7. Running Crucifix Powerbomb
As the Alabama Slam shows, any maneuver that doesn't allow a wrestler to properly protect the back of his head is particularly dangerous. While a crucifix powerbomb (better known as a Razor's Edge) doesn't necessarily fall into that category, the running variation - used briefly by Sheamus and called the High Cross - very much leaves the recipient open to that sort of trauma. With the victim hoisted up above his shoulders, the wrestler executing the move takes several running steps before tossing him forward. As a result, the victim doesn't simply land on his back, traveling downwards - he's falling and moving forward at the same time. The result is the same sort of whiplash effect caused by the Alabama Slam, and a high chance of the victim hitting the mat in a bad position. For that reason, Sheamus quickly switched to the Brogue Kick as his preferred finisher or choice. Compounding the danger is the fact that the move is essentially just a throw where the victim lands at a high angle. Unlike most other wrestling moves, neither the grappler performing the maneuver nor his victim have any control over the bump taken, and the smallest error can lead to serious injury.
Scott Fried
Contributor
Scott Fried is a Slammy Award-winning* writer living and working in New York City. He has been following/writing about professional wrestling for many years and is a graduate of Lance Storm's Storm Wrestling Academy. Follow him on Twitter at https://twitter.com/scottfried.
*Best Crowd of the Year, 2013
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