WWE Wrestling Techniques: The Most Flawed Punches
Within the world of professional wrestling, the devastating punch is one of the most iconic and dramatic moves. From traditional grandstanding to modern-day powerhouses, the execution of a punch can either solidify a wrestler's reputation or expose their weaknesses. In this article, we explore some of the most visually glaring and flawed punches performed in the WWE. If you're a fan of watching every punch land true, this piece is for you.
1. Beautiful Bobby Ether's Midnight Express Punch
In the World Championship Wrestling (WCW) era, Beautiful Bobby from the Midnight Express was infamous for his lackluster punch execution. Stationed within the World Wrestling Federation (WWE) at the time, Beautiful Bobby's punch technique was a spectacle of subpar moves. He would rhythmically strike with his right hand and then awkwardly tap his chest with his left hand, the move known as the 'Sweet Chin Music' segue.
The move, now more famously associated with the Midnight Express duo of Ric Flair and Ricky Steamboat, became a laughable parody in the WWE. Instead of a landing, impactful punch, the sequence often looked more like a slap across the chest, making it clear he could not be taken seriously in terms of delivering real force. This became all too evident and cringe-worthy, especially for fans who respected the craft.
2. Lengo Cien Caras' Punches
Another unflattering punch technique in WWE history is that of Lengo Cien Caras. His signature moves included over-the-top motion and excessive wind-up, which often resulted in a punch that lacked the necessary power and impact. The Cuban star, known for his high-profile antics, once again demonstrated why his techniques often fell flat. After a series of exaggerated wind-ups, his punches seemed more aimed at creating a comedic effect rather than a painful one.
His inability to deliver a proper punch not only detracted from his matches but also from the narrative around his character. Fans watching from the beginning of a match could anticipate the lackluster finish, which was disappointing, especially given his larger-than-life persona and shirtless image. Cien Caras' inability to execute a strong punch technique did little to support his brave and powerful character.
3. The Rock's Wild Punch
Speaking of characters that could use a touch of improvement, let's not forget about The Rock. His early days saw him delivering over-the-top punches with little finesse. These were more akin to a slap than a punch and often left audience members questioning the authenticity of the move. While The Rock would later go on to become a master of the stage and an expert in the ring, his early punch delivery was a stark reminder of the evolution a wrestler must undergo to transition from a small-time wrestler to a superstar.
The over-the-top punches, with their exaggerated wind-ups and lack of follow-through, were classic Rock moments that would elicit laughter from fans more than pain or respect. Over time, though, fans came to recognize his growth as a performer and his moves became more polished and impactful.
Conclusion
In the world of professional wrestling, the punch is a critical aspect of a wrestler's arsenal. It is not just about delivering a painful blow but about maintaining the integrity of the move and the story. The examples covered herein serve as a reminder that the art of wrestling is as much about craft as it is about performance. While each of the noted wrestlers had their unique brand of comedy and charisma, they also faced the public's scrutiny when it came to their punch execution.
Despite their pitfalls, these flawed punches are iconic in their own right, reminding us of the evolution of professional wrestling and the impact of fearless performances. If you are a wrestling fan, keep an eye out for the evolution of these wrestlers' punching techniques, as they teach us a lot about the craft and discipline needed to become a true star in the world of professional wrestling.