Favorite Wrestlers to watch in the ring

Riddle101

So who Are/Were your favorite wrestlers to watch in the ring?

Mine Are/Were
Chris Benoit - An awesome technical wrestler who put a lot of realism into his matches. Benoit could sell ice cubes to an eskimo. But He's among my favourite to watch in the ring.

Shawn Michaels - IMO, the best in ring performer of all time. I loved watching HBK in the ring, he could make anyone look good in the ring and was just top notch to watch.

Chris Jericho - In the past Jericho was most definetely awesome in the ring, nowadays i'm not so sure. But in the past he was one of my favourites to watch.

The Rock - Yes i said it, The Rock would be on my list. I know some people say he wasn't great in the ring. But I think he was at least above average as far as his wrestling ability goes. But what really got to me about Rock was that, while he wasn't a technition in the ring. I do consider him a good in ring performer, someone who could captivate the crowd and was entertaining to watch.

Rob Van Dam - I haven't liked his work since coming to TNA. But I always enjoyed RVD's ring work in WWE and ECW. He had a unique wrestling style and was a great seller in the ring too.

Tajiri - This might be a suprise to some, but I loved watching the Japanese Buzzsaw when he was in WWE. His kicks were quick and lethal, just how I like it. But I enjoyed watching his matches nonetheless.

As for current era wrestlers I enjoy watching in the ring.

Samoa Joe - I know he's been quite lazy and unmotivated for a while. But when he is motivated he was arguably one of TNA's best wrestlers. I'm sure some people would agree that his ROH work was great too. Nowadays, it's seems TNA is building Joe back up, and I really hope Joe takes this opportunity to improve and get back to his old self.

Daniel Bryan(Or Bryan Danielson) - Definetely the best wrestler in WWE, and to some people the best wrestler in North America. He's certainly one wrestler in WWE who's matches don't bore me when I watch them.

Austin Aries - Another TNA guy who I really like watching in the ring.

airmax87

RVD, Steve Blackman, Ken Shamrock, Tajiri.

Fenian Army

Scott Steiner, Dr Death, Angle, Undertaker, Vader, Misawa, Kobashi, Hulk Hogan

Ric Flair was my fave

Brock Lesnar (2002 - 2004) was unbelievable.

GTR63

Easily Kurt Angle

chopperbyrne

In no particular order: Eddie, Shawn, Bret, Perfect, Hall, Macho, Steamboat, Jake Roberts, DiBiase, Punk, Bryan, Styles, Cena, Orton, Cody, Ziggler.

There are plenty more I like, but those would be the standout favourites of mine over the years.

waltersobchak

Eddie was always number 1 for me, with Benoit a close second..

Then I'd say Sabu, Van Dam, Angle, HBK, and all the other usual suspects...

bobby_says_hi

Evan Bourne and Tyson Kidd right now. Austin Aries is slowly getting there

Digitalism

Zack gowen.

rovert

How long do you got? :P

This would probably take forever to list.

I really do like modern Wrestling WWE, TNA, New Japan and PWG instead of listing obvious names let’s just say they all have great rosters. Beyond that I actively try to search out anything El Generico, Akira Tozawa, Sara Del Ray, Archibald Peck/R.D. Evans and Adam Cole do. Tyson Kidd is the person who I have been repping for the hardest this year. Like I did during 2010-11 for Chris Masters.

The past 5 years I have been getting 80s comps of various promotions which allowed me to expand on my knowledge of Wrestlers from that period beyond my childhood favourites that mainly came from just watching WWF and bits & bobs of WCW (Bret, Shawn, Mick Foley, Austin, Rock etc.). So Ted DiBiase, Hacksaw Duggan, Ric Flair, Dick Murdoch, Terry Gordy, Stan Hansen, The Fabulous Freebirds, Jerry Lawler, Bill Dundee, Terry Funk Rock N Roll & Midnight Express have all become favourites.

Then you’ve got your all round Wrestling gods like Misawa, Kobashi, Kawada, Tsuruta, Tenryu, Manami Toyota, Eddy Guerrero, Rey Mysterio etc.

moongoose

if your going with rvd surely jerry lynn deserves a mention for their counter to counter to.....etc fights in ecw

starviewadams

In no particular order:

HBK
Mr.Perfect
Flair
Eddie
Benoit
Mysterio
Danielson
Rock
Vader
Angle
Lance Storm
Lawler
Aries

tdv123

Bret without a doubt. He really made wrestling look like a art form. He could have a great match with anyone, he could take a big clump like Shango or Sid & have a great match with them.

Mr.Saturn

-Vader, as he just exudes this sense of wanting to hurt you, and can make it look so (sometimes actually doing so, but hey-ho). He can also take loss after loss, and still maintain that elusive monster aura.

-Kobashi, from the orange-trunked upstart to the black and purple measuring stick, he masters this capacity to work a match of any pace and it still look like a fire-fuel fight-to-the-death. Just drool-inducing levels of talent.

-HHH, from the second you hear Lemmy hailing his arrival to the time he signals his depart, you know there will be nothing done to take you out of watch you're watching. Everything he does is believable and logical (in terms of match context, at least), regardless of the role he is playing, from steely-veteran to qualified dickhead.

-I like how Jake Roberts could look cunning, sadistic and cowardly all in about two seconds, like his match with Steamboat at the Boston Garden, where Steamboat is looking for revenge for 'that' DDT, but Roberts bolts like a kicked cat as soon as Steamboat gains any momentum whatsoever.

Motion118

Triple H - My favourite wrestler ever. I simply love watching all of his matches, whether if it's from his early years or from right now. He executes his moves perfectly, has outstanding ring psychology and can work numerous different matches. I consider his run in 2000 to be one of the finest performances from anyone in a calendar year - he was flawless.

Daniel Bryan - In my opinion he's the best wrestler in the world, and has been for many years. The first full match I saw from him was a few years ago when I watched and old ROH DVD (Driven 2007). His match with McGuinness on that show was brilliant, and I've been fascinated with his work ever since.

The Rock - While he isn't the best wrestler you'll ever see (still better than Austin though!), I found him highly entertaining to watch. In his prime he was very fluid in the ring, had tones of charisma and the fans were always into everything he did. Everything about him just made his matches so fun to watch.

Kevin Steen - My favourite wrestler alongside Daniel Bryan right now. I love watching Kevin Steen wrestle. For a guy his size he's incredibly mobile and you can always count on him to deliver and exciting match. He can work with pretty much anybody, has an awesome move-set, great ring psychology and plays his character to perfection. Much like The Rock, you're always bound to see him in a fun match no matter how big or important it is.

Shawn Michaels - Come on, who didn't like watching Shawn Michaels wrestle?! He's arguably the best wrestler ever. I loved his diverse wrestling styles, his storytelling and superb ring psychology (as you probably know by now I love me some good ring psychology!). In my view, he was incapable of having a bad match.

Austin Aries - Whether it's early run in ROH where he was the hard-hitting babyface, or the 'Greatest Man That Ever Lived' from 2009 to present, I love watching A Double wrestle. Every move he does seems to get a reaction out of me, even if I've seen it a thousand times before. The Last Chancery, the Brainbuster, the kick to the face he does to his opponent when they're on the ground - it's all just hugely entertaining to me.

DM_7

Immediate and obvious thoughts are Punk, Danielson, Jericho and of course Eddie.

others I enjoy are Tyson Kidd, Kofi, Sheamus (probably a surprise).

I liked Edge and was very sad when he had to retire all of a sudden. I liked how he was willing to take a risk to entertain the fans and later on in his career he was able to showcase a great persona in the ring and became a classy competitor in all sorts of matches.

gimmick

In no particular order

HBK : Best of all time. Bar none.

Brian Danielson, Chris Benoit, Eddie Guerrero, Samoa Joe, El Generico, Kevin Steen, Roderick Strong, Jimmy Jacobs, Chris Jericho, Dynamite Kid, Ricky Steamboat, Mark & Jay Brisco, Davey Richards, KENTA, Marufuji, Ric Flair, Fergal Devitt, Chris Sabin, Alex Shelley, Chris Hero, Kenta Kobashi, Shingo, Yokusuka, CM Punk, Conor Hurley

All of the above have the ability to captivate you into a match. Some there are nice and technical, others less so. One way or other, I would happily watch their matches back to back without issue.

Stereomaniac

Bret Hart (in his own way the best ever, in terms of psychology and pacing)
Bryan Danielson (a phenomenal technician, and his size makes the matches gripping)
Dave Batista (the power is a wonder to behold!)
Steve Austin (explosive, considering the condition he was in, very fascinating to see)
Ricky Steamboat (mesmerising, groundbreaking)
CM Punk (same as Danielson, only maybe a little less so)
Kurt Angle (reminds me of where wrestling came from, a sport)
The Rock (literally is electrifying, so entertaining, especially having watched him grow over the years)

Mr.Nice Guy

I'm delighted Rey is back. He is imo the best wrestler in the world currently. I think you're always guaranteed at least a good match from him.

Of all time I would echo the notable names already mentioned and I think Owen also deserves a shout as I think his wrestling ability still stands out as special.

Dave H

There's loads that would be high up there but there's only one that I thought was "Perfect"

JohnMarston

One of my favourite wrestlers to watch was William (formerly Steven) Regal
Definitely one of the most underrated wrestlers in the business to this day. He never had the best physique but he is a brilliant technical wrestler, perfected from decades in the ring, and is always a joy to watch.

And for him to never have had a world title is a travesty.

Riddle101

JohnMarston wrote: »

One of my favourite wrestlers to watch was William (formerly Steven) Regal
Definitely one of the most underrated wrestlers in the business to this day. He never had the best physique but he is a brilliant technical wrestler, perfected from decades in the ring, and is always a joy to watch.

And for him to never have had a world title is a travesty.

I think his drug issues are what kept him from being a world champion. Could've been a great heel champion though.

JohnMarston

Riddle101 wrote: »

I think his drug issues are what kept him from being a world champion. Could've been a great heel champion though.

True, and to be fair Jim Ross and Vince gave him many chances back around his early days in the WWF to clean up his act, according to his autobiography ( a great read actually). So that wouldnt have helped his case when he failed the wellness test again a few years back. He's working away on NXT though

Mr.Saturn

Riddle101 wrote: »

I think his drug issues are what kept him from being a world champion. Could've been a great heel champion though.

He was more than on his way in 2008, with the GM/KOTR crowns. That was, of course, 'til he got Wellness'd.

Ethan Swagger

bobby_says_hi wrote: »

Evan Bourne and Tyson Kidd right now. Austin Aries is slowly getting there

Yeah I agree, they are class. Personal favourites right now are powerhouses Rob Terry and Mason Ryan - both from Wales. Growing up the narcissist himself, 'The Total Package', with his signature torture rack - Lex Luger - was my All American hero!

Mick Murdock

Taking a leaf from Booker T's book, I'm interested in hearing who everybodys current fav 5 wrestlers in the industry today. I'm thinking WWE/TNA but if people want to include indies they can.

I'll start with mine in numerical order.

1. CM Punk - Been untouchable for quite some time. Should be a bigger star.

2. Daniel Bryan - Can't believe he's so over considering his background - and size! He has made the best of every opportunity. His current look is also brilliant.

3. Dolph Ziggler - Hopefully gets a long reign from cashing in MITB. Great all rounder.

4. Damien Sandow - Just a brilliant talker and so entertaining. 5/5 every time

5. Bully Ray. WWE needs him back. Great on the microphone and at the top of his game. Only reason I watch any TNA.


Wish I could include Sheamus - Clearly this is bias as WWE make it almost impossible to like his character at times but I still pop every time he's on tv. Seems like a great guy outside the ring too.

Not as big on The Shield as some people, but I do like Dean Ambrose (hate the name though!) I have a feeling I'll eat my words on this statement.

Also honourable mention for Mark Henry.

jaykhunter

Please include reasons for your choices (like the OP) otherwise it's just another list thread. Cheers

Angron

1. Kane. He's been my favourite wrestler for years, and his work over the last few months with Bryan has just been fantastic.

2. Daniel Bryan. Brilliant wrestler, he could have a great match with damn near anyone in the WWE, and ever since he won the WHC, he's proven time and again how good he is.

3. CM Punk. Has really come into his own over the last few years, to prove he's one of the biggest stars the WWE has. Very entertaining to watch, great on the mic, and still has a good few years ahead of him.

4. John Cena. Despite how much people have a go at him, I have a lot of respect for this guy. I don't know has WWE ever had someone who works as hard as he does outside the ring, and he can be good on the mic, if only they would stop having him treat it all as a joke so much.

5. Christopher Daniels. My favourite TNA wrestler, I love his tag team with Kazarian, and Curry Man was a pretty funny gimmick. I just think the guy is immensly talented, I'll be disappointed if he doesn't win the TNA World title before he retires.

starviewadams

1.Mark Henry: Been absolute quality since his return.Brilliant trash talking too.His impression of Khali dancing was magnificent.

2.Chris Jericho: Hasn't put a foot wrong both in ring and promo wise since the Rumble.Looks like he's enjoying himself aswell.

3. Big Show: In the best form of his WWE career at the minute imo.

4.The Rock: Just delighted to have him back (almost) every week on TV.

5.The Shield (Roman Reigns especially):Brilliant faction,Reigns is a total monster!

GTR63

Another week.
Another poll.

gimmick

GTR63 wrote: »

Another week.
Another poll.

Your point being?

Mick Murdock

GTR63 wrote: »

Another week.
Another poll.

Maybe these topics are commonplace, but I haven't seen an equivalent.

Just looking for other peoples opinions. Not sure why you're being a smartarse about it. It doesn't encourage new users.

GTR63

gimmick wrote: »

Your point being?

There are too many. Most of them are a bit pointless. Maybe do it around WrestleMania 30 or that.

gimmick

To be fair, they are not cluttering the board and are not spam so I do not see any issue with them.

ConorD21

Just wondering what are your 3 favourite current & ex wwe wrestlers? Mine are..

Current: Brock Lesnar , CM Punk & Randy Orton(although him as a face is making me dislike him)

Ex: Stone Cold , Edge & Batista

krudler

We talking in ring wise or just in general?

Currently: Brock, Punk, Dolph, Daniel Bryan.

Past: Austin, Jake Roberts, Randy Savage.

ConorD21

Just in general i suppose

billy2012

Don't really watch it anymore.....Mick Foley and his alter egos, Shawn Michaels, Stone Cold, HHH, ROck, Taker, Kane......I just remember why I stopped watching, wrestlers today don't compare in anyway!!

Andy_rse

Current: Bryan, Ziggler, Punk

Ex: Austin, Bret, Shawn

Duff

Current - Ziggler, Punk, Jericho.

Past - Austin, RVD, Bret.

ConorD21

Kurt Angle & RVD would be up there in mine aswell

Dubliner28

Current - Punk - Bryan - Ziggler

Old School - Rock HBK and 1 from (Flair Macho Man Double J) . So many

jaykhunter

mod note : merged this thread with a v. similar thread from a few months ago. Remember to give reasons for your choices to generate discussion as others have done. Cheers

jaykhunter

I'll stick to WWE for this one :

1) Daniel Bryan. Technical marvel and also fantastic at storytelling. Surprisingly very talented on the mic/charisma-wise. Makes any match better than it deserves to be!

2) Dolph Ziggler : Bumping machine, great mat technician to boot. I really hope his back doesn't quit ala Mr. Perfect.

3) Brock Lesnar : A beast. I love his flippant disregard for his opponents and his stiff/gruff style. Can't get enough of the guy. Wish he'd have more MMA-styled matches like he did with Cena.

4) Chris Jericho : Amazingly smooth veteran. The guy's so good he's teflon, doesn't matter if he jobs until the cows come home (which he does) as his mic & mat skills are world class. Loved his feud with Shawn and Rey, the guy is brilliant. Him having no problem putting others over is the icing on the cake.

5) Sin Cara : Edging out a few others, I really like this guy. Maybe I'm just looking for his botches, but I'm behind him and want him to do well. And if he botches, all the better. Always a fun time watching him perform, especially if it's a live show, and he's not injured of course.

Ridley

jaykhunter wrote: »

mod note : merged this thread with a v. similar thread from a few months ago.

This thread? I don't think you did, Jayk.

jaykhunter

LOL. Well done Ridley. You'll make Captain for this!

Merged
"Favorite Wrestlers to watch in the ring"
"Current Favourite 5 Wrestlers"
"Favourite Wrestlers ?"

SirDelboy18

1. CM Punk - He is the best. In ring work and mic work are second to none. Can work a match perfectly and probably makes the best promo's in the company.

2. Daniel Bryan - Amazing in-ring technician who is pretty good on the mic and knows how to work the crowd. Deserves to be contenting for the main titles regularly.

3. Dolph Ziggler - The selling is just ridiculous. Great in the ring and am enjoying his little entourage thing at the moment.

4. Chris Jericho - Guy can do it all and puts people over regularly. Most people could learn a lot from him.

5. The Shield (Reigns in particular) - slightly cheating here but these guys have impressed me so much. The 6 man Tag at TLC was one of the best matches I've seen in years. Consistently giving promos and in ring performances that challenge their short time on the main roster.