The Best WWE Refs of All Time: The Unsung Heroes of the Squared Circle
By Tony Ramos, Chief Editor
When you think about WWE, it’s easy for your mind to jump to the superstars—the Rock Bottoms, the Stunners, and the Suplex Cities. But there’s a group of unsung heroes that rarely gets the recognition they deserve: the referees.
These men and women aren’t just there to count to three or call for the bell; they’re the glue that holds the action together. From enforcing rules to ensuring the safety of performers, referees are an integral part of the storytelling in professional wrestling. Here’s a look at the best WWE referees of all time and why they deserve to be celebrated.
1. Earl Hebner – The Icon
When you talk about WWE referees, one name stands tall: Earl Hebner. Whether it was calling classics like The Rock vs. Stone Cold or his infamous role in the Montreal Screwjob, Earl has been part of WWE’s most legendary moments. His ability to convey emotion during high-stakes matches made him a star in his own right. Hebner’s iconic pointing as he kicked someone out of the ring is still one of the most GIF-worthy moments in wrestling history.
2. Mike Chioda – The Workhorse
Mike Chioda was the heart and soul of WWE’s officiating team for decades. With a career that spanned from the late ’80s to 2020, Chioda officiated some of the greatest matches in WWE history, including Shawn Michaels vs. The Undertaker at WrestleMania 25. His longevity and consistency earned him a reputation as one of the most reliable referees in the business.
3. Charles Robinson – “Lil’ Naitch”
Charles Robinson, affectionately known as “Lil’ Naitch” for his resemblance to Ric Flair, brought an undeniable charisma to his role. Whether sprinting full-speed down the ramp to make a critical count or playing a key part in dramatic finishes, Robinson’s energy and passion for wrestling shine through in every match he officiates. His ability to sell the drama makes him a fan favorite.
4. Tim White – The Loyal Sidekick
Tim White wasn’t just a referee—he was André the Giant’s close friend and handler. While White officiated some incredible matches during the Attitude Era, his willingness to take bumps and be part of the storylines set him apart. His tragic yet comedic “referee suicide” skits on WWE.com became a cult favorite among fans.
5. Teddy Long – The Trailblazer
Before he was booking tag team matches as SmackDown’s GM, Teddy Long was making history as one of the first African-American referees in WWE. His journey from officiating to managing and eventually running SmackDown shows his versatility and dedication to the business.
6. Joey Marella – The Legacy
The late Joey Marella, son of WWE legend Gorilla Monsoon, left an indelible mark despite his career being tragically cut short. He officiated the main event of WrestleMania III (Hulk Hogan vs. Andre the Giant), one of the most iconic moments in wrestling history. Marella’s calm demeanor and professionalism made him a standout in his era.
7. Jimmy Korderas – The International Star
Jimmy Korderas was a staple in WWE from the late ’80s through the 2000s. Known for his no-nonsense officiating style, Korderas was often trusted with some of WWE’s biggest matches, including those involving international stars like Edge and Christian, both fellow Canadians.
8. Jessica Carr – The Trailblazer
Jessica Carr has been breaking barriers as one of WWE’s first full-time female referees. Officiating on both NXT and the main roster, Carr has proven that women can be just as effective in the role as their male counterparts. Her presence in high-profile matches shows WWE’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity.
What Makes a Great Referee?
It’s not just about counting pinfalls. The best referees have impeccable timing, an understanding of in-ring psychology, and the ability to subtly enhance the drama without overshadowing the performers. They’re there to sell the action, communicate with wrestlers, and ensure that the match flows smoothly.
Honorable Mentions
- Nick Patrick: For his work during the Monday Night Wars and his WWE tenure.
- Drake Wuertz: Known for his work in NXT.
- Danny Davis: The original “heel ref” who blurred the lines of his role.
Final Bell
Referees are the silent storytellers of WWE. They don’t get theme music, merchandise, or main-event status, but their contributions to the industry are undeniable. Without their dedication and skill, many of WWE’s greatest moments wouldn’t have been possible.
So next time you’re watching your favorite match, take a moment to appreciate the person in the black-and-white stripes. They’re just as much a part of the magic as the superstars themselves.
Who’s your favorite WWE referee? Let us know in the comments below!
Until next time, keep your shoulders off the mat and stay tuned to WrestlingChimp.com.
— Tony Ramos, Chief Editor
