While WWE shows may not technically fall under the category of sports, they are recognized as part of the entertainment industry—often referred to as “sports entertainment.” The WWE combines the thrill of professional wrestling with theatrical storytelling, adding layers of character-driven plots, rivalries, and heroic versus villainous personas, which create a film-like experience for fans.
Over the years, this unique approach has paved the way for romance-themed storylines, capturing the audience’s attention and emotions. The chemistry between wrestlers has often blossomed into their on-screen relationships, adding depth to the drama. In this article, we’ll be discussing the top five most memorable romantic storylines in WWE history, exploring how love has spiced up the ring and storylines alike.
1. Otis and Mandy Rose
In WWE’s modern era, Otis and Mandy Rose became one of the most beloved on-screen couples. Their storyline began in 2019, capturing the hearts of the WWE Universe when Mandy gifted Otis a Christmas kiss. Fans enjoyed memorable moments with the duo, from playful scenes by the poolside to Otis charming the crowd by carrying Mandy in his arms. However, when Dolph Ziggler entered the picture, tension and distance grew between Otis and Mandy Rose, making their love story even more captivating for fans.
2. Stone Cold Steve Austin & Debra
Stone Cold Steve Austin’s on-screen relationship with Debra was one of WWE’s most unusual pairings, especially since their chemistry often felt forced. Originally reintroduced as the manager for The Rock by Vince McMahon, Debra soon became part of Austin’s storyline as his wife, which coincided with Austin’s surprising heel turn. However, reports from that period suggested that Debra’s TV role mainly served Austin’s interests rather than enhancing her character.
Behind the scenes, both had endured personal challenges, with Debra previously separating from her WCW husband, Steve McMichael, while Austin had parted from former valet Jeanie “Lady Blossom” Clark. Their real-life relationship ultimately grew tense, as Austin reportedly became controlling and prone to outbursts—a development that cast a shadow over their once-celebrated WWE appearances.
3. The Undertaker & Sara
The storyline involving “Sara Undertaker” as the target of Diamond Dallas Page’s stalker obsession was one of WWE’s most awkward angles, emerging in the same year the company launched the New World Order and a chaotic WCW invasion. Sara, who even faced Page in the ring, struggled to connect with fans, making the rivalry feel one-sided. She later returned briefly, fearing Brock Lesnar during his 2002 feud with The Undertaker. Sara and Undertaker’s real-life split in 2007 remained low-profile until it was revealed that he had begun dating WWE Diva Michelle McCool around that time.
DOMINIK KISSES LIV MORGAN RIGHT IN-FRONT OF RHEA RIPLEY#SummerSlam pic.twitter.com/bnjiz2jrMI
— Wrestle Ops (@WrestleOps) August 3, 2024
4. Dominik Mysterio and Liv Morgan
In the next Raw episode after WrestleMania 40, Liv Morgan attacked and injured Rhea Ripley. Ripley had to give up her Women’s World Championship belt, after which Liv Morgan claimed that she would take everything away from Rhea Ripley. Meanwhile, Ripley’s storyline boyfriend Dominic Mysterio has also joined Morgan. Both have been seen kissing on-screen many times. Especially after the PG era ended, Morgan and Dominic have also been a part of many adult scenes.
5. Bobby Lashley and Lana
Lana married former WWE United States Champion Rusev in 2016, so when the romantic angle between Lana and Bobby Lashley began in 2019, fans booed this storyline fiercely.
To show Lashley as a big heel, a segment was also booked in which Lashley and Lana kissed in front of Rusev. No one benefited from this story. So the good thing was that WWE released Rusev shortly after.