The Shocking Truth Behind Wrestling’s Most Devastating Move
The Spear in Wrestling
The Spear is one of pro wrestling’s most iconic finishers—a sudden, explosive tackle that looks like it could knock a man’s soul out of his body. But where did it come from? Who invented it? And why does every big wrestler seem to use it now?
Buckle up, because we’re diving into the real history of the Spear—and why it’s way more than just a football tackle.
1. Who REALLY Invented the Spear?
The NFL Connection
The Spear wasn’t created in wrestling—it was stolen from football.
Early Football Influence: The "bull rush" tackle was used by linebackers for decades.
First Wrestling Adaptation: "The Russian Bear" Ivan Koloff used a running shoulderblock in the 1970s, but it wasn’t called a Spear yet.
First True Spear? Road Warrior Animal (of the Legion of Doom) used a running clothesline that looked similar in the '80s.
But the man who made it famous? That’s a different story.
2. Goldberg’s Spear: The One That Changed Everything
The Move That Looked Like a Murder
Before Bill Goldberg, the Spear was just another move. After Goldberg? It became a finisher that sold tickets.
Why It Worked: Goldberg was a former NFL player (Atlanta Falcons), so his Spear looked 100% real.
The Impact: Unlike other wrestlers who "sold" the move, Goldberg’s opponents flew like they’d been hit by a truck.
The Streak: His 173-0 record in WCW made the Spear seem unstoppable.
Fun Fact: Goldberg’s Spear was so stiff that some wrestlers refused to take it more than once a match.
3. Edge’s Spear: The "Killswitch" Version
The Rated-R Superstar’s Twist
While Goldberg’s Spear was brutal power, Edge’s version was all about timing and drama.
The Setup: Edge would taunt, pause, then explode—making fans lose their minds.
The Leap: Unlike Goldberg’s straight-line tackle, Edge often jumped into his Spear (see: WrestleMania X-Seven vs. Jeff Hardy).
Why It Worked: Edge made the Spear feel like a storytelling move, not just a hit.
Controversy: Some old-school fans argue Edge’s Spear looked weak compared to Goldberg’s—but it was way safer for long-term use.
4. Roman Reigns’ Superman Spear: The Modern Monster Version
When the Spear Became a "Big Dog" Weapon
Roman Reigns took the Spear and turned it into main-event destruction.
The OOOOAH! Factor: Reigns’ Spear is telegraphed—he screams, the crowd reacts, then BOOM.
The Strength: Unlike Edge or Goldberg, Reigns often lifts opponents mid-Spear (like Big Show or Braun Strowman).
The Tribal Chief Era: Now, his Spear is protected—when he hits it, you KNOW it’s over.
Did You Know? Reigns’ Spear was originally a secondary move—his Superman Punch was supposed to be his finisher.
5. The Dark Side of the Spear: Why Wrestlers Hate Taking It
The Move That Shortens Careers
The Spear looks cool, but it’s a nightmare for wrestlers’ bodies.
Neck & Spine Damage: Taking a Spear means whiplash effect—just ask Edge (retired due to neck injuries).
Goldberg’s "No-Sell" Problem: Because his Spear looked so real, opponents had to jump extra high to make it safe—leading to awkward landings.
Roman’s Size Issue: At 6’3, 265 lbs, Reigns’ Spear is harder to take than Edge’s or even Goldberg’s.
The Ugly Truth: The Spear is one of the riskiest finishers in wrestling today.
6. The Future of the Spear: Will It Die Out?
Why We Might See Fewer Spears Soon
WWE’s Safety Push: With concussion lawsuits and CTE awareness, WWE is discouraging high-impact moves.
New Finishers Are Trending: Moves like the "One Winged Angel" (Kenny Omega) or "Buckshot Lariat" (Hangman Page) are replacing old-school tackles.
The Next Evolution? Maybe a "safe" Spear—less impact, more theatrics.
Final Verdict: The Spear’s Legacy
✅ Goldberg made it famous.
✅ Edge made it dramatic.
✅ Roman made it a main-event weapon.
❌ But it might be too dangerous to last.
What’s Next? Will AEW or WWE create a new, safer version? Or will the Spear go extinct like the Piledriver?
What Do YOU Think?
Who had the best Spear? (Goldberg, Edge, Roman, or someone else?)
Should WWE ban the Spear for safety reasons?
What’s the most brutal Spear you’ve ever seen?
Sound off in the comments! 🔥
About the Creator
Hermogene NTWALI
A neutralist, healthier and mentor
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