in a new jacket and highly detailed attire. Drew McIntyre’s physique and presence often make him look like an action figure in real life, and this new Elite rendition promises to capture that essence perfectly, offering collectors a truly authentic representation of the Scottish Warrior.
Elite 84 & 85 (Implied)
While specific series numbers weren’t explicitly stated for all, several exciting Elite figures were teased. This includes a fantastic Saturday Night’s Main Event Dusty Rhodes in his iconic red and black polka dots, complete with chicken feet on his hat – a never-before-seen attire in figure form that fans have clamored for. Also revealed were Braun Strowman and, to Sam Roberts’ particular delight, King Corbin. The King Corbin figure is packed with accessories, featuring his crown, scepter, cape, and extra hands, allowing for a royal display.
Elite 86
Elite 86 brings a classic Triple H figure in his memorable purple gear, a staple from the “golden days” of wrestling. Furthermore, a chase variant in red gear will be available, adding another layer of excitement for collectors. This particular purple attire holds sentimental value for many, as it harks back to earlier Mattel WWE action figures. The improved articulation and detail of the Elite line ensure that this classic look is brought to life with unprecedented fidelity, appealing to both nostalgic fans and new collectors alike.
Kama Supreme Fighting Machine
Perhaps one of the most surprising and long-awaited reveals was the Kama Supreme Fighting Machine figure. After 25 years, this character, a pivotal part of the New Generation era, finally gets his first figure. This unique collectible comes with the infamous chain, which was forged from the melted-down urn of The Undertaker – a truly audacious move in storyline history. The inclusion of this figure, with such a significant accessory, is a testament to Mattel’s dedication to historical accuracy and fulfilling the desires of dedicated Mattel WWE action figures collectors who appreciate deep cuts from WWE lore.
Pinning Down Answers: Your WWE Toy Q&A
What kind of toys are Mattel WWE toys?
Mattel WWE toys are action figures, playsets, and vehicles based on popular WWE wrestlers and wrestling events. They allow fans to collect and recreate their favorite moments from WWE history.
What makes some Mattel WWE figures special or different?
Some figures are special because they belong to premium lines like Elite or Ultimate Edition, offering greater detail, more articulation, and extra accessories. They might also be exclusive releases to certain retailers.
Can I get toys that recreate specific WWE matches or environments?
Yes, Mattel produces playsets like the NXT WarGames Playset, and two-packs like “Rowdy” Roddy Piper vs. Mr. T, allowing you to recreate iconic matchups and wrestling environments.
Where can I find special or exclusive Mattel WWE figures?
Exclusive Mattel WWE figures are often available at specific retailers such as Walmart, Target, Amazon, and Ringside Collectibles. The article mentions many figures were exclusives to these stores.