The Most Fake Finishing Moves in WWE: An SEO-Optimized Analysis

Introduction: In professional wrestling, finishing moves have become an integral part of a wrestler's persona and signature. However, not all finishing moves are created equal. Some are memorable for their sheer flamboyance, while others are less convincing, often labeled as fake. Let's take a dive into some of the most fake finishing moves in WWE history and analyze why they fall short.

WWE’s Second-Worst Finishing Moves: A Closer Look

Undoubtedly, Hornswoggle's "Tadpole Splash" takes the stage for its spot as the second-worst move in WWE history. This move is a prime example of over-the-top theatrics that strain suspension of disbelief. Hornswoggle would often splash his opponent with such zeal that it felt more like a playful splash than a convincing finish.

WWE’s Worst Finishing Move: Stephanie McMahon’s Lackluster Efforts

The worst finishing move in WWE is arguably any move that involves Stephanie McMahon (unless it involves her receiving a perm and manicuring her nails). Beyond that, her moves are less memorable and more of a distraction. Her matches are a testament to her rich, spoiled character, where she relies heavily on her husband’s charm to carry the day. It's hard to take her seriously as a wrestler, given how exaggerated and scripted her matches are.

Alexander Doesn’t Finish Strong

Naomi's "rear view" and Bastion Booger's "butt drop" are less about skill and more about cringing audibly in the audience. Similarly, Bobo Brazil's "Coco Butt" and Doink the Clown's "whoopee cushion" are celebrated more for their awkwardness and poor execution.

Any finishing move by The Gobbledy Gooker that doesn’t end in him becoming a turkey dinner and disappearing is also suspect. The Original Sheik’s “armpit claw” and the Von Erichs’ "iron claw" are equally dubious. They're not only unconvincing but also off-putting due to their unappealing nature.

The Honky Tonk Man’s “Shake Rattle and Roll”

The Honky Tonk Man's “Shake Rattle and Roll” is a move that would make Elvis Priester roll in his grave. Its campy nature and cheesy music add to its fake factor, making it one of the most mocked moves in WWE history. Even the name itself is a dedication to outdated and cheesy folklore.

Caution: Beware of the Antiquated Move

Another move that needs updating is Daniel Bryan’s “airplane spin.” It’s an outdated move with little to no impact, making it a stark contrast to the high-flying, modern moves seen today. Bryan’s wife, Lacey Evans, and her “the woman’s right” move is quite plagiarized and lacks the charisma that would make it engaging.

Ultimate Warrior’s Limited Move Repertoire

Ultimate Warrior’s "frog splash" is essentially a cartoonish move that leaves much to be desired. One can only wonder if Ultimate Warrior ever thought he was actually splashing his opponents or if it was just an act. Meanwhile, the "atomic leg drop" from Hulk Hogan and the "brain chop" from Great Khali are moves that, while still over-the-top, at least have the appearance of being more impactful.

Crush: More Alliteration Than Substance

Crush's "cranium crush" is an alliteration-heavy move that lacks in substance. Its name is catchy, but the move itself is unconvincing and fails to differentiate itself from other similar moves. Similarly, the "bear hug" moves from strongmen like Bruno Sammartino, Ken Patera, and Tony Atlas are just as forgettable and boring.

Wade Barrett’s Wasteland

Wade Barrett’s “wasteland” is another move that’s more theatrical than impactful. It lacks any real depth and comes off as a name that doesn’t match the actual move. The "heart punch" by Ox Baker and other wrestlers adds to the same problem of being over-the-top without delivering any real impact.

Mick Foley: Too Ridiculous for His Own Good

Mick Foley’s “Mandible Claw” is a move that might almost work if it were combined with another engaging persona. However, as it stands, the move is ridiculous, especially when combined with a sock puppet. Lacing up a sock puppet is a move that’s hard to take seriously.

Scotty 2 Hotty’s Worm

Scotty 2 Hotty’s “worm” move is as ridiculous as his name, and that’s saying something. The name alone is a throwback to a time when everything was hot. If Scotty 2 Hotty’s moves were hot, they’d at least leave a lasting impression.

Byron Saxton’s Finishing Move

Byron Saxton’s finishing move doesn’t have a name, but it’s undoubtedly reviled as one of the most hated moves in WWE history. Saxton’s moves, as a serious wrestler, are particularly abhorrent, adding to the general disdain for fake finishing moves in the ring.

In conclusion, the most fake finishing moves in WWE are a testament to the absurdity and theatrical nature of the sport. While they may be entertaining in their own way, they often fall short of the real impact and drama that makes a move truly memorable.