Brock Lesnar's Risky Top Rope Move: A WWE Highlight

Let's dive into one of the most talked-about moments in Brock Lesnar's WWE career: his infamous top rope move. Now, you might be thinking, "Brock Lesnar? Top rope? That doesn't sound right!" And you'd be partially correct. The Beast Incarnate isn't exactly known for his high-flying acrobatics. He's more about raw power, suplexes, and dominating his opponents with brute force. However, there was this one time, and it's become a legendary (and not necessarily in a good way) moment in wrestling history.

The Botched Shooting Star Press

The year was 2003, at WrestleMania XIX. Brock Lesnar was facing Kurt Angle for the WWE Championship. Both were at the peak of their physical prowess, and the match was set to be an absolute war. Now, here's where things get interesting. For those who don't know, before his WWE days, Brock Lesnar was a collegiate wrestling champion with incredible athletic abilities. He had shown glimpses of aerial moves in the past, including a very impressive Shooting Star Press (a backflip into a face-first landing) during his time in OVW, WWE's developmental territory. Apparently, he felt confident enough to bust it out on the grandest stage of them all.

During the match with Angle, Lesnar climbed to the top rope. The crowd was already buzzing, anticipating something big. And then he went for it. He launched himself into the air, attempting the Shooting Star Press. But something went horribly wrong. Lesnar didn't get enough rotation, and he came crashing down, landing directly on his head and neck. It was a terrifying moment. The crowd gasped, and you could feel the collective shockwave throughout the arena. Thankfully, he wasn't seriously injured, but he did suffer a concussion. It was a close call, and it's a moment that's forever etched in wrestling history.

Why Did He Do It?

So, the big question is, why did Brock Lesnar, a guy known for his ground-and-pound style, attempt such a risky move? There are a few theories. Some say he wanted to surprise Kurt Angle and the audience, showcasing a different side of his athleticism. Others believe he was feeling overconfident and wanted to deliver a memorable WrestleMania moment. Another possibility is that he was simply caught up in the heat of the moment and made a split-second decision he later regretted. Whatever the reason, it's clear that it was a gamble that didn't pay off.

Brock Lesnar himself has spoken about the incident, admitting that he hadn't performed the Shooting Star Press in a while and probably shouldn't have attempted it. He acknowledged the risk involved and was fortunate to escape with relatively minor injuries. It served as a harsh reminder that even the most gifted athletes aren't immune to mistakes, and sometimes, the high-risk, high-reward strategy simply isn't worth it. It's also worth noting the respect Kurt Angle showed during that moment. He immediately recognized that Lesnar was hurt and adjusted his strategy to protect his opponent and ensure the match could continue safely. That level of professionalism and concern for another performer is what makes wrestling such a unique and respected sport.

The Aftermath and Legacy

Following the botched Shooting Star Press, Brock Lesnar understandably steered clear of high-flying maneuvers. He went back to what he did best: dominating opponents with his strength and power. The incident, however, became a defining moment in his career, albeit for the wrong reasons. It's a constant reminder of the risks involved in professional wrestling and the importance of knowing your limitations. It also became a cautionary tale for other wrestlers, especially those tempted to try moves outside their comfort zone. While the Shooting Star Press is a spectacular move when executed correctly, it requires immense skill and precision. One small error can have devastating consequences.

Despite the botch, Brock Lesnar went on to have a hugely successful career in WWE and beyond. He won multiple championships, headlined numerous WrestleMania events, and established himself as one of the biggest stars in the industry. The Shooting Star Press incident is now more of a funny anecdote, a reminder of a time when Lesnar tried something different and it didn't quite work out. It also highlights his willingness to take risks and push himself, even if it meant occasionally falling flat on his face (literally, in this case!). The move is still shown in highlight reels, often accompanied by commentary emphasizing the danger and the sheer luck that Lesnar wasn't more seriously hurt. It serves as a stark contrast to his usual controlled and calculated style, proving that even The Beast Incarnate is human and capable of making mistakes.

Impact on Brock Lesnar's Career

While the botched Shooting Star Press didn't derail Brock Lesnar's career, it definitely had an impact. He became more cautious in the ring, focusing on his strengths rather than attempting risky maneuvers. This shift in style arguably prolonged his career, as he avoided unnecessary injuries and maintained a high level of performance for many years. It also solidified his image as a powerhouse, a dominant force who didn't need flashy moves to win. His matches became more about intensity, physicality, and the sheer brutality of his offense. This change resonated with fans, who appreciated his no-nonsense approach and his ability to destroy opponents with sheer force.

The incident also added a layer of vulnerability to Lesnar's character. It showed that even the most dominant athletes are not invincible and that mistakes can happen to anyone. This humanized him in a way, making him more relatable to the audience. While he still maintained his aura of invincibility, there was now a sense that he was fallible, a quality that added depth to his persona. This vulnerability, combined with his incredible strength and athleticism, made him an even more compelling and captivating performer. So, while the Shooting Star Press might be remembered as a botch, it ultimately contributed to the evolution of Brock Lesnar as a character and a performer.

Lessons Learned

The story of Brock Lesnar's top rope adventure offers several valuable lessons for aspiring wrestlers and anyone involved in high-risk activities. First and foremost, it emphasizes the importance of knowing your limitations. Just because you're capable of performing a move in training doesn't mean you should attempt it in a high-pressure situation. It's crucial to assess the risks involved and make a calculated decision based on your skill level and current physical condition. Secondly, it highlights the need for constant practice and preparation. Lesnar himself admitted that he hadn't performed the Shooting Star Press in a while, which likely contributed to the botch. Regular practice is essential for maintaining your skills and ensuring you can execute moves safely and effectively. Finally, it underscores the importance of adapting to unforeseen circumstances. When Lesnar landed awkwardly, Kurt Angle immediately recognized the danger and adjusted his strategy to protect his opponent. This kind of quick thinking and adaptability is crucial in any high-pressure environment.

In conclusion, Brock Lesnar's top rope move at WrestleMania XIX is a fascinating and cautionary tale. It's a reminder of the risks involved in professional wrestling, the importance of knowing your limitations, and the need for constant practice and preparation. While the botch is often remembered as a funny anecdote, it also offers valuable lessons for anyone involved in high-risk activities. And it certainly adds a unique chapter to the legendary career of The Beast Incarnate.

Brock Lesnar is one of the most dominant superstars in WWE history, and that is all thanks to his move set and power. However, his Shooting Star Press failed, but it is a moment that fans will never forget.