health | February 08, 2026

The Meaning Behind The Song: The Champion by Carrie Underwood (featuring Ludacris)

The Inspiration Behind “The Champion”

Carrie Underwood is recognized as one of the most talented and inspiring country artists of the last decade. Her music is known for its optimistic, can-do attitude that uplifts listeners and inspires them to conquer their dreams. Her 2018 hit single “The Champion,” featuring Ludacris, is no exception.

Table of Contents

The song was created for the Super Bowl LII in 2018, with its lyrics and beats designed to motivate and encourage athletes and fans alike. Ludacris, a popular rapper and actor, was approached to contribute a verse that could add an extra touch of infectiousness and energy to the song. The result is a collaboration that beautifully intertwines the two artists’ styles and messages of strength, determination, and resilience.

The Lyrics of “The Champion”

The opening lines of the song set the tone for the rest of the lyrics – a powerful and moving reminder that despite any hardships or obstacles, individuals have the ability and strength to rise above them. The opening lines go like this:

“I’ll be the last one standing, two hands in the air, I’m a champion
You’ll be lookin’ up at me when it’s over, I live for the battle, I’m a soldier, yeah”

Through her lyrics, Underwood seeks to capture the essence of what it means to be a champion by addressing the fear, the struggle, the hopelessness, and the courage that characterizes the journey of a champion. She encourages individuals to be undaunted by challenges and to continue on the path of pursuing their dreams and goals.

The song is also full of musical allusions to sports games and accomplishments. In the chorus, the phrase “the champion” is repeated, invoking a sense of a victory lap, as well as a sense of eagerness and excitement for whatever challenge lies ahead. The music video that accompanied the song features many intense, sports-related scenes, emphasizing the message of determination and victory.

The Message of “The Champion”

“The Champion” is not just a song about sports. Its message is deeper and more profound, resonating with anyone striving to be their best selves against all odds. The song reminds us that challenges, adversity, and obstacles are all part and parcel of life, but it’s how we face these obstacles that defines us as champions.

In an interview, Carrie Underwood explained: “No matter what your background, you can overcome anything you’re going through, and we’re all in it to win it. … It’s kind of like the motto we’ve been living by for the past year, really, about just getting your head on straight and keeping your mind right and just working hard and doing the best you can.”

Underwood has always been known for her outspoken personality and her commitment to inspiring others to live their best lives. “The Champion” serves as a testament to her belief that we can all be champions in our own way if we have the courage to pursue our dreams and believe in ourselves. In an industry that often focuses on celebrity and glamour, Underwood’s message of inner strength, resilience, and determination is a refreshing change.

The Impact of “The Champion”

Since its release, “The Champion” has reached millions of listeners worldwide and has been embraced as one of the most motivational and inspiring songs of the modern era. It has been featured on various sports channels and programs, including ESPN’s “First Take” and NBC’s “Sunday Night Football.”

The song has also been credited with inspiring many athletes and champions to overcome their own battles and reach their full potential. In a touching video montage, released by Sportsnet, many successful athletes reflected on the times when they listened to “The Champion” to experience extra motivation to compete and overcome obstacles. Those sworn by the song – from footballers and hockey stars to Olympic gold medalists, all attest to a sense of empowerment the song instils in them.

The Legacy of “The Champion”

“The Champion” is a testament to the power of music to inspire and validate human experiences. It is a song that reminds us that regardless of our backgrounds, we all have the potential to be champions. The song speaks of the resilience, grit, determination, and hard work that make champions, regardless of the specific arena in which they compete.

In the end, “The Champion” is more than just a simple pop song. It is a modern anthem that inspires people to persevere through adversity, pursue their passions, and achieve greatness. It is a source of inspiration and motivation for those who need to be reminded that the journey towards success is not always easy, but always worth it. As Carrie Underwood and Ludacris remind us in the final verse of “The Champion”:

“Never said I was perfect, but I can prove it
Tonight, tonight
And I know I deserve it, I’ve already proved it
Tonight, tonight, be my witness”