The Phoenix Coyotes have some professional wrestling fans in their locker room, which is why they have decided to incorporate the WWE into their game day festivities. According to Puck Daddy, goalie Jason LaBarbera sent defenseman Keith Yandle, who is also a huge wrestling fan, a photo of his replica title belt in 2011. That put the wheels in motion for a present-day tradition.
The photo you see above shows the championship belt the Coyotes’ Player of the Game now has the honor of wearing each the team wins. Mikkel Boedker, who scored two goals in a win over the Los Angeles Kings on Tuesday night, was the first recipient of the new customized piece of swag. The best part about it is that the player who currently “holds the title” has to drape it over his shoulder while talking to the media.
“We got this yesterday actually,” he said. “It’s given out to the best player on a given night when we win. Keith Yandle and Jason LaBarbera are into wrestling. Last week we had a wrestling belt and now we got a beautiful belt made. It’s given out to who the team thinks is the best player on a given night where we win. It’s kind of exciting.”
Talk about the ultimate honor. Considering the Coyotes have players in their locker room with haircuts like this, none of us are really surprised that they have their own WWE-style belt. It should be noted, however, that the Chicago Blackhawks started the whole customized belt thing after they won the Stanley Cup in 2011. It may not be an original concept, but it’s still pretty damn funny.
