Bring back the atomic drop – Selambe

At some point, we’ve all fallen on our ass — literally.

Whether it was through playing sports, slipping on a wet or icy surface, or leaning back in a chair that wasn’t there, the horrifying sensation of falling on your butt starts with a split second of disorientation. The impact is jarring and violent, as a shockwave of pain explodes from the base of your spine, sending intense, crippling agony radiating upward in sharp, stabbing pulses that ignite every nerve. Your muscles clench involuntarily in a futile attempt to brace against the torment. The initial shock leaves you breathless, and the searing pain lingers, making every movement excruciating and reducing you to a state of helplessness.

Now, imagine if there was a move in pro wrestling that could simulate that type of torture.

The good news is that you don’t have to think too hard or long to develop such a punishing strike as one already exists. Unfortunately, it sits in a closet with other wrestling relics, such as the bowtie-clad referee, Brother Love’s podium, and the Gobbledy Gooker.

The atomic drop was once a staple in professional wrestling for many years, often used on its own or as part of a sequence leading to a finishing move. Despite its aggressive appearance, the atomic drop is relatively harmless when performed correctly, as the impact is controlled, with the recipient landing safely. To execute it, a wrestler approaches their opponent from behind, places their head under the opponent’s shoulder, lifts them into the air, and then drops them onto their knee, targeting the tailbone.

In its day, the atomic drop was often the weapon of choice among wrestling’s good guys. It was second only to the classic punch to the face when delivering retribution to the villains. Hulk Hogan famously employed the atomic drop during his heyday in the 1980s, delighting crowds as he taunted his adversaries after executing the move. Another celebrated practitioner was Bob Backlund, who utilized the atomic drop to defeat “Superstar” Billy Graham for the WWE Championship in 1978.

However, what set the atomic drop apart was the comical way the bad guys reacted to it. As they were lifted into the air, the heel would dramatically spread their legs wide, adding flair to their expression of dread. One of the masters of selling this move was Rowdy Roddy Piper, whose body would stiffen as if he had been plunged into icy water, followed by a quiver that added to the drama. Ted DiBiase, known as “The Million Dollar Man,” would often take the atomic drop and theatrically catapult himself over the top rope, greatly amplifying the crowd’s reaction.

But when it came to selling the atomic drop and its counterpart, the inverted atomic drop, “Ravishing” Rick Rude reigned supreme. His selling was so captivating that it has spawned several tribute videos, musical montages, and even a social media account devoted to his artistry. In essence, watching Rude take an atomic drop was akin to lighting a firecracker under his firm backside.

Occasionally, the atomic drop may make a fleeting appearance. Yet, without the convincing portrayal by a detestable scoundrel, the move loses its impact. Nevertheless, it lingers, a low-risk technique with the potential for a resounding reaction when executed with precision, awaiting its next claimant.

For today’s wrestlers seeking genuine crowd engagement over canned and contrived chants, the atomic drop presents an opportunity. It’s a chance to send shivers down spines and elicit roars of delight, showcasing the true essence of the art of professional wrestling.

Share your thoughts

What’s your opinion of the atomic drop, Cagesiders? Which classic holds or wrestling moves would you like to see brought back? Give us your feedback in the comments section.