Chokeslam! Secret History of an Iconic Wrestling Move

Description

Chokeslam! A compound of words that’ll send a shiver down any younger sibling’s spine. It is one of the most iconic moves in professional wrestling history as it ticks all the boxes: It is safe to perform in the ring*, easy to pull off, and looks fantastic when done well. So let’s take a look back at the history of the spectacular maneuver and try to answer some age-old questions. For example, who invented it? Paul Heyman? The 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln? Well, they both kind of did, and they both kind of didn’t… Abraham Lincoln – Originator of the Chokeslam? The rumored origin of the chokehold turns out to be far more interesting than I myself thought when I began writing this article. I was thinking I would have to go hunting for some obscure wrestler or match from many years ago. However, the mythological origin of quite possibly my favorite wrestling maneuver is even more epic than I could imagine. I’m sure many of you spend your commutes and walks listening to wrestling podcasts (like this one right here — cheap plug!). One of the best conversation starters is, "Who would you put on your wrestling Mount Rushmore?" Well, what if I were to tell you that the creator of the legendary finisher was a face on the REAL Mount Rushmore? That’s right, ladies and gentlemen, the originator of the chokeslam was non-other than President, ABE "THE TOP HAT" LINCOLN!