100 Greatest Matches Part 2 (80-61)

80 Steve Austin vs Ricky Steamboat (United States Championship: Bash at the Beach 1994)
79. Seth Rollins vs. John Cena (Title vs. Title Match: Summerslam 2015)
78. Randy Orton vs. Cactus Jack (Backlash 2004)
77. Dusty Rhodes vs. Ric Flair (NWA Championship: Great American Bash 1986)
76. Edge vs. Mick Foley (WrestleMania 22)
75. Triple H vs Daniel Bryan (WrestleMania XXX)
74. The Shield vs The Wyatt Family (Elimination Chamber)
73. Ric Flair vs. Mr. Perfect (Loser Leaves Town Match, RAW 1993)
72. The Rock vs Mankind ("I Quit" Match for the WWF Championship: Royal Rumble 1999)
71. Bret Hart vs 123 Kid (RAW 1994)
70. Hulk Hogan & Mr. T vs. Roddy Piper & Paul Orndorff (WrestleMania I)
69. Cactus Jack vs Triple H (No Way Out 2000)
68. The Undertaker vs The Rock vs Kurt Angle (Vengeance 2002)
67. Sting vs Cactus Jack (Beach Blast 1992)
66. John Cena vs. Shawn Michaels (WWE Championship: WrestleMania 23)
65. Harley Race vs Ric Flair (Starrcade 1983)
64. Bret Hart vs Roddy Piper (WrestleMania VIII)
63. Shawn Michaels vs Razor Ramon (Summerslam 1995)
62. John Cena vs CM Punk (No. 1 Contender's Match)
61. Sting vs Vader (King of Cable Tournament Match, Starrcade 1992)

80. Steve Austin vs. Ricky Steamboat (United States Championship: Bash at the Beach 1994)

Before Steve Austin was a Texas Rattlesnake and the Most Successful Star of all-time, he was a great mat technician that could wrestle with the best, even the likes of Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat. Austin already knew his game plan for the match, as he had the words "Dragon Slayer" in white letters on his black trunks. There was nothing plain about this match, as Austin gave the Veteran Steamboat everything he had. No matter what Stunning Steve did, The Dragon was always a step ahead. In the end, the future "Stone Cold" would temporarily extinguish the Dragon as he retained the U.S. Title by having his foot on the ropes for the win. 

79. Seth Rollins vs. John Cena (Title vs. Title Match: Summerslam 2015)
Seth Rollins was on a roll as WWE Champion after winning the Title at WrestleMania 31. He was the Golden Boy for the Authority, delivering great match after great match (even though he had Kane & The Midget Squad help him). On the other hand, John Cena was bringing prestige back to the United States Championship after he defeated Rusev for the Title at that same WrestleMania. It was only a matter of time before they would collide. John was on his quest to win his 16th World Title as he unveiled a shirt that said "15x" on the back. However, there was an added twist to this match: Jon Stewart. Jon got in Seth's face leading into this match, so he was bound to play a part in it. At Summerslam, In the match, Cena gave Rollins the Attitude Adjustment for a near fall. Seth gave John an Attitude Adjustment of his own for a near fall. When Rollins went for the Pedigree, Cena reversed it into a Figure Four Leglock. Rollins countered, but Cena reached the ropes to break the hold. As Cena went for his second AA, Rollins collided with the referee. Jon Stewart ran into the ring with a chair, looking to assist Cena. Instead, Stewart nails him with the Chair for Rollins to finish the match with the Pedigree to become the WWE Champion and U.S. Champion. Rollins became the first wrestler in history to unify the WWE and U.S. Titles.

78. Randy Orton vs. Cactus Jack (No DQ Match for the WWE Intercontinental Championship: Backlash 2004)
As the WWE Intercontinental Champion, Randy Orton was on fire as the Legend Killer. Orton was clearly building his Resume of Legends to Kill. However, his toughest challenge up to that point would become Cactus Jack. After Orton disrespected Foley by spitting in his face, kicking him down the stairs and pinning him at WM XX, it was time for Mick's most dangerous persona to be revealed. It was none other than Cactus Jack. Just like Triple H before him, Orton had to show his aggressive side against the Hardcore Legend. It was definitely a throwback to Cactus Jack's heyday, as it was one of the finest matches not only for Foley, but for Orton as well. It worked out well for both sides. Randy was no longer just seen as a pretty boy, but someone that can get Hardcore with the very best. Meanwhile, this match was the perfect way for Mick Foley to redeem himself. It was filled with Thumbtacks, Barbed Wire and Baseball Bats wrapped with Barbed Wire, the perfect ingredients for a Cactus Jack match. Orton survived as he put away the Hardcore Genius with an RKO to retain the IC Title.

77.  Ric Flair vs. Dusty Rhodes (NWA Championship: Great American Bash 1986)
This match was the perfect exclamation point on the historic rivalry between Ric Flair and Dusty Rhodes. After having matches that previously ended in controversial fashion, it was time for The Nature Boy and The American Dream to settle their differences once and for all inside of the Classic Steel Cage Match. This was back when Cage Matches actually meant something, and for Dusty it meant everything. Ric had no reinforcements like the Horsemen to lean on as the Stars were aligned for him and Dusty to clash. Dusty fought with every ounce of fire and passion as did Flair. They fought as if it were their last match. From their battle on the top of the cage and throughout the match, fans were glued in. Blue Collar vs. High Class. In the end, the working man would win for the people.

76. Edge vs. Mick Foley (Hardcore Match: WrestleMania 22)
By this point, Edge was the Top Heel in Wrestling. However, Mick Foley cost him the WWE Title on an Episode of RAW costing him the opportunity to have a match with John Cena for the Company's Top Prize at WrestleMania. Edge was furious as he went to War with the Hardcore Great. Foley went from being a Teddy Bear back to being a Grizzly Bear. This match was significant for both legends. Edge was finding his niche as a Main Eventer and wanted to prove to everyone else that he had what it took to carry the company. Meanwhile, Foley never had a defining WrestleMania Moment in his entire career since retiring full-time in 2000. Edge had always been a TLC Specialist, but he had not yet established himself as a Singles Star at 'Mania. They took each other beyond the limit. The Punctuation for this match was when Edge Speared Mick through a Burning Table for the victory. A match with Foley was always a proving ground for toughness, and Edge proved himself very well.

75. Daniel Bryan vs. Triple H (WrestleMania XXX)
This will clearly go down as one of the greatest opening matches in WrestleMania History. Daniel Bryan was at the height of his feud with The Authority. Over and Over, Bryan was bullied and had opportunities taken from him left and right. From losing the WWE Title to Randy Orton at Summerslam, to having the title stripped from him, to not even being in the Royal Rumble. Daniel could not catch a break at all. Finally, the fans had enough and hijacked RAW to force Vince and The Authority's hand to include Daniel Bryan in WrestleMania. However, he had to get through a roadblock named Triple H in the first match. It was great storytelling as Bryan was the underdog that fought resiliently to take down the leader of the Authority in order to take the next step toward his dream. Even with his injuries, Bryan fought like a Warrior to take down The Cerebral Assassin.

74. The Shield vs. The Wyatt Family (Elimination Chamber 2014)

The Hounds of Justice vs. The Manson Family of Wrestling. The Shield vs. The Wyatt Family. This feud had the potential to be the Modern Day version of the Von Erichs vs. The Freebirds. They were the Perfect Dance Partners for each other. Their match at the 2014 Elimination Chamber was a Match worthy of WrestleMania. Believe In The Shield or Follow The Buzzards? This match had the ingredients for Chaos. In the weeks leading up to the PPV, the Wyatts cost the Shield members the opportunity to compete for the WWE World Heavyweight Title inside of the Chamber. Bray Wyatt boldly told the Hounds of Justice "I welcome this War!". First, the Wyatts eliminated Dean Ambrose before putting Seth Rollins through the Announce Table. Bray would close things for him and his Family as he pinned Roman Reigns for the win. 

73. Ric Flair vs. Mr. Perfect (Loser Leaves Town Match: RAW, 1/25/1993)
This was the first truly great match in the History of Monday Night RAW. Ric Flair and Mr. Perfect were Closing the Chapter on their feud at the Dawn of 1993. Things heated up when Heenan called Perfect "Washed Up". Curt proved otherwise. This match has the perfect backstory, as Ric is on his way out of WWE and on his way back to WCW. Flair could have mailed it in, but he put in a strong performance. Curt was a natural heel, but this match was where he was at his best as a babyface. Perfect would prevail as The Nature Boy was out of the door and returned back down South to WCW.

72. The Rock vs. Mankind ("I Quit" Match for the WWF Championship: Royal Rumble 1999)

This match was the pinnacle of their feud. It all started when Vince betrayed Mankind to help The Rock become the WWF Champion. Rocky was the Centerpiece of the Corporation, as he personified a Corporate Champion. However, Mankind was the Opposite of Corporate as the Underdog that everyone loved. During this time, they exchanged the Title back and forth. On the first RAW of 1999, Mankind defeated The Rock for the WWF Title thanks to Stone Cold Steve Austin. However, The Rock challenged Mankind to an "I Quit" Match for the Title at the Royal Rumble. This match was absolutely Savage. Mankind withstood immense punishment from The Rock's Chair shots. This match is another reminder of why chairs to the head are no longer allowed. Rocky scrambled Mankind's brains with the Chair. The Rock even laid the chair on Mankind's face for the People's Elbow. Ultimately, Mankind would scream "I Quit" as The Rock would regain the WWF Championship. 

71. Bret Hart vs. 123 Kid (WWF Championship Match: RAW 1994)

By 1994, Bret Hart was on top of the Wrestling Mountaintop as the WWF Champion. He was the flagship star of the company and carried it well. On the other hand, you had the rising young star the 123 Kid who was making a name for himself with victories over veterans like Razor Ramon, Ted DiBiase and others. The Kid proved that he had what it took to hang with the best of the best. He was even in the King of the Ring Tournament that year. As a result, he received a WWF Title shot against Bret Hart on RAW. This match is definitely one of those Special Gems of RAW that can arguably be better than a PPV Match. The 123 Kid had the speed and determination to go toe to toe with the Excellence of Execution. Bret's technical prowess vs. The Kid's speed and athleticism. It was a great combination that told an excellent story. In the end, Bret's Veteran Instinct won out as he caught the 123 Kid in the Sharpshooter for the win. This match was another classic in Bret's enormous catalog of matches. Meanwhile, this was the best match of Sean Waltman's Overall Career, from 123 Kid, to Syxx to X-Pac. 

70. Hulk Hogan & Mr. T vs. Roddy Piper & Paul Orndorff (WrestleMania I)
This was the Grand Daddy of Main Events, because it is the match that the first WrestleMania was built around. The Main Event itself was the Definition of Rock & Wrestling. Hogan & Mr. T were the Original Mega Power Team as they battled Roddy Piper & Paul Orndorff. It was the Spectacle that Vincent K. McMahon heavily invested in, and it clearly paid off with Hogan & Mr. T. WrestleMania I had a significant cultural impact because of the strength of it's Main Event.

69. Triple H vs. Cactus Jack (Hell In A Cell for the WWF Championship: No Way Out 2000)
The feud between Triple H and Cactus Jack was passionate, spectacular and filled with plenty of bloodshed. The Game was at his Apex as WWF Champion as he defeated Cactus at the 2000 Royal Rumble. Out of desperation, Cactus Jack put his Career on the line as he challenged Triple H to a rematch in Hell In A Cell at No Way Out. This was the match that Mick made his name off of with his match against The Undertaker at King of the Ring two years earlier. They pulled out all of the stops and all of the heavy artillery in their arsenal. Cactus Jack even set his Barbed Wire Bat on Fire, that is how intense it became. Trips even gave Cactus a Back Body Drop through the Cell roof so hard that he fell through the ring. Their War would come to an end as Triple H gave him the Pedigree to retain the Title and end his Legendary Hardcore Career.

68. The Undertaker vs. The Rock vs. Kurt Angle (Triple Threat Match for the WWE Undisputed Championship: Vengeance 2002)
This had all of the ingredients for a great Triple Threat Match, and it delivered beyond expectations. This match was Phenomenal. The Most Exciting part of this Match was when they used each other's Finishing Moves. A Rock-executed Chokeslam, an Angle-executed Rock Bottom and an Undertaker driven Angle Slam. It was like nothing I had seen since Austin vs. Rock II. Kurt's Angle Slam on Undertaker made sure that The Deadman would not leave Joe Louis Arena as Undisputed Champion. The Brahma Bull would drill The Olympic Gold Medalist with The Rock Bottom for the Three Count. The Rock would capture his 7th WWE Championship, leaving no questions about who The Great One really was.

67. Cactus Jack vs. Sting (Falls Count Anywhere: Beach Blast 1992)
Cactus Jack was a character that was different and out of the box in WCW. He knew how to push the limits in his matches, which forced his opponents to adapt to his style. Sting was the perfect dance partner, as he knew how to bring out his tougher side and brawl with the Hardcore Great in a Falls Count Anywhere Match. Sting survived the Chaotic Hardcore Jungle and prevailed as the Winner.

66. John Cena vs. Shawn Michaels (WWE Championship: WrestleMania 23)
This match was Cena's biggest test as a Main Event Star in WrestleMania, because he would defend the WWE Title against the very man that is in essence the symbol of WrestleMania, Shawn Michaels. Cena would be forced to work harder than ever before, because HBK is someone that expected nothing but the best. It was clear that John would not take this opportunity lightly and he delivered. The most notable spots in this match were Shawn's piledriver onto the steel stairs. Cena failed to connect with the AA and Michaels failed to deliver the Sweet Chin Music at some point during the match. John applies the STFU, but HBK reaches the ropes. When Cena went for the AA again, Michaels landed on his feet to hit him with the Sweet Chin Music. However, Cena ducked and grabbed his leg for the STFU, which lead to Michaels submitting. John Cena continued to show the world, including Shawn Michaels why he was the future star of WWE and this match was one of the best examples of how special John Cena truly is.

65. Harley Race vs. Ric Flair (Steel Cage Match for the NWA World Heavyweight Championship: Starrcade 1983)
This match signified the Changing of the Guard from the Race Era to the Flair Era both on and off screen. The NWA entered into a more Modern Era by their standards. It was a grueling battle, as Race targeted Flair's neck, but Naitch battled back. One of the defining images is Flair locking Race in the Figure Four as the overhead camera looks down at them on the blood-stained blue ring mat as both men were busted open. It was so exhausted that you could practically feel it just by watching. As Ric Flair celebrated with the rest of the NWA Locker Room after the match, it was clear that Ric Flair had taken the torch and there was no looking back. The Nature Boy cemented himself as Harley Race's Successor to the NWA Throne.

64. Bret Hart vs. "Rowdy" Roddy Piper (WWF Intercontinental Championship: WrestleMania VIII)

By 1992, Roddy Piper had finally won his first Title in WWF/E as he defeated The Mountie for the Intercontinental Title. This was a Lifetime Achievement Award for Piper because of the contributions that he made over the years. It was also clear that his time was ticking as a full-time competitor. Meanwhile, Bret Hart was making a name for himself as a Singles Star. After losing the IC Title to The Mountie, Bret was on a quest to take back what he believed was rightfully his. This match was one of the highlights of WrestleMania VIII. The Personal Storytelling that they told in this match was incredible. This match was clearly the highest quality match of Piper's Career, with all due respect to his other matches. Instead of the usual Punches and Kicks, Roddy had to go hold for hold with the Best Technician in the Company, and the World. When Bret was busted open, it seemed as if Piper was going to go into desperation mode when he had the Ring Bell in his hand. Instead, Roddy threw the bell away to go for a Sleeper. However, The Hitman ran to the Turnbuckle while still in the hold. Bret pushed his foot off of the Turnbuckle to fall back on Piper to pin his Shoulders for the Three Count. Bret would reclaim the IC Title as he and Piper left the ring together in a sign of mutual respect. 

63. Shawn Michaels vs. Razor Ramon (Ladder Match for the WWF Intercontinental Championship: Summerslam 1995)
A year earlier, Shawn Michaels and Razor Ramon made History by having the first ever Ladder Match in WrestleMania History. Their match widely influenced the Next Generation of Wrestlers that grew up watching them. That match raised the bar and was the Best Match of the Night and of the entire Year. However, fans were looking for an Encore. The Heartbreak Kid and The Bad Guy gave them that Encore at Summerslam 1995. This match had elements that even the match at WM X did not have. This match was clearly their way of building on something that they made special the year before. However, Shawn Michaels emerges as the Winner to retain the IC Title. HBK and Razor show a sign of respect as they celebrate together after the match.

62. John Cena vs. CM Punk (Number 1 Contender's Match: RAW 2/25/2013)
John Cena and CM Punk have always had great chemistry in the ring despite their animosity. After a series of 4-5 Star Classics, they knew each other like the front and back of their hands. With an opportunity to wrestle The Rock for the WWE Championship at WrestleMania 29, Punk and Cena dug deep in their treasure chest of moves. Punk even pulled out a Piledriver, while Cena miraculously used a Hurricanrana. At 251 lbs, Cena did a Cena-canrana. In another great RAW match for the ages, Cena came out with the win to take on Rocky at WM 29.

61. Sting vs. Vader (King of Cable Tournament Finals: Starrcade 1992)
Out of Sting's Greatest Rivals outside of Ric Flair, Vader was the best. Their feud ignited when Vader injured Sting by fracturing his ribs. Their second meeting took place when Vader took the WCW Title from Sting. However, it was Starrcade 1992 that defined their rivalry. Sting and Vader pushed each other to their limits, as this match highlighted their strengths and weaknesses. Sting's victory over Vader in the King of Cable Tournament Finals was one of the highlights of the Pre-Nitro Era.

Let's Dance (vol. 6- The Undertaker)

In honor of the "Road To WrestleMania," I would like to dedicate this "Let's Dance" segment to a man that has become a WrestleMania Dynasty. He took WrestleMania and turned it into a Mansion. This man is none other than the Deadman himself, The Undertaker.

The better your Dance Partners are, the better you look as a performer. It takes two to tango and Taker has danced with partners of different styles. Many of them have faced him at WM while some did not. As I have said before, the better your dance partners are, the better you look yourself. It also helps to have a lot of high-quality partners to dance with as it creates the best chemistry. Just like Batman, Undertaker has an excellent Rogues Gallery of Rivals. Time to examine who are the best:

Shawn Michaels:

Match Quality: 5/5
Storyline Quality: 9/10
Rivalry Rating: 9.5/10

Featured Matches:
In Your House: Ground Zero
Hell In A Cell (Bad Blood 1997)
Casket Match for WWF Title (Royal Rumble 1998)
2007 Royal Rumble
WrestleMania XXV
WrestleMania XXVI (Streak vs. Career)

The Undertaker and Shawn Michaels have been the pillars of WWE from the New Generation Era into the Ruthless Aggression/Early PG Era. They pretty much came up together in the ranks of wrestling from the territories going into the WWE. Both legends had been at the top of the WWE Card since the mid-1990's. HBK and UT did not finally have a program together until 1997 when Shawn cost Taker the WWF/E Title against Bret Hart at Summerslam 1997. Shawn revealed that he cheated Taker on purpose as this led to the epic first ever HIAC Match at Bad Blood 1997. The match was a masterpiece and in my estimation one of the top two matches of the entire year next to Bret vs. Austin at WM 13. This would lead to the introduction of Kane, who helped Shawn win. Taker had two problems on his hands (HBK & Kane). UT would fight Shawn in a Casket Match for the Title at Royal Rumble only for Kane to interfere again. Michaels would prematurely retire for the first time with a 4-year absence. When Shawn returned in 2002, he and Undertaker kept their distance until Royal Rumble 2007 where their rivalry was rekindled. UT & HBK were the last two men standing to go to war for at least 8-10 minutes before The Phenom won the Rumble. Next year, they would be the first two in the Rumble. Finally, their feud would reach its climax going into two epic WrestleMania Matches. The story was centered around who was truly the Greatest WrestleMania performer as they stole the show in each match. Their finale took place at WM XXVI with Shawn's career coming to an end. Both of them were WrestleMania Masters.

Kane:

Match Quality: 3.5/5
Storyline Quality: 10/10
Rivalry Rating: 9/10

The Classic Brother vs. Brother. Arguably the Greatest Storyline ever told. Fire and Brimstone. The Brothers of Destruction have forever been connected from the moment that Kane made his earth-shattering debut at Bad Blood 1997 when he ripped the cell door open during Undertaker's match with Shawn Michaels. Who could ever forget Vince McMahon screaming "That's got to be Kane"? Taker looked in disbelief that his brother was still alive. Kane proceeded to drill his older brother with a Tombstone Piledriver as a bloody HBK picked up the victory. Taker refused to fight his brother at first. Of course, that was until Kane interfered once again in a match involving Undertaker and HBK. At Royal Rumble '98, Undertaker wrestled Shawn Michaels for the WWF Title in a Casket Match. It looked as if the Phenom would seal the win for the Title, but Kane attacked him and locked him in the Casket. After the match was over, Kane burned the Casket with Undertaker trapped inside. When everyone though Undertaker was dead, he made his re-emergence on Monday Night Raw challenging Kane to a match at WrestleMania. This match told a brilliant story and could possibly be the best match of the night. Undertaker and Kane went the distance in their best battle ever. The Deadman defeated The Big Red Machine with 3 Tombstones. Taker would win the rematch at Unforgiven in their Inferno Match. The Brothers of Destruction would wrestle to a no contest at Judgment Day over the WWF Championship. Undertaker would also defeat Kane at Survivor Series in the Quarter Final. As the Biker (ABA) Undertaker would defeat Kane at Summerslam 2000. They would also team up during the Invasion storyline to win the WCW Tag Titles. Their feud would rekindle when Kane helped Vince McMahon defeat Taker in the Buried Alive Match at Survivor Series. Undertaker would return as the Deadman to defeat him at WrestleMania XX. This would be their last encounter for quite some time. This was their next best match to their WM XIV encounter. Later on, Kane would gain the upper hand by defeating his brother at Night Of Champions to retain the WHC as well as HIAC. The feud would come to an end at Bragging Rights with Kane winning in the Buried Alive Match. Even when some of the matches started to fall off, the storyline is what made this dance a dance worth watching.

Featured Matches:
WrestleMania XIV
Unforgiven 1998 (Inferno Match)
Judgment Day 1998
Survivor Series 1998
Summerslam 2000
WrestleMania XX
Night Of Champions
Summerslam 2010


Mankind

Match Quality: 4/5
Storyline Quality: 9/10
Rivalry Rating: 9/10

When Mankind made his arrival to the World Wrestling Federation in 1996, he made his biggest statement by attacking The Undertaker. Never before had The Phenom faced an opponent that could shake him psychologically as he is the Master of Mind Games. The night after WrestleMania XII, Taker was attacked by Mankind in a great angle. The biggest plot twist came when Paul Bearer turned betrayed Taker after being The Deadman's confidant for many years. For the first time ever, The Undertaker submitted to Mankind's Mandible Claw. It was a very noteworthy way to put Mankind on the map in the WWF/E. Their feud would include matches that revolutionized wrestling. Mankind gained the upper hand with wins over Taker at KOTR '96 and the Boiler Room Brawl Match at Summerslam that year. Taker would finally turn things around by winning the Buried Alive match at IYH, along with his victory at Survivor Series 1996. UT would successfully defend his WWF Title at the IYH named in his honor "Revenge of the Taker". Their feud would conclude at KOTR 1996 inside of HIAC. This was the Match of the Year and the high point of the feud and it ended on a very high note. This rivalry made one career and revived another. For more than 2 years, Undertaker was forced to dance with useless or washed up big men that could not keep up with him. From Giant Gonzalez (awful), King Kong Bundy (past his prime), Yokozuna (decent), Fake Undertaker, Kama (Taker had to look out for his BSK buddy) and Mabel (injured Taker so bad that he had to wear the Phantom of the Opera Mask). Undertaker finally gets relief in 1996 when WWF/E signs veteran Cactus Jack who becomes Mankind. Taker FINALLY had someone who could bring the best out of him while he made someone else a star.

Featured Matches:
King of the Ring 1996
Summerslam 1996 (Boiler Room Brawl Match)
In Your House: Buried Alive
Survivor Series 1996
In Your House: Revenge of the Taker (WWF Championship)
KOTR 1998 (Hell In A Cell)



Edge:

Match Quality: 4/5
Storyline Quality: 8/10
Rivalry Rating: 8.5/10

Featured Matches:
Armageddon 2007 (Triple Threat vs. Batista for World Heavyweight Championship)
WrestleMania XXIV (World Heavyweight Championship)
Backlash 2008 (WHC)
Judgment Day 2008 (WHC)
One Night Stand 2008 (TLC Match for WHC)
Summerslam 2008 (HIAC)

This is a feud that will go down as an all-time great for both Undertaker and Edge. It all started in 2007 when Edge cashed in the MITB Briefcase on an injured Undertaker after his battle with Batista. Following the match, Mark Henry attacked the bloodied Taker before Edge cashed in and picked the bones of the Deadman with a Spear to capture the World Heavyweight Title. Like with John Cena, Edge cashed in on a bloodied Champion. Both cash-ins were highly significant and further elevated Edge's status as a conniving heel that would seek any opportunity to win. Edge and Taker would both get hit by the injury bug in between. At Survivor Series, Edge cost Taker the World Title against Batista. Their paths would cross along with Batista's at Armageddon where Edge defeated Taker and The Animal to win back the Title. After three months of ducking Taker, Edge had no choice but to finally face him at WrestleMania XXIV. It was an excellent choice for the Main Event, as Undertaker defeated Edge to not only maintain The Streak but to also recapture the WHC. The Deadman would defeat the Rated R Superstar in the following rematches from Backlash to Judgment Day. Vickie Guerrero would strip Taker of the Title for his use of "Hell's Gate". Edge would finally gain the upper hand in his specialty of TLC as he regained the World Heavyweight Title at One Night Stand. Two months later, Undertaker returns to defeat Edge at Summerslam in the first HIAC match of the PG Era. This was the final chapter in their rivalry. Edge found ways to bring the best out of himself and Taker when they danced together and vice versa. Clearly one of the best feuds towards the end of the Ruthless Aggression Era going into the PG Era.

Brock Lesnar:

Match Quality: 4/5
Storyline Quality: 8.5/10
Rivalry Rating: 8.5/10

Featured Matches:
Unforgiven 2002 (WWE Championship)
No Mercy 2002 (HIAC for WWE Championship)
No Mercy 2003 (Biker Chain Match for WWE Title)
WrestleMania XXX
Summerslam 2015
HIAC 2015

The feud started in 2002 when Brock was a rookie on an amazing rise to the Top of the WWE. Lesnar defeated The Rock for the WWE Title at Summerslam while demolishing other veterans in his path of destruction. His first challenger is none other than WWE Legend The Undertaker. This took place during Taker's Biker Era as he was the ultimate test for Brock to prove himself as Champion. They could have left Taker's family out of the storyline, but their first match did have a great buildup leading to their battle at Unforgiven. This match is criticized for ending in a no-contest, but it made sense a month later. Brock broke Taker's hand. Smackdown GM Stephanie McMahon declared The Undertaker as the number one contender for Brock's WWE Title at No Mercy. This led to their classic HIAC Match, which will forever go down as one of the best ever. The brutality was the story of the match as it was tailor made for Ruthless Aggression. It was the most gruesome Cell Match I have ever seen because I never saw Undertaker bleed like that before in his career. The story was about Brock being out of his element but digging deep down inside to overcome a Phenom like Taker in a match that UT himself made famous. Lesnar emerged victorious when he reversed Undertaker's Tombstone Piledriver into an F-5. This match brought a new meaning to "Crimson Mask". They would have a rematch at No Mercy 2003 in a Biker Chain Match, but it was not on the level of their No Mercy Match from the year prior. Brock would take a long absence from the WWE to make a name for himself in the UFC. Two years after Lesnar's return, their feud would reignite leading up to WrestleMania 30. On the 30th Anniversary of WrestleMania, the world witnessed the BIGGEST Surprise in all of the Wrestling world. Brock Lesnar BROKE THE STREAK. It became not only one of Undertaker's signature moments but a turning point for Brock's WWE Career since his return. This would seem like the final chapter in their saga. However, their feud would resurface again thanks to declining ratings. Undertaker cost Brock the WWE Title match at BattleGround. The next night on RAW, Brock and Taker would have a brawl at the start of the show as it would lead to their next match at Summerslam. The match told a great story but ended with Undertaker winning in controversial fashion. The score would be settled once and for all at HIAC. Brock would defeat Taker after a powerhouse battle inside of the Cell. I believe this is their very final encounter. Brock was a dance partner that humanized Undertaker. Brock and Taker dance do a different beat. This was far from Taker's battles with Shawn Michaels. These dances were filled with blood and war. Brock was never phased by Taker's aura and mind games. This was nothing but Old School brawling and warfare. Two beasts fighting to tear each other apart.

Triple H:

Match Quality: 4/5
Storyline Quality: 8.5/10
Rivalry Rating: 8/10

Featured Matches:
WrestleMania X-7
WrestleMania XXVII
WrestleMania XXVIII

Part of The Undertaker's legend centers around his longevity, rivalries and consistency as an upper card performer for well over 20 years. When it comes to the "End of An Era" it comes as a form of irony. Taker and Triple H were certainly pillars of the Attitude Era, but UT was already an established star before the Era started along with his previous WM opponent Shawn Michaels. This was not much of a feud in the beginning because when they had their first encounter, Undertaker was much higher in the pecking order as Trips was still Hunter Hearst Helmsley. When Undertaker feuded with Shawn Michaels, Triple H was merely a decoy that was not a real threat. Finally, Hunter would come into his own as the Leader of DX during the Attitude Era. After becoming a multi-time Champion, Triple H becomes a serious challenge for Taker going into WM X-7, in the Deadman's backyard of Houston. UT won in a great match that told it's story with the brawling. Taker goes 9-0 in the Biker Era. The Brothers of Destruction were supposed to have a feud with the Two Man Power Trip, but that was cut short thanks to The Game's injury. In the years to come, Taker and Trips would be the pillars for the Smackdown & RAW brands during the brand split Era. Taker was the anchor for Smackdown while Triple H was the anchor for RAW. Their paths would finally meet again after the retirement of Shawn Michaels following WrestleMania 26. Triple H would emerge as Undertaker's next challenge to Break The Streak. This time, they would be in the roles of part-time legends that would attract a crowd just in time for Mania. Shawn Michaels would also give his view on how he felt about Triple H challenging the Streak. At WrestleMania 27, Taker and Triple H would have the best match of the night, but that is not saying much considering how subpar that show was in WM History. Undertaker emerged victoriously, but had nothing to show for it as he was carried out on a stretcher after the match was over. Taker himself even admitted that his previous matches with Shawn Michaels took a lot out of him. With the way that it ended, it was underwhelming for Taker's standards. As a result, the stakes were raised even higher for their rematch at WrestleMania 28 by calling it the "End of an Era". This time, their match would be inside Hell In A Cell. As another bonus, Hunter's longtime friend Shawn Michaels was the Special Referee. The storytelling and quality were clearly better than their match at WM 27. Undertaker wins as the match has a much better conclusion. It wasn't really the "End of An Era" for their careers, but the last time they would feud together. When you compare these matches to Undertaker's masterpieces with Shawn Michaels, they fall relatively flat but still unique in their own way. The Game is clearly one of the best partners The Deadman has danced with on the Big Stage.

Randy Orton:

Match Quality: 3.5/5
Storyline Quality: 8.5/10
Rivalry Rating: 8/10

Featured Matches:
WrestleMania 21
Summerslam 2005
No Mercy 2005
Armageddon 2005

When Randy Orton was "The Legend Killer" he defeated and attacked a number of legendary stars in wrestling. Orton defeated the likes of Shawn Michaels, Ric Flair, Mick Foley, Sgt. Slaughter and RVD. He also spits in the faces of NWA legend Harley Race and the aforementioned Foley. He even gave Fabulous Moolah the RKO. He also gave Jake Roberts the RKO. If those feats don't qualify you as a Legend Killer, what else will? Finally, Randall received the spark that he needed after losing the WHC to Triple H. "Superstar" Billy Graham told Orton that he needed to find a way to make a bigger name for himself. After the conversation with Graham was over, Orton held a magazine with The Undertaker on the front cover. That was the sign that Randy found the next Legend to target. In 2005, Randy would face the biggest Legend of his career The Undertaker himself. Heading into WM 21, Orton tried to pretend that he was not phased by Taker's mind games. However, The Deadman always found a way to throw him off of his game. The young Orton boldly challenged The Phenom to a match at WrestleMania 21. This was the first time where The Streak was faced with a real threat. Randy was in prime position to break the Streak nearly 10 years earlier. However out of respect, Randy declined. The match itself was easily one of the best on the card and was part of Taker turning the corner with his matches at Mania. When Orton did Taker's throat slash, he signaled the end. When RKO tried the Tombstone, Taker reversed it into his own Tombstone Piledriver for the win. UT & RKO would feud for the rest of the year, including a match at Summerslam where Randy's father helped him win. The feud would conclude at Armageddon when Taker vanquished Orton inside HIAC. This was the perfect example of a younger star going over even in a losing effort. Sometimes it is hard for younger talent to dance with more experienced talent, but Orton proved that he had what it took to dance with The Phenom.

Conclusion:

Shawn Michaels:

If Undertaker is Batman, you can make a strong case and say that Shawn Michaels is The Joker. On the other hand, you can say that HBK is the Luke Skywalker to Taker's Darth Vader. I was close to choosing Kane or Mankind as Undertaker's greatest dance partner. This was a very tough call. However, I believe that Undertaker danced better with Shawn because of how fluid he himself is at 6'10" 300 lbs. Their chemistry together in the ring is incredible when you match a Giant like UT with a smaller more versatile opponent like HBK. They made history with the first ever HIAC Match at Badd Blood. If not for Austin vs. Bret, this match would have been "Match of the Year" for 1997. Then, you factor in the fact that going into their first match at WM, Taker had never defeated Shawn which was another great twist to add with the Streak on the line. Then, you factor in the "Light vs. Darkness, Heaven vs. Hell" theme surrounding the feud and it made this even more of an epic battle. When it comes to WrestleMania, they were Jedi Masters of the Highest Order. Here is the best way to describe their battles. The Badd Blood Match was Episode 4 (A New Hope- Great introduction). WrestleMania XXV was Episode 5 (Empire Strikes Back- The Best of the Series) while WrestleMania 26 was Episode 6 (Return of the Jedi- The Conclusion). WrestleMania was clearly the best way to close the chapter on their feud. Shawn Michaels was Hard Rock, Undertaker was Heavy Metal. Taker and HBK danced to different genres of music, but they created classic hits when they danced together in the squared circle. Their clashes will forever be the stuff of legend. 

(Portrait Courtesy of Rob Schamberger. Follow on Twitter: @RobSchamberger, Instagram: @RobSchamberger)

Undertaker's Top 10 Matches:

1. Vs. Shawn Michaels (WrestleMania XXV)

2. Vs. Shawn Michaels (Badd Blood 1997- HIAC)

3. Vs. Shawn Michaels (WrestleMania XXVI- Career vs. Streak)

4. Vs. Mankind (KOTR 1998)

5. Vs. Triple H (WrestleMania XXVIII- End of an Era Match)

6. Vs. Edge (Summerslam 2008)

7. Vs. Mankind (In Your House: Buried Alive)

8. Vs. Brock Lesnar (No Mercy 2002)

9. Vs. Edge (WrestleMania XXIV)

10. Vs. Kane (WrestleMania XIV)

Greatest Hall of Fame Classes

With the WWE Hall of Fame approaching, we would like to celebrate the best Hall of Fame Classes of all-time:

2005

Class: H. Hogan, Piper, Iron Sheik, Jimmy Hart, Bob Orton, Jr., Paul Orndorff, Nikolai Volkoff
This Class was Special because these were the stars of the first WrestleMania. I always call it the "WrestleMania I Crew". The Class was headlined by none other than H. Hogan himself, the focal point of the "Rock & Wrestling" Golden Era from the 80's. Along with him would be his friend Jimmy Hart, rivals Roddy Piper, Iron Sheik, Paul Orndorff, Nikolai Volkoff, and "Cowboy" Bob Orton, Jr. The induction took place the night before WM 21 in Los Angeles, CA.

2006
Class: Bret Hart, Eddie Guerrero, The Blackjacks, Sensational Sherri, William Perry, Tony Atlas, Verne Gagne

The Headliner for this Class was "The Hitman" Bret Hart with his presenter being Stone Cold Steve Austin. Bret and Austin had their Iconic WM 13 match in Chicago, so it was fitting that Bret chose him given their history. As a long time fan of Bret, this was very special for me. I also believe that the seeds were slowly being planted for Bret to be eased back into WWE one step at a time even though he finally made his return to WWE Television four years later. Bret still had his grudge with HBK, as that explains why Shawn was not present that night. This was also done to promote Bret's DVD "Best There Is, Was and Ever Will Be." The impact of Bret's appearance in years since the "Montreal Screwjob" was enough to boost the credibility of this class. Eddie Guerrero was inducted posthumously following his death in November 2005. His induction was very emotional and pulled the heartstrings of the fans that night.

2014
Class: Ultimate Warrior, Razor Ramon, Jake "The Snake" Roberts, Lita, Mr. T, Paul Bearer, Carlos Colon

This was a fantastic HOF Class for the 30th Anniversary of WrestleMania. It was significant because it presented closure as The Ultimate Warrior was the Headliner for this Class. Warrior just made amends with WWE thanks to Triple H in order to break the ice between himself and Vince McMahon. Before his death, The Ultimate Warrior signed a Legends Contract that would allow him to be an Ambassador for the WWE. This also included Warrior's commercial promoting WWE 2K14. Warrior was the marquee attraction during HOF Weekend and gave the best speech in my view. This was also a night to welcome back Jake Roberts and Razor Ramon (Scott Hall) after they were cleaned up thanks to DDP Yoga. The quote that stuck out the most in Hall's speech was "Bad Times don't last, but Bad Guys do." Lita was presented by her arch rival Trish Stratus. Mr. T had one of the best speeches of the night, as he was a huge part of the first WrestleMania. Paul Bearer was inducted by Kane and Undertaker while his sons accepted on his behalf. Carlos Colon (World Wrestling Council) was inducted by his sons.

2015

Class: "Macho Man" Randy Savage, Kevin Nash, Tatsumi Fujinami, Madusa/Alundra Blayze, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Larry Zbysko, The Bushwhackers, Rikishi
This Class was special because there were inductions that were LONG overdue. This was an HOF that represented closure. However, it was also bittersweet because the Headliner for this HOF Class was not alive to accept this honor. "Macho Man" Randy Savage passed away in a Car Accident four years earlier. His brother Lanny Poffo accepted on his behalf. Madusa was finally welcomed back to WWE after 20 years of bad blood for her infamous act of dropping the Women's Title in the trash can at the start of the Monday Night Wars. Natalya was her presenter. Madusa made a light-hearted joke of the situation by bringing a trash can to the stage with the Title. Arnold Schwarzenegger was the Celebrity Choice with Triple H as his presenter. At WM 31, Triple H paid tribute with his Terminator Entrance. Larry Zbysko took his place in the HOF as well. Japanese legend Tatsumi Fujinami was honored. The head scratching choices for this class were The Bushwhackers and Rikishi. Fans did not understand because they were mostly comedy acts in WWE, and that is all that was shown in their video packages. Meanwhile, their body of work was stronger outside of WWE for the most part. Kevin Nash closed out the night with Shawn Michaels as his presenter. The Kliq ended things on a high note as they celebrated together.

2012
Class: Edge, Four Horsemen, Mike Tyson, Yokozuna, Ron Simmons, Mil Mascaras

This HOF Class had great quality. What helped to make it special for me was that it took place on the weekend of WM 28, one of the best of recent memory. The headliner for this class was Edge because of how his career was sadly cut short due to injury. The Four Horsemen and Mike Tyson were the next big names for induction. Yokozuna was the posthumous induction presented by Rikishi. Ron Simmons was inducted by JBL and Mil Mascaras was the International pick presented by Alberto Del Rio.

2011
Class: Shawn Michaels, LOD, "Hacksaw" Jim Duggan, Sunny, Abdullah The Butcher, Bob Armstrong, Drew Carey

In 2011, Shawn Michaels added another moniker to his resume: "Mr. Hall Of Fame". HBK was the Marquee Headliner for the Class of 2011 and it was special for his best friend Triple H to present him into the HOF. Shawn is highly regarded as the Greatest In-Ring Performer of all-time. This came off the heels of his retirement after his finale with Undertaker at WM 26 as well as WWE naming him the Greatest of All-Time on their Top 50 "Superstars" list. HBK is one of the most decorated stars in history. Along with Shawn, The Road Warriors/LOD were inducted. According to many fans, LOD is the Greatest Tag-Team of all-time. So it was rather fitting that they were inducted with HBK. Plus, The Road Warriors enjoyed some of their best success in the NWA along with WWE and other promotions. Abdullah The Butcher and "Hacksaw" Jim Duggan were also inducted along with Bob Armstrong, Sunny and the most head scratching induction, Drew Carey.



2004
Class: Harley Race, "Superstar" Billy Graham, Bobby "The Brain" Heenan, Sgt. Slaughter, Junkyard Dog, Pete Rose, Jesse Ventura, Tito Santana, Big John Studd, Greg Valentine, Don Muraco

On the 20th Anniversary of WrestleMania, WWE brought back the Hall of Fame in a huge way. In 2004, WWE inducted their largest class in HOF History with 11 Inductees. The names included were former NWA Champion Harley Race, "Superstar" Billy Graham, Bobby Heenan, Sgt. Slaughter, JYD, Jesse Ventura, Tito Santana, Big John Studd, Greg Valentine, Don Muraco, and the first celebrity induction Pete Rose. Much of this class consists of stars that were part of the late 70's/early 80's and midcard/upper main eventers. Harley was essentially the headliner because of his body of work even though he was a huge star outside of WWE. It was similar to how Ric Flair was the headliner for 2008 although he was a major star outside of WWE as well. Superstar was a huge attraction for MSG in the late 70's as WWWF Champion. Sgt. Slaughter was also a mainstay in the Garden with his feuds with Tito Santana, Bob Backlund, etc. Muraco, Valentine and Santana were all mainstays as IC Champion during their time. JYD and Studd were both supporting cast members during the Rock & Wrestling Boom Period. Jesse and Bobby were star commentators during the 80's.

2009
Class: Stone Cold Steve Austin, Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat, The Von Erichs, Terry and Dory Funk, Howard Finkel, Koko B. Ware, Bill Watts

During the 25th Anniversary of the Grandest Stage of them All, WrestleMania took place at the Astrodome in Houston, TX. This was certainly a Texas based HOF Class with Stone Cold Steve Austin as the Headliner with his best friend Jim Ross inducting him. Ricky Steamboat was inducted by his arch rival Ric Flair. Texas Legends and WCCW headliners The Von Erichs were inducted by Michael Hayes. Terry and Dory Funk were also inducted along with "Cowboy" Bill Watts. Legendary Ring Announcer Howard Finkel joined the HOF as well as Koko B. Ware.

2008
Class: Ric Flair, Rocky Johnson, High Chief Peter Maivia, Briscoe Brothers, Mae Young, Eddie Graham, Gordon Solie

In his farewell, Ric Flair was the Center of Attention for WrestleMania Weekend in 2008. Flair was the headliner for the class of 2008 as Triple H was his presenter. Meanwhile, The Rock inducted his father Rocky Johnson and grandfather "High Chief" Peter Maivia. The Briscoe Brothers, legendary Women's wrestler Mae Young, Florida Championship Wrestling Legend Eddie Graham and NWA Announcer Gordon Solie were also inducted.




2013
Class: Bruno Sammartino, Bob Backlund, Mick Foley, Booker T, Trish Stratus, Donald Trump

This HOF weekend took place in the New York/New Jersey area. So naturally, it would be a NY themed HOF with Bruno Sammartino as the headliner along with other NYC mainstays like Bob Backlund and Mick Foley. Sammartino and Backlund were two of the longest-reigning WWWF Champions before the explosion of business during the Golden-Era. This was also a sense of closure for Bruno and Backlund, especially in the case for Sammartino. Booker T was also inducted with his brother Stevie Ray. Booker entertained the crowd with a Spinarooni as well. During Foley's speech, he mentioned that he never defeated Chris Jericho. Y2J and CM Punk joined Mick on stage. Foley gives Jericho the elbow drop as Punk counts to 3. Trish Stratus was the staple of the Women's Division during the 2000's and it was great to witness her induction. Finally, Donald Trump was the celebrity involved considering that it was in NYC. I don't agree, but WWE loves publicity.

Vince McMahon: The "Genius"

In honor of Mr. Vincent Kennedy McMahon reaching an incredible milestone of 70, I would like to analyze the things that made him great along with things that made you scratch your head. With all of his contributions good and bad, is Vince McMahon truly a "Genius"? I would like to dive into that.

Pros:
Visionary
Pioneer
Launched Wrestling into the Mainstream
Started WrestleMania
Created the PPV Concept
Globalized Wrestling
Defeated WCW and ECW
Showcased legends like Stone Cold, The Rock, Undertaker, HBK, etc
The Creation of The Undertaker Character
Access to the library of any and every territory


Cons:
Micromanager
Kevin Dunn
Complacent Booking after winning Monday Night War
Antiquated (Out of Touch) Ideals
Criticized for "poaching" talent from other territories


Vince McMahon has his pluses and his minuses. On one hand, he engineered a revolution in television and marketing for wrestling with the rise of WrestleMania, Rock & Wrestling and the birth of PPV. On the flip side, people like to discredit McMahon because he did not naturally cultivate the stars of that Era.

Hulk Hogan:
"Hulkamania" originated during Hogan's time in the AWA, so Vince cannot take full credit for that part. However, McMahon streamlined Hogan on a level that Verne Gagne would have never showcased him. Vince put Hogan on a national and global platform like never before. Hogan reached his greatest heights within Vince's vehicle of success (WWF).

"Macho Man" Randy Savage:
Like Hulkster, "Macho Man" was a product of another territory. Savage was a star in Memphis for a number of years. Vince saw enough value in Randy to bring him into his fold to expand his vision. Some may criticize Vince for it, but the move did miracles for Savage's career. Macho Man became a legend on Vince's stage and enjoyed a highly lucrative run.

Andre The Giant:
Andre The Giant was technically a star that was a holdover from Vince McMahon, Sr. However, Vince Jr can still take a share of the credit for Andre's drawing power and exposure going into the 80's.

"Rowdy" Roddy Piper:
The Roddy Piper character was originally formed in the territories. That is where Piper first displayed his incredible skills on the mic. McMahon presented Piper with a larger stage to display how great of an entertainer that he was. I believe that "Piper's Pit" would have never worked in any other promotion but the WWF. Like the rest of his peers, Piper was a made man under Vince Jr's Administration. Along with Hogan and Andre, Piper was one of the stars of the "Rock & Wrestling" Cartoon.

I can name countless others, but these were some of the main stars that were front and center during Vince's revolution of the 80's. Vince McMahon's greatest quality at that time was his ability to strategically market his product and his stars in a larger than life fashion.

Although Vince inherited the business from his Father, he put his own creative twist on things and flipped the business around in a different direction.

Of course, we have to move into the 90's when WCW and ECW would make a rise as competition. At the helm of those promotions were Eric Bischoff and Paul Heyman.

Eric Bischoff:
Bischoff gets plenty of credit for how he introduced the NWO and beat Vince McMahon for more than 80 consecutive weeks during the Monday Night Wars. He was also instrumental in introducing the Cruiserweight Division in WCW. On the other hand, Bischoff got most of that success on the backs of Vince's former stars who did not have much left in the tank. They worked for a while, but eventually their novelty started to wear off. He also kept a ceiling on the less established names, whether they were Cruiserweights or not.

Paul Heyman:
Before the Attitude Era was even thought of, Paul Heyman's ECW Brand was the red-headed stepchild that fought against both establishments of WWF and WCW. Heyman's hardcore brand of wrestling catered to a more mature, non-traditional audience who wanted to watch crazy, over the top entertainment.

Here are some of the people that Vince established into Main Event Stars after they spent years in the Mid card under WCW/ECW:


Steve Austin:

In WCW, Steve Austin was simply a very good hand in the ring on the Midcard level. Austin was a member of the Dangerous Alliance under Paul E. Dangerously at the time. He would also win the WCW TV Title, US Title and Tag Team Titles with Brian Pillman (Hollywood Blondes).

Eventually, Bischoff placed a glass ceiling on Austin's head and said that a guy with black trunks and black boots could not draw. The higher ups had no room for Steve Austin. When Austin was injured, Eric fired him over the phone as we all know by now. Austin goes to ECW to reunite with Paul Heyman.

For most of his time there, Steve cuts nothing but promos. The Stone Cold character was in its embryonic stage in ECW. Not too long from that, Stone Cold makes the jump to the WWF. First, he is given the outdated Ringmaster gimmick. Then, Vince gives him free reign to be himself. From that point, the rest of the Stone Cold Story was history. Bischoff foolishly threw Austin to the curb. Heyman planted the seed before Vince watered it for Steve Austin to grow into who he needed to be. Austin would become one of the greatest Icons that wrestling has ever seen.

Mick Foley:

Like Steve Austin, Mick Foley was an undercard guy that was underappreciated by Eric Bischoff and others at the top of the WCW Hierarchy. Eric let Mick go because he wanted to make room for Vince's nostalgia show (Hogan, Savage, etc). Foley continues his Cactus Jack run in ECW for a brief period of time before landing in Vince World (WWF) where he becomes Mankind. During his run with WWF/E, Foley would become a 3-time WWF Champion, Tag Champion along with being a Hardcore Champion. He was given a green light that was never presented before.

Chris Jericho:

Chris Jericho traveled around the world for years perfecting his craft before becoming a star in America. Chris was first discovered nationally by Paul Heyman in ECW. Jericho's matches with ECW and with Japan caught the attention of Eric Bischoff, as he swiped him away from Heyman. Chris was one of the figureheads of the Cruiserweight Division, as he was also able to show how entertaining he really was after turning heel. Jericho gained a grassroots following in the Cruiserweight world with his incredible matches with the likes of Rey Mysterio, Eddie Guerrero, Dean Malenko, etc along with his promos such as the "1,004 Holds". He would then become TV Champion. However, Jericho would become another victim of the Eric Bischoff glass ceiling as he was never able to move any higher in WCW. Chris knew that he would find greener pastures with Vince McMahon and the WWF. After his contract with WCW expired, Jericho moved up north to Titan Towers where he became a bigger star.

Under Vince McMahon, Chris Jericho was another undercard player that became a legend. Y2J would become a multi-time world champion (First Undisputed Champion), the record holder for most Intercontinental Titles along with other accolades. Chris Jericho would have never sniffed any of these same opportunities in WCW. His titles, the Podcast, Fozzy, his books, etc all came through the vehicle of the WWE.


These three men are some of the examples of Vince McMahon taking wrestlers that were undervalued and making them legends and bonafide Hall of Famers. Can you imagine Y2J wrestling guys like Goldberg and Sting, or Goldberg and Hogan for the Undisputed Title? He would get demolished. Vince saw enough in a guy like that to give him that window of opportunity.

Part of the Genius of Vince McMahon has been his ability to maximize what less established talent could do. He has also been a master of managing personalities and egos. Everyone knew that at the end of the day, Vince was the boss.

Vince would occasionally hang out with "The Boys", but they knew their place when it came to dealing with him. He would not let the wrestlers take advantage of him.

Meanwhile, a guy like Eric Bischoff let the Main Event Stars run over him. He wanted to be more like a friend than a Boss. More often than not, Hogan and Nash were his bosses.

As creative as Paul Heyman is, he was not the best when it came to business. Everyone knows the stories of Heyman's lies and his bad checks.

With all of his flaws, Vince McMahon is a Once In A Lifetime Personality and the wrestling world would not have gone as far as it did without him. Vince McMahon's imprint has been crucial to this thing we know as professional wrestling and sports entertainment.

He has left a lasting impression on me as a fan and as someone who likes to have a Vision. My life as a wrestling fan would not be the same if Vince McMahon never existed.

As much as people complain about the current product, fans would have to admit that if not for Vince McMahon we would not have shows like WrestleMania, Summerslam, etc to look forward to over the years.

Now, things will be in better hands with Triple H and Stephanie making their own significant mark. You can see it with the development of the NXT Talent rising. Vince is taking less and less of an onscreen role and all he has to do is sit back and be an advisor to them.

Mr. Vincent K. McMahon, this is for you. You are truly a Genius.

50 Greatest Wrestlers (pt. 4, 31-40)

31. Mick Foley
32. Terry Funk
33. Jushin "Thunder" Liger
34. Brock Lesnar
35. Ultimate Warrior
36. Ted DiBiase
37. Bob Backlund
38. AJ Styles
39. Jake "The Snake" Roberts
40. Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka

31. Mick Foley: The Hardcore Legend. One of unique characters in the history of the business. There has never been anyone like Mick Foley before or ever since. His threshold of pain was beyond human. Foley was inspired by the likes of Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka, Abdullah The Butcher along with Bruiser Brody. When you put them all in one, you had one dangerously insane combination. Foley was ultimately inspired to pursue his career in wrestling after sitting front row at Madison Square Garden as an 18 year old fan to see Snuka nail Don Muraco with his Signature Superfly Splash from the top of a steel cage. Mick was trained by Dominic Denucci and started his career at that same time in 1983. While working for DeNucci, Foley, and several other young wrestlers worked as jobbers in squash matches on WWF TV tapings Prime Time Wrestling and Superstars of Wrestling. During this time, Mick used the names, Jack Foley and Nick Foley. The name Jack would ultimately give way to his Cactus Jack persona. On the very first episode of Superstars, Foley and fellow jobber Les Thornton wrestled the British Bulldogs (Davey Boy Smith and Dynamite Kid). During the match, Dynamite clotheslined Foley so hard that he could not eat solid food for several weeks. Mick would go on to wrestle other top level talents such as Hercules Hernandez. After spending time on the Independent Circuit, Foley received offers from various promotions, including the UWF (Universal Wrestling Federation). Mick signed with the Continental Wrestling Association (CWA), based out of Memphis. In CWA, Foley started using the name Cactus Jack, as he and Gary Young won the CWA Tag Team Championships in late 1988. In November of '88, Foley left CWA to sign with a larger promotion, the legendary Texas-based World Class Championship Wrestling (WCCW). In WCCW, Cactus Jack was billed as a major part of Skandor Akbar's stable. In WCCW, Foley added the name Manson to his persona. (Foley had a female stalker at the time named Mary Ann Manson; the name was also inspired by Charles Manson, who Mick resembled, which made him uncomfortable) During his time there, Foley won numerous titles, from the Tag Team to the Light Heavyweight Title before losing his last match in 9 seconds to Eric Embry. Then, Foley would leave to briefly compete in Alabama's Continental Wrestling Federation before a brief stint in World Championship Wrestling (WCW), which included a match with future WWE Hall of Famer Mil Mascaras at Clash of the Champions X: Texas Shootout. During this period, Foley was involved in a car accident where he lost his two front teeth, the look that he is famous for today. After his time with WCCW, Foley signed with UWF. While in UWF, Mick teamed with Bob Orton to feud with Don Muraco, Sunny Beach, and Brian Blair. Foley soon left for Tri-State Wrestling (forerunner for Extreme Championship Wrestling), where he and Eddie Gilbert competed in three matches in one night at Summer Sizzler '91: Falls Count Anywhere, Stretcher Match, and a Steel Cage Match. Cactus Jack won the first match, Gilbert won the second, with the last match being a double DQ. These matches caught the attention of WCW promoters. After a brief time with Global Wrestling Federation (GWF), Cactus Jack signed with WCW in the fall of 1991. This is where Foley's career would take off even further. Cactus Jack made his WCW Debut on September 5, 1991 as a heel when he attacked Sting. After feuds with Van Hammer and Abdullah The Butcher, Cactus focused on Sting, who was WCW Champion at the time as they battled in the classic Falls Count Anywhere Match at Beach Blast 1992. For a long time, Foley said that this was the best match that he has ever worked. After a year and a half as a heel, Cactus Jack would transform into a face, as he would soon grow in popularity. This led to his greatest feud during his WCW tenure, with Vader along with Paul Orndorff and Harley Race. Jack and Orndorff wrestled each other for a spot on newly crowned WCW Champion Vader's team at Clash of the Champions. After the match, Race and Orndorff attacked Cactus Jack. At Clash of the Champions, Cactus helped Sting's team win the match. After defeating Orndorff at SuperBrawl III, he then focused solely on Vader. Cactus Jack defeated Vader by count out on April 6, 1993 and received a severe beating in the process. In the rematch on April 24, 1993, both Vader, and Cactus executed a dangerous spot in order to sell a storyline injury. Vader removed the protective padding on the floor, and Powerbombed Jack onto the concrete, giving him a concussion as he also temporarily lost sensation in his left foot. The height of their heated rivalry took place in a Texas Death Match at Halloween Havoc. Vader won the match after Harley Race used a cattle prod to take down Cactus Jack. The level of violence was so high that WCW would never book another Cactus Jack vs. Vader match on Pay Per View ever again. On March 16, 1994 during a WCW European Tour, Foley, and Vader put on a match in Munich, Germany that is considered one of the most infamous matches in history. Foley used a hangman technique, a planned move where a wrestler's head is tangled between the ropes. Normally, the spot is painful but safe (oxymoron right?). However, in WCW the danger factor was slightly raised because they did not use real ropes, but elevator cables encased in rubber. Foley never knew this, but earlier 2 Cold Scorpio had complained that the ropes were too loose, causing the ring crew to tighten the ropes to the maximum. When Foley executed the move, he found himself trapped in a position where the ropes were constricting the blood to his brain. He realized that this would lead to cerebral anoxia (lack of oxygen to the brain), potential brain damage, and ultimately death. As Foley fought to free himself, he tore off two-thirds of his ear and underwent surgery later that day to reattach the cartilage from his ear to his head for a total reconstruction to be possible in the future. This is why Mick is missing part of his ear. After refusing to reattach his ear, Mick Foley teamed with Kevin Sullivan to win the Tag Team Titles at Slamboree that year. Foley started to grow frustrated with the direction of WCW. WCW shared a co-promotion with ECW during the time where Foley represented WCW on ECW TV as the WCW Tag Team Champion, facing Sabu at Hostile Showdown on June 24, 1994. During a promo, Foley spat on the tag team belt and threw it on the ground as the hardcore ECW fans cheered as they had disdain for mainstream promotions. Mick made it perfectly clear that he was finished with WCW and transitioned to ECW, a promotion that was custom made for him. During his time in ECW, Cactus Jack was at the height of his brutality as he battled the likes of Sabu, Terry Funk, Kevin Sullivan and The Sandman to name a few. The only championship that Foley won during his ECW tenure was the Tag Team Title with Mikey Whipwreck. He also battled in Death Matches in Japan against opponents like Terry Gordy, Shoji Nakamaki, as well as Terry Funk. The most infamous Death Match that he had was with Funk, where there was a barbed-wire rope, barbed-wire and C4 board, time bomb death match. Cactus won with the help of Tiger Jeet Singh. After the match, the C4 explosives detonated underneath the table as they severely burned both Foley and Funk. Foley also spent time in Raven's stable "Raven's Nest", which was the precursor to Raven's Flock in WCW. Cactus Jack's last ECW match was with Mikey Whipwreck before joining the largest promotion in the world, the World Wrestling Federation (WWF). In 1996, Foley signed a contract with the WWF, but this time he would be more than just enhancement talent. Upon his arrival, Foley was shown several different designs for a new character, one with a leather mask and chains. However, WWF considered it too dark and just left the mask. As a result, Mick Foley made his WWF debut with a new gimmick that many consider to be his most famous personality: Mankind. This character is a mentally deranged schizophrenic who constantly squealed, and screamed "Mommy!". He also had a pet rat named George, enjoyed pain and abused himself. He also wore a mask and lived in boiler rooms, which is why his specialty match was the Boiler Room Brawl. Foley made his WWF TV Debut as Mankind the day after WrestleMania XII (April Fool's Day; perfect timing). After defeating Bob Holly, Mankind moved on to feud with his greatest rival, The Undertaker. The feud continued into King of the Ring, Mankind's PPV debut. Mankind picked up the win, after Paul Bearer accidentally struck Undertaker with the urn, opening the door for Mankind to lock in the Mandible Claw. From that point on, they started to interfere in each other's matches, leading to their first Boiler Room Brawl Match (Mankind's Battleground). The goal was to escape the arena's boiler room to reach the ring to take the urn from Paul Bearer. The Undertaker appeared to be the winner, but Bearer refused to give him the urn, opening the door for Mankind to win. This signaled the end of the relationship between Taker and Bearer, as Paul joined forces with Mankind. Mankind would start calling him "Uncle Paul". Following this huge win, Mankind became the number one contender to face Shawn Michaels for the WWF Championship at WWF In Your House: Mind Games. Michaels won via disqualification thanks to interference from Vader and Undertaker. For years, Foley would say that this was the best match that he ever competed in. Many including myself can agree, because of who his opponent was. Foley credits a brutal cardiovascular training regimen to go with full-tilt for twenty-seven minutes with an athlete quicker, small, better than him by light years. The Mankind-Taker feud picked up and continued at Buried Alive: In Your House, in the first ever Buried Alive Match. Undertaker won the match, but Mankind, Paul Bearer, The Executioner (Terry Gordy) along with other heels attacked Taker and buried him alive. Undertaker defeated him in a rematch at Survivor Series, before moving on to defeat Sid at WrestleMania 13 for the WWF Title. The feud ended after one more match at In Your House: Revenge of the Taker where Undertaker defeated Mankind to hold on to his newly crowned WWF Championship. Bearer would take a leave of absence. Jim Ross would then start to conduct a series of interviews with Mankind. During the interviews, Ross would bring up the topic of Foley's home videos, featuring his hippie inspired character that he played, called Dude Love. Stone Cold and Shawn Michaels won the WWF Tag Team Championships by defeating Owen Hart and The British Bulldog. However, Shawn was injured, which meant he had to forfeit his belt. This left room for Austin to find a replacement. Mankind offered to help, but Austin said that he did not want to work with a freak. This is where Dude Love stepped in to fill Shawn's place. The following week in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Dude Love joined Stone Cold, and Mankind's archenemy The Undertaker to face Bret Hart, Owen Hart, and Davey Boy Smith (members of the anti-American Hart Foundation) in a United States vs. Canada flag match. The Hart Foundation would ultimately win, thanks to interference from Brian Pillman. Stone Cold and Dude Love would forfeit the tag titles after Austin legitimately suffered a career-threatening neck injury at Summerslam 1997 during his match with Owen Hart. Dude Love would move into a feud with 1997 KOTR Hunter Hearst Helmsley, as they competed in a Falls Count Anywhere Match. One of Foley's most memorable vignettes took place on RAW, when Dude Love and Mankind sat together (green screen technology) to discuss who should wrestle for the next match. Then, Mick's first character Cactus Jack made his WWF debut as Dude and Mankind "decided" that he would be Helmsley's next opponent. Cactus defeated Hunter with a piledriver through the table at the entrance ramp. Shortly after the debut of Cactus Jack, fellow ECW alum Terry Funk joined as "Chainsaw Charlie". At the 1998 Royal Rumble, Foley competed as all three characters. At WrestleMania XIV, Cactus and Chainsaw defeated The New Age Outlaws in a Dumpster Match to win the WWF Tag Team Championships. However, Vince McMahon would strip them of the titles the next night on RAW, as he scheduled a rematch. The Outlaws regained the titles in a steel cage match, with help from their new partners, D-Generation-X. The following week on April 6, Foley turned heel when he said that the fans did not want to see Cactus Jack anymore because he believed that they did not appreciate him anymore. His main focus was on Stone Cold Steve Austin. Dude Love made his return during the grudge match between Austin and McMahon on RAW when he interfered by giving Austin the Mandible Claw. This was the mystery opponent that Vince was referring to, as Stone Cold defended the WWF Title against Dude Love at Unforgiven. Dude won by disqualification, meaning that Austin kept the title. Dude Love had to prove to Vince McMahon that he deserved a shot at the championship. Vince then scheduled a number one contenders match between Dude Love and Terry Funk. Dude became the number one contender, as he would face Austin in a rematch for the WWF Championship at Over The Edge. McMahon appointed his subordinates "stooges" Gerald Brisco and Pat Patterson as the timekeeper and ring announcer. Vince himself was the special guest referee. However, The Undertaker came to ringside to make sure that this was a clean match. Austin won the match to retain his WWF Championship, as Dude Love was "fired". Foley would resurface as Mankind to reignite his feud with the Undertaker. The high point of their rivalry took place at the 1998 King Of The Ring, with their iconic "Hell In A Cell" Match, which was the second one in history. Terry Funk and Mick Foley talked about the first HIAC when Undertaker battled Shawn Michaels, as they brainstormed ideas about how to top that match. Funk suggested that Foley get thrown off, and Mick laughed as he agreed. In one of the most famous matches in the history of professional wrestling, Foley received multiple injuries and took two of the most highly influential bumps in history. The first bump took place when Mankind and Undertaker were battling at the Top of the Cell. Suddenly, Taker threw him off the top of the cell onto the Spanish announce table. The cage stood 16 feet (4.9 m); (22 ft. when you include the angle of the fall). This moment caused Jim Ross to famously shout,  "Good God almighty! Good God almighty! That killed him! As God as my witness, he is broken in half!". Mick suffered a separated shoulder from the fall as Taker wrestled with a broken foot during the match. Foley remained unconscious, as Undertaker stood at the top of the cell staring down. As Undertaker stood at the top, the cage had to be raised in order for the medical staff to come with the stretcher to carry Foley out of the arena. Suddenly, Foley got up from the stretcher and continued the match by climbing to the top to battle Taker once more. Then, tragedy nearly took place. The next one came at the top of the cell as well. This time, Taker Chokeslammed him through the roof of the cell. Ross once again exclaimed, "Good God, Good God! Will somebody stop the damn match? Enough's enough!" Color Commentator Jerry Lawler added as he responded, "That's it. He's dead." Surprisingly, the cage was starting to give way, as Undertaker finished the match with a Tombstone Piledriver for the win. Taker and Funk later said that they thought Foley was dead. Mick says later that it was the best and worst chokeslam that he ever received. It looked bad, but things worked for him because he did not take the move properly. Had he taken the chokeslam properly, he likely would have died. Mick says that he did not remember much of what went on during the match. In his first book, he says that he considered retiring after hearing his wife cry during a conversation after the match. He even forgot that he used thumbtacks until Undertaker reminded him. The match won the PWI "Match of the Year" as it was the clear cut biggest highlight of the year overall. Following this match, crowds did not initially support Mankind. From this point, he added more of a comedy element to his character that fans now remember him for. After a brief run with Kane as Tag Team Champions, Mankind would implement a new dimension to his persona by putting a Sock on his hand when he gives the opponent the Mandible Claw. The sock would be named "Mr. Socko". Mankind joined Vince McMahon, as he saw him as a father figure. During this same time, McMahon would create the Hardcore Championship and reward him with it. With McMahon in his corner, Mankind would become a favorite to win the WWF Championship. This set up the Deadly Games Tournament for Survivor Series. Meanwhile, The Rock rising through the tournament with assistance from the Corporation. The Rock and Mankind would meet in the finals. During the end of the match, Vince pulled the biggest swerve when The Rock had Mankind locked in the Sharpshooter. McMahon called for the timekeeper to ring the bell, reminiscent of the Montreal Screwjob the year before. As a result, The Rock became the new WWF Champion as McMahon revealed that he was in The Rock's corner the whole time. This was the ultimate betrayal for Mankind, as he and The Rock kicked off their feud. After many weeks of going after the Corporation, Mankind finally received his shot on December 29, 1998 when he defeated The Rock on RAW to become the new WWF Champion with help from Stone Cold. The show was taped and broadcast on January 4, 1999 which is the date that WWE recognizes. However, the night was almost bittersweet when WCW commentator Tony Schiavone revealed live on Nitro that Foley (who was once an employee for the company as Cactus Jack) would win the WWF Title. Tony followed that up with the infamously sarcastic line,  "That'll put a lot of butts in the seats." The plan backfired, as RAW's ratings skyrocketed in spite of Schiavone's comment. Foley believed that the comment was made by Tony from orders of bitter rival Eric Bischoff. Fans would soon come to live events with signs that said "Mick Foley put my butt in this seat". Mankind and Rock's feud would continue with classics including the "I Quit Match" at The Royal Rumble, where The Rock regained the title (1999 Match of the Year, as this match was highly documented on Beyond The Mat). Other matches included the Empty Arena Match during halftime of Super Bowl XXXII (Halftime Heat), where Mankind won the title back. He retained at St. Valentine's Day Massacre in a Last Man Standing Match. The feud concluded with a ladder match on RAW as the Rock regained the title to set up his match with Austin for WrestleMania XV. Mankind and The Rock would later become a tag team called "Rock-N-Sock Connection" as they were one of the most popular teams of the time. The team became 3-time Tag Team Champions. The "This is Your Life" segment for The Rock helped RAW receive an 8.4 rating, one of the highest ratings ever. Foley made his return from knee surgery as Mankind when he defeated Triple H and Stone Cold Steve Austin at Summerslam to win the WWF Championship for the third and final time. This ignited his feud with Triple H after The Game defeated him to win the WWF Title the next night on RAW. Foley soon shed his Mankind character, as he revealed his Cactus Jack T-Shirt, signaling his transition back to his most dangerous persona. This led to their Street Fight at Royal Rumble 2000 for the WWF Championship at Madison Square Garden. Triple H won after a brutal, classic fight when he pedigreed Cactus on a pile of thumbtacks. The feud culminated at No Way Out inside Hell In A Cell. If Foley lost, he would retire. During the match, Jack and Trips made their way to the top of the cell, much like Foley did with Taker. As Cactus prepared to piledrive Triple H on a flaming barbed wire 2x4, The Game reversed it with a back body drop sending Jack through the roof of the cell. As Foley crashed through the ceiling of the cell, he fell through the canvas. One Pedigree later, Mick would retire. Foley went away for a few weeks but returned at the request of Linda McMahon for another shot at the WWF Championship. At WrestleMania 2000, Mick Foley was involved in a Fatal Four Way Match for the WWF Title, with a McMahon in each corner (Triple H w/Stephanie, The Rock w/Vince, Big Show w/Shane, and Foley w/Linda). Triple H emerged as the winner, as Foley would move into a brief, but significant role as Commissioner. After taking time away in 2002, Mick returned in 2003 as he was honored with the newly retired Hardcore Championship. At WrestleMania XX, The Rock made his return reuniting with Foley as The Rock & Sock Connection in a Handicap Match with Evolution. Evolution won when Randy Orton pinned Foley, leading to a feud and the return of Cactus Jack. Cactus challenged Orton for the Intercontinental Championship in a Hardcore Match at Backlash. Randy remained champion after an intense match where he gave Cactus the RKO to barely pick up the win. In 2006, Foley engaged in his last major feud as he battled with Edge. The feud started after Foley refereed Edge's WWE Championship match with John Cena. Edge blamed Mick for his loss and attacked him after the match. The feud culminated in their Hardcore Match at WrestleMania 22, when Edge defeated Mick by spearing him through a flaming table. This would go on to become Mick's biggest WrestleMania moment. Foley would then turn heel and align himself with Edge and Lita to defeat Terry Funk, Tommy Dreamer, and Beulah McGillicutty at ECW One Night Stand. Foley would leave in 2008 for TNA to spin his wheels until he made his return to WWE in 2011. In 2013, Foley would be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame. Foley's legacy includes his innovation of Hardcore matches, Deathmatches, and HIAC matches, being a multi-time world champion, best-selling author and ambassador of wrestling. Have A Nice Day!!

Accomplishments:

Championship Wrestling Association

•CWA Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Gary Young[160]

Eastern Championship Wrestling / Extreme Championship Wrestling

• ECW World Tag Team Championship (2 times) – with Mikey Whipwreck

Extreme Mid-South Wrestling

• MSW North American Championship (3 times)[161]

George Tragos/Lou Thesz Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame

• Frank Gotch Award (2010)

•International Wrestling Association of Japan

• IWA World Tag Team Championship (IWA Japan version) (1 time) – with Tracy Smothers[163]

 ◦King of the Deathmatch (International Wrestling Association of Japan#1995 King of the Death Match Tournament 1995)

•North American Wrestling ◦NAW Heavyweight Championship (1 time)

•National Wrestling League ◦NWL Heavyweight Championship (1 time)

•Ozark Mountain Wrestling ◦OMW North American Heavyweight Championship (1 time)

•Pro Wrestling Illustrated ◦PWI Match of the Year (1998) vs. The Undertaker in a Hell in a Cell match at King of the Ring

 ◦PWI Match of the Year (1999) vs. The Rock in an "I Quit" match at Royal Rumble

 ◦PWI Most Inspirational Wrestler of the Year (1993)

 ◦PWI ranked him #19 of the 500 best singles wrestlers of the year in the PWI 500 in 1999

 ◦PWI ranked him #46 of the 500 best singles wrestlers of the PWI Years in 2003

•Steel City Wrestling ◦SCW Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with The Blue Meanie

•Total Nonstop Action Wrestling ◦TNA World Heavyweight Championship (1 time)

 ◦TNA Legends Championship (1 time)

•World Championship Wrestling ◦WCW World Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Kevin Sullivan

•World Class Wrestling Association ◦USWA World Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Scott Braddock

 ◦WCWA World Light Heavyweight Championship (1 time)

 ◦WCWA World Tag Team Championship (2 times) – with Super Zodiak II (1) and Scott Braddock (1)

•World Wrestling Federation/WWE ◦WWF Championship (3 times)

 WWF Hardcore Championship (1 time, inaugural)

 WWF Tag Team Championship (8 times) – with Stone Cold Steve Austin (1), Chainsaw Charlie (1), Kane (2), The Rock (3) and Al Snow (1)

 Slammy Award (1997) for Loose Screw

 WWE Hall of Fame (Class of 2013)

•Wrestling Observer Newsletter awards ◦

Best Brawler (1991–2000)

 ◦Best on Interviews (1995, 2004, 2006)

 ◦Feud of the Year (2000) vs. Triple H

 ◦Best Pro Wrestling Book (2010) for "Countdown to Lockdown"

 ◦Wrestling Observer Newsletter Hall of Fame (Class of 2000)

In Wrestling: •Finishing moves ◦As Mankind / Mick Foley ■Double arm DDT

 ■Mandible claw / Mr. Socko

As Cactus Jack ■Cactus Elbow / Hipbuster (Diving elbow drop from the ring apron to the outside of the ring)

 ■Double arm DDT

 ■Stump Puller (Pulling piledriver) – 1991–1997; used rarely thereafter

As Dude Love

 ■Double arm DDT

 ■Love Handle (Mandible claw)

 ■Sweet Shin Music (Superkick to the opponent's shin) – parodied from Shawn Michaels

Signature moves

■Cactus clothesline – Innovated

 ■Cactus Jack Crack Smash / Nestea Plunge (Senton to the outside of the ring, usually from the ring apron)

 ■Running knee lift to the face of an opponent seated in the corner

 ■Running swinging neckbreaker

32. Terry Funk: Much like Ric Flair, this man is the ultimate definition of longevity. Terry Funk is the most recognizable member of the Funk Family, with his Brother Dory Funk, Jr. Terry got his start in 1965 wrestling for his father Dory Funk, Sr's NWA promotion in Amarillo, Texas. Both he and his brother Dory, Jr. rose up the ranks in the promotion, much like any other siblings who work for their father (The Harts in Stampede, Von Erichs in World Class). In 1975, Terry Funk defeated Jack Brisco to become NWA World Heavyweight Champion. Funk was champion for fourteen months. His run would end in Toronto, Ontario Canada to Harley Race, who became champion for the second time. Terry would take some time away from the world title, as he and his brother would travel across the country (mainly in Texas, Florida and Detroit). The Funks would make names for themselves in Japan as well. Terry Funk made his World Wrestling Federation debut in 1985. In his debut on Championship Wrestling, Funk not only beat Aldo Marino, but he also attacked the ring attendant. Funk was known for carrying a branding iron, and used it to "brand" his defeated opponents. Terry teamed with his older brother Dory, along with Jimmy Jack Funk as they were managed by Jimmy Hart. At the time, Terry had a heated rivalry with Junkyard Dog, which led to a match at WrestleMania 2. The match was Terry and Dory ("Hoss") Funk verses JYD and Tito Santana. In 1989, Terry Funk returned to the NWA as a member of a faction called the J-Tex Corporation. The faction was managed by Gary Hart, and featured Great Muta, Funk, Buzz Sawyer, Dick Slater and Dragonmaster. It was a combination of wrestlers from Japan and Texas. Funk would start his feud with Ric Flair, after Flair defeated Ricky Steamboat at WrestleWar. Terry served as the Color Commentator for this match. After Flair won, Funk attacked him and gave him a Piledriver through the announce table. Flair was out of action until The Great American Bash where he faced Funk. Ric defeated Terry with the small package, but was attacked shortly afterwards by Gary Hart and Great Muta. Sting would make the save on Flair's behalf, as The Stinger already had his feud with Muta running simultanenously. This would lead into a Tag Team Match with Flair & Sting vs. Funk & Muta at the first ever Halloween Havoc, as this was called the "Thunderdome Match". The match would end with Flair locking Funk in the Figure Four Leglock for him and Sting to pull out the victory.  Although Funk was injured, he continued feuding with Nature Boy. Ric Flair would defeat Terry Funk at Clas of the Champions in an "I Quit" Match. Funk yelled "Yes I Quit" while he was locked in Flair's Figure-Four. Wrestling Observer gave this match a 5-Star Rating. One of the standout moments for this feud is when Funk put a plastic grocery store bag over Flair's head to suffocate him. This showed how much of a maniac Terry really was. He wasn't called "Middle Aged and Crazy" for nothing. Terry would shake Ric's hand after the match. After the handshake, Gary Hart's stable would attack Funk. Not only was Funk out of the stable, but the feud with Flair would ultimately end. Funk would briefly spend time as a color commentator. 1989 was a pivotal year for Terry Funk's career, as his feud with The Nature Boy would be named "Feud of the Year" by PWI. Later in his career, Terry would change his style from traditional southern style wrestling to more of a hardcore violent style. This is the stage of his legacy that he is most known for, and it would be a rennaissance for him. In 1994, Terry Funk promised to help the fledgling Eastern Championship Wrestling after they disbanded from the NWA by bringing notoriety. Eastern Championship Wrestling soon became Extreme Championship Wrestling. Terry became a staple of the history of ECW. His most notable feuds were with Cactus Jack, "The Franchise" Shane Douglas, Sandman, Sabu, and Tommy Dreamer. On August 20, 1995, IWA Japan held a King of the Death Match Tournament in Kawasaki Japan. Funk endured three extreme matches that included ladders, thumbacks and barbed-wires. In the finals, he lost to Cactus Jack in an exploding ring, C4 explosive, barbed wire match. This match goes down in history as one of the most legendary hardcore matches ever. I would say this the most extreme, next to Muta's Deathmatches that used the Muta Scale. Funk continued to elevate the profile of ECW as he headlined their first PPV called "Barely Legal"(4/13/1997). That night, Terry defeated Raven for the ECW Championship. Earlier that night, he defeated The Sandman and Stevie Richards in a Triple Threat Match to become the number one contender. Funk would later lose the title to Sabu in a Barbed Wire Match at ECW Born to be Wired. The match was so brutal, that both men had to be cut out of the barbed wire at the end of the match. Sabu's biceps were visibly torn open by the barbed wire, as the wound was taped for him to continue the match. In September 1997, a show was held in Amarillo Texas to honor Funk. The show was called "WrestleFest- 50 Years of Funk", as it was made to celebrate the careers of himself, his father and his brother. In the main event, Terry lost to then WWF Champion Bret Hart. However, before the match started, Paul Heyman presented Terry with a belt that was paid for through a collection taken up by the ECW roster. It was declared the Lifetime ECW World Heavyweight Championship to honor his contributions. This match was featured on "Beyond The Mat". In 1998, Funk returned to WWF as Chainsaw Charlie. Funk teamed up with Mick Foley "Cactus Jack" as they feuded with the New Age Outlaws. At WrestleMania XIV, Cactus and Chainsaw defeated the Outlaws in a Dumpster Match to win the World Tag Team Titles. The next night on RAW, the Outlaws regained the titles. Funk then lost to Foley in a Falls Count Anywhere Match on Raw. In late 1998, Terry Funk would return to ECW to feud with Tommy Dreamer going into early 1999. However, Terry fell ill before they could have an actual match as he "retired" once again in mid-1999. Terry Funk wrestled for WCW in 2000, as he became a three time Hardcore Champion (a failed attempt to duplicate the WWF Hardcore Title). Funk also became a two-time United States Champion (the first time was under the NWA banner) as WCW continued to sink. In 2006, Funk would return to WWE for part time appearances. This time, he would feud with longtime friend Mick Foley. At ECW One Night Stand 2006, the team of Terry Funk, Tommy Dreamer and Beulah lost to Foley, Edge and Lita. In 2009, Terry Funk would have his name etched in history as he was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in his homestate of Texas. Terry Funk is a true Texas Pioneer with a well versed career. Funk received his greatest exposure in his latter years, as he became a founding father of Hardcore Wrestling.

Accomplishments:

All Japan Pro Wrestling

• World's Strongest Tag Determination League (1977, 1979, 1982) – with Dory Funk, Jr.

• Cauliflower Alley Club
  • Iron Mike Mazurki Award (2005)

• Championship Wrestling from Florida
  • NWA Florida Heavyweight Championship (1 time)
  • NWA Florida Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Dory Funk, Jr.
  • NWA Florida Television Championship (1 time)
  • NWA North American Tag Team Championship (Florida version) (1 time) – with Dory Funk, Jr.
  • NWA Southern Heavyweight Championship (Florida version) (2 times)
  • NWA World Heavyweight Championship (1 time)

• Eastern Championship Wrestling / Extreme Championship Wrestling
  • ECW Television Championship (1 time)
  • ECW World Heavyweight Championship (2 times)
  • Hardcore Hall of Fame (2005)

• George Tragos/Lou Thesz Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame
  • Class of 2010^[30]

• Georgia Championship Wrestling
  • NWA Georgia Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Dory Funk, Jr.
  • NWA Georgia Television Championship (1 time)

• International Wrestling Association of Japan
  • IWA World Heavyweight Championship (2 times)

• Juggalo Championship Wrestling
  • JCW Heavyweight Championship (1 time)

• Mid-Atlantic Championship Wrestling / World Championship Wrestling
  • WCW Hardcore Championship (2 times)
  • NWA (Mid-Atlantic)/WCW United States Heavyweight Championship (2 times)
  • WCW Hall of Fame (Class of 1995)

• NWA Hollywood Wrestling
  • NWA Americas Heavyweight Championship (1 time)
  • NWA International Tag Team Championship (3 times) – with Dory Funk, Jr.
  • NWA World Tag Team Championship (Los Angeles version) (1 time) – with Dory Funk, Jr.

• NWA Western States Sports
  • NWA Brass Knuckles Championship (Amarillo version) (2 times)
  • NWA International Tag Team Championship (2 times) – with Dory Funk, Jr.
  • NWA Western States Heavyweight Championship (7 times)
  • NWA Western States Tag Team Championship (2 times) – with Ricky Romero
  • NWA World Tag Team Championship (Texas version) (2 times) – with Dory Funk, Jr.

• Pro-Pain Pro Wrestling
  • 3PW World Heavyweight Championship (1 time)

• Pro Wrestling Illustrated
  • PWI Feud of the Year (1989) vs. Ric Flair
  • PWI Most Inspirational Wrestler of the Year (1997)^[31]
  • PWI Wrestler of the Year (1976)
  • PWI ranked him #22 of the top 500 singles wrestlers in the PWI 500 in 1991^[32]
  • PWI ranked him #22 of the top 500 singles wrestlers of the "PWI Years" in 2003^[33]
  • PWI ranked him #9 of the top 100 tag teams of the "PWI Years" with Dory Funk, Jr. in 2003^[33]

• Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum
  • Class of 2004

• Southwest Championship Wrestling
  • SCW Southwest Heavyweight Championship (1 time)
  • SCW World Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Dory Funk, Jr.

• St. Louis Wrestling Hall of Fame
  • Class of 2010

• St. Louis Wrestling Club
  • NWA Missouri Heavyweight Championship (1 time)

• Stampede Wrestling
  • Stampede Wrestling Hall of Fame^[34]

• Tokyo Sports
  • Best Bout Award (1980) with Dory Funk, Jr. vs. Giant Baba and Jumbo Tsuruta on December 11^[35]
  • Popularity Prize (1979)^[36]
  • Special Service Award (1983)^[35]

• United States Wrestling Association
  • USWA Unified World Heavyweight Championship (1 time)

• World Wrestling Federation / World Wrestling Entertainment
  • WWF World Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Cactus Jack
  • WWE Hall of Fame (Class of 2009)

• National Wrestling Alliance
  • NWA Hall of Fame (Class of 2009)^[37]

• Wrestling Observer Newsletter awards
  • 5 Star Match (1984) with Dory Funk, Jr. vs. Bruiser Brody and Stan Hansen on December 8
  • 5 Star Match (1989) vs. Ric Flair on November 15
  • Best Brawler (1989)
  • Best Heel (1989)
  • Best on Interviews (1989)
  • Feud of the Year (1989) vs. Ric Flair
  • Wrestling Observer Newsletter Hall of Fame (Class of 1996)

In Wrestling:

Finishing moves

• Piledriver^[1]
• Sleeper hold^[1]
• Spinning toe hold^[1][2][26]

• Signature moves
  • Atomic drop^[26]
  • Brainbuster^[26]
  • Moonsault^[1]
  • Punching combination^[26]
  • Stunner^[1]

33. Jushin "Thunder" Liger: One of Japan's most decorated and innovative wrestlers in history. Jushin "Thunder" Liger has been world renowned for the legend that he became in Japan for many years. Liger is one of the most influential and decorated Cruiserweights of the 90's besides the likes of Rey Mysterio, Eddie Guerrero, Ultimo Dragon to name a few. Liger competed in places like CMLL, Dragon Gate, New Japan Pro Wrestling, Wrestling Association R (WAR), as well as WCW. In NJPW, Jushin won multiple Junior Light Heavyweight and Junior Heavyweight Titles. Liger not only raised the bar, but he was the measuring stick for Cruiserweights and Japanese Wrestlers at that time. The only thing that kept him from winning the 1996 J-Crown Tournament was a brain tumor that he had removed. He would win two in 1995 and 2000. Besides that, Jushin Liger was a Pioneer in many ways. He has wrestled the likes of Brian Pillman, Ultimo Dragon, Rey Mysterio and others. Jushin Liger was an innovator with moves like the sit-out powerbomb, tilt-a-whirl backbreaker, suicide dive, top rope brainbuster and shooting star press. His most famous moves are the Liger Bomb and the Liger Plex. He would also wrestle the likes of the Pegasus Kid (Chris Benoit), "Macho Man" Randy Savage and future WWE Star Bryan Danielson (Daniel Bryan). When the time is right, a Hall of Fame Induction would be the perfect way to honor a trendsetter like Jushin "Thunder" Liger.

Accomplishments:

• All-Star Promotions
  • World Heavy Middleweight Championship (2 times)
• Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre
  • CMLL Universal Championship (2010)^[33]
  • CMLL World Middleweight Championship (1 time)^[31]
  • CMLL World Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Hiroshi Tanahashi^[48]
• Dragon Gate
  • Open the Dream Gate Championship (1 time)^[1]
• Jersey All Pro Wrestling
  • JAPW Light Heavyweight Championship (1 time)^[52][74]
• Michinoku Pro Wrestling / North Eastern Wrestling
  • British Commonwealth Junior Heavyweight Championship (2 times)^[1]
  • Super J-Cup (2000)^[5]
• New Japan Pro Wrestling
  • IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship (11 times)^[1][9]
  • IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Championship (6 times) – with The Great Sasuke (1), El Samurai (1), Minoru Tanaka, (1), Koji Kanemoto (1), AKIRA (1), and Tiger Mask (1)^[1]
  • J-Crown (1 time)^[75]
  • NWA World Junior Heavyweight Championship (2 times)^[1][76]
  • NWA World Welterweight Championship (1 time)^[1]
  • UWA World Junior Light Heavyweight Championship (1 time)^[1]
  • WWA World Junior Light Heavyweight Championship (1 time)^[1]
  • WWF Light Heavyweight Championship (1 time)^[1]1
  • WAR International Junior Heavyweight Championship (1 time)^[77]
  • Top/Best of the Super Juniors (1992, 1994, 2001)^[78]
  • G1 Climax Junior Heavyweight Tag League (2001) – with El Samurai^[79]
  • Naeba Prince Hotel Cup Tag Tournament (2001) – with Yuji Nagata^[80]
  • Young Lion Cup (1986)^[81]
  • Outstanding Performance Award (2000)^[82]
  • Tag Team Best Bout (2003) with Koji Kanemoto vs. Kotaro Suzuki and Naomichi Marufuji on June 10^[83]
• Osaka Pro Wrestling
  • Osaka Pro Wrestling Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Takehiro Murahama^[1]
• Pro Wrestling Illustrated
  • Ranked #8 of the top 500 singles wrestlers in the PWI 500 in 2000^[5]
  • Ranked #12 of the top 500 singles wrestlers of the "PWI Years" in 2003^[6]
  • Ranked #47 of the top 100 tag teams of the "PWI Years" with El Samurai in 2003
• Pro Wrestling Noah
  • GHC Junior Heavyweight Championship (1 time)^[7]
  • GHC Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Championship (1 time) – Tiger Mask^[84]
  • NTV G+ Cup Junior Heavyweight Tag League (2013) – Tiger Mask^[84]
• Tokyo Sports
  • Best Newcomer Award (1985)^[85]
  • Outstanding Performance Award (1994)^[86]
• Vendetta Pro Wrestling
  • Vendetty Award: Special Guest Star of the Year (2015)^[87]
• World Championship Wrestling
  • WCW Light Heavyweight Championship (1 time)^[1][9]
• Wrestle Association R
  • WAR International Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with El Samurai^[1]
  • Super J-Cup (1995)^[88]
• Wrestling Observer Newsletter
• 5 Star Match (1994) vs. The Great Sasuke on July 8
• Best Gimmick (1989)^[89]
• Best Flying Wrestler (1989–1993)^[89]
• Best Technical Wrestler (1989–1992)^[89]
• Best Wrestling Maneuver (1987, 1988) Shooting star press^[89]
• Match of the Year (1990) vs. Naoki Sano on January 31 in Osaka, Japan^[89]
• Most Outstanding Wrestler (1990–1992)^[89]
• Rookie of the Year (1984) tied with Tom Zenk^[89]
• Wrestling Observer Newsletter Hall of Fame (Class of 1999)

In Wrestling: 

• Finishing moves
  • Brainbuster,^[1][8] sometimes from the top rope^[66]
  • CTB – Crash Thunder Buster (Belly-to-back wheelbarrow facebuster)^[5][6]
  • Elevated DDT^[67] – Late 1980s–Early 1990s; used rarely thereafter
  • Kuchu Dojime Otoshi (Lou Thesz press pin)^[8] – 2009–present
  • Liger Bomb (Standing or a running high-angle sitout powerbomb)^[7][8][9]
  • Liger Suplex (Bridging wrist-clutch leg hook belly-to-back suplex)^[12]
  • Shooting star press^[7] – Innovated;^[2][9] 1987–1997
• Signature moves
  • Abisegeri^[68] (Rolling koppu kick)^[1]
  • Fisherman buster,^[1] sometimes from the top rope^[1]
  • Frankensteiner,^[12] sometimes from the top rope^[1]
  • Frog splash^[1]
  • Kneeling reverse piledriver^[1]
  • Moonsault^[12]
  • Shotei (Palm thrust)^[1][8]
  • Surfboard^[1]

34. Brock Lesnar: The Next Big Thing. The Beast. The Conqueror. Brock Lesnar is truly a Once In a Lifetime Athletic Specimen. Brock is not even human. He looks like a mutant who came from the Weapon X Experiment. Lesnar is the Quintessential example of the term "Freak of Nature", and I mean that in a good way. Brock's size, strength, speed and athleticism are all of the tools that make others envious. Lesnar got his start as an Amateur Wrestler as he was North Dakota State University's Heavyweight Champion from 1997-1999. Brock would transfer to the University of Minnesota where he would shine even brighter. While at Minnesota, Lesnar was also recognized as an NCAA Division I Champion and Big Ten Conference Champion among other Collegiate Honors before making the jump to join WWE Developmental Territory Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVW) shortly after his graduation in 2000. While in OVW, Brock became friends with his future manager Paul Heyman. During his time there, Brock formed a tag team called "The Minnesota Stretching Crew" with former college roommate Shelton Benjamin. Brock and Shelton won the OVW Southern Tag Team Championships three times. Lesnar wrestled several dark matches between 2001 and 2002 before being called to the main roster. Brock made his official WWE main roster debut on March 18, 2002 the night after WrestleMania X8 (18). Lesnar came through the crowd to attack Al Snow, Maven and Spike Dudley during their match. Brock arrived with Heyman, who was giving him instructions. When the brand extension was first introduced, Lesnar was drafted to the RAW Brand. It was later confirmed that Heyman was Brock's agent, as Paul gave him the monicker of "The Next Big Thing". Brock's first feud was with the Hardy Boyz. Lesnar and Jeff Hardy wrestled each other at "Backlash" which was Brock's first televised match. Lesnar won in dominating fashion by Knockout after Jeff could not respond. The next night on RAW, Brock destroyed Jeff's brother Matt by KO as well. In June 2002, Lesnar would rise even further by winning the King of the Ring Tournament. In the finals, Brock defeated Rob Van Dam. After winning KOTR, Brock would also be crowned the number 1 contender to the WWE Undisputed Championship at Summerslam. On July 22, Brock Lesnar would join the Smackdown! Brand, where he would achieve his greatest success. After blowing through a returning Hulk Hogan, Lesnar transitioned into a feud with WWE Champion The Rock. At Summerslam, Brock Lesnar made history by defeating The Rock to become the youngest WWE Champion at age 25 (breaking the record held by Rocky himself). Rock was going to Hollywood, so it made sense for the transition and passing of the torch. At this time, the WWE Championship was defended on both brands, as RAW General Manager Eric Bischoff expected Brock to return to RAW the next night. However, plans changed as Lesnar became the exclusive WWE Champion for the Smackdown! Brand. This caused Eric to bring back the World Heavyweight Championship for RAW. The Undisputed Title would go back to being simply called the WWE Championship. Brock was on a meteoric rise like a Supernova, as he would battle head to head with The Undertaker. This led to a match at Unforgiven, that ended in double DQ. Lesnar retained the title. This led to a rematch for the Title at No Mercy in October. Brock defeated Undertaker at No Mercy in a gruesome Hell In A Cell Match. You could say that this was the first time that Brock "conquered" The Deadman. Heading into the match, Brock broke Taker's hand with a propane tank. During the match, Taker wore a cast on his hand. Heyman begged McMahon to not let him use the cast during the match, but his request was denied. The match ended with Brock reversing a Tombstone Piledriver into an F-5 for the victory to retain his WWE Championship. Six days after his HIAC match, Brock successfully defended his WWE Title with Heyman at Rebellion against Edge. Brock's next opponent was Big Show. Heyman was more convinced than anyone else that Brock could not defeat The Big Show, as he tried to talk him out of defending the title. Lesnar refused and would defend his title against Show at Madison Square Garden for Survivor Series. By the end of the match, Brock nailed Big Show with an F-5 and went for the pinfall. However, Paul betrayed him by pulling the referee out of the ring. Big Show capitalized and chokeslammed Brock on a steel chair to win the WWE Championship. This was Brock's first official loss via pinfall. From this moment, Lesnar turned face. After Survivor Series, Heyman made it clear that Brock would not get a rematch for the title, as he snuck a special clause into the contract. Brock interfered in Big Show's WWE Championship defense against Kurt Angle at Armageddon. With the interference, Angle became the new WWE Champion. It was later revealed that Paul Heyman was also Angle's manager (Kurt Angle was also a Paul Heyman guy). Overall, Brock had a flagship year, as PWI awarded him the "Most Improved Wrestler" and "Wrestler of the Year" for the first time in his career. Wrestling Observer called The F-5 the "Best Wrestling Maneuver" for the year. This was the jump start of a great rivalry between two outstanding amateur stars, with great mat experience. Brock would go on to win the 2003 Royal Rumble, becoming the number 1 contender. Lesnar chose to challenge Kurt Angle for the WWE Championship at WrestleMania XIX. This match was one of the many standout matches on an otherwise stacked WrestleMania Card. Brock's only flaw (and most famous one) was where he botched a shooting star press. Thankfully, he recovered to give Kurt the F-5 to become a 2-time WWE Champion. This was the start of a trilogy between the two over the WWE Crown, as Kurt would win in an amazing match at Summerslam before Brock would reclaim the Gold in a 60-minute Ironman Match on Smackdown on September 16, 2003. That Ironman match on Smackdown won the "Match of the Year" Award from PWI and their rivalry won "Feud of the Year" from PWI and Wrestling Observer. Brock became a 3-time WWE Champion, and Royal Rumble Winner by the age of 26. Brock would close out the last WWE Title run of his first WWE tenure with a thrilling match at No Way Out against Eddie Guerrero. Eddie would defeat Brock with the help of Bill Goldberg, as Lesnar would transition into a full-time feud with the man that was his WCW equivalent 5 to 6 years earlier. However, the dream match became a nightmare because of the news of Brock and Goldberg both making departures. At WrestleMania XX, the fans booed Lesnar and Goldberg out of not only MSG, but New York overall. Goldberg went on to win, as Special Referee Stone Cold Steve Austin sent them both out of WWE with two Stone Cold Stunners. Austin's involvement was the only redeeming quality of the whole match. Lesnar was out of the door and on his way to the NFL to play for the Minnesota Vikings. Unfortunately, Brock was cut from the Vikings and did not even make the final roster. Then, Lesnar made his transition into New Japan Pro Wrestling. During his time in NJPW, Lesnar won the IWGP Heavyweight Championship under the name "Bork Laser". Brock was relatively quiet in NJPW, and was there until making the jump to MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) in 2008. Lesnar received his greatest Mainstream attention with UFC, as he was named "Rookie of the Year" and "Biggest Draw" by Inside Fights (MMA Publication) in 2008. Sports Illustrated also named him the "Top Newcomer of the Year". Brock also won the UFC Championship, and was the Cover Athlete for UFC Undisputed in 2010. Brock's name recognition elevated to another level. Wrestling Observer even recognized his success in UFC, as he was named the Best Box Office Draw from 2008-2010, and the MMA Most Valuable Fighter during that same time. Unfortunately, his UFC Career would wind down after suffering from Diverticulitis. Lesnar would make his long awaited WWE return the night after WrestleMania 28 on RAW, when he drilled John Cena with an F5. It is only fitting that Brock made his return the night after WrestleMania, since he made his debut the night after WM X8, ten years earlier. After his crushing loss to The Rock, John Cena would move into a storyline with Brock Lesnar that would culminate at Extreme Rules. During the match, Brock beat John from left to right, to the point where Cena was busted open. Lesnar dominated throughout the match. Sadly, Cena would emerge as the winner after nailing Brock with the chain right before finishing with The Attitude Adjustment. After a months worth of heavy buildup and anticipation, Lesnar's return starts on a sour note with this loss. This loss hurt Lesnar's mystique coming back from UFC, and gave a nasty blow to MMA. Brock would then move into a feud with Triple H during the Summer of 2012. During the storyline, Brock would come after everyone close to The Game, so that he could have a match with him at Summerslam. Trips agreed after Lesnar broke his arm, and gave Shawn Michaels the F5 before breaking his arm as well. Brock defeated Trips at Summerslam. However, The Cerebral Assassin would get his revenge by defeating The Beast at WrestleMania. At this point, Lesnar was 1-2 in PPV matches since his return. In between, Lesnar would manhandle the likes of Big Show and Mark Henry. During the Summer of 2013, Brock Lesnar would go into an intense rivalry with CM Punk. This was "The Best vs. The Beast", as Punk proclaimed to be "The Best In The World" as Lesnar was "The Beast". Paul Heyman would betray CM Punk and align himself with the man who he was originally the manager of, Brock himself. The feud drew parallels of The Incredible Hulk vs. Wolverine. At Summerslam, CM Punk even wore Wolverine's colors during the match. Lesnar vs. Punk was for many including myself, the match of the night. It was the most thrilling story. Brock would win with an F-5 on the chair. Cena vs. Bryan won "Match of the Year", but Punk vs. Brock was my choice for the best Match of the Year. After his feud with Punk blew off, Brock would reemerge as he would challenge The Undertaker's Streak at WrestleMania XXX. There wasn't much buildup leading into Mania, but the aftermath is what REALLY made Headlines. Even though the match was subpar to mediocre at best, Brock Lesnar surprised the entire world when he did what 21 others failed to do: He BROKE THE STREAK!! Brock Lesnar made history by Ending The Undertaker's WrestleMania Streak after three F-5's. Taker suffered a concussion during the match, and was rushed to the Hospital afterwards with Vince McMahon by his side. The fans and even Heyman himself were in utter silence as Lesnar conquered The Phenom. I remember watching and was silent as well. The next day, it made headlines all over the internet, on Magazines, etc. No one knew the outcome, but Vince, Taker, Brock and Heyman for the most part. It was ultimately Vince's call. There were mixed reactions about the decision. Fans and veterans like Stone Cold, Shawn Michaels, Triple H and others were not big fans of the idea. Guys like Edge and Jericho also were not very supportive, but they understood. As Edge said, Brock should not have lost to Cena and Triple H. Those losses put WWE against a wall, and they had to find a way to make up for them the best way that they could by ending the Streak. Jericho also understood that if Brock suffered another big loss, that would hurt his box office value. Both sides make great points. Either way, Vince dropped a Bombshell on the 30th Anniversary of WrestleMania. His mission was to create mainstream attention, and he accomplished it. By that point, it was set in stone that Brock would go after the WWE Title. By June 2014, John Cena won the WWE/WHC as the stage was set for Brock to challenge the man that beat him in his return match in 2012. At Summerslam 2014, Brock Lesnar annihilated John Cena. Cena looked like a life-sized toy as he was thrown from left to right without even putting on much of a fight himself. Brock assassinated John Cena that night to win the WWE World Heavyweight Championship. This match pretty much made people forget about the Extreme Rules Match two years prior. Brock Lesnar returned to the Top of the Mountain with those two landmark victories in one year. PWI named Lesnar "Wrestler of the Year". Even with his limited schedule, Brock Lesnar left a giant mark on the landscape of wrestling.

Accomplishments:

Collegiate wrestling

• Big Ten Conference
  • Big Ten Conference Champion (1999, 2000)
• National Collegiate Athletic Association
  • NCAA Division I Champion (2000)
  • NCAA Division I Runner-up (1999)
• National Junior College Athletic Association
  • NJCAA All-American (1997, 1998)
  • NJCAA National Champion (1998)
• North Dakota State University's annual Bison tournament
  • Heavyweight Champion (1997–1999)

Mixed martial arts

• Inside Fights
  • Biggest Draw (2008)
  • Rookie of the Year (2008)
• Sherdog Awards
  • Beatdown of the Year (2009)

• Sports Illustrated
  • Top Newcomer of the Year (2008)

• Ultimate Fighting Championship
  • UFC Heavyweight Championship (One time)
  • Knockout of the Night (One time)
  • Submission of the Night (One time)
  • Tied (Cain Velasquez, Randy Couture, Andrei Arlovski and Tim Sylvia) for most consecutive UFC Heavyweight Championship defenses (Two)
  • Cover Athlete for UFC Undisputed 2010
• World MMA Awards
  • Breakthrough Fighter of the Year (2009)
• Wrestling Observer Newsletter awards
  • Best Box Office Draw (2008–2010)^[190]
  • MMA Most Valuable Fighter (2008–2010)

Professional wrestling

• New Japan Pro Wrestling/Inoki Genome Federation
  • IWGP Heavyweight Championship (1 time)
• Ohio Valley Wrestling
  • OVW Southern Tag Team Championship (3 times) – with Shelton Benjamin
• Pro Wrestling Illustrated
  • PWI Feud of the Year (2003) vs. Kurt Angle
  • PWI Match of the Year (2003) vs. Kurt Angle – Iron Man match on September 16^[192]
  • PWI Most Improved Wrestler of the Year (2002)^[193]
  • PWI Wrestler of the Year (2002, 2014)
  • PWI ranked him #1 of the 500 best singles wrestlers in the PWI 500 in 2003^[196]
• Wrestling Observer Newsletter awards
  • Best Brawler (2003)^[197]
  • Best Wrestling Maneuver (2002) F-5
  • Feud of the Year (2003) vs. Kurt Angle^[198]
  • Most Improved Wrestler (2002, 2003)^[199]
• World Wrestling Entertainment/WWE
  • WWE Championship/WWE World Heavyweight Championship (4 times)
  • King of the Ring (2002)
  • Guinness World Record: Youngest person to win the World Wrestling Entertainment Championship (August 2002)
  • Royal Rumble (2003)
  • Slammy Award for The OMG Shocking Moment of the Year (2014) - Defeating The Undertaker's WrestleMania streak at WrestleMania XXX

In Wrestling:

Finishing moves

• F-5 (WWE/OVW) / Verdict (NJPW/IGF) (Spin-out fireman's carry facebuster)^[1]
• Kimura lock – 2012–present

Signature moves

• Backbreaker
• Brock Lock (Side bearhug / Over-the-shoulder single leg Boston crab) – 2002–2004
• Double or a triple non-release powerbomb
• Fireman's carry sitout powerslam – OVW
• Knee lift to the opponent's midsection
• Multiple suplex variations
  • Belly-to-back
  • Dragon
  • German^{[178][179][181][182]}
  • Overhead belly-to-belly^[1]
  • Snap
  • Super
• Multiple turnbuckle thrusts
• Powerslam
• Rear naked choke
• Running corner shoulder block
• Shooting star press
• Standing double leg takedown followed by mounted punches or forearms

35. Ultimate Warrior: This man is an enigma all to himself. He came to wrestling like a SuperNova and burned brightly during his brief time. A wildly colorful figure that was the perfect fit for Vince McMahon's Cartoonish, larger than life WWF of the Golden 80's. Warrior's intense persona, shredded physique, heavy metal hair, and multi-color face paint made him look like a life size cartoon character from a show like Thundercats. Jim Hellwig got his start in wrestling in 1985, as a member of the BladeRunners Tag Team with future WCW Centerpiece Steve Borden (Sting) in UWF. By 1986, Warrior would go to World Class Championship Wrestling (WCCW) while Sting would go into a different direction. While in WCCW, Warrior would meet future WWF rival, Ravishing Rick Rude. This was a sign of great things to come when both men jumped into a larger spotlight. In 1987, Warrior joined the World Wrestling Federation as The Dingo Warrior. By 1988, Warrior's dominance would help him escalate even further to more exposure. At WrestleMania IV, he defeated Hercules Hernandez. At Summerslam, Warrior was rewarded for his impact as a draw when he defeated The Honky Tonk Man in record time to win his first WWF Intercontinental Championship. Honky held the title for 450 days, and Warrior made him look like a nameless jobber. This would transition Ultimate Warrior into a feud with a very familiar face, Ravishing Rick Rude. This time, Rude joined the Heenan Family as Bobby Heenan became his manager. At WrestleMania V, Rude defeated Warrior to become the new WWF Intercontinental Champion. Heenan held Warrior's foot down as Rude scored the pinfall. The feud would continue into Summerslam, as The Warrior regained the title from the Ravishing One. Warrior's rivalry with Rude would be put on hold, as he would go into an intense war with WWF Champion Hulk Hogan. This was the first time that the two most popular babyfaces (heroes) would headline WrestleMania. The feud started at the Royal Rumble and culminated at WrestleMania VI. This was known as "The Ultimate Challenge" at The Skydome in Toronto, Ontario Canada. Warrior was the IC Champion, while Hogan was the WWF Champion, in a Title vs. Title match. That night, The Ultimate Warrior captured his greatest win as he defeated The Hulkster to become a double champion. This was the defining moment and event of the Warrior's career as he defeated the biggest star in wrestling not only then, but possibly ever. This was symbolized as the "Passing of the Torch" as PWI named this "Match of the Year". Ultimate Warrior signified a change of the times. He would then be placed as the Top Star of the Company as Hogan took a break from that spot. However, Warrior's run did not translate into the success that others envisioned. Warrior would enter into a feud with "Macho King" Randy Savage, as Sherri begged Warrior on Savage's behalf for a title shot. Warrior defiantly said "NO!". At the Royal Rumble, Ultimate Warrior would put the WWF Title on the line against Iraqi Supporter Sgt. Slaughter. During the match, Savage hit Warrior with his sceptre to help Slaughter win the title. The feud between Warrior and "Macho King" would escalate, as they agreed to put their Careers on the Line at WrestleMania VII. This match was the one that overshadowed everything else, including Hogan vs. Slaughter. Warrior defeated Savage in a very special match, causing Macho Man to "retire". Warrior would then have simultaneous feuds with the likes of Jake "The Snake" Roberts and rising new star The Undertaker. As those feuds would dissolve, Ultimate Warrior teamed with Hulk Hogan to defeat the Triangle of Terror (Sgt. Slaughter, Col. Mustafa, Gen. Adnan) at Summerslam. This would be the last appearance of the Ultimate Warrior for nearly a year, as he and Vince McMahon would have a falling out regarding a financial issue. Ultimate Warrior would make his surprise return at WrestleMania VIII, when he came to Hogan's rescue against Sid and Papa Shango. Warrior would then go into a feud with Shango where he had a curse that caused him to throw up. This was not Warrior's biggest feud but got Papa over. Warrior would then challenge Macho Man for his newly crowned WWF Championship. Ric Flair would get involved and stir things between Warrior and Savage. Savage and Warrior had a terrific match at Summerslam, nearly close to what they did at WM VII. It did not end in the same fashion, as Flair and Perfect interfered. Ultimate Warrior and Macho Man formed a brief team called "The Macho Maniacs" as they were set to face Flair and Razor Ramon at Survivor Series. However, those plans changed when Ultimate Warrior was soon fired after having tested positive for steroids along with Davey Boy Smith, Jim The Anvil Neidhart and others that year. Instead, Mr. Perfect became his replacement. Warrior's return was named "Comeback of the Year" by PWI. Warrior left a huge void when he was away from the ring from 93-96. During that time, the climate of wrestling drastically changed as he made his return in 1996. During his time away, WWF and WCW ran smear campaigns claiming that he was "dead". WCW created an imposter version of him called "The Renegade" in 1995. The REAL Warrior returned to WWF in 1996, as he was involved in a storyline with Jerry Lawler that fell flat. Warrior's run in 1996 saw him as a shell of who he once was. By this time, he was no longer the attraction that he was in his prime a decade earlier. He vanished once again before making another lackluster comeback in 1998. In 1998, Ultimate Warrior joined WCW to restart his feud with a familiar foe, Hulk Hogan. This time, Hogan was a villain as he was Hollywood Hogan, leader of the NWO. Warrior reminded Hollywood of their showdown at WrestleMania VI, and in typical WCW fashion, they replayed a rivalry that was out of date. WCW milked the nostalgia yet again with Hogan, as they did for his feuds with Piper and Savage. At Halloween Havoc, Warrior and Hogan were not the same as they were eight years earlier at the Skydome at WM VI. In the end, Hogan got his "revenge" as he defeated Warrior. The match was horrible, as was the rest of the story. However, Warrior still got to reunite with Sting. Warrior would leave again shortly after, as he remained under the radar for a very long time. Sadly, WWE would slander the Ultimate Warrior's name and legacy in their WORST DVD Documentary in History: The Self-Destruction of the Ultimate Warrior. The entire documentary was mean-spirited, as Vince McMahon, Hulk Hogan, Bobby Heenan, Sgt. Slaughter and others threw piles of dirt on Warrior's career. Stars like Chris Jericho, Batista and Edge were only doing what they were told. The biggest problems came from Warrior's peers such as Hogan and DiBiase to name a few. Warrior was painted as the biggest villain in wrestling history, as there was nothing positive said about him whatsoever. It was completely one-sided. For a decade, Warrior stayed away from the WWE. In his time away from wrestling, Warrior would be involved in various political issues. Finally, at the end of 2013, The Ultimate Warrior made peace with WWE as he agreed to sponsor WWE 2k14. This was a bright day for fans all over the world because it was a sign of greater things to come. Warrior signed a very lucrative legends contract that included being a part of the 2k14 video game, Hall of Fame induction and finally, the DVD that told HIS side of the story. Warrior agreed to these terms under one condition: If he could tell his story. WWE agreed, and at the start of 2014, Ultimate Warrior was the first name announced for the Hall of Fame Class of 2014. Like Bret and Bruno, this was a very special homecoming. Ultimate Warrior was welcomed back with open arms and treated like royalty. As a result, WWE REMOVED the Self-Destruction DVD from the market and replaced it with the new story. The story covered every step of Warrior's return. Warrior made amends with Vince, Hogan, Triple H, and others. WrestleMania weekend was Warrior's farewell tour as we would now realize. Ultimate Warrior made his final appearance on RAW the night after Mania, as he gave what would be an ominous speech. On the way to the ring, he did not look well to begin with. Sadly, Ultimate Warrior passed away from a heart attack the day after RAW. I give props to WWE for writing the wrong that they made in 2004-2005 with that disgraceful Self-Destruction DVD and telling the right story of Warrior's legacy. Warrior had a short and sporadic career, which is what keeps him from being ranked much higher. However, his career was like a SuperNova. When it burned, it burned brightly and that is the perfect way to describe. The Ultimate Legend lives on.

Accomplishments:

Nu-Wrestling Evolution

• NWE World Heavyweight Championship (1 time)

• Pro Wrestling Illustrated
  • Comeback of the Year (1992)
  • Feud of the Year (1991) vs. The Undertaker
  • Match of the Year (1990) vs. Hulk Hogan at WrestleMania VI
  • PWI ranked him No. 9 of the top 500 singles wrestlers in the PWI 500 in 1992
  • PWI ranked him No. 101 of the top 500 singles wrestlers of the "PWI Years" in 2003

• World Class Wrestling Association
  • WCWA Texas Heavyweight Championship (1 time)
  • WCWA World Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Lance Von Erich

• World Wrestling Federation / WWE
  • WWF Championship (1 time)
  • WWF Intercontinental Championship (2 times)
  • WWE Hall of Fame (Class of 2014)
  • Slammy Award for Surprise Return of the Year (2014)

In Wrestling:

Finishing moves

• Ultimate Splash (Running splash, most of the time, to a face down opponent)

• Signature moves
  • Atomic drop
  • Gorilla press drop
  • Leaping shoulder block
  • Multiple clotheslines

36. Ted DiBiase: Everybody has a price. This man's price was very valuable, as Ted DiBiase was one of the premiere heels of his generation. During the course of his storied career, Ted has held numerous titles across different promotions during the Territory Era of Wrestling. His cutting-edge villain promos with his trademark laugh are what garnered him his greatest mainstream success as "The Million Dollar Man". He has always had a reputation of being technically sound in the ring, and his peers will agree. DiBiase was trained by Terry Funk and Dory Funk, Jr. However, he made his debut in professional wrestling as a referee in June 1974 with the Amarillo territory that was owned by the Funks themselves. In 1975, Ted went to the Mid-South territory that was run by Bill Watts where he wrestled for four years. His first match in Mid-South was a loss to Danny Hodge. In February of 1978, DiBiase would defeat Dick Murdoch to become the Missouri State Champion. Only a few weeks later, he lost the title back to Murdoch on television. In 1979, Ted had his first taste of working up North when he had a short stint with the World Wrestling Federation under the direction of Vince McMahon, Sr. Ted was awarded the short-lived North American Heavyweight Championship, becoming the first champion to hold that title. On June 19, 1979, he would lose the North American Championship to Pat Patterson, who unified the "South American Championship" to become the first Intercontinental Champion in history. Just imagine if Ted won that match. His career could have been seen differently. He was Hulk Hogan's first opponent in Hogan's first match at Madison Square Garden. At this time, Ted was the babyface while Hogan was the heel. DiBiase would also spend time in the Georgia region, where he had an early run as a face by teaming with Tommy "Wildfire" Rich. DiBiase and Rich would later feud, resulting in a "Loser Leave Town" match that Ted would win. Instead of leaving the area, Rich would wear a mask and call himself "Mister R". Their feud finally culminated in a match between Mister R and DiBiase, where Tommy Rich appeared from backstage to distracted Ted. Mister R rolled up DiBiase for the win, as he later revealed himself to be Brad Armstrong. DiBiase and Rich would leave the territory shortly afterwards. Between the early to mid-80's, Ted would be a part of various angles in different territories against the likes of Bob Roop, Paul Orndorff, Dick Murdoch, Ric Flair, The Fabulous Freebirds and One Man Gang to name a few. DiBiase would explore the heel side of his persona when he betrayed the Junkyard Dog. During his time in Mid-South, DiBiase would form a group called "The Rat Pack" with Jim Duggan (Hacksaw in WWF) and Matt Borne (Doink) as they ran the territory for months. As he aligned with Skandar Akbar, Ted caused a riff within the group namely with Duggan. The two would feud until Duggan beat DiBiase in a loser leave town match. Ted would hold various championships in Mid-South. During this time, Ted would make his first tour of All-Japan Pro Wrestling. On October 14, 1983, DiBiase won a tournament for the NWA United National Championship by defeating Jerry Lawler through forfeit. On January 28, 1984, DiBiase lost the title to Michael Hayes. DiBiase would also start wrestling with a loaded black glove that he would use to "knock out" his opponents to end the match while the referee was not looking. In August 1985, DiBiase formed a tag team with AJPW mainstay Stan Hansen as they would capture the PWF Tag Team Championships. Stan wanted Ted to be his partner after Bruiser Brody left for New Japan Pro Wrestling. Later that year, DiBiase and Hansen entered the 1985 World's Strongest Tag Determination League as they would emerge victorious finishing in first place with 7 points. On July 3, 1987, DiBiase and Hansen would lose the PWF Tag Team Titles to Jumbo Tsuruta and Tiger Mask, ending their two year reign as champions. Eight days later, DiBiase and Hansen would regain the titles. However, they would later be stripped of the titles because Ted would leave All Japan to join the WWF. At this same time, he was also receiving offers from NWA after Jim Crockett acquired UWF. In the end, Vince McMahon's deal would win out as DiBiase would return to the North and work for the World Wrestling Federation under the ownership of Vince McMahon, Jr. At first, Ted did not know what gimmick that he was going to have upon his return. Ted DiBiase made his return to the WWF as "The Million Dollar Man", a millionaire who wore a gold-studded, dollar sign covered suit, and later on, a diamond-encrusted self awarded "Million Dollar Championship Belt". The Millon Dollar Belt would become one of the most popular championships ever. The Million Dollar Man character was based off of the type of wrestler that Vince McMahon envisioned himself to be. DiBiase was paired with a bodyguard named Virgil (Michael Jones). The name Virgil was based on the real name of then NWA booker, Dusty Rhodes (Virgil Runnels, Jr.). DiBiase's finishing move, the Million Dollar Dream (Cobra Clutch), was another form of insult towards Rhodes whose nickname was the "American Dream". Vince was firing some real cheap shots at the time. Upon his arrival, DiBiase would claim that "Everybody has a price" as he demonstrated that power in his vignettes, such as bribing a manager of a pool to close it off so that he could have it to himself. Another vignette showed Ted going to the honeymoon suite of a hotel, as he would tell the manager to throw out the couple that was already there. Other vignettes showed him riding in limousines, giving $100 tips to waiters, and even using $100 just to buy small purchases such as chewing gum. In reality, DiBiase's road travel was deliberately booked for first-class airplane flights and five star hotel accommodations, as the WWF Offices gave him a stipend of petty cash for him to "throw the money around" in public to make it more realistic. Most notably, DiBiase invited fans (including a young Rob Van Dam) to get into the ring to do humiliating things such as kiss his feet for money. During one skit, a young boy came to the stage to bounce a basketball 15 times for $500. On the 14th bounce, DiBiase kicked the ball out of his hands sending him home without pay. (However, according to Ted's autobiography, everyone who wasn't paid on-camera was paid off-camera) After a match, he would frequently stuff a $100 bill in his opponents mouth after winning with the Million Dollar Dream. More often than not, Virgil would take the dollar out of the opponent's mouth. DiBiase's first big in-ring storyline came in late 1987 on an episode of Superstars of Wrestling, when he announced that he would buy the WWF Championship from Hulk Hogan. Hogan refused, as he said that DiBiase would have to defeat him to win the belt. The Hulkster got the upper hand in a number of matches, until Ted got frustrated and hired Andre The Giant to win the belt for him. The Million Dollar Man was at the height of controversy as a heel at this time. On The Main Event (February 5, 1988 live on NBC), Andre defeated Hogan in questionable fashion to win the WWF Championship. Referee Dave Hebner was detained backstage as he was replaced with a referee that DiBiase paid to have plastic surgery (it was really Dave's twin Earl). Earl counted the pin for Andre despite Hogan's shoulder being up at the count of one. It was one of the shadiest outcomes in wrestling history. The show drew a 15.2 Neilsen Rating with 33 million viewers, both records at the time. The match was named "Match of the Year" by PWI, because of the drama surrounding the finish. Andre then announced that he would surrender the belt to DiBiase. For three house shows, The Million Dollar Man was in fact billed as the WWF Champion, defending the belt one time against Bam Bam Bigelow. However, WWF President Jack Tunney later refused to acknowledge The Million Dollar Man as champion (since titles could not be handed to someone else) as the title would later be declared vacant (the belt was not given back to Hogan, because the match was official; Andre handing the belt to DiBiase was considered a surrender). Tunney declared the belt vacant a few years later after the Hogan-Undertaker matches ended in controversial fashion, leading to Ric Flair winning at the Royal Rumble. Andre's title win would still be recognized in the history books, as it was considered to be the shortest reign in WWF history (Until Yokozuna defeated Bret Hart at WrestleMania IX, only to lose it to Hogan moments later). This angle was an amplified version of a similar angle in Georgia Championship Wrestling, where Larry Zbysko paid Killer Tom Brooks $25,000 for his NWA National Heavyweight Championship in 1983. As a result of the tainted title change, a tournament was announced for WrestleMania IV to crown the new WWF Champion. DiBiase defeated Hacksaw Jim Duggan in the first round and Don Muraco in the quarterfinal, before receiving a bye in the semi-finals to move to the finals. In the finals of the tournament, "The Million Dollar Man" Ted DiBiase was defeated by "The Macho Man" Randy Savage. Throughout the match, Andre would repeatedly interfere in some kind of way. Finally, as DiBiase had Savage in the Million Dollar Dream, Hulk Hogan blasted Ted with a chair while the ref was not looking. Macho Man finished with the Flying Elbow Drop for the win. DiBiase continued his feud with Savage for the title during the summer of 1988. The feud would culminate in a tag team match at the Innaugural Summerslam 1988, The Mega Bucks (DiBiase & Andre) vs The Mega Powers (Savage & Hogan). The Mega Powers would ultimately win the match, ending the feud. On top of that, Hogan's biggest critic Jesse Ventura was the special referee. Ventura was very fair, even when he made the count as Hogan pinned DiBiase for the victory. I believe that the Million Dollar Man had his strongest boost of momentum during this time, because he was deeply in the main event as the villain doing everything he could to take the championship including trying to buy the title. DiBiase defeated Brutus Beefcake, Ken Patera, Ron Bass and Randy Savage himself to win the 1988 King of the Ring Tournament (it was untelevised at the time). This was DiBiase's first taste of WWF success. Bobby "The Brain" Heenan sold Hercules Hernandes' contract to Ted DiBiase for his services as his personal slave. DiBiase claimed that Hercules was his slave, but started feuding with him when Hercules turned face. He eliminated Hercules from the main event of Survivor Series. At the 1989 Royal Rumble, DiBiase purchased the #30 spot from Akeem to become the final entrant of the match. Big John Studd and DiBiase were the final entrants of the Rumble. DiBiase offered Studd a bribe to eliminate himself. Instead, Studd eliminated DiBiase to win the Royal Rumble. DiBiase continued his feud with Hercules in a series of matches, including a match where Ted defeated him on the Main Event (February 3). He defeated The Blue Blazer on Saturday Night's Main Event (March 11). After the match, DiBiase added another level to his character by unveiling the Million Dollar Championship. This was his own championship that was not officially recognized by the WWF. He created this custom made belt, because of his failure to win or buy the WWF Championship from Hulk Hogan. At WrestleMania V, DiBiase fought Brutus Beefcake to a double countout. DiBiase's next big feud was against Jake "The Snake" Roberts. A few weeks following WrestleMania, DiBiase attacked Roberts on an episode of WWF Superstars of Wrestling after Jake defeated Virgil. The MDM (Million Dollar Man) put Jake out of action for several months with a neck injury. (Jake was really getting back surgery after a guitar match with Honky Tonk Man a year earlier) As Roberts recovered, DiBiase defeated Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka at Summerslam by countout. At Saturday Night's Main Event (October 14), MDM faced Hulk Hogan for the WWF Championship. Zeus was DiBiase's bodyguard. MDM lost the match after he accidentally hit Zeus, as Hogan would pin him with the small package. At Survivor Series, MDM captained a team called "The Million $ Team" that consisted of himself, Powers of Pain (Warlord and Barbarian), and Zeus against "The Hulkamaniacs". The team was led by Hogan, as it featured Jake Roberts, and Demolition (Ax and Smash). DiBiase pinned Roberts with the help of Virgil before being pinned himself by Hogan. In 1990, he was punished for buying the #30 spot in the Royal Rumble from the previous year. As punishment, DiBiase entered as the #1 entrant for the 1990 Royal Rumble. Despite the punishment, Ted lasted 45 minutes after being entered as #1. He eliminated two opponents before being eliminated by the Ultimate Warrior. DiBiase continued his feud with Roberts into WrestleMania VI, after Jake stole the Million Dollar Belt from him. Roberts was counted out. Ted transitioned into a short feud with The Big Bossman, which dated back to when DiBiase tried to bribe Bossman into retrieving the Million $ Belt back from Roberts. Bossman refused the bribe and gave the belt back to Roberts. At Summerslam, DiBiase bought the services of Sapphire, who managed Dusty Rhodes at the time. This led to a feud between MDM and Dusty from the end of 1990 into early 1991. On Saturday Night's Main Event (October 30), DiBiase attacked Dusty's son Dustin Rhodes while Dusty had his match with Randy Savage. DiBiase and Rhodes captained rival teams at Survivor Series, where The Million Dollar Man revealed his ultimate mystery partner, The Undertaker. Ted ended up eliminating both members of the Hart Foundation, as he would become the sole survivor. Later that night, he would lose to Hogan in the main event. Years later in an interview, DiBiase talked about introducing Undertaker: "nobody knew him, at the time if you know how this works they were using my celebrity and me introducing The Undertaker was helping him get over. He wasn't 'The Phenom' then he was just a new kid on the card, this new character The Undertaker and of course he grew in to be one of the greatest attractions the WWE has ever had. At the time it wasn't a big deal to me, I was just doing my job." At the 1991 Royal Rumble, DiBiase and Virgil defeated Dusty and Dustin Rhodes in a Tag Team Match. Following the match, DiBiase ordered Virgil to put the Million $ Championship around his waist. Instead, Virgil hit him with it, turning face. DiBiase's feud with Virgil lasted from WrestleMania VII into Survivor Series. At WM VII, Virgil defeated DiBiase by countout with the help of "Rowdy" Roddy Piper. MDM replaced Virgil with Sensational Sherri as she became his valet following her split from Randy Savage. Ted DiBiase defeated a newly single Bret Hart by countout at SNME (April 27). MDM lost the Million $ Title to Virgil at Summerslam, after having his head smashed into an exposed turnbuckle. On Prime Time Wrestling (November 11, billed as "Survivor Series Showdown"), DiBiase regained the Million Dollar Championship from Virgil with the help from The Repo Man. At Survivor Series, Ted was eliminated. At This Tuesday in Texas, DiBiase and Repo Man defeated Virgil and Tito Santana, ending the feud. In early 1992, MDM and Sherri parted ways, as she would manage Shawn Michaels, who went solo after breaking up The Rockers. DiBiase officially formed a tag team called "Money Incorporated" with Irwin R. Schyster (IRS). Money Inc. (managed mostly by Jimmy Hart), won the WWF World Tag Team Championships three times from February 1992 to June 1993. During their run, they feuded with Legion of Doom, Natural Disasters, as well as the Steiner Brothers. Ted DiBiase's last run as an active wrestler came in August of 1993, after an angle where Razor Ramon turned face and the debut of the 1-2-3 Kid. The Kid scored an upset pinfall victory over the cocky Razor. DiBiase would later mock Ramon, and said that he would show him how it is done. DiBiase would later lose to the Kid himself. At Summerslam, DiBiase would lose his last match to Razor Ramon. Ted would make a short run in AJPW, where he had been a star prior to his WWF success. When DiBiase made his return to WWF, he quietly announced his retirement from wrestling. In 1994, Ted DiBiase returned at the Royal Rumble as a commentator. Later in 1994, he would form the Million Dollar Corporation (Bam Bam Bigelow, Nikolai Volkoff, Kama, King Kong Bundy, Psycho Sid, 123 Kid, and in a swerve Tatanka). Ted would start a feud with the man that he helped to introduce to the WWF, The Undertaker, after Taker's return. DiBiase claimed that since he introduced the Deadman four years earlier, he could reintroduce him. Instead, he introduced a counterfeit Undertaker (Brian Lee) to feud with the Real Undertaker. At Summerslam, The Original Undertaker defeated the imitation. During his run as a manager, DiBiase also introduced "The Ringmaster" in January 1996. "The Ringmaster" would later transform into Stone Cold Steve Austin. Ted's last WWF appearance was at In Your House 2: Beware of the Dog. In storyline, he was forced to leave after Steve Austin lost to Savio Vega. In reality, he was leaving for rival World Championship Wrestling (WCW). In WCW, DiBiase played a very quiet, managerial role after he was introduced as the fourth member of the NWO on August 26, 1996. Staying true to his Million Dollar Man gimmick, DiBiase announced that he was financing the group. Ted would quit the NWO after Spring Stampede. A few months later, he made a face turn to manage Scott Steiner, before Scott turned heel to join the NWO. DiBiase also managed one-time WWF rival Ray Traylor (Big Bossman) before stepping down as a manager altogether. He would become a road agent until his departure in 1999. After his return to WWE as a member of the creative team, Ted DiBiase would induct Sensational Sherri into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2006. In 2010, DiBiase himself would enter the Hall of Fame. Ted DiBiase has found a new life as an Evangelist/Christian Minister. He is the Author of the part-autobiography, part-testimony titled "Every man has a price". Ted's legacy continues to live on in video games, from the Original "Legends of Wrestling" franchise, Legends of WrestleMania (WWE Version) along with being an unlockable character in Smackdown Here Comes the Pain, Smackdown vs. Raw 2006, WWE Smackdown vs Raw 2010, and WWE 2k14. Ted has enjoyed a very well-rounded career, with a gimmick that has left an unforgettable impression for years and years. The Million Dollar Man always gets his way.

Championships and accomplishments:

• All Japan Pro Wrestling
  • NWA United National Championship (1 time)
  • PWF World Tag Team Championship (2 times) – with Stan Hansen
  • World Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Stan Hansen
  • World's Strongest Tag Determination League (1985) – with Stan Hansen

• Central States Wrestling
  • NWA Central States Heavyweight Championship (2 times)

• Dutch Pro Wrestling
  • Dutch Heavyweight Championship (1 time)

• Georgia Championship Wrestling
  • NWA National Heavyweight Championship (2 times)
  • NWA National Tag Team Championship (2 times) – with Stan Frazier (1), and Steve Olsonoski (1)

• NWA Tri-State/Mid-South Wrestling Association
  • Mid-South North American Heavyweight Championship (4 times)
  • Mid-South Tag Team Championship (5 times) – with Matt Borne (1), Jerry Stubbs (1), Hercules Hernandez (1), and Steve Williams (2)
  • NWA North American Heavyweight Championship (Tri-State version) (1 time)
  • NWA United States Tag Team Championship (Tri-State version) (1 time) – with Dick Murdoch

• NWA Western States Sports
  • NWA Western States Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Tito Santana

• Pro Wrestling Illustrated
  • PWI Most Hated Wrestler of the Year (1982)
  • PWI ranked him #17 of the top 500 singles wrestlers of the year in the PWI 500 in 1991
  • PWI ranked him #32 of the top 500 singles wrestlers of the "PWI Years" in 2003
  • PWI ranked him #20 of the Top 100 Tag Teams of the "PWI Years" with Steve Williams in 2003

• Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame
  • Class of 2007

• St. Louis Wrestling Club
  • NWA Missouri Heavyweight Championship (2 times)
  • St. Louis Wrestling Hall of Fame

• Texas All-Star Wrestling
  • TASW Heavyweight Championship (1 time)

• World Wrestling Federation/World Wrestling Entertainment
  • Million Dollar Championship (2 times)
  • WWF North American Heavyweight Championship (1 time)
  • WWF World Tag Team Championship (3 times) – with Irwin R. Schyster
  • King of the Ring (1988)
  • Slammy Award for Humanitarian of the Year (1987)
  • WWE Hall of Fame (Class of 2010)

• Wrestling Observer Newsletter
  • Best Gimmick (1987)
  • Best Heel (1987, 1988)
  • Best Technical Wrestler (1981)
  • Feud of the Year (1982) vs. Junkyard Dog
  • Feud of the Year (1985) vs. Jim Duggan
  • Wrestling Observer Newsletter Hall of Fame (Class of 1996)

In Wrestling:

Finishing moves

• Diving back elbow drop
• Figure four leglock
• Million Dollar Dream (Cobra clutch)

• Signature moves
  • Backbreaker
  • Back elbow
  • Clothesline
  • Delayed fist drop
  • Elbow drop
  • Jumping stomp to the opponent's face
  • Multiple suplex variations
    • Belly to back
    • Gutwrench
    • Vertical
  • Piledriver
  • Scoop powerslam
  • Sleeper hold
  • Spinning toe hold

37. Bob Backlund: This man is one of the most legendary technical wrestlers because of his highly accomplished background as an amateur wrestler. He is the innovator of the Crossface Chickenwing. On the other hand, he is also one of the most eccentric and bland personalities in wrestling history, as it has been hard to really figure him out as a character. After his success as an NCAA Champion in Amateur Wrestling as a graduate of North Dakota University, Bob Backlund made his debut in wrestling back in 1973 with the American Wrestling Association (AWA). Backlund was trained by Eddie Sharkey. His clean cut All-American look and technical prowess mad him very popular with the fans because of the way the business was at the time. In his early career, Bob would travel through numerous NWA promotions like Championship Wrestling in Florida, Georgia Championship Wrestling and even in Amarillo with the Funks. During this time, Bob would win a number of championships before making his move to the Northeast and wrestle for Vincent J. McMahon's World Wide Wrestling Federation in early 1977. Upon his arrival, Backlund was called the "Golden Boy" by future manager Arnold Skaaland. Within his first four months, Bob received his first shot at the WWWF Heavyweight Championship held by "Superstar" Billy Graham. Backlund was unsuccessful in his initial attempts to win the title. He would only defeat Graham by countout (titles only change hands via pinfall or submission). Soon, Backlund made a handshake agreement with Vince McMahon, Sr. as he would become the new face WWWF Champion to represent the company after the end of the Bruno Sammartino Era. Backlund's shining moment took place on February 20, 1978 when he defeated Billy Graham to win the WWWF Heavyweight Championship. This was the end of Graham's 296 day reign as Champion (longest reign for a heel in WWE History). Backlund's win would also launch a five year reign as champion. The match was named "Match of the Year" by PWI. Backlund won by pinfall, despite Graham's foot being on the ropes during the count. Backlund's early challengers were Spiros Arion, Mr. Fuji, Ivan Koloff, George "The Animal" Steele, and Ken Patera. Bob would also have high-profile matches with Antonio Inoki in Japan. He also won a series of rematches against Billy Graham. Shortly after his win, Backlund would start a tradition by clashing with World Champions of other promotions. His first match was with NWA World Heavyweight Champion Harley Race in a rare "WWWF vs. NWA" title match. Both titles were on the line, but neither changed hands as they wrestled to a 60-minute draw. Backlund would also wrestle AWA Champion Nick Bockwinkel and future NWA World Champion Ric Flair. He also defeated Florida Champion Don Muraco. Early in his run, Backlund teamed with Peter Maivia to challenge for the WWF World Tag Team Championships. The team was short-lived as Maivia turned on Backlund. Bob was enraged and displayed a different side of his character. This is when he first became the raving, ranting maniac when angered enough. In the post match interview, Backlund screamed at Interviewer Vince McMahon, Jr that he was going to "kill that son of a *****!" (You know the rest). Backlund won a series of matches against Maivia, including a steel cage match in January 1979 in Madison Square Garden. On August 9, 1980, Bob Backlund and Pedro Morales won the WWF World Tag Team Titles. However, they had to vacate the titles because at the time wrestlers were not allowed to hold two titles. That rule has since been extinct. Backlund had more tag team success when he teamed with Inoki to win the "1980 MSG Tag Team League Tournament" when they defeated Hulk Hogan and Stan Hansen in the finals on December 10 in Osaka, Japan. Backlund and Inoki finished the tournament with seven wins and two double-countout decisions. Also that year, Backlund and Hogan met in a series of matches. Even though he was able to score several countout victories, Backlund was never able to score a decisive pinfall over the young challenger. Hogan would show flashes of future brilliance and prove to be Backlund's toughest challenge at that point. That year, Backlund would also start his feud with Sgt. Slaughter. By the end of the year, Bob was named "Wrestler of the Year" by PWI, and "Best Technical Wrestler" by Wrestling Observer. It has been claimed by some that Bob Backlund's WWF Title was held up after a match in MSG against Greg Valentine on October 19, 1981 because the referee was dazed and "accidentally" gave the belt to Valentine (storyline). This caused an interruption in Backlund's title reign. However, he was still billed as the WWF Champion in other cities after the controversy. WWE still acknowledges this time period as part of his first reign as champion. On November 23, Backlund pinned Valentine for the "Vacant in New York City" WWF Title. He would defeat Valentine in a rematch inside of a steel cage. During 1982 and 1983, Backlund would face a wide variety of contenders from Sgt. Slaughter, Jimmy Snuka, Adrian Adonis, "Cowboy" Bob Orton, Big John Studd, Ivan Koloff and Magnificent Muraco. Backlund's steel cage match with Snuka was named "Match of the Year" by PWI, as he was named "Wrestler of the Year" for the second time. After years of popularity, Backlund decided to change his image. He cut his moppish hair into a crewcut, wore amateur wrestling singlets and loss muscle mass and definition. Naturally, fans grew tired of his "Howdy Doody" character (as Grand Wizard called him). He really did look like Howdy Doody, as his appearance was too much of a throwback to the 50's. After years of being the WWF Champion, Backlund wore out his welcome as he became stale among the fans. Wrestling Observer named him the Most Overrated Wrestler of 1983. Vincent K. McMahon, Jr. (who purchased the company from his Father) wanted to make the muscular, more charismatic young star Hulk Hogan his new WWF Champion. As part of that change, Vince, Jr wanted Backlund to turn heel. Instead, he refused. VKM was forced to call an audible by making Iron Sheik the transitional champion that he needed to usher in the change in wrestling that he envisioned. On December 26, 1983 Vince and the fans got their Christmas present the night after as Backlund dropped the WWF Title to the Iron Sheik in MSG. It would have been a great present for me as well. Backlund refused to lose to Hogan, because Hulk did not have an amateur background. Bob would lose to Sheik in a series of rematches. In the end, Iron Sheik became the transitional champion Hogan needed to defeat to launch the Rock & Wrestling Era. Backlund would soon leave the WWF after losing the title. Backlund's legacy took a serious blow, because he missed the massive success that the WWF would generate with Hogan as the kingpin of wrestling. Instead, Backlund would wrestle in the AWA and keep a very low profile for the rest of the decade before making his return in 1992. During his absence, the WWF expanded into a global promotion and a wrestling phenomenon in large part due to the colorful cartoonish stars of the "Rock & Wrestling" Connection spearheaded by Hulk Hogan himself. Backlund was still the Howdy Doody Character from his heyday, as he was completely out of touch with the rapidly changing times of the WWF. He made his WrestleMania debut at WrestleMania IX. That is right. His DEBUT!! Fans had no clue of who he was. Others did not even remember him anymore, as he lost to Razor Ramon that day. Backlund would then wrestle the new face of WWF, Bret Hart in an "Old Generation vs. New Generation" match on July 30, 1994 for Bret's WWF Championship. Bret won the match, and tried to shake his hand after the match in an act of sportsmanship. Instead, Backlund attacked Bret like a sore loser and started to scream in rage because he lost. The worst decision that the WWF made at this time was to give Backlund the WWF Championship as he defeated Bret at Survivor Series. Owen Hart was in Backlund's corner. The match ended when Owen threw the towel in the ring, the same way that Backlund lost the title to the Iron Sheik in 1983. (Bob claims that it was the same towel Arnold Skaaland used to end the match) He had no business at all winning the WWF Championship again at this stage of his career. It was one of the most questionable moves that they made, which says a lot considering some of the other mistakes going on. Thankfully, Backlund's lame duck reign as champion would end when Diesel squashed him in eight seconds. Bret would gain his revenge on Backlund by defeating him at WrestleMania XI with Bob's own submission the crossface chickenwing. Somebody must have been on drugs to make Backlund the champion again. He was still the During this time, Bob's character was "running for President of the United States". Honestly, I don't even want to go any further with this pathetic debacle during his career. I wish it was just a dream and not reality. Talk about a nightmare. In the end, Bob Backlund was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2013. Even though he was a great mat wrestler, Backlund's character was constantly out of touch with the times. He never evolved while the world around him did. His title reign had the misfortune of following Bruno Sammartino and coming before the reign of Hulk Hogan. He certainly lacked the charisma of Superstar Billy Graham as well as Hulk Hogan. Ironically, they were both inducted into the Hall of Fame in the same year. Bob Backlund did what he could to represent WWF as a polished champion to represent the times that society was living in. He traveled across territories to wrestle the best of the best. In the end, Bob Backlund is still considered to be a legend of wrestling.

Championships and Accomplishments:

Championship Wrestling from Florida

• NWA Florida Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Steve Keirn

• Georgia Championship Wrestling
  • NWA Georgia Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Jerry Brisco

• NWA Western States Sports
  • NWA Western States Heavyweight Championship (3 times)

• New Japan Pro Wrestling
  • NJPW MSG Tag League (1980) with Antonio Inoki

• Northeast Wrestling Federation
  • NEWF Heavyweight Championship (1 time, first)

• Pro Wrestling Illustrated
  • PWI Match of the Year (1978) vs. Superstar Billy Graham on February 20
  • PWI Match of the Year (1982) vs. Jimmy Snuka in a cage match on June 28
  • PWI Most Hated Wrestler of the Year (1994)
  • PWI Most Inspirational Wrestler of the Year (1977, 1981)
  • PWI Rookie of the Year (1976)
  • PWI Wrestler of the Year (1980, 1982)
  • PWI ranked him # 7 of the 500 best singles wrestlers of the "PWI Years" in 2003.

• Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum
  • Modern Era (Class of 2008)

• St. Louis Wrestling Club
  • NWA Missouri Heavyweight Championship (1 time)

• World Wide Wrestling Federation/World Wrestling Federation/WWE
  • WWF (World) Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Pedro Morales
  • WWWF/WWF (World Heavyweight) Championship (2 time)
  • Slammy Award for Most Eccentric (1994)
  • WWE Hall of Fame (Class of 2013)

• Wrestle Association R
  • WAR World Six-Man Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Scott Putski and The Warlord

• Wrestling Observer Newsletter
  • Best Technical Wrestler (1980)
  • Match of the Year (1980) vs. Ken Patera in a Texas Death match on May 19 in New York City, New York
  • Wrestling Observer Newsletter Hall of Fame (Class of 2004)

In Wrestling:

Finishing moves

• Atomic Knee Drop (Diving knee drop) – 1973–1978
• Crossface chickenwing

• Signature moves
  • Atomic drop
  • Belly to back suplex

38. AJ Styles: "The Phenomenal One" AJ Styles has truly lived up to his moniker, because his performances in the ring are nothing short of Phenomenal. Styles actually got his start in the Independent Circuit where he competed in All-Pro Wrestling's "King of the Indies" Tournament. It was there where AJ crossed paths with fellow long time TNA Star Christopher Daniels for the first time. Styles would have a very brief cup of coffee in WCW during their last year of existence. He would also wrestle in dark matches for WWE in early 2002 before first making a name for himself in Ring of Honor (ROH). Styles would later join TNA, where he would become the Cornerstone of the Promotion. AJ would become a 3-time NWA World Heavyweight Champion, 6-time X-Division Champion and 2-time TNA World Heavyweight Champion among many other accolades. AJ carried the brand as he danced with the likes of Samoa Joe, Christopher Daniels, Kurt Angle and others just to name a few. Styles would be named X Division Star of the Year in 2004. He was also named "Mr. TNA" from 2003-2005. In 2005, AJ Styles vs Christopher Daniels was the "Feud of the Year" for TNA. AJ's Triple Threat match vs. Daniels, and Samoa Joe at Unforgettable that year won the 5 Star Match Award from Wrestling Observer Newsletter (WON). WON also named AJ the Best Highflyer. 2005 was certainly a banner year for Styles in TNA. That was also the first year that I took notice of Styles. AJ also won TNA Match of the Year against opponents from Hernandez & Homicide to the legendary Sting. While AJ continued to rack up honor after honor and deliver great match after great match, TNA continued to struggle. Styles did his best to keep the ship running even though water was leaking on every side. From poor management to bad storylines, it was only a matter of time before The Phenomenal One took his greatness elsewhere. AJ Styles went from being the Cornerstone of the Company and one of the Building Blocks to becoming Marginalized. However, AJ did manage to rank #1 on the PWI Top 500 Singles Wrestlers list in 2010. Styles would then go to New Japan Pro Wrestling where he would experience a resurgence. Originally, TNA formed a partnership with NJPW in 2008. However, AJ would leave TNA and not return. He had spent some time there before for a cup of coffee. In NJPW, The Phenomenal One won the IWGP Heavyweight Title twice. Styles enjoyed some of the greatest success of his career in Japan as he was named Most Outstanding Wrestler by WON in 2014 and 2015. AJ Styles would return to NJPW on April 6, 2014 at Invasion Attack where he attacked IWGP Heavyweight Champion Kazuchika Okada and laid him out with the Styles Clash. AJ revealed himself as the newest member of the Bullet Club, replacing Prince Devitt (Finn Balor). On May 3, Styles defeated Okada to become the new IWGP Champion. With the victory, AJ became only the sixth gaijin (non-Japanese) champion in history and the first American champion since Brock Lesnar in 2005. On May 17, Styles made his first successful title defense vs. Okada and Michael Elgin in a Triple Threat at at War of the Worlds in New York City. Styles defeated Okada in a singles match at Back to the Yokohama Arena on May 25. AJ suffered his first loss in NJPW in the 2014 G1 Climax Tournament to none other than Okada himself. On October 13, Styles would lose the IWGP Championship to Hiroshi Tanahashi. After defeating Naito at Wrestle Kingdom 9, Styles would reinsert himself in the IWGP World Title picture. On February 11, 2015, AJ Styles defeated Tanahashi to win the IWGP Heavyweight Crown for the second time. After the match, he celebrated with the rest of the Bullet Club. The Bullet Club dominated NJPW with Styles as IWGP Champion with Karl Anderson and Doc Gallows as Tag Team Champions. His reign would end on July 5 at the hands of Okada. His match with Minoru Suzuki on August 1 won Wrestling Observer Match of the Year. In November, AJ entered the IWGP Intercontinental Title picture by challenging Shinsuke Nakamura to a match. However, AJ had to pull out of the World Tag League after suffering a back injury. Styles returned to action at Wrestle Kingdom 10 where he was defeated by Nakamura. In his final appearance for NJPW, the Bullet Club turned on AJ Styles. The newest member revealed was Kenny Omega. In January, AJ Styles made his debut at the Royal Rumble. This would start his friendship turned feud with Chris Jericho. First, AJ defeated Jericho at Fastlane. This would lead to them briefly becoming a Tag Team called Y2AJ, where they would challenge New Day for the Tag Team Titles. After New Day won, Jericho turned on Styles. They would soon agree to have a match at WrestleMania 32, where Jericho would win. On the post WrestleMania episode of RAW, AJ Styles defeated Y2J, Kevin Owens, and Cesaro in a Fatal Four Way to become the number 1 contender for the WWE Championship against Roman Reigns. AJ would have two great WWE Title matches as he would lose both to Reigns (Payback, Extreme Rules). On Memorial Day, AJ Styles would welcome back John Cena as Anderson and Gallows would challenge Cena. When John turned back around, Styles punched him in the face and proceeded to attack him. This would lead to their feud during the summer. The Phenomenal One vs The Face that Runs the Place would finally square off. The Best of WWE vs the Best of TNA (WWE never acknowledges that part). Their first match would take place at Money In the Bank where Styles would defeat Cena with help from the Club. Cena teamed with Cass and Enzo to defeat The Club at BattleGround. AJ would complete the trilogy by defeating Cena at Summerslam with no help from Anderson and Gallows. This would propel him to the WWE Title picture. After going through Dolph Ziggler, Styles had his sights clearly set on Dean Ambrose and the WWE Title. At Backlash, AJ Styles defeated Dean Ambrose to become the new WWE Champion. Styles has now become a Champion in ROH, NJPW, TNA and now WWE. AJ has continued to improve in WWE as he furthers his legacy.

Championships and Accomplishments:

• All Access Wrestling
  • AAW Heavyweight Championship (1 time)^[4]
• Ballpark Brawl
  • Natural Heavyweight Championship (3 times)^[381]
• Christian Wrestling Federation/Entertainment
  • CWF/E Heavyweight Championship (1 time)^[4][382]
• Family Wrestling Entertainment
  • FWE Heavyweight Championship (1 time)^[383]
• Independent Professional Wrestling (Florida)
  • IPW Heavyweight Championship (4 times)^[384]
• Independent Wrestling Association Mid-South
  • IWA Mid-South Heavyweight Championship (1 time)^[8]
  • Ted Petty Invitational (2004)^[8]
• International Wrestling Cartel
  • IWC Super Indies Championship (4 times)^{[385][386][387]}
• Independent Wrestling Revolution
  • IWR King of The Indies Championship (1 time)^[388]
• Maximum Pro Wrestling
  • Max-Pro Cruiserweight Championship (1 time)^[8]
• Midwest Pro Wrestling
  • MPW Universal Heavyweight Championship (1 time)^[4]
• New Japan Pro Wrestling
  • IWGP Heavyweight Championship (2 times)^[219][240]
• New Korea Pro Wrestling Association
  • NKPWA Junior Heavyweight Championship (1 time)^[4]
• NWA Wildside
  • NWA Wildside Heavyweight Championship (1 time)^[389]
  • NWA Wildside Television Championship (3 times)^[390]
• Pennsylvania Premiere Wrestling
  • PPW Tag Team Championship (1 time) - with Tommy Suede^[391]
• Pro Wrestling Guerrilla
  • PWG Championship (1 time)^[392]
• Pro Wrestling Illustrated
  • Tag Team of the Year (2006)^[393] with Christopher Daniels
  • PWI ranked him #1 of the 500 best singles wrestlers of the year in the PWI 500 in 2010^[394]
• Revolution Pro Wrestling
  • RPW British Heavyweight Championship (1 time)^[395]
• Ring of Honor
  • ROH Pure Championship (1 time)^[396]
  • ROH World Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Amazing Red^[27]
  • ROH Pure Wrestling Championship Tournament (2004)
• Total Nonstop Action Wrestling
  • NWA World Heavyweight Championship (3 times)^[397]
  • NWA World Tag Team Championship (4 times) – with Jerry Lynn (1), Abyss (1), and Christopher Daniels (2)^[398]
  • TNA World Heavyweight Championship (2 times)^[399]
  • TNA Legends/Global/Television Championship (2 times)^[4]
  • TNA World Tag Team Championship (2 times) – with Tomko (1) and Kurt Angle (1)^[400]
  • TNA X Division Championship (6 times)^[401]
  • Bound For Glory Series (2013)
  • Gauntlet for the Gold (2007 – Tag Team) – with Tomko^[402]
  • First TNA Triple Crown Champion (5 times)
  • First TNA Grand Slam Champion (2 times)
  • Feud of the Year (2005) vs. Christopher Daniels^[403]
  • Finisher of the Year (2003) Styles Clash^[404]
  • Match of the Year (2006) with Christopher Daniels vs. Homicide and Hernandez at No Surrender, September 24, 2006^[405]
  • Match of the Year (2009) vs. Sting at Bound for Glory, October 18, 2009^[334]
  • Mr. TNA (2003–2005)^[8]
  • Tag Team of the Year (2006) with Christopher Daniels^[405]
  • X Division Star of the Year (2004)^[404]
• World Wrestling All-Stars
  • WWA International Cruiserweight Championship (1 time)^[406]
• Wrestling Observer Newsletter
  • 5 Star Match (2005) vs. Samoa Joe and Christopher Daniels at Unbreakable on September 11^[44]
  • Best Flying Wrestler (2005)
  • Best Wrestling Maneuver (2003, 2015) Styles Clash^[407]
  • Most Outstanding Wrestler (2014, 2015)^[407][408]
  • Pro Wrestling Match of the Year (2014) vs. Minoru Suzuki on August 1^[408]
  • Wrestler of the Year (2015)^[407]
• WWE
• WWE World Championship (1 time, current)^[410]

In Wrestling:

• Finishing moves
  • Calf Crusher^[314] (WWE)/Calf Killer^[186][315] (NJPW/TNA/W-1) (Calf slicer)^[316][317] – 2013–present
  • Figure-four leglock^[318][319] – 2009–2010; adopted from Ric Flair
  • Flying armbar^{[320][321][322]} – 2008–2009
  • Frog splash^[323] – 2003–2006
  • Phenomenal Forearm^[324] (Springboard forearm smash)^{[325][326][327][328]} – 2016–present; used as a signature move 1998–2016
  • Spiral Tap^[329] (Corkscrew senton bomb)^[330]
  • Styles Clash^[7] (Belly-to-back inverted mat slam,^[331] sometimes from the second rope)^[172][325] – 2002–present
  • Superman (Springboard 450° splash)^[4]
• Signature moves
  • Brainbuster,^[4][325] sometimes onto the ring apron^[332]
  • Discus clothesline^{[4][325][333]}
  • Diving knee drop^[326][333]
  • Fireman's carry facebuster^[334][335]
  • Frankensteiner,^[326] sometimes inverted^[326] or preceded by a kip-up^[326]
  • Hollow Point (Kneeling ganso bomb)^{[336][337][338]} – 2014–2015
  • Multiple DDT variations
    • Bloody Sunday (Lifting single underhook)^[219][339] – 2014–2016; adopted from Prince Devitt^[225]
    • Cliffhanger (Crucifix powerbomb hold dropped into a sitout DDT facebuster)^[325]
    • Phenomenon^{[4][325][330]}/Stylin' DDT^[340] (Springboard moonsault onto a standing opponent transitioned into an inverted)^{[325][326][330]}
    • Tornado^[341][342]
  • Multiple kick variations
    • Drop,^[4][343] sometimes from the top rope^[341]
    • Enzuigiri^[4][325]
    • Pelé Kick^[325][326] (Backflip)^[333][344]
    • Spin^[330]
    • Super^[325]
  • Multiple suplex variations
    • Snap,^[345] sometimes into the turnbuckles^[346]
    • Starmaker^[4] (High-angle belly-to-back)
    • Styles Suplex Special^[4] (German followed by a sitout belly-to-back facebuster)^[325]
    • Vertical lifted and dropped into a neckbreaker slam^[4]
  • Muta Lock^{[4][325][326][330]}
  • Over the shoulder back-to-belly piledriver^[4]
  • Rack Bomb^[347] (Backbreaker rack dropped into a powerbomb)^[325][330]
  • Running swinging neckbreaker^[4]
  • Shooting Styles Press^[312] (Springboard shooting star plancha)^[348][349] – 2001–2005; used rarely thereafter
  • Sliding forearm smash^{[350][351][352]}
  • Spine Breaker (Backbreaker followed by a gutbuster)^[4][326]
  • Stylin' Crab^[4] (Modified Boston crab) – 2001–2002
  • Ushigoroshi^[353] (Fireman's carry neckbreaker)^{[354][355][356][357]} – name adopted from Hirooki Goto
• With Air Paris
  • Double-team signature moves
    • Atomic drop (Styles) and jumping hook kick (Paris) combination^[341]
    • Catching hip toss dropped into a double powerbomb^[331]
• With Christopher Daniels
  • Double-team finishing moves
    • Best Moonsault Ever (Daniels) followed by a frog splash (Styles) or vice versa^[312]
• With Tomko
  • Double-team finishing moves
    • Tornado-Plex^[358] (Aided snap swinging neckbreaker)

39. Jake "The Snake" Roberts: One of the most calculating personalities in the history of wrestling. His promos were compelling without him ever having to raise his voice. He had all of the characteristics of a snake. When he would say "Trust Me", you really could not. Jake "The Snake" Roberts is one of the most recognizable figures during the Hogan-Era of wrestling in the 80's. Jake got his start in wrestling 1974 as a referee and wrestler as he made his name in various territories from Mid South Wrestling, Mid-Atlantic Championship Wrestling and Georgia Championship Wrestling. Roberts struggled with developing his character, so he spent some time in Stampede Wrestling, where he was managed by J.R. Foley. In Stampede, Roberts feuded with future Mid-South and WWF Star The Junkyard Dog. When Jake joined The National Wrestling Alliance in 1983, he was part of the original version of Paul Ellering's Legion of Doom Stable along with Hawk & Animal. In the NWA, Jake feuded with Ron Garvin over the NWA Television Championship until 1984. In 1984, Roberts joined World Class Championship Wrestling, as he teamed with "Gentleman" Chris Adams and Gino Hernandez to feud with the Von Erichs. Roberts was a WCCW TV Champion and a 6-man tag champion with Adams and Hernandez. Jake returned to Mid-South in 1985, and ended his run in February 1986 with a feud against Dick Slater. Jake Roberts made his debut in the World Wrestling Federation in March 1986. Roberts made his pay per view debut by defeating George Wells at WrestleMania 2. His first major feud was with Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat. The feud started on an episode of Saturday Night's Main Event in May 1986. Roberts was already on a roll in his arrival. Jake executed a DDT on Steamboat on the exposed concrete floor in front of Rick's wife Bonnie. Roberts pointed to her right before he smashed Steamboat's head with the finisher. He proceeded to lay his snake Damien on top of a prone Steamboat. Roberts went too far by actually placing the snake inside of Steamboat's mouth. Jake was initially against it, because of the fear that he might injure or kill Steamboat. While Vince McMahon and booker George Scott were adamant about the angle, Jake refused until Steamboat told him that he would be adequately able to protect himself from the injury. Jake's fears came true as Ricky was not able to protect his head from hitting the concrete as he sustained a concussion. After his recovery, Steamboat waged war on Roberts by bringing his own "Komodo Dragon" to make things even. Steamboat won most of the matches in their feud, including a "Snake Pit" match at The Big Event in Toronto, and a rematch on Saturday Night's Main Event in October 1986. After his feud with Steamboat ended, Jake and Ricky would gain mutual respect for each other. Roberts has said: "Steamboat was a great wrestler, but an even better man." Jake would start his own Interview segment called "The Snake Pit" similar to Roddy Piper's show "Piper's Pit". In November 1986, Jake challenged Intercontinental Champion "Macho Man" Randy Savage. Before the match, announcer Vince McMahon said that the fans would probably cheer for Savage against the disliked Roberts. He and fellow broadcaster Jesse Ventura were very wrong, as the fans loudly cheered Jake during the match. The match ended in a double disqualification. Around this time, WWF was trying to start a feud between Jake and Hulk Hogan. However, plans changed when Roberts gave Hogan the DDT on The Snake Pit because too many people started chanting for the DDT instead of Hogan. The DDT created a life of its own, and Jake became an Innovator. Roberts officially turned face when he feuded with The Honky Tonk Man (an Elvis Presley Impersonator). Honky had attacked Jake with a guitar, and legitimately broke his neck with the hit. Although Honky denies legitimately injuring Roberts, Jimmy Hart says otherwise on Jake's DVD "Pick Your Poison". This led to their match at WrestleMania III, where Roberts had Detroit native and Rock Legend Alice Cooper in his corner. Cooper is a real fan of snakes, so it was a great connection. However, HTM won the match. Jake challenged him for the Intercontiental Title throughout 1987, but was unsuccessful. The original idea was for Jake to win the IC Championship after Honky defeated Ricky Steamboat. Unfortunately, Jake's neck injury was too much of a concern to put the title on him. Jake "The Snake" would transition into his next great feud with "Ravishing" Rick Rude. This is very well considered to be Jake's best known feud. Rude would start a gimmick where he would select women from the crowd to kiss after his matches. This was known as "The Rude Awakening" which was also the name of his finishing maneuver. On Superstars of Wrestling (April 23, 1988), Rude crossed the line when he chose Jake's real-life wife Cheryl for a kiss. She would refuse, as this easily angered Roberts. Rick and Jake would feud throughout the summer of 1988. The feud would escalate when Rude wore a pair of tights with an image of Jake's wife airbrushed on them. Following the feud with Ravishing Rick, Jake moved into a feud with Andre The Giant. In the storyline, Jake had Andre tangled into the ropes during a match. This left room for him to pull his Snake Damien out of the bag to frighten Andre, as he believed that he could give the Giant a heart attack. The feud culminated at WrestleMania V when Jake won by DQ after Andre attacked Special Referee Big John Studd. Following his feud with Andre, Jake moved into a feud with The Million Dollar Man Ted DiBiase. The Original plan was for them to battle over The Intercontinental Championship, but the plan fell flat following Jake's injury. Instead, they feuded over The Million Dollar Championship. At this time, Jake's problems with his back were publicly acknowledged when DiBiase attacked him after he defeated Virgil on WWF Superstars of Wrestling. The feud culminated at WrestleMania VI, where DiBiase won with a count-out victory, thus regaining the non-sanctioned title. After the match, Roberts attacked Ted and Virgil, as he started to give away DiBiase's money. After a brief feud with Bad News Brown in the summer of 1990, Jake turned his attention to Rick Martel. Rick attacked Jake and blinded him by spraying cologne in his eyes. After several months, the feud culminated in a blindfold match at WrestleMania VII. Roberts won when he beat Martel with the DDT. After the story with Martel was over, Jake would move into a feud with Earthquake. On an episode of Superstars of Wrestling, Earthquake "squashed" Jake's pet snake Damien with a pair of Earthquake Splashes during their match on April 27 (taped March 26). In reality, Jake's snake was not in the bag. Instead, he had hamburgers stuffed in pantyhose with a motor to create movement. The feud escalated at Prime Time Wrestling, when Earthquake offered Vince McMahon, Bobby Heenan, and Lord Alfred Hayes "Quakeburgers". They were supposed to be made from the carcass of Damien. Roberts appeared on The Barber Shop and revealed a new snake that he called Lucifer (Damien's older brother). In the summer of 1991, Jake would start a feud with The Ultimate Warrior. The feud would start following a series of vignettes where Warrior turned to Roberts for help in his feud with The Undertaker. In the set-up, Roberts said that Warrior would have to pass three tests in order to have the "knowledge of the dark-side" to defeat Undertaker. The segments would include Warrior being locked inside of a coffin, along with being "buried alive" in dirt as well as being bit by a King Cobra (a rubber prop). However, Jake would reveal his true colors, as he closed the segment by telling Warrior "never trust a snake". A series of matches were planned, but were cancelled after Ultimate Warrior was fired by the WWF on the night of Summerslam. After Summerslam, Jake would enter into a feud with Randy Savage. During the post-Summerslam wedding reception, Jake and Undertaker crashed the party by bringing a snake inside of a gift package. Roberts and Taker attacked Savage, until Sid Justice ran them off. This infuriated The Macho Man. Roberts started to berate Macho Man in a series of promos, aware that Savage was unable to exact revenge after his loss to the Warrior. On Superstars of Wrestling (October 21), Roberts goaded Savage into the ring and brutally attacked him. Jake would tie Randy's arms to the ropes so that he could get the King Cobra snake (who was devenomized) to bite Savage. The segment went longer than expected as blood was visibly coming from Randy's arm. WWF President Jack Tunney reinstated Randy Savage just in time for a match at Tuesday In Texas, where he defeated Roberts. The feud would continue after Jake slapped Elizabeth. Savage eliminated Jake at the Royal Rumble, as the feud would end with Savage defeating him at Saturday Night's Main Event. Roberts was enraged, as he reached for a steel chair to attack either Savage or Elizabeth. However, his plan was stopped when The Undertaker grabbed the chair before Jake could bring it back down. This led to Taker's face turn. Roberts appeared on The Funeral Parlor to demand answers as to why The Undertaker stopped him from attacking Elizabeth. Dissatisfied with the answers, Jake proceeded to DDT Paul Bearer and slam the casket on Undertaker's hand. This left Taker vulnerable to Jake's chair shot. This would be Jake's last big feud during his first WWF tenure, as it would culminate at WrestleMania VIII. The Undertaker defeated Jake with the Tombstone, making him the second victim of the Streak. Jake would depart from the WWF after a falling out with Vince McMahon. He would briefly reemerge in WCW as he would feud with Sting before wrestling in Japan, Mexico and Smoky Mountain Wrestling. Jake made his return in 1996 at the 1996 Royal Rumble as a Born Again Christian, babyface. To go along with the new gimmick, Jake's python was named "Revelations". The gimmick mirrored Jake's real-life change as he was really born again. The highlight of Jake's second run in WWF was when he was pushed as the "Cinderella" story by facing "Stone Cold" Steve Austin in the finals of the King of the Ring tournament. Austin defeated him in easy fashion, which led to his career defining speech known as "Austin 3:16". During his speech, Austin would mock Jake and everything that he stood for by mocking John 3:16. The catchphrase elevated Austin into stardom and ultimately superstardom, as he would be the greatest star of the Attitude Era. Roberts was eliminated by Stone Cold at the 1997 Royal Rumble. Jake would be fired in February 1997. After his career had come to an end, Jake Roberts had fallen into a downward spiral of destruction. It was officially evident in the Documentary Beyond The Mat. For the last few years, people have wondered when Jake would eventually die, because of his wreckless lifestyle. However, he has cleaned himself up with help from Diamond Dallas Page. In 2014, Jake "The Snake" Roberts was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame. Jake's legacy continues to live on through the DDT, with virtually every wrestler to follow him has implemented the move into their arsenal. Jake was a pioneer in his own way. Roberts was a master of ring psychology and verbal psychology. There will never be another like Jake Roberts. Trust me.

Championships and Accomplishments:

All-Star Wrestling Network (Georgia)

• AWN World Heavyweight Champion (1 time)

• Americas Wrestling Federation
  • AWF Puerto Rico Heavyweight Championship (1 time)

• Bad Boys of Wrestling
  • BBOW Heavyweight Championship (1 time)

• Georgia Championship Wrestling
  • NWA National Television Championship (1 time)
  • NWA World Television Championship (Georgia version) (2 times)

• Legends Pro Wrestling
  • Inducted into the LPW Hall of Fame (11/27/10)

• Mid-South Wrestling Association
  • Mid-South Louisiana Heavyweight Championship (1 time)
  • Mid-South North American Heavyweight Championship (2 times)
  • Mid-South Television Championship (1 time)

• Pro Wrestling Illustrated
  • PWI Most Inspirational Wrestler of the Year (1996)
  • PWI ranked him #100 of the top 500 singles wrestlers of the "PWI Years" in 2003

• Smoky Mountain Wrestling
  • SMW Heavyweight Championship (1 time)

• Stampede Wrestling
  • Stampede North American Heavyweight Championship (1 time)

• World Class Championship Wrestling
  • NWA World Six-Man Tag Team Championship (Texas version) (1 time) – with Chris Adams and Gino Hernandez
  • WCCW Television Championship (1 time)

• World Wrestling Entertainment
  • Credited as inventor of the DDT
  • WWE Hall of Fame (Class of 2014)

In Wrestling:

Finishing moves

• DDT – Innovated

• Signature moves
  • Arm wrench short-arm clothesline
  • Gutbuster
  • Sleeper hold
  • Swinging knee lift
  • Swinging knee lift off the second turnbuckle
  • Back body drop

40. Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka: Super, Super, Superfly. If Shawn Michaels is Michael Jordan, Randy Savage is Julius Erving, then Jimmy Snuka would be the Elgin Baylor of high-flyers in Wrestling History. Snuka was truly the first of his kind. Born James Reiher in Fiji, Jimmy was an active amateur bodybuilder in the 1960's before getting into wrestling. By 1970, Reiher was uncertain about his future in bodybuilding, as he made his transition to the squared circle.  He would make his debut in Hawaii. He later moved to America to wrestle for Don Owen's NWA Pacific Northwest territory where he was the Heavyweight Champion of that region six times. Jimmy first won the title when he defeated Bull Ramos on November 16, 1973. In the Pacific Northwest, James Reiher transformed into Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka. Snuka also held the NWA Pacific Northwest Tag Titles with Dutch Savage. During his time in that territory, Snuka had a two year feud with a young Jesse "The Body" Ventura. Jimmy also wrestled in other various NWA regions, including Texas. In 1977, Snuka won both the Texas Heavyweight Title and the Tag Team Titles. He would then leave for the Mid-Atlantic to form a tag team with Paul Orndorff. In their first televised match, Snuka and Orndorff defeated NWA World Tag Team Champions Jack and Jerry Brisco in a non-title match. Orndorff and Snuka would defeat Baron Von Raschke and Greg Valentine to win the tag team titles in 1979. On September 1, 1979, Jimmy Snuka defeated Ricky Steamboat to become the NWA United States Championship. Jimmy would move on to have tag team success with Ray Stevens, as they would be named the Pro Wrestling Illustrated "Tag Team of the Year" in 1980. By 1981, Snuka would move to Georgia, where he teamed with Terry Gordy to win the NWA World Tag Team Championships by defeating Ted DiBiase and Steve Olsonoski. Wrestling Observer would recognize Snuka and Gordy as "Tag Team of the Year" in 1981. In January 1982, Jimmy Snuka joined the World Wrestling Federation. This would be the most noteworthy tenure of his career. Originally, Snuka was a heel as he feuded with WWF Champion Bob Backlund. On June 28, 1982, Snuka wrestled Bob Backlund in a steel cage match for the WWF Championship. For the first time in his career, Superfly jumped from the top of the cage to execute his trademark finishing maneuver, The Superfly Splash. Backlund would go on to win the match and retain the title. PWI would declare this as the "Match of the Year" as Superfly's name would grow from that point on. Even though he was a villain, Jimmy started to gain a large amount of popularity from fans in the Northeast because of his athleticism. In an episode of Buddy Rogers' Victory Corner, a storyline was built in where Capt. Lou Albano was financially ripping off Snuka. With the help of "Classy" Freddie Blassie's new arrival Ray Stevens (Snuka's former partner), Albano attacked Superfly. The attack solidified Jimmy as a fan favorite seeking revenge. Snuka and Stevens would wrestle each other across the region. In 1983, Snuka would feud with Intercontinental Champion "Magnificent" Don Muraco. The feud started when Snuka entered the ring for a preliminary match while Muraco was being interviewed. Don was enraged by the perceived lack of respect, as he confronted Snuka, leading to a brawl. This feud led to a steel cage match for Muraco's Intercontinental Title on October 17, 1983 in Madison Square Garden. The defining moment of Snuka's legacy took place after the match was over. Superfly lost, but dragged Muraco to the ring for The Superfly Splash. This moment put high flying on the map, as it inspired future generations of wrestlers. Future ECW Stars such as Mick Foley, Tommy Dreamer, The Sandman and Bubba Ray Dudley were all in attendance that night, as they point to this key moment as their motivation and inspiration to aggressively pursue professional wrestling. Years later, Snuka would wrestle in ECW when it was "Eastern Championship Wrestling". Very ironic. Snuka was named the 1983 "Wrestler of the Year" by Victory Magazine (later WWF Magazine). He would also win the 1983 "Most Popular Wrestler of the Year" Award by PWI. The Superfly Splash won the "Best Wrestling Maneuver" Award for Wrestling Observer. Snuka received plenty of critical acclaim, because of that moment. In June 1984, Jimmy would become embroiled in the most intense feud of his career. His rival was the top heel of the WWF, "Rowdy" Roddy Piper. In a segment of Piper's Pit, Piper brought bananas, coconuts, and pineapples to the set. In typical heel fashion, Piper wanted to make Snuka "feel more at home" but said he did not get a tree for Snuka to "climb down like a monkey". Piper proceeded to smash his head with a coconut, creating one of the most infamous moments in the history of Piper's Pit. Throughout the summer of 1984, Piper and Snuka battled all across the US. The remainder of Snuka's initial WWF run involved him feuding with Piper in one way or another. At The War To Settle The Score, Snuka defeated Piper's bodyguard "Cowboy" Bob Orton, Jr., as he put Orton's arm in a cast for over a year (In real life, Orton's arm healed). The feud played a small part in the Main Event the first WrestleMania on March 31, 1985, when Snuka played cornerman for Hulk Hogan & Mr. T when they defeated Piper & Paul Orndorff. In August 1985, Jimmy Snuka quietly vanished from the WWF. He was still featured in Hulk Hogan's Rock & Wrestling Cartoon Series. From 1986-1987, Snuka appeared in the AWA and made tours in Japan. Jimmy Snuka resurfaced in the WWF at WrestleMania V. Snuka made his televised return on SNME (5/27/1989) when he defeated Boris Zhukov. He would transition into a feud with Ted DiBiase, whene he made his PPV debut at Summerslam '89. Snuka lost the match by countout, because of interference from Virgil. In true Superfly fashion like with Backlund, Snuka gained his revenge after the match by knocking DiBiase to the floor so that he could hit Virgil with the Superfly Splash. By the latter part of 1989 (twilight years), Snuka was used to elevate younger talent. At Survivor Series, Snuka and Hennig were both the final members of their teams as Mr. Perfect pinned Snuka to win for the team. Snuka lasted 17 minutes in the Royal Rumble before facing elimination. At WrestleMania VI, Rick Rude defeated Jimmy Snuka. When the Intercontinental Championship was vacated after WrestleMania, Snuka entered the tournament. In the first round, he was defeated by the future champion, Mr. Perfect. At WrestleMania VII, Jimmy Snuka was the first opponent to be defeated in The Undertaker's Undefeated Streak. In the 1992 Royal Rumble, Snuka only lasted 3 minutes before being eliminated by none other than The Undertaker himself. Snuka's last match in the WWF was on February 8, 1992 when he lost to another future star, Shawn Michaels. After leaving the WWF in March 1992, Jimmy played an important role in the formation of Tod Gordon's Eastern Championship Wrestling. Joining Snuka were Don Muraco, and Terry Funk. Snuka was the first ECW Champion in history. By 1994, Paul Heyman would take over the promotion to rename it Extreme Championship Wrestling. In 1996, Jimmy Snuka was honored with an induction into the WWF Hall of Fame along with former manager/rival Captain Lou Albano. Years later, Snuka would make appearances with other legends like Roddy Piper, Sgt. Slaughter, Dusty Rhodes, Billy Graham, etc for different "Old School" specials like WWE Homecoming. On March 2, 2009, Jimmy Snuka was attacked by Chris Jericho in a parody of Piper's Pit. This was part of a storyline where Jericho was disrespecting the legends. Two weeks later, Roddy Piper, Ric Flair and Ricky Steamboat each attacked Jericho. It was later announced that for WrestleMania XXV, Snuka would team with Piper and Steamboat in a 3-on-1 Handicap Match versus Chris Jericho. For the 25th Anniversary of WM, the legends team had to consist of three legends who were part of the first WrestleMania. Steamboat, Piper and Snuka each fit the criteria. Snuka was the first to be eliminated, as Jericho would win the match. Jimmy Snuka's contributions as an originator of the high-flying style of wrestling are to be recognized and respected. There will only be one Superfly.

Championships and Accomplishments:

All Japan Pro Wrestling

• World's Strongest Tag Determination League (1981) – with Bruiser Brody

• Catch Wrestling Association
  • CWA British Commonwealth Championship (1 time)

• Cauliflower Alley Club
  • Other honoree (1996)

• Continental Wrestling Association
  • CWA International Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with JT Southern

• East Coast Pro Wrestling
  • ECPW Heavyweight Championship (1 time)

• Eastern Championship Wrestling
  • NWA ECW Heavyweight Championship (2 times)
  • NWA ECW Television Championship (1 time)

• Georgia Championship Wrestling
  • NWA National Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Terry Gordy

• International Wrestling Superstars
  • IWS United States Championship (1 time)

• Mid-Atlantic Championship Wrestling
  • NWA United States Heavyweight Championship (Mid-Atlantic version) (1 time)
  • NWA World Tag Team Championship (Mid-Atlantic version) (2 times) – with Paul Orndorff (1) and Ray Stevens (1)

• National Championship Wrestling
  • NCW Tag Team Championship (1 time) - with Johnny Gunn

• National Wrestling Federation
  • NWF Heavyweight Championship (1 time, last)

• National Wrestling League
  • NWL Heavyweight Championship (1 time)

• Northeast Wrestling
  • NEW Heavyweight Championship (1 time)

• NWA All-Star Wrestling
  • NWA Canadian Tag Team Championship (Vancouver version) (1 time) – with Don Leo Jonathan

• NWA Big Time Wrestling
  • NWA Texas Heavyweight Championship (1 time)
  • NWA Texas Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Gino Hernandez

• New England Pro Wrestling Hall of Fame
  • Class of 2010

• Pacific Northwest Wrestling
  • NWA Pacific Northwest Heavyweight Championship (5 times)
  • NWA Pacific Northwest Tag Team Championship (6 times) – with Dutch Savage

• Pro Wrestling Illustrated
  • PWI Match of the Year (1982) vs. Bob Backlund in a cage match on June 28
  • PWI Most Popular Wrestler of the Year (1983)
  • PWI Tag Team of the Year (1980) with Ray Stevens
  • PWI ranked him #29 of the 500 best singles wrestlers during the "PWI Years" in 2003.

• Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame
  • Class of 2012

• Tri-States Wrestling
  • Tri-State Heavyweight Championship (1 time)

• Universal Superstars of America
  • USA Heavyweight Championship (2 times)

• USA Pro Wrestling
  • USA Pro Heavyweight Championship (1 time)

• World Wide Wrestling Alliance
  • WWWA Heavyweight Championship (1 time)
  • WWWA Intercontinental Championship (1 time)

• World Wrestling Federation
  • WWE Hall of Fame (Class of 1996)

• Wrestling Observer Newsletter awards
  • Tag Team of the Year (1981) with Terry Gordy
  • Best Flying Wrestler (1981)
  • Best Wrestling Maneuver (1981, 1983) Superfly Splash

• Other titles
  • SXA United States of America Championship (1 time)

In Wrestling:

Finishing moves

• Superfly Splash / Superfly Special (Diving splash)

• Signature moves
• Backbreaker
• Diving crossbody
• Diving headbutt
• Dropkick
• Jumping headbutt
• Knee drop
• Various knife–edged chops
• Scoop slam

 Paintings Courtesy of: Rob Schamberger (Twitter: @RobSchamberger)