100 Best Wrestling Moves EVER
42. Trish Stratus | Stratusfaction Bulldog
Credit where it's due: Trish Stratus knuckled down and refused to become mere eye candy as a "Diva". Yes, Trish knew looks played an important part in her career, but she yearned to be recognised as something more. Stratus successfully broke out and surprised many by becoming an accomplished in-ring star who (alongside Lita) made WWE history as one of the first female headliners ever.
She was one of the biggest stars on the roster for years, and Trish is still highly regarded whenever she dips a toe back into wrestling nowadays. A crucial component of her arsenal was the humble Stratusfaction bulldog. It was comprised of three distinct parts. One, a side headlock clutch and raised arm in the air from Stratus. Two, her springing off the ropes. Three, a satisfying front bump that led to wins more often than not.
One of the finest compliments someone could sling at the Stratusfaction bulldog is that it worked on anybody. Trish hit this on a few of the guys over the years too, and all of them sold it like they'd been levelled by a truck. Her leg strength was cited as one of the main reasons why. The way Trish would spring off the ropes? Smooth, and timeless.
Adding that springboard element into the sequence was an inspired decision by Stratus. It showed that she was creative between the ropes, and it turned an otherwise basic running bulldog into something unique to her matches. That's always a grand idea for any worker, regardless of weight class, gender or style.
Resist. The. Urge. To. End. By. Saying. Stratusfaction. Guaranteed.
Sorry!