Step into the ring and relive the glory of the most legendary wrestling moves ever unleashed! This list of the Top 35 wrestling moves of all time will take you through a journey of jaw-dropping finishers that have defined eras and turned wrestlers into icons. From Stone Cold's electrifying Stunner to Rey Mysterio's acrobatic 619, these moves aren't just techniques—they're moments that have kept fans on the edge of their seats and made history. Dive in to explore the origins, techniques, and unforgettable impact of wrestling's most celebrated maneuvers!
The Top 35 Most Famous Wrestling Moves of All Time

Get Ready to Be Blown Away: The Ultimate Guide to 35 of the Wrestling’s Greatest Moves!

Wrestling fans, are you ready to discover the most iconic moves ever performed in the squared circle? From classic finishers that defined entire eras to the modern-day stunners that continue to leave audiences speechless, this is the ultimate list of the Top 35 Most Famous Wrestling Moves of All Time. Whether you’re a die-hard fan who remembers every move from the Attitude Era or you’re newer to the world of wrestling, this list covers it all—the origins, techniques, and legendary moments behind these unforgettable moves.

If you’ve ever wondered what makes Stone Cold’s Stunner, The Rock’s People’s Elbow, or Rey Mysterio’s 619 so special, stick around. We’ll break down the most electrifying finishers, highlight the incredible talent behind these maneuvers, and look at how they’ve impacted the careers of some of wrestling’s biggest superstars.

Get ready to relive those epic moments that had you out of your seat, cheer on your favourite wrestlers, and maybe even learn some wrestling history along the way. Let’s jump right in and break down the best moves that have shaped professional wrestling as we know it.

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Key Takeaways

  • Experience the power of wrestling’s most iconic moves like Stone Cold Steve Austin’s Stunner, Shawn Michaels’ Sweet Chin Music and The Rock’s People’s Elbow!
  • Witness impressive theatrics with Bret Hart’s Sharpshooter, Triple H’s Pedigree and Undertaker’s Tombstone Piledriver & Chokeslam!
  • Get ready for an electrifying show from modern finishers such as Seth Rollins’ Curb Stomp, Roman Reigns’ Spear & AJ Styles’ Styles Clash!

Stone Cold Steve Austin’s Stone Cold Stunner

Stone Cold Steve Austin Performing Stone Cold Stunner On An Opponent
Stone Cold Steve Austin is performing Stone Cold Stunner on local wrestling superstar Kevin Owens.

The Stone Cold Stunner, popularized by Stone Cold Steve Austin, endures as a fan-favorite finisher. Its rebellious spirit and memorable moments encapsulate the Attitude Era.

Austin executes a move by grabbing his opponent’s head in a three-quarter facelock. Then, he drops down to a seated position, intending to drive their jaw into his shoulder. This devastating move, targeting the opponent’s head, has been sold wonderfully by The Rock, Triple H, and even WWE owner Vince McMahon.

The Stunner is a highly memorable finishing move in wrestling history.

Shawn Michaels’ Sweet Chin Music

Shawn Michaels Performing Sweet Chin Music On An Opponent One Of
Shawn Michaels performing Sweet Chin Music on an opponent

Sweet Chin Music, the lethal superkick created by “The Heartbreak Kid” Shawn Michaels, is a move that combines theatrics and precision like no other. The technique involves a high-side thrust kick called a Crescent Kick. To build anticipation and excitement, Michaels would tap his foot in the corner before executing the kick.

When Sweet Chin Music caught someone right on the chin as they came flying through the air, it was always a treat to witness. This finisher has cemented its place among the most revered WWE finishing moves.

The Rock’s People’s Elbow and Rock Bottom

The Rock Performing People'S Elbow And Rock Bottom On The Late Bray Wyatt
The Rock performed the People’s Elbow and Rock Bottom on the late Bray Wyatt.

The Rock, one of the most electrifying superstars in WWE history, has two powerful finishers: the People’s Elbow and the Rock Bottom. The People’s Elbow is an electrifying finisher that involves The Rock running the ropes before dropping a theatrical elbow on his opponent. On the other hand, the Rock Bottom is a powerful and electrifying finisher wherein The Rock scoops his opponent onto his shoulder and slams them down onto the mat with great force. Both moves demonstrate The Rock’s charisma and strength, ensuring their indelible place in his repertoire.

Bret Hart’s Sharpshooter

Bret Hart Performing Sharpshooter On An Opponent
Bret Hart performing Sharpshooter on an opponent.

The Sharpshooter, a leg lock submission move invented by Japanese legend Riki Chosu, has been widely popularized by Bret “The Hitman” Hart. This technical and painful move showcases Hart’s mastery of grappling wrestling. With the opponent’s legs entwined, the Sharpshooter applies immense pressure, making even the most formidable opponents tap out.

Several wrestlers have adopted the Sharpshooter, including Natalya, Edge, and Chris Benoit, given its effectiveness.

Triple H’s Pedigree

Triple H Performing Pedigree On Vince Mcmahon
Triple H performing a Pedigree on Father-in-Law Vince McMahon

The Pedigree, Triple H’s unique and devastating facebuster, has helped him secure numerous championships and solidify his place in WWE history. In executing the Pedigree, Triple H hooks his opponent’s arms and drives their face into the mat with great force. While the move can look sloppy in the wrong hands, few can deliver it with the same level of technique and flair as “The Game” himself.

Undertaker’s Tombstone Piledriver and Chokeslam

Undertaker Performing A Chokeslam On Kane
The Undertaker chokeslamming Kane

When it comes to invoking fear in opponents, few can match the Undertaker and his iconic moves: the Tombstone Piledriver and the Chokeslam. The Tombstone Piledriver turns the opponent upside down and drops to the knees, driving their head into the mat.

On the other hand, the Chokeslam is an iconic move where the Undertaker lifts his opponent by the throat and slams them down with great force. These powerful moves have struck fear into the hearts of opponents for decades, contributing to the Undertaker’s legendary status in WWE history.

Rey Mysterio’s 619

Rey Mysterio Performing 619 On John Cena
Rey Mysterio performing 619 on John Cena

Rey Mysterio’s 619 is an innovative and high-flying finisher that showcases his agility and athleticism. Named after his home state, San Diego area code, the 619 involves Mysterio delivering a spinning kick to his opponent, draped over the second rope. The move can knock out multiple wrestlers simultaneously, reflecting Mysterio’s risk-taking style in the ring.

Given its innovation, the 619 is now a cherished move in contemporary pro wrestling.

Goldberg’s Spear and Jackhammer

Goldberg Performing Spear And Jackhammer On The Undertaker
Goldberg performing Spear and Jackhammer on The Undertaker

Goldberg’s Spear and Jackhammer finishers are known for their power and high impact. The Spear involves Goldberg charging at his opponent and tackling them with maximum velocity, while the Jackhammer combines a belly-to-back mat slam and a facebuster. These moves have helped Goldberg dominate his opponents and become synonymous with his name, making them an unforgettable part of wrestling history.

Randy Orton’s RKO

Randy Orton Performing Rko On Jey Uso
Randy Orton performing RKO on Jey Uso

Randy Orton’s RKO has long been a staple in professional wrestling, renowned for its sudden execution and versatility. Over the years, Orton has introduced several variations of the RKO, each tailored to different scenarios and opponents, enhancing its unpredictability and impact.

Standard RKO: The classic RKO involves Orton grabbing his opponent’s head in a three-quarter facelock and swiftly dropping to the mat, driving the opponent’s face into the canvas. This move can be executed from a standing position or as a counter to an opponent’s maneuver, exemplifying its versatility.

Springboard RKO: Orton intercepts an opponent leaping from the ropes in this variation. A notable instance occurred at WrestleMania 31 when Orton countered Seth Rollins’ Curb Stomp attempt with a mid-air RKO, showcasing his timing and agility.

Elevated RKO: Orton delivers this version from an elevated position, such as the top rope or a ladder. This high-risk maneuver adds significant impact, often leading to dramatic match conclusions.

Running RKO: This variation sees Orton sprinting towards his opponent before executing the RKO, adding momentum and force to the move. It’s particularly effective against opponents charging at him, turning their offence to his advantage.

Pop-Up RKO: Orton lifts his opponent into the air, either from a standing position or by using the opponent’s momentum, and then delivers the RKO as they descend. This version emphasizes Orton’s strength and timing.

These variations demonstrate Orton’s adaptability in the ring and keep audiences engaged. The RKO can be unleashed from any position, often leading to unexpected and thrilling match outcomes.

For a visual compilation of Randy Orton’s greatest RKOs, you might find this video insightful:

365 of Randy Orton’s greatest RKOs

The RKO’s swift execution consistently captivates fans.

John Cena’s Attitude Adjustment

John Cena Performing Attitude Adjustment On Randy Orton
John Cena performing Attitude Adjustment on Randy Orton

John Cena’s Attitude Adjustment is a testament to his strength and determination. The move involves Cena picking up his opponent in a fireman’s carry position and flipping them headfirst onto their back. The fireman’s carry position has been used to defeat some of the biggest names in WWE, including:

among others.

Cena’s finisher has undoubtedly played a part in his rise as one of WWE’s most successful wrestlers.

Brodie Lee Performing A Suicide Dive Onto Michael Elgin
Brodie Lee performing a suicide dive onto Michael Elgin

Breathtaking topé suicida

This term, often used in Spanish as “suicida,” precedes any maneuver executed from any part of the wrestling ring to its exterior. A prevalent example is the ‘suicide dive’, known in Spanish as “topé suicida,” translating to “suicide headbutt.” Additionally, when a wrestler performs a somersault after springing through the ropes or leaping over the top rope to land back-first on their opponent, this move is identified as a ‘suicide senton’ or “topé con giro,” meaning “spinning headbutt” in Spanish. Outside of Mexico, this move is sometimes inaccurately called “topé con hilo,” a mistranslation that originated in Japan. This misnomer persists even though “hilo” in Spanish means “thread.”

High-Flying Finishers: Swanton Bomb, Shooting Star Press, and Frog Splash

High-flying finishers like the Swanton Bomb, Shooting Star Press, and Frog Splash showcase their performers’ athleticism and risk-taking nature. These aerial moves involve leaps from the top rope and require incredible precision and timing.

From Jeff Hardy’s death-defying Swanton Bomb to the thrilling Shooting Star Press performed by wrestlers like Billy Kidman and Ricochet, these moves never leave fans in awe.

Swanton Bomb

The Swanton Bomb, popularized by Jeff Hardy, is an exciting high-flying finisher that involves jumping off the top turnbuckle and performing a backflip before landing on a prone opponent. This move perfectly captures the essence of Jeff Hardy’s high-risk, high-reward wrestling style.

The Swanton Bomb is an iconic move in the world of WWE. It has brought many memorable moments, like thrilling ladder matches and high-stakes championship fights.

Shooting Star Press

Brock Lesnar Performing The Shooting Star Press
Brock Lesnar performing the Shooting Star Press, one of the most famous wrestling moves

The Shooting Star Press is an aerial move that involves jumping from the top rope and performing a backflip before landing on an opponent. Jushin Liger first performed this breathtaking move in August of 1987 and has since been adopted by many wrestlers, including Billy Kidman, Ricochet, and Evan Bourne.

The Shooting Star Press is a testament to its performers’ athleticism and daredevil nature.

Frog Splash

The Frog Splash, popularized by the late great Eddie Guerrero, is an exciting high-flying finisher that involves leaping from the top rope and landing on a prone opponent with the wrestler’s chest making contact. Many wrestlers, such as Rob Van Dam, have used the move, who added his unique twist, calling it the Five-Star Frog Splash.

The Frog Splash remains a fan-favourite move, showcasing the wrestler’s agility and willingness to take risks in the ring.

Submission Classics: Ankle Lock, Figure Four Leglock, and Crippler Crossface

Submission moves like the Ankle Lock, Figure Four Leglock, and Crippler Crossface are about technical prowess and causing pain to force opponents to tap out. Some of the greatest technicians in wrestling history, such as Kurt Angle and Bret Hart, have used these moves.

Once locked in, these submission holds can coerce even the strongest wrestlers into submission.

Ankle Lock

The Ankle Lock, popularized by Kurt Angle and Ken Shamrock, is a submission hold involving a wrestler grabbing an opponent’s foot and twisting it to force them to tap out. The move showcases the wrestler’s technical skills and ability to immobilize opponents.

Angle has used the ankle lock extensively throughout his career, making it an iconic part of his arsenal.

Figure Four Leglock

The Figure Four Leglock, a submission hold in which a wrestler locks their legs around an opponent’s leg and applies pressure, was first invented by Japanese legend Riki Chosu but gained widespread popularity thanks to “The Nature Boy” Ric Flair.

This painful move targets the opponent’s legs, wearing them down and forcing them to submit. The Figure Four Leglock remains one of the most iconic submission moves in wrestling history.

Crippler Crossface

The Crippler Crossface is a technical and painful submission move that neutralizes opponents by placing them in a cross-face hold and wrenching their necks backward. Chris Benoit first used this devastating move, which has since been incorporated into the movements of other wrestlers, such as Sasha Banks (Mercedes Moné), who uses a modified version called the Banks Statement.

The Crippler Crossface is a testament to the importance of submission moves in modern wrestling, especially in professional wrestling.

Tag Team Finishers: Dudley Death Drop, Doomsday Device, and 3D

Tag team finishers like the Dudley Death Drop, Doomsday Device, and 3D showcase their respective tag teams’ fantastic teamwork and chemistry. These powerful and coordinated moves require perfect timing and execution to take down opponents in the ring.

From the Dudley Boyz’s powerful Dudley Death Drop to the Road Warriors’ renowned Doomsday Device, these finishers have significantly influenced the world of tag team wrestling.

Dudley Death Drop

The Dudley Death Drop, also known as the 3D, is an exciting tag team finishing move created by Dudley Boyz, Bubba Ray, and D-Von Dudley. The move involves one wrestler lifting the opponent into the air and slinging them over his shoulders while the other wrestler catches them with a Diamond Cutter/RKO.

The Dudley Death Drop is a testament to the innovation and excitement that tag team wrestling brings to the squared circle.

Doomsday Device

The Doomsday Device, popularized by the legendary tag team the Road Warriors (also known as the Legion of Doom in WWE), is a powerful tandem move that involves one wrestler lifting the opponent onto their shoulders. In contrast, the other wrestler jumps off the top rope and delivers a clothesline or attack.

This high-impact move showcases the incredible teamwork and coordination of the tag team and has been used by various tag teams throughout wrestling history.

3D

The 3D, another name for the Dudley Death Drop, is an innovative tag team finishing move in which one wrestler lifts the opponent in a Flapjack while the other hooks the opponent in a Cutter.

This move, popularized by the Dudley Boyz, has become a staple in tag team wrestling. It showcases the excitement and unpredictability of tandem finishers.

Perfect-Plex

Based on the search results and wrestling history, Mr. Perfect’s signature finisher was the Perfect-Plex (also known as a Fisherman’s Suplex with bridge). Here’s how it evolved throughout his career:

Perfect-Plex Evolution

Early Version

  • Initially used as a standard fisherman’s suplex in AWA and early WWF days
  • Added the distinctive bridge pin component during his undefeated streak

Peak WWF Era

  • Refined the move during his Intercontinental Championship runs
  • He had to modify the move during his back issues in 1991
  • He started using countout finishes to protect his back instead of performing the Perfect Plex

Technical Execution

  • Involved hooking the opponent’s leg while executing a suplex
  • Maintained a bridge position for the pin
  • He was known for the perfect technical execution that matched his character’s gimmick.

Later Career Impact

  • I had to limit the use of the move due to recurring back problems
  • During his 1996 return, he used the move more sparingly
  • The move became so iconic that other wrestlers would kick out of it to signal a major match moment

The Perfect-Plex remains one of wrestling’s most technically sound finishing moves, perfectly matching Mr. Perfect’s character of executing everything flawlessly.

Women’s Wrestling Finishers: Charlotte Flair’s Figure Eight, Sasha Banks’ Bank Statement, and Becky Lynch’s Dis-arm-her

Women’s wrestling has also seen its fair share of innovative and effective finishers, such as Charlotte Flair’s Figure Eight, Sasha Banks’(Mercedes Moné) Bank Statement, and Becky Lynch’s Dis-arm-her. These moves display the prowess and resolve of these female wrestlers, contributing to their rise to WWE’s top ranks and their dominance in the industry.

Figure Eight

Charlotte Flair’s Figure Eight is an exhilarating variation of the traditional Figure Four leg lock, adding elevation to the hold to increase pressure on the opponent. The move was invented by Charlotte herself while experimenting in the ring and has since become her signature submission move.

With its unique execution and impressive technique, Figure Eight has helped Charlotte Flair dominate her opponents and secure numerous championships.

Bank Statement

Sasha Banks’ / Mercedes Moné Bank Statement is a modified version of the Crossface submission hold, which combines a cross-face and body scissors to immobilize the opponent. Mercedes created the move to reflect her persona and style in the ring, and it became her signature finisher.

The Bank Statement showcases her technical prowess and ability to target and neutralize her opponents.

Dis-arm-her

Becky Lynch’s Dis-arm-her is a modified version of the armbar submission hold, which involves trapping the opponent’s arm between the legs and applying pressure to the shoulder. This innovative finisher has helped “The Man” rise to the top of the women’s division, showcasing her technical skills and determination in the ring.

The Dis-arm-her is a testament to Becky Lynch’s enduring legacy as one of the industry’s most exciting and innovative wrestlers.

Roman Reigns Applying The Spear On Solo Sikoa
Roman Reigns Applying the Spear on Solo Sikoa

Modern Finishers: Seth Rollins’ Curb Stomp, Roman Reigns’ Spear, and AJ Styles’ Styles Clash

In the modern era of wrestling, finishers like Seth Rollins’ Curb Stomp, Roman Reigns’ Spear, and AJ Styles’ Styles Clash have become synonymous with their respective performers, helping them rise to the top of the WWE. These distinctive, potent moves exemplify the ongoing innovation and creativity in professional wrestling, leaving a lasting impression on fans. These can be considered for inclusion in The Top 35 Most Famous Wrestling Moves of All Time.

Curb Stomp

Seth Rollins’ Curb Stomp is an artistic and powerful finisher that involves stomping on the opponent’s head while they are on their knees. This move is a testament to Rollins’ athleticism and strength, as it requires incredible precision and timing.

The Curb Stomp has become Rollins’ signature move, adding to his impressive arsenal and helping him secure numerous WWE championships.

Spear

Roman Reigns’ Spear is a devastating tackle that involves charging at an opponent and bringing their body forward with tremendous force. Other wrestling greats, such as Goldberg and Edge, have used the Spear, but Reigns has made it his signature move.

The impact of the Spear can be devastating to the receiving end, making it a perfect finisher for “The Big Dog.”

Styles Clash

AJ Styles’ Styles Clash is a unique and innovative finisher that involves:

  • grabbing the opponent’s midsection
  • lifting them up
  • falling forward
  • driving their head and upper body into the mat

Styles accidentally created the move while playing with his brother on a trampoline during his younger days.

The Styles Clash showcases Styles’ incredible in-ring abilities, which have helped him become one of the top wrestlers in the world today.

Banned or Retired Moves

Professional wrestling is renowned for its dynamic, high-impact maneuvers, which captivate audiences worldwide. However, to ensure the safety of performers and align with evolving industry standards, organizations like WWE and AEW have implemented bans on certain moves. These restrictions aim to minimize injury risks and maintain the well-being of wrestlers.

WWE Banned Moves:

  • Piledriver: The traditional piledriver was banned after a botched execution by Owen Hart in 1997 resulted in Stone Cold Steve Austin suffering a severe neck injury. Exceptions have been made for experienced performers like The Undertaker and Kane, who use the Tombstone Piledriver variant.
  • Chair Shots to the Head: In 2010, WWE prohibited unprotected chair shots to the head due to concerns over concussions and long-term brain injuries.
  • Curb Stomp: Seth Rollins’ finishing move, the Curb Stomp, was banned in 2015 because of its perceived violent nature and potential for head injuries. Rollins later introduced a new finisher, the “Pedigree,” before eventually reinstating the Curb Stomp with modifications.
  • Buckle Bomb: This move, which involves throwing an opponent into the turnbuckle, was banned after incidents where wrestlers sustained injuries, including Sting’s temporary retirement following a neck injury in 2015.
  • Shooting Star Press: A high-risk aerial maneuver, the Shooting Star Press was banned after Billy Kidman accidentally injured Chavo Guerrero in 2004. The move has since been reintroduced for performers who can execute it safely.

AEW Banned Moves:

In July 2023, AEW issued a list of banned moves and actions to enhance wrestler safety:

  • Unprotected Chair Shots to the Head: Similar to WWE’s policy, AEW banned unprotected chair shots to the head to mitigate concussion risks.
  • Shots to the Back of the Head: Strikes targeting the back of the head are prohibited due to the potential for serious injury.
  • Buckle Bombs: The move was banned following injuries resulting from its execution.
  • Blind Moves Backward into the Turnbuckle: To prevent unforeseen injuries, moves in which a wrestler moves backward into the Turnbuckle without visual confirmation are banned.
  • Fencing Responses and Seizure Sells: To avoid trivializing severe medical conditions, performing or imitating concussion or seizure symptoms is prohibited.
  • Spitting and Bleeding in the Crowd: These actions are banned to maintain hygiene and respect for the audience.
  • Weapons or Projectiles in the Crowd: To ensure spectator safety, weapons and objects thrown into the crowd are prohibited.
  • Taking Drinks or Food from Guests in the Crowd: This action is banned to maintain professionalism and respect for audience members.
  • Physical Contact with the Crowd: Unapproved physical interactions with the audience are prohibited to prevent potential altercations or injuries.

These measures reflect the industry’s commitment to evolving safety standards and adapting to modern content expectations.

For a visual overview of some of these banned moves, you might find this video informative:

Top 10 Wrestling Moves Banned By WWE

Variations of the Top Moves Performed by Other Wrestlers

Professional wrestling is rich with diverse moves and their variations, each tailored to a wrestler’s style and the promotion’s ethos. The moves discussed in your article have evolved across different promotions, showcasing the creativity and adaptability of performers worldwide.

Stone Cold Stunner Variations:

  • Ace Crusher: Originating in Japan, this move involves a wrestler grabbing the opponent’s head in a cutter position and dropping down, similar to the Stunner.
  • Diamond Cutter: Popularized by Diamond Dallas Page in WCW, this variation sees the wrestler applying a front face lock and then dropping to execute the cutter.

Sweet Chin Music Variations:

  • Superkick: A widely used move across promotions, the superkick is a high-side thrust kick to the opponent’s chin or face. Wrestlers like The Young Bucks in AEW have popularized its frequent use.
  • Superkick Party: The Young Bucks often deliver multiple superkicks in succession, turning it into a signature sequence.

People’s Elbow and Rock Bottom Variations:

  • Corporate Elbow: A variation of the People’s Elbow used by The Rock during his time with the Corporation faction in WWE.
  • Book End: Booker T’s finishing move in WCW, similar to the Rock Bottom, involves lifting the opponent and slamming them back-first onto the mat.

Sharpshooter Variations:

  • Scorpion Death Lock: Used by Sting in WCW, this move is identical to the Sharpshooter, with slight stylistic differences.
  • Cloverleaf: A submission hold where the wrestler crosses the opponent’s legs and applies pressure, similar to the Sharpshooter.

Pedigree Variations:

  • Double Underhook Facebuster: The general term for moves like the Pedigree, where the wrestler hooks both of the opponent’s arms before driving them face-first into the mat.
  • Angel’s Wings: Christopher Daniels’ variation in TNA/Impact Wrestling, where he lifts the opponent before executing the facebuster.

Tombstone Piledriver and Chokeslam Variations:

  • Gotch-Style Piledriver: Used by Minoru Suzuki in NJPW, this variation involves a cradle before dropping the opponent head-first.
  • Last Ride: The Undertaker’s elevated powerbomb adds height and impact compared to a standard powerbomb.

619 Variations:

  • Tiger Feint Kick: The original name for the 619, used in Japanese promotions, involving a swing through the ropes to kick the opponent.
  • Dial-Up: A variation where the wrestler adds a springboard maneuver after the kick, increasing its impact.

Spear Variations:

  • Gore: Rhino’s version in ECW and TNA is characterized by a more aggressive and forceful execution.
  • Pounce: Monty Brown’s variation in TNA, where he uses a running shoulder block to knock the opponent off their feet.

RKO Variations:

  • Cutter is the general term for moves like the RKO, where the wrestler grabs the opponent’s head and drops into a cutter.
  • Twist of Fate: Used by Matt Hardy, this move starts with a front facelock before transitioning into a cutter.

Attitude Adjustment Variations:

  • Death Valley Driver: This is a more impactful version in which the wrestler drops the opponent head-first or neck-first onto the mat.
  • Fireman’s Carry Slam: A general term for moves where the wrestler lifts the opponent onto their shoulders before slamming them down.

Swanton Bomb Variations:

  • Senton Bomb: A high-flying move where the wrestler flips forward off the top rope, landing back-first onto the opponent.
  • Corkscrew Senton: A variation where the wrestler adds a twist to the senton, increasing its visual appeal.

Shooting Star Press Variations:

  • Corkscrew Shooting Star Press: A variation where the wrestler adds a spin to the backflip, increasing difficulty and impact.
  • Standing Shooting Star Press: Performed from a standing position without the aid of the ropes, showcasing agility.

Frog Splash Variations:

  • Five-Star Frog Splash: Rob Van Dam’s version, known for its height and impact.
  • Low Down: D’Lo Brown’s variation adds a leg drop motion to the traditional frog splash.

Ankle Lock Variations:

  • Heel Hook: A submission targeting the ankle and heel, applying pressure to force a tap-out.
  • Calf Crusher: AJ Styles’ submission move focuses on the calf muscle, similar to applying the ankle lock.

Figure Four Leglock Variations:

  • Figure Eight Leglock: Charlotte Flair’s variation, where she bridges to add more pressure to the hold.
  • Inverted Figure Four Leglock: A variation where the hold is applied in reverse, targeting different ligaments.

Crippler Crossface Variations:

  • Yes Lock: Daniel Bryan’s submission move combines the crossface with an arm trap.
  • Bank Statement: Sasha Banks’ variation, adding a backstabber transition into the Crossface.

Dudley Death Drop (3D) Variations:

  • 3D II: A variation where the opponent is lifted higher before the cutter is applied.
  • 3D through a table: The Dudley Boyz often executed the move through a table for added impact.

Doomsday Device Variations:

  • Top Rope Doomsday Device: The attacking wrestler jumps off the top rope to deliver the finishing blow.
  • Springboard Doomsday Device: A variation where the attacking wrestler uses the ropes to gain momentum before the attack.

Figure Eight Variations:

  • Standard Figure Four Leglock: The traditional version without the bridge.
  • Bridging Figure Four Leglock: Similar to Figure Eight but with different positioning.

Bank Statement Variations:

  • Straightjacket Bank Statement: Sasha Banks crosses the opponent’s arms before applying

Summary of The Top 35 Most Famous Wrestling Moves of All Time

From the iconic Stone Cold Stunner to the innovative Styles Clash, wrestling finishers have left an indelible mark on the industry and its fans. These moves showcase their performers’ athleticism, creativity, and determination and create unforgettable moments that will be remembered for years. Whether it’s a high-flying aerial move or a devastating submission hold, these finishers have helped shape wrestling history and continue to inspire future generations of performers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s The Rock’s signature move?

The Rock’s signature moves are unmistakable: The People’s Elbow, The Samoan Drop, Rock Bottom, and The People’s Eyebrow. These make him one of the most recognizable wrestlers-turned-actors ever!

What is Hulk Hogan’s signature move?

Hulk Hogan is well known for his signature finishing move, the iconic “Leg Drop.” This move involves an attacking wrestler jumping and landing their leg across a fallen opponent’s chest, throat, face or head. It has become a symbol of the old-guard style that he brought into wrestling, generation after generation.

What are Booker T’s finishing moves?

The Scissors Kick and Book End became his most recognizable finishing moves, particularly during his main event run as a five-time WCW Champion and later WWE World Heavyweight Champion.

What is the difference between a finisher and a signature move?

A finisher is a wrestler’s most potent and effective move to secure a victory. In contrast, a signature move is a wrestler’s recognizable move used regularly in matches but not necessarily for a win.

Check out our article on The Most Popular Submissions in MMA . You can also check out some finishers that you may have forgotten.

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