Today, January 29, marks the start of the Chinese New Year, which this year is the Year of the Snake. With that in mind, let’s look back on some of the most iconic legless reptiles from the world of professional wrestling.
Stone Cold Steve Austin (“The Texas Rattlesnake”)
Known as “The Texas Rattlesnake,” Stone Cold Steve Austin proved to be as slippery as the serpent with his “Don’t Trust Anybody” attitude. Despite this, the Texas Rattlesnake would hold tag team gold multiple times, and is one of WWE’s biggest ever stars.
Jake “The Snake” Roberts
One of the most iconic wrestlers associated with snakes, Jake Roberts carried a python named Damien to the ring. He was known for his psychological warfare, methodical in-ring style, and devastating DDT finisher. His career would often see him use his pet snake to scare his opponents senseless.
CM Punk’s Anaconda Vice
CM Punk’s signature submission move, the Anaconda Vice, is a jiu-jitsu-inspired chokehold that immobilizes opponents. Like the move, the Anaconda is a snake that constricts its prey, reflecting its crushing effectiveness.
Randy Orton (“The Viper”)
Nicknamed “The Viper” due to his cold, calculating in-ring style, Randy Orton remains one of WWE’s top stars. The elusions to snakes continue in the ring for Orton, who often slithers on the mat before delivering an RKO.
Santino Marella (“The Cobra”)
Santino Marella often used The Cobra, a comedic yet surprisingly effective finishing move. The move would prove to be even more ‘dangerous’ when the former Intercontinental Champion added a snake-themed sock to his arm.
The Cobra
Years before Santino Marella would use the name for his finisher, The Cobra competed in the in the 70s and 80s. Played by George Takano, The Cobra was a two-time (and final) WWF Juniour Heavyweight Champion.
Kobra Moon (Lucha Underground)
A dominant female wrestler in Lucha Underground, Kobra Moon was the leader of the Snake Tribe. Her character was portrayed as a cunning and manipulative queen with snake-like agility. Kobra Moon is better known today as former AEW Women’s World Champion Thunder Rosa.