As we enter 2026, professional wrestling is still a significant part of popular culture. World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) has been a part of many’s childhood memories: particularly its time as the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) in the Attitude Era. That period was defined by its edginess and ever-pushing boundaries on national television, including provocative themes, strong language and shocking storylines. Some of the notable superstars from that era with The Undertaker, Shawn Michaels, Triple H, The Rock, and Shane McMahon, among others. Stone Cold Steve Austin has been credited with revitalising WWF during its rating war, called “Monday Night War”, with World Championship Wrestling (WCW), which was owned by Ted Turner under Turner Broadcasting System before sold to Vince McMahon.
Former WWE promoter, chairman and founder Vince McMahon also made significant contribution to the wrestling industry, helping WWE go mainstream and produce some of the hits of popular culture. The Austin-McMahon rivalry became one of the most important storylines in wrestling history, portraying “Mr. McMahon” as a greedy and evil boss, while Austin played the role of the rebellious anti-hero, the “toughest son of a bitch” who openly defied authority.
Soundtracks also play a huge part in WWE, with theme songs for pay-per-views (PPVs) and Premium Live Events (PLEs). Using our imagination for a minute, what if WWE used already-known pop songs in PPVs and PLEs? &ASIAN has selected 10 songs that could be on this fantasy soundtrack.
“Countdown!” – TWS – Royal Rumble
Like the song’s namesake, when it comes to the annual Royal Rumble, the unique selling point of the event sees a countdown every time a new wrestler is set to enter the match. The lyrics speak about counting, and while it goes “one, two, three, countdown,” the timer for the Royal Rumble still has the same impact with fans counting along with the timer and waiting to see which top star or surprise entrant might make their way to the ring.
“Zero Pressure” – BINI – WrestleMania
BINI’s “Zero Pressure” thrives on atmosphere rather than intensity, much like in WrestleMania 39, where “Less Than Zero” by The Weeknd was set as the theme song. The beats lean into a sense of nostalgia and reflection. “Zero Pressure” is a great song to hear while you’re watching old WrestleMania matches that are not defined by spectacle, but the mark they left behind.
“POP!” – TWICE’s Nayeon – Summerlam
Summerslam is the biggest wrestling event of the Summer, and Nayeon’s track “POP!” is definitely the perfect track for the season. The event normally sees huge matches and it’s a lot of fun, being the second biggest show of the year, and the track has a feel good vibe to it that could be perfect to hear as the theme tune or for one of the babyfaces to enter on. The catchy nature of the song also exudes summer vibes and feels like the perfect soundtrack to the PPV.
“BREAKOUT” – Snow Man – Elimination Chamber
Elimination Chamber is one of the most iconic WWE concepts, and the perfect song is Snow Man’s “BREAKOUT” which is the perfect metaphor of what the wrestlers can’t do, as they are all trapped in a cage. While it might be the antithesis of what the match is intended for, it also works as the perfect representation of the wrestlers wanting to fight and break out of what they know from wrestling.
“Money” – BLACKPINK’s Lisa – Money in the Bank
BLACKPINK Lisa’s song “Money” is undoubtably the perfect song for “Money in the Bank.” While there is no money involved, the concept sees wrestlers fight for a briefcase, which gives them a chance to challenge for the title of their choice. With the lyrics, “I’ma spend this check,” could represent the winner then choosing their time to cash in their opportunity, just like spending a cheque.
“CALL CALL CALL!” – SEVENTEEN – Survivor Series
Survival Series is the PPV that sees brands fighting each other, bringing singles stars and teams together to defend the honour of their brand. That’s exactly what happens in the “CALL CALL CALL!” as three opposing groups work together. Even though it’s the video that most resonates with the PPV, the lyrics talk about not hesitating to call if you need help, and that’s what the main match is: seeing teams of wrestlers fighting together, even if it isn’t what they’re used to.
“I CAN’T STOP ME” – TWICE – No Mercy
You can’t really rule this out for WWE No Mercy. It’s a kind of stipulation that works well when two wrestlers have built up serious antagonism and want to settle the score once and for all. It brings their rivalry to a decisive conclusion: who truly comes out on top. Maybe it’s unusual for TWICE to appear in WWE, but nothing is impossible.
“LuzViMinda” – ALAMAT – Backlash
“LuzViMinda” by ALAMAT could also serve as a fitting soundtrack. Now imagine: if the Philippines were to host a Backlash PLE, it could become one of the biggest wrestling spectacles ever staged in South East Asia. Such an event could also celebrate performers of half Filipino heritage, including Dave Bautista and Jeff Cobb. It could also represent their respective countries, much like events held in Mexico and France, where the crowds have a “big pop”.
“AREA PD” – Paledusk – Judgment Day
“AREA PD” is the best soundtrack for Judgment Day. This heavy metalcore would suit a WWE video package, particularly for a rivalry storyline. It could also work well as an intro theme for Summerslam 2006. The track carries an energy that would fit comfortably within the video game of WWE 2K soundtracks, with the intensity typically associated with those presentations.