Each and every episode of Lucha Underground features maneuvers, quotes, outfits, props, scenes, and more that deserve recognition. That is where the Tope 10 comes in. This list shows appreciation for the moments that are more exciting than a flying tope.
If you are new to the Lucha Underground scene, you can catch it Wednesdays at 8pm ET on El Rey Network, buy all episodes to date on iTunes and Amazon, or watch seasons one and two on Netflix. See if El Rey Network is available in your area.
If you haven’t had a chance to watch episode seven (July 25) yet, check out the preview and the recap/review. There is also a recap of the Lucha Underground interviews from San Diego Comic Con.
10. Double Submission
King Cuerno is a stud. Look at how he tenderized two men at once. The submissions weren’t finishers, but it was a nice visual nonetheless.
9. Wrapper’s Delight
In a delightful moment of strategy, Dezmond X grabbed the ring post to wrap around for fancy footwork aimed at his opponent’s head. It was a display of strength and creativity.
8. “Mack turns it on.”
What’s not to like about a big man flying? Add in a twist and enjoy. Credit to Matt Striker for the quote on play-by-play.
7. Powerbomb to the Neck
After the trios match, Mil Muertes came to collect on Mack calling him off last week. Mil unleashed a brutal looking powerbomb onto the edge of the apron. The impact was on Mack’s back and neck. Part of what made it look so good is that it appeared painful. Hopefully that maneuver had no ill effects to Mack’s health.
6. Handspring Hang Time
Son of Havoc joined in the flying fun with a handspring jumping attack to the outside. Vampiro noted, “He reminds me of a 2018 version of Evel Knievel doing things like that.” I hope that doesn’t give Lucha Underground any dangerous ideas. Well, I wouldn’t mind motorcycle stunts in the context of their wild world.
5. Arrow from the Depths of Hell
Always sweet.
4. Airing Azteca
In an odd set up, King Cuerno was bending over to smack talk Dezmond X. El Dragon Azteca Jr. jumped over Cuerno to add injury to insult at Dezmond. The positioning of Cuerno and Azteca made it look cooler than usual.
3. Vaffanculo
Lucha life-lesson: Don't ever do this. #luchaunderground #WednesdayWisdom pic.twitter.com/vbqB297rtM
— Lucha Underground (@LuchaElRey) July 26, 2018
Foul-mouthed Vinnie Massaro with the rude gestures was glorious. Twitter comments say the full phrase was, “Vaffanculo, pezzo di merda.” Based on the translation, I’m wondering if there is a more vulgar phrase in Italian or if that is tops.
I loved when Vinnie slapped Matanza. There’s something about showing intestinal fortitude in the face of imminent pummeling that always makes me a fan.
2. Diving Dezmond
Damn right, we made a GIF of that #luchaunderground @DezmondXavier #wow #wrestling pic.twitter.com/sdmq7krMKw
— Lucha Underground (@LuchaElRey) July 26, 2018
Whoa. As neat as that maneuver was, I was more impressed by Dezmond’s striking offense. I like the way he throws blows. I can’t put my finger on it to eloquently explain, but his style is unique.
1. Soaring Sammy
Sammy makes his presence felt in the Temple #luchaunderground @sammyguevara pic.twitter.com/g4ZwcuYHbO
— Lucha Underground (@LuchaElRey) July 26, 2018
Holy shit! Clap, clap, clap.
During the match, I was thinking, “Thanks for stopping by, Sammy.” It looked like Sammy Guevara was going to lose quickly then have a broken ankle and possibly be gone for the rest of the season. I’m glad they let Guevara stretch his wings and do something memorable. Hopefully he’ll come back for at least one more match in season four.
Revisiting last week’s poll, 36% of 122 votes were rooting for King Cuerno to win the Gift of the Gods. 24% chose Mack, 23% backed Ivelisse, and 9% wanted to ride with Son of Havoc. El Dragon Azteca Jr. was fifth with 7%. It’s funny that he turned out to be the winner of the Gift of the Gods. Dezmond X received one vote. I bet that if we redid the same poll this week, his vote total would be increased dramatically.
How does this week’s Tope 10 stack up to your list? Any favorites not included? Who are you more eager to see again: Sammy Guevara or Dezmond X? If you were late to the viewing party, feel free to share your thoughts about anything in the episode.
I’ll leave you with some nifty artwork of El Dragon Azteca Jr.
The New #LuchaUnderground #GiftOfTheGods champion #ElDragonAztecaJr! @LuchaElRey#Revenge #Justice #Legacy #EagleTribe #ReyHorus #LuchaKliq #LuchaArt #FanArt #LuchaLibre #LongLiveLuchaU pic.twitter.com/bTC782JNHV
— Daniel Flores [LD] (@DanielF_R7) July 27, 2018
Lucha! Lucha! Lucha!