100 Best Wrestling Moves EVER
83. Stone Cold Steve Austin | Lou Thesz Press
Stone Cold Steve Austin’s Lou Thesz press is a move you can hear as much as you can see. Jim Ross soundtracked many an iconic moment or match, but few wrestlers were as made by the Oklahoman’s iconic drawl quite like ‘The Texas Rattlesnake’. It’s hard to even name the move without hearing Ross note the “fists and fire” but that’s because - like commentator and wrestler - the move and the man were a perfect fit.
A masterstroke of aggression and character, Austin charging toward his opponent with increased intensity is his persona in a single motion. The leap that traps the victim speaks to the danger of being stuck in his crosshairs, and the blows raining down within split seconds of both bodies hitting the canvas speaks to the aggression expected from going toe-to-toe with the ‘Toughest S.O.B’.
Insane crowd connection is another key factor. The explosiveness of the move coupled with Austin’s primal energy draws a pop with immediacy not dissimilar to the one he’d receive for his entrance. It feels spontaneous and as though Austin’s emotions have boiled over, even though it’s a fixture of every fight.