Answer: reigning

AnswerCrossword Clue
REIGNINGLike last season's champs, this season
REIGNINGPredominant
REIGNINGWearing the crown
REIGNINGIn power
REIGNINGIn power.
REIGNINGIn power, as a king
reigningCurrently holding a particular title in sports
reigningOccupying the throne; ruling
reigningREIGN, to exercise sovereign power