The first World Heavyweight Champion recognized by the WWE, “Nature Boy” Buddy Rogers was a flashy yet tough ring combatant.  Rogers was chosen by Vince Sr. and Toots Mondt to be their champion as they withdrew from the NWA.  Sadly, Rogers had a mild heart attack and had to drop the belt to Bruno Sammartino which prevented the Nature Boy from having much of a title reign.  Regardless, Rogers was a good draw in the North East and a decent choice to be the first champion of the WWE.