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Tope 10: Lucha Underground (Nov. 2, 2016)

By Manolo Has Pizzazz

Each and every episode of Lucha Underground features maneuvers, quotes, outfits, props, scenes, and stories that deserve recognition. That is where the Tope 10 comes in. This list shows appreciation for the moments which are more exciting than a flying tope.

If you are new to the Lucha Underground scene, you can catch it Wednesdays at 8pm ET/PT on the El Rey Network or buy seasons one, two, and three on iTunes. See if El Rey is available in your area.

If you haven't had a chance to watch this week's episode yet, check out the preview, live blog & open thread, recap, highlight package, and the Loser Leaves Lucha main event between Rey Mysterio and Chavo Guerrero.

Bonus news if you haven't yet heard. Lucha Underground will be finishing their mini tour with the last live date in the San Diego area. The Mack vs King Cuerno in 2 out of 3 falls and Angelico vs Johnny Mundo in a street fight are the feature bouts of the show on Saturday, November 5.

10. Dr. Wagner Jr.'s offensive arsenal

I'm not that familiar with Dr. Wagner Jr., so I was interested to see how the aged veteran could hang with the speedy style in the Temple. During his moments of control, he executed a sitout powerbomb, a second buckle Ace Crusher, and some kind of Russian leg sweep hip toss slam. All three looked cool. I also enjoyed how he got amped up while trading chops. His performance left me wanting more, and I look forward to seeing him against other opponents.

9. Believer's Backlash

If you are unaware, Believer's Backlash is a strap match concept in which chosen fans possess the straps. The only bout to date of that type was Drago vs Hernandez at Ultima Lucha Uno. As silly as it sounds, the match actually delivered the goods with Hernandez being the perfect rudo.

Since Son of Havoc won, he got to pick the stipulation for Famous B vs Mascarita Sagrada. They surprised me with the choice of Believer's Backlash. That stipulation never crossed my mind. The announcement made my eyes wide. Fantastic selection.

Now, we are in store for the second edition of Believer's Backlash next week between Famous B and Mascarita Sagrada. One difference though. The fans can use any weapons they desire. It should be pure spectacle in a good way.

One thing that has popped into my head is if Famous B will have new clients posing as fans. B has expressed his desire to expand, and this feels like an opportune time to do it.

Vampiro's suggestion for All Night Long made me chuckle.

8. Snap

Matanza cracked Cortez Castro's arm like a crab leg. The sound effect was brutal. Bru-tal, bru-tal, bru-tal.

7. Counter face smash

A cool looking counter. The GIF kind of mesmerizes me.

6. Mil Muertes in a suit

Mil Muertes always looks dapper as heck when dressed in a three-piece suit. Very sophisticated and stylish.

Oh yeah, I almost forgot. That scene also set up a little something called GRAVE CONSEQUENCES!!! There is definite potential for Mil Muertes and Prince Puma to have a match of the year candidate, not just in Lucha Underground but all of wrestling. Here's to hoping it can surpass the hype.

5. Restart the match

After Chavo Guerrero Sr. tried to lie, cheat, and steal the victory, Dario Cueto was not satisfied with the conclusion. He chided referee Marty Elias for calling the bell. "You called for a disqualification in my main event? In a match of this magnitude? Have for forgotten how much Dario Cueto loves violence?"

I like how well this fits with the Dario Cueto character. He's not concerned much with who wins or losses the match. He only wants to sit back, enjoy some booze (and possibly lines of cocaine), and satiate his fondness for violence.

Marty Elias better be careful not to upset El Jefe one too many times, otherwise, he will be heading toward being the next murder victim in the Temple.

4. Laughing at a rat

Poor Cortez Castro. First, he had his arm broken by Pentagon DARK, then his arm was fractured again by Matanza as he was the pick after Dario's Dial of Doom landed on Dario's choice. To make matters worse, Dario openly blew Castro's cover, "That is because you have the life of a rat," and, "Get plenty of rest under covers. And come back as soon as you can, rat." After the match, Dario and Joey Ryan yucked it up.

For as tough a situation it has been for Castro, it has provided entertaining television in a perversely comical way. How is Dario going to punish Castro next time if he returns? Whatever happens, let's hope Castro can gets his hands on Joey Ryan before it is too late.

3. Half-ass

Enter Son of Havoc into Dario Cueto's office, "I'm here on behalf of him (Mascarita Sagrada)." Still in a jolly mood about Cortez Castro's broken arm, Dario wisecracked, "Did you just say half of him? That's a little bit rude, isn't it?"

Later on, Dario jested, "You see? Dario Cueto never does anything half-ass." What made the scene was Dario giggling boisterously at his own joke and trying to get Havoc and Mascarita to appreciate the cleverness of his humor.

2. Second floor moonsault

Add another amazing aerial moment to the resume of Son of Havoc. He makes it look effortless.

1. Classic Guerrero

Chavo Classic pulled a classic moment. Sr. clobbered his own son with a chair to get Jr. the DQ victory. It was quintessential Guerrero and a fitting inclusion into the match. Not to worry though. Chavo Classic would receive payback in the form of a 619.

I enjoyed how Chavo Jr. gleefully celebrated after his supposed victory. I thought for once he might be dissatisfied with cheating and demand a clean finish out of respect for Rey. Thankfully, Chavo Jr. stayed true to form, which made his defeat that much more satisfying.

If this truly is the end of Chavo Guerrero Jr. in Lucha Underground, then I say thank you, good sir. I've enjoyed Chavo's work in the Temple. He elevated his scumbaggery to a whole new level and made it fun to root for his demise. That's great heelin'.

In last week's poll, 77% of 91 votes would rather see Cage as the host body over Texano with the remaining 23%.

How does this week's Tope 10 stack up to your list? Any favorites not included? If you were late to the viewing party, feel free to share your thoughts about anything in the episode. While waiting for next week, check out Vampiro and Melissa Santos going over self-defense tips.

Lucha! Lucha! Lucha!

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