In a recent YouTube video, former WWE star D-Von Dudley opened up about his wrestling career, ranking various opponents based on his experiences. The tier list, which spans from S tier for those he enjoyed working with to C tier for those he dreaded, offers an unfiltered insight into the dynamics of the wrestling ring. Among the notable names discussed were The Sandman, JBL, and even D-Von’s former boss, Vince McMahon.
One of the most entertaining and shocking revelations came from D-Von’s assessment of The Sandman, highlighting a long-held belief within the wrestling community that he performed better while under the influence. D-Von recounted a harrowing match where The Sandman, sober at the time, suffered a serious injury after attempting a dangerous somersault maneuver that landed him awkwardly on a wooden ladder placed on D-Von’s chest. Afterward, when D-Von expressed concern, The Sandman admitted he hadn’t had any alcohol that day. D-Von humorously declared, “Never again,” after realizing the impact of The Sandman’s sobriety on their performance.
When they were scheduled to face off again two weeks later, D-Von took matters into his own hands. He arranged for a handler to deliver two cases of beer to The Sandman before their match, insisting he drink up or else he would not step into the ring. The result? A memorable match that D-Von described as “the best we had ever had.” D-Von gave The Sandman a C tier rating, noting, “Without the booze in your system, you hurt me.”
Vince McMahon: A C Tier Wrestler
D-Von didn’t hold back when discussing Vince McMahon, who he rated as “god awful in that ring.” He acknowledged his respect for McMahon as a promoter but criticized his in-ring performance, stating that McMahon often instructed wrestlers on how to perform yet couldn’t execute it himself. “You can’t tell the boss that – you would obtain fired or you’d be sent home,” D-Von remarked, reflecting on the complex dynamics of working with McMahon.
Despite McMahon’s significant contributions to professional wrestling, D-Von emphasized that he never claimed to be a wrestler, instead identifying himself as one of the greatest promoters in the business. McMahon similarly received a C tier rating from D-Von for his in-ring capabilities.
Stiff Competition: JBL and Bob Holly
Another notable entry on D-Von’s list was JBL, who he described as “stiff as hell.” D-Von recalled that if JBL and his tag team partner, Ron Simmons, didn’t like someone, they could be particularly rough during matches. D-Von cleverly noted that despite their friendship, it didn’t guarantee an easy match. He humorously recounted JBL’s “Clothesline from Hell,” which he felt on multiple occasions, and took a jab at JBL for mocking his signature top-rope diving headbutt.
JBL received a C tier rating, while Ron Simmons was rated S tier, praised for his gentleness and skill in the ring. D-Von described Simmons as someone who “barely touched you” and always looked out for his fellow wrestlers.
Bob Holly also garnered a C tier rating from D-Von. Known for his tough reputation, Holly was described as someone who would punish wrestlers who he felt hadn’t paid their dues. “If you didn’t prove yourself in that locker room, Bob would just beat the holy crap out of you,” D-Von explained. He shared that Holly tested the Dudley Boyz repeatedly before accepting them, although he did find Holly’s style a bit too stiff at times.
Surprising Skills: New Jack and Eddie Guerrero
In a surprising twist, D-Von revealed that New Jack, renowned for his hardcore wrestling style, actually possessed a solid understanding of fundamental wrestling techniques. D-Von recalled how New Jack would demonstrate basic moves before matches, leaving the locker room stunned. He felt that if New Jack had incorporated those skills into his matches, they would have been even better. New Jack received a B tier rating.
On a more sentimental note, D-Von shared a heartfelt memory of wrestling legend Eddie Guerrero. After a singles match, Guerrero told D-Von he had “passed with flying colors,” a compliment that marked a significant milestone in D-Von’s career. Guerrero was rated S tier, with D-Von calling him a true professional who could adapt to any wrestler’s style in the ring.
Full Rankings and Conclusions
D-Von Dudley’s tier list offers a glimpse into the wrestling world through the eyes of a seasoned veteran. The full rankings include:
- S Tier: Rey Mysterio, Triple H, The Rock, The Undertaker, Ron Simmons, Eddie Guerrero, AJ Styles, Kurt Angle, Chris Benoit
- A Tier: Jeff Hardy (everyday matches)
- B Tier: New Jack, Big Show, Shane McMahon, Bubba Ray Dudley, RVD, John Cena
- C Tier: Jeff Hardy (TLC matches), Maven, Bob Holly, The Sandman, JBL, Vince McMahon
This candid assessment not only highlights D-Von’s experiences but also sheds light on the personalities behind the personas that fans have come to love. As wrestling continues to evolve, fans can look forward to more insights and stories from veterans like D-Von, who preserve the history of the sport alive through their experiences.
Feel free to share your thoughts on D-Von Dudley’s rankings or your favorite wrestling memories in the comments below!
