10 Most Unique Tactics Ever Used In A Royal Rumble

3. Jake Unleashes His Python

In 1989, Jake Roberts was embroiled in a rivalry with Andre the Giant. It was one of the premiere feuds on WWE television and one that should have resulted in the second-generation wrestler finally reaching the main event. It did not, but that does not mean Roberts did not benefit from working with the Eighth Wonder of the World. It was in that program that Roberts received his greatest exposure and in tat year's Royal Rumble match, he proved that the seemingly insurmountable Andre was not without his weaknesses. Much had been made of the fact that Andre had a very real fear of snakes, something that Roberts looked to exploit as he searched for any advantage he could get in his war with the physically imposing Superstar

With Andre dominating the competition, Roberts entered the Royal Rumble and tried to wear down the giant with an array of hard right hands about the body. When that did not work, he retrieved python Damien, unleashing the serpent inside the squared circle and causing the giant to step over the top rope, eliminating himself as he attempted to get away from the reptile. Roberts would use the tactic again some seven years later when he made his triumphant return to WWE at the 1996 Royal Rumble event.

Again the WWE Superstars' fear for snakes resulted in the clearing of the squared circle and a standing ovation for the returning competitor. While unleashing one's python may earn them an obscenity charge in most walks of life, it proved advantageous for Roberts, whose Rumble appearances were otherwise unimpressive.