Getting punched in the face by the opponent is typical in WWE. But taking that punch willingly is a rare instance. Two-time World Heavyweight Champion Dolph Ziggler did this eerie thing to himself when he squared off against Matt Cardona aka Zack Ryder on WWE Raw in 2011.
Dolph Ziggler has been a mainstay on WWE TV since his debut in 2004. The veteran has accomplished an array of accolades during his 19 years tenure under the company ring. Be it as a heel or a face, the 42-year-old has been always a fan favorite. When Ziggler used to be the hottest young rookie, he readily invited a solid punch in the face from the prolific actor Hugh Jackman.
Dolph Ziggler readily took a punch in his face during a RAW match
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During a RAW match segment in 2011, Jackman interfered in the affairs between Cardona and Ziggler. He made his stance clear by punching straight in the face of Ziggler to cost him the win. That said, during a recent interview on NotSam, the former Intercontinental champion revealed that he actually asked for that punch from the $180M star while having a pre-match chit-chat.
Detailing his conversation with Jackman, the former WWE Heavyweight Champion, noted, ”There are guys like Hugh Jackman that go, ”Hey, can you punch me in the face, or can I punch you in the face? I’m like, ‘Yeah, but it’s gotta be real.’ He goes, ‘Okay.’ And then, of course, it had to be me getting punched.”
Despite WWE’s indifference in putting him in any significant storyline these days, Ziggler had his fair share of unforgettable angles that won many hearts.
Dolph Ziggler’s match at WrestleMania 36 left him heartbroken
In December 2019, Mandy Rose, Otis, and Dolph Ziggler got involved in a romantic triangle storyline. The story reached its climax during WrestleMania 36 when Ziggler faced off against Otis Later, the duo (Otis and Rose) shared a passionate kiss in the ring after Otis picked up the win.
The match and the story was well received. Also, given that it was the first singles bout for Dolph at the grandest stage, the former champion quite naturally lamented the fact that COVID-19 didn’t let that match take place amidst the crowd.
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Now, we need to see if WWE has any further major plans regarding Ziggler in the future or not. After all, the Showoff is here to show the world he still has a lot left to offer.
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What’s your take on Dolph Ziggler willingly getting punched in his face by actor Hugh Jackman? Let us know in the comments.