Sting (real name: Steve Borden) is celebrated as one of the greatest professional wrestlers in history, with a net worth of $4 million. Known for his charisma, in-ring prowess, and enduring legacy, Sting’s career spanned multiple decades, establishing him as a 14-time world heavyweight champion and a household name in professional wrestling.
Early Life and Transition to Wrestling
- Born: March 20, 1959, in Omaha, Nebraska
- Raised in: Southern California
- Athletic Background: Basketball and football during high school; later transitioned to bodybuilding
- Career Start: Initially a gym owner, Sting became fascinated by wrestling after attending a WWF event featuring legends like intrigued by wrestling after attending a WWF event featuring legends lHulk Hogan, Andre The Giant, and The Iron Sheik.
His wrestling career began in the Continental Wrestling Association (CWA) under the name Flash. Later, he teamed with Jim Hellwig (later known as The Ultimate Warrior) to form The Blade Runners in the Universal Wrestling Federation (UWF). Sting soon embraced the persona that would make him iconic, skyrocketing to fame.
Wrestling Career Highlights
WCW and Iconic Success
Sting became synonymous with World Championship Wrestling (WCW), serving as the company’s top star for over a decade. Known for his dramatic face paint and fascinating storylines, Sting delivered some of the most memorable matches in wrestling history.
Key Achievements:
- NWA World Heavyweight Champion (2-time)
- WCW World Heavyweight Champion (6-time)
- TNA World Heavyweight Champion (4-time)
- TNA World Tag Team Champion
- Multiple other titles across major promotions
Sting’s mysterious “Crow” persona debuted in the mid-1990s during WCW’s battle against the nWo faction, cementing his role as one of wrestling’s most compelling characters.
WWE and Retirement
Sting joined WWE late in his career, debuting at Survivor Series 2014. Unfortunately, his in-ring tenure with WWE was short-lived due to a neck injury during a match with Seth Rollins. Despite this setback, he headlined the WWE Hall of Fame in 2016, officially announcing his retirement.
Awards and Accolades
- WCW’s Greatest Superstar: Honored by WWE
- “Most Popular Wrestler of the Year”: 4-time recipient by Pro Wrestling Illustrated (shared record with John Cena)
- Inducted into both the TNA Hall of Fame and the WWE Hall of Fame
Sting’s career is a testament to his dedication, adaptability, and enduring appeal.
Personal Life and Beliefs
- Marriages:
- First marriage to Sue (1986–2010) with three children: Garrett Lee, Steven Jr., and Gracie
- Second marriage to Sabine in 2015
- Faith: Became a born-again Christian in the late 1990s after reflecting on challenges in his personal and professional life, including past anabolic steroid use.
Real Estate and Financial Growth
In 2013, Sting purchased a Santa Clarita, California, home with his ex-wife Sue for $375,000. This 2-acre property is now estimated at around $1 million, showcasing his prudent financial decisions and asset growth over time.