10 Wrestling Gimmicks Which Were Massive Ribs

8. Kizarny

African Dream Dusty Rhodes
WWE.com

Nick Cvjetkovich's brief spell on SmackDown in 2008 wasn't a rib on anyone in wrestling in particular, but rather the archaic traditions of the industry. And, as it transpired, Cvjetkovich himself.

Vignettes began airing promoting the debut of 'Kizarny' - 'Carny', in the 'coded' lingo of the same name used by wrestling promoters in the big tops at the turn of the century. The interpretation was taken to its most literal conclusion, with the man unappetisingly described as "the love child of Jake Roberts and Doink the Clown" delivering his promos from an actual fun fair.

The thrills and spills didn't carry over to the ring; Kizarny's debut match in January 2009 lived up to its 19th century billing, and his subsequent efforts were similarly the shizits. He was released shortly after - though his cause hadn't been helped by a gimmick a few coconuts shy of a, well, shy.

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.