When historians revisit the so-called "PG Era" decades from now, they will repeatedly ask themselves how WWE was stupid enough to waste the talents of Dolph Ziggler. Arguably the most dynamic worker of his generation, the Showoff has the rare ability to make both himself and his opponents look good throughout the course of a match. He is incredibly giving between the ropes and, most importantly, the fans respect him for his hard work and dedication. A character that would traditionally be a heel, Ziggler earned the applause and appreciation of the WWE Universe for his unwavering determination to deliver the best performance and match possible. Has he been outspoken about his dissatisfaction about his place on the card? Absolutely. Has his honesty and openness gotten him in trouble over the last handful of years? Of course. But any punishment he has endured has never hampered his desire to be the best. Every time Ziggler has gotten a chance to run with the proverbial ball, he has excelled, most notably his brief flirtation with the main event this past winter when he became primary opposition of The Authority. But every time he succeeds, he is shunted back down the card, lost in the crowded midcard without any real direction or meaning. Ziggler may one day capture the heavyweight title of the world and succeed as a top star in WWE. But it will be impossible to forgive the number of years he has sacrificed in the midcard, with little or no upward movement, while in the prime of his athletic life.
Erik Beaston is a freelance pro wrestling writer who likes long walks in the park, dandelions and has not quite figured out that this introduction is not for Match.com. He resides in Parts Unknown, where he hosts weekly cookouts with Kane, The Ultimate Warrior, Papa Shango and The Boogeyman. Be jealous.
