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Hard working. Amazing. Breathtaking. Unbelievable.
These are some of the adjectives used to describe Nicholas Theodore Nemeth, better known to the world as Dolph Ziggler. From his humble beginnings as Chavo Guerrero Jr.'s valet, to his time in the spirit squad, and finally as plain Dolph Ziggler, he has blazed a trail with his technical ability, supreme athleticism, and willingness to put his heart and soul into every performance, whether it's a title match or the opening bout.
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Many believe that Ziggler is the most underrated wrestler on the WWE roster--underrated by management, that is since he gets a great reaction, heel or face. Here are ten reasons why Dolph Ziggler deserves to be the 'top guy' in WWE.
#1 His strong Amateur wrestling background
It's true that pro wrestling has changed and deviated a great deal from its amateur Greco Roman wrestling roots, but there is still a strong undercurrent present in the modern wrestling product.
Ziggler brings his amateur wrestling background to the table, and it's quite an impressive record. While he may not be an Olympic Gold medalist ala Kurt Angle, he still holds the records for most pins at his old school. Amateur wrestlers almost always do well in the pro ranks because of the skill set overlap--Men like Brock Lesnar, Bob Backlund, and AJ Styles all have amateur wrestling backgrounds.
Ziggler's legitimate wrestling ability sets him apart from many of his peers and is a great vindication for his being the top guy.
#2 He worked his way up from the bottom.
After graduating from WWE's Ohio Valley Wrestling developmental territory, Ziggler was first made Chavo Guerrero Jr.'s valet for his Kerwin White gimmick--which thankfully didn't last very long.
Then he was given his first main roster speaking role as a member of the bubbly, cheerful male cheerleader faction the Spirit Squad. Supposedly, many potential members of the stable refused to perform as a male cheerleader, but Ziggler recognized it as the opportunity it was. Early into his career, he was already wrestling on television, even if it was in a somewhat nonsensical role.
#3 Taking Batista to the limit
In 2008, former Heavyweight champion Batista was a no-questions-asked main eventer. Though he initially was amused by Dolph Ziggler's early penchant for introducing himself (a lot) Batista certainly wasn't laughing when Dolph took him to the limit on Raw.
The match – which Batista won– was far from the one sided beat down fans expected, and Batista seemed taken aback by just how intense and destructive Ziggler could be. It was a fine debut for a wrestler who is light years ahead of his time.
#4 Six-time Intercontinental champion
Ziggler has captured this prestigious title six times and is the current reigning champion.
In WWE, the IC champion is often seen as the 'heir apparent' to the world championship. No one complains about Ziggler being an unworthy champion, and his reigns have all had five-star matches as their hallmark.
#5 The best worker in WWE. Period.
When you talk about great wrestlers, you HAVE to mention their in-ring ability. It's what separates the Tommy Riches from the Ric Flairs. Both men were NWA champion, but only one is considered the greatest of all time.
Ziggler knows all the moves, all the counter moves, and innovates where there are gaps. He's easily on the level of men like AJ Styles and Kenny Omega in this regard.
#6 The ability to carry compelling feuds with anyone.
Ziggler has enjoyed high profile feuds with some of the best in the industry; Chris Jericho, John Cena, and Alberto Del Rio.
Those three men have radically different approaches to both their in-ring work and their character's persona, yet Ziggler worked magic with all of them. His versatility both in the ring and on the microphone should not be discounted.
#7 Ziggler makes everyone look good
In professional wrestling parlance, making your opponent look good is known as 'selling,' as in you are selling the move to the audience.
Simply put, no one sells like Dolph Ziggler. It has been said in jest that Ziggler could have a five-star match wrestling a broom, and it just might be true.
#8 He's multi-talented
Ziggler isn't just a wrestler; he's an actor, performer, and even a stand-up comedian!
Maybe he picked up a few tips from Amy Schumer while they were dating. It's just another illustration of how versatile and talented Ziggler truly is.
#9 He was already a credible and capable World Champion
Ziggler has already reigned once as World Champion, though it didn't last long.
During his time with the title he mostly feuded with Alberto Del Rio, but as usual his every match featured a stellar, guts and glory performance. Having a world champion who can actually wrestle matters, and Ziggler could fulfil that role with ease.
#10 No one chants "This is Awful" during his matches
WWE's current pick as their 'top guy' is Roman Reigns and to say that it hasn't worked out the way management hoped is understating the situation.
From a chorus of loud boos to fans chanting 'this is awful' during his match with Lesnar at WM 34, the WWE has had a difficult time getting Reigns over as their top babyface. Why not cease all the useless struggle, and push a man who the fans are already behind?
A man named Dolph Ziggler, who is incapable of having a bad match.
There you have it; Ten reasons Dolph Ziggler deserves to be the top guy in WWE.
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