10 Hidden Meanings Behind Wrestling Moves

1. Irish Whip - An Irishman Invented It, Basically

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Besides a kick, the Irish Whip is just about the most bog-standard wrestling technique you can think of. But what's the story behind this basic move's name - and why isn't it part of Sheamus and Finn Bálor's extended Erse arsenal ('Ersenal', if you prefer)?

Well, it did originate as a signature of one of their Gallic forebears, as it happens. Though today the whip is used simply as a transition to send an opponent careening unnaturally into the ropes, inventor Danno O'Mahoney's version was distinctly more dangerous, employed as part of a vicious arm-drag combo. In 1935, this was a high-spot.

In 2002, Eire wrestling promotion Irish Whip Wrestling was named in honour of the former NWA World Heavyweight Champion, who tragically died at the age of just 38 in a road accident in 1950.

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Editorial Team
Editorial Team

Benjamin was born in 1987, and is still not dead. He variously enjoys classical music, old-school adventure games (they're not dead), and walks on the beach (albeit short - asthma, you know). He's currently trying to compile a comprehensive history of video game music, yet denies accusations that he purposefully targets niche audiences. He's often wrong about these things.