Seth Rollins Reveals His Mount Rushmore of Wrestling’s Greatest In-Ring Performers
In a recent appearance on the Club Shay Shay podcast, WWE Superstar Seth Rollins engaged in a compelling discussion about the pantheon of professional wrestling, specifically naming his personal Mount Rushmore of in-ring performers. The conversation, a staple among wrestling fans and personalities, prompted Rollins to consider the legacies of numerous icons based purely on their technical prowess and ability to captivate audiences within the squared circle.
Defining In-Ring Greatness: Rollins’ Criteria
Rollins’ selection process wasn’t simple. He immediately highlighted the difficulty in narrowing down the field, acknowledging a wealth of talent throughout wrestling history. “If you wanna go like in-ring all time, you’re looking at Shawn Michaels, you’re looking at Eddie Guerrero, you’re looking at, after that it gets real hard,” Rollins stated. These two names consistently appear in such discussions, lauded for their innovative movesets, storytelling ability, and undeniable charisma.
Beyond Michaels and Guerrero, Rollins considered several other contenders. He praised the skill of the Dynamite Kid, while also acknowledging a problematic personality. Bret Hart also earned a mention, as did Ric Flair, whom Rollins described as “special.” He offered a nuanced perspective on Dusty Rhodes, recognizing his legendary promotional skills but conceding that Rhodes’ in-ring work didn’t reach the same heights as others.
Modern Era Contenders and Personal Ambition
The discussion extended to more recent performers. Rollins included Bryan Danielson as a strong candidate, and openly expressed his own aspirations to be considered among the all-time greats. He also acknowledged the recently retired AJ Styles, stating, “AJ Styles, who also just retired, is someone who is one of the greatest of all time in the ring.” This acknowledgement speaks to Styles’ impact on the industry, particularly his contributions to New Japan Pro-Wrestling and WWE.
Rollins also thoughtfully differentiated between in-ring skill and overall impact. He pointed out that a separate Mount Rushmore, focused on drawing power and financial success, would likely feature names like Hulk Hogan, Bruno Sammartino, Stone Cold Steve Austin, and The Rock. This distinction mirrors a previous conversation Rollins had about WWE’s biggest names, highlighting the multifaceted nature of wrestling stardom.
What criteria *do* you believe are most important when evaluating a wrestler’s all-time greatness – in-ring ability, charisma, drawing power, or something else entirely? And how much weight should be given to longevity versus peak performance?
The Enduring Debate: Building the Wrestling Mount Rushmore
The concept of a wrestling Mount Rushmore is a recurring theme within the community, sparking endless debate and passionate opinions. The subjectivity inherent in such a ranking is what makes it so engaging. Different eras, wrestling styles, and personal preferences all contribute to varying perspectives. While Rollins’ list provides a valuable insight into his own criteria, it’s just one interpretation among many.
The evolution of professional wrestling has seen a constant influx of innovative talent. From the pioneers of the early 20th century to the high-flying stars of today, each generation has left its mark on the industry. WWE’s official history section provides a comprehensive overview of the sport’s evolution, offering context for understanding the contributions of different performers.
Furthermore, the rise of international wrestling promotions, such as New Japan Pro-Wrestling and All Elite Wrestling, has broadened the scope of talent and introduced new contenders to the conversation. NJPW’s official website showcases the stars of Japanese wrestling, many of whom are highly regarded for their technical skills and dedication to the craft.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wrestling Mount Rushmores
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What makes Shawn Michaels a frequent pick for a wrestling Mount Rushmore?
Shawn Michaels is consistently included due to his exceptional in-ring storytelling, innovative moveset, and ability to connect with audiences. He’s widely regarded as one of the most charismatic and technically gifted performers of all time.
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Why did Seth Rollins acknowledge Dusty Rhodes’ promotional skills but not his in-ring work?
Rollins recognized Dusty Rhodes as a master of the microphone and a captivating character, but acknowledged that his in-ring style wasn’t as technically advanced or physically dominant as some of the other legends.
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How does Seth Rollins’ Mount Rushmore differ from one based on drawing power?
Rollins’ list focuses solely on in-ring ability, while a Mount Rushmore based on drawing power would prioritize performers who generated significant revenue and mainstream attention for wrestling promotions.
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Is it fair to compare wrestlers from different eras when building a Mount Rushmore?
Comparing wrestlers across eras is challenging due to evolving styles and standards. However, it’s also necessary to assess their relative impact within their respective contexts.
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What role does personal preference play in creating a wrestling Mount Rushmore?
Personal preference inevitably influences any Mount Rushmore selection. Fans often gravitate towards performers who resonated with them on a personal level, leading to diverse and subjective lists.
The debate surrounding wrestling’s greatest performers will undoubtedly continue for years to come. Seth Rollins’ contribution to the conversation offers a valuable perspective, reminding us of the rich history and enduring legacy of professional wrestling.
What do you think of Seth Rollins’ selections? Who would be on *your* Mount Rushmore of in-ring performers, and why?
Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the discussion!
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