10 Most Embarrassing Wrestling Botches Of 2018 (So Far)

9. Kazarian's Sloppy Springboard (NJPW Strong Style Evolved)

Aleister Black Lars Sullivan botch
NJPW

It's a good job Ring Of Honor star Frankie Kazarian is such an experienced pro, because otherwise, this could've been a disaster.

He was teaming with SoCal Uncensored stablemates Christopher Daniels and Scorpio Sky against the Roppongi 3K trio of Rocky Romero, Sho, and Yoh in the night's opening bout. It was a typically fast, fluid contest between the ROH veterans and New Japan full-timers... until this happened.

The lithe Kazarian went for a springboard move, but his target, Sho, had already been pulled out of the way by Sky. Unfortunately, Frankie realised this slightly too late. He hit the ropes regardless, but twisted down awkwardly instead of springing back, then hopped over to his foe, hitting him with what looked like a sloppy leg drop instead.

This was a matter of miscommunication between Kazarian and Sky. Had Sho not been re-positioned, Frankie would've been able to execute the move as planned and nobody would've batted and eyelid. Kazarian at least tried to improvise, but unfortunately came up with an imperfect solution, taking anyone who watched it completely out of their immersion, though it wasn't really his fault.

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Andy has been with WhatCulture for six years and is currently WhatCulture's Senior Wrestling Reporter. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.