There have been some incredible finishing moves throughout WWE history, but some have stood the test of time better than others. Whilst hitting just one finisher isn’t always the end of a match in modern-day wrestling, finishers are still an integral part to the formula of how a match is put together.
Here, we’ll be looking at some of the greatest finishers in the history of WWE, including the RKO, Stunner and Sweet Chin Music.
Top-Tier Finishers
Stone Cold Stunner
At the pinnacle of WWE finishers stands the Stone Cold Stunner. Popularized (but not created) by “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, this move combines simplicity with devastating effect.
The Stunner begins with a kick to the opponent’s midsection, followed by Austin grabbing the opponent’s head and dropping to a seated position, driving their jaw onto his shoulder. Its versatility and Austin’s charisma made it an instant crowd-pleaser, capable of ending matches in dramatic fashion.
RKO
Randy Orton’s RKO has earned its place as one of the most electrifying finishers in WWE history. What sets the RKO apart is Orton’s ability to execute it “out of nowhere,” creating countless memorable moments.
The move, a jumping cutter, sees Orton grab his opponent’s head in mid-air and drive it into the mat. Its unpredictability and Orton’s smooth execution have made it a fan favorite and a cultural phenomenon beyond wrestling.
Read More – Best Randy Orton RKOs Ranked
Tombstone Piledriver
The Undertaker’s Tombstone Piledriver is synonymous with the iconic character. This inverted piledriver sees The Undertaker lift his opponent upside down, tucking their head between his thighs, before dropping to his knees and driving their head into the mat.
The move’s visual impact, combined with The Undertaker’s mystique as a character, has made it one of the most protected and respected finishers in WWE history.
Sweet Chin Music
Shawn Michaels’ Sweet Chin Music is a superkick that has ended countless matches. The move’s effectiveness lies in its simplicity and Michaels’ ability to hit it suddenly.
The trademark tuning up the band sequence, where Michaels stomps his foot repeatedly before delivering the kick, added anticipation and excitement to every execution.
Mid-Tier Finishers
Attitude Adjustment
John Cena’s Attitude Adjustment (formerly known as the F-U) has become one of the most recognizable finishers in modern WWE. This fireman’s carry takeover sees Cena lift his opponent onto his shoulders before slamming them back-first onto the mat. Cena’s strength allows him to execute this move on opponents of all sizes, adding to its credibility.
Pedigree
Triple H’s Pedigree has been a staple of WWE main events for decades. This double underhook facebuster sees Triple H grab his opponent’s arms, jump, and drive their face into the mat. The move’s impact and Triple H’s status as a top star have made it one of the most protected finishers in WWE history.