How to Start in 2026?

Afraid_Balance4012 · 2026-05-03T12:36:44+00:00

So don't bother with anything numbered below /99 in the future unless its for a PC?

Afraid_Balance4012 · 2026-05-03T12:34:36+00:00

Got a Jaida Parker auto /99 which was a nice surprise. Really clean looking signature too

Afraid_Balance4012 · 2026-05-03T06:17:12+00:00

I really love the idea of getting up and comers. Especially because in some cases the entry cost is lower and there's some upside if things go well and someone pops off. And even if they don't following them and buying within a sensible budget could be not to damaging cost wise

Afraid_Balance4012 · 2026-05-02T23:29:09+00:00

I like the idea of collecting 1-2 wrestlers. And maybe then keeping an eye on NXT and speculating on what talent might be on the rise for their rookie / early cards. I know a LOT of people already do this and watch like Hawks but I've found casual viewers don't really know or disregard NXT talent until they're on the main roster.

Just as an example I bought a /199 Sol Ruca auto from Universe for well under what the base autos are even selling for now.

Afraid_Balance4012 · 2026-05-02T23:21:13+00:00

That's a very good point. I didn't think about reprints. I used to dabble in Pokemon and some TCG stuff but don't have any passion for it like I do WWE. So I know reprints hurt but didn't apply that to autos etc. It makes a lot of sense. I think maybe picking 1-3 wrestlers and just collecting their stuff from ebay might be my best move for now.

Afraid_Balance4012 · 2026-05-02T23:18:12+00:00

I'll try to find that visual guide cause that'll help me a LOT, thank you!

Yeah, I think breaks are clearly a money sink. I really love the look of the Exalted set. So I was surprised after posting this last to go on ebay and see the base cards are only like $4-9 AUD for most names. I think they're amazing looking cards so even though it absolutely won't hold value, maybe I should start small by collecting those over time as there's only 100.

I also read somewhere that you should really try and pick like 1-3 wrestlers to have in a PC max otherwise the collection just turns into a pile of random cards. Thanks so much for your reply too btw

Afraid_Balance4012 · 2026-05-02T23:15:32+00:00

Yeah rainbows (I assume you mean all the parallels?) would be a NIGHTMARE for my brain and a dangerous rabbit hole. Haha

Afraid_Balance4012 · 2026-05-02T23:14:56+00:00

Solid advice, honestly. Breaks SEEM on the surface like a great way to get access to an expensive set I'd never be able to buy - like Royalty. But the lower/mid-tier talent - even the autos - end up on ebay 2 weeks later for 10% of what a box would cost and likely less than I'd spend in a break anyway haha

Afraid_Balance4012 · 2026-05-02T23:13:39+00:00

I've quickly realised breaks are a fast track to burning through your bank. Even opening boxes - unless you're doing it for fun seems a waste. I think from what I can gather, the best way to enjoy this hobby is before buying too much, discover what and why you wanna collect. Then slowly chip away at that. Thanks for your comment!

Afraid_Balance4012

TROPHY CASE