Wrestling superstar Big E gained his reputation as a formidable force during his stint with NXT. He had a unique characteristic, notably for enforcing a five-second pin to outclass his adversaries, rather than the conventional three-second count. The homage to the late wrestling icon King Kong Bundy, who originally popularized this method, did not go unnoticed.
In a recent conversation with Sarah O’Connell, Big E, a part of The New Day and a former WWE World Heavyweight Champion, reflected on his adoption of the Bundy gimmick and the opinion that the legendary Bundy held about it. Big E never had the opportunity to meet King Kong Bundy in person, but he treasured the indirect approval received from the wrestling legend, communicated through social media interactions.
“No. I never did, unfortunately [Never had the chance to meet King Kong Bundy about adopting the Five Count Pinfall], before he passed. We followed each other on Twitter. So there was some interaction there. But no, I never got to meet him, unfortunately. But he’s someone whom I hold in high regard. I’m very grateful that he was kind about my use of his gimmick since it was his creation,” Big E stated.
Big E emphasized the value of receiving recognition from the trailblazers of wrestling, stating, “You know, to have the approval of the guys that you used to watch growing up, and that’s really meaningful. My hope was always that he viewed it as a respectful tribute and homage rather than me pilfering his idea. I’m sad I never had the chance but hats off to the legend King Kong Bundy,” he recounted.
If using these remarks, please credit the original transcription, courtesy of WrestleZone, and include a link to this article.
FAQs About Big E and His Five Count Gimmick Inspired by King Kong Bundy
Q: What is the five count gimmick?
A: The five count gimmick is a method used by a wrestler to pin their opponent for a count of five instead of the standard count of three, demonstrating a more decisive victory.
Q: Did Big E directly get King Kong Bundy’s blessing for using the gimmick?
A: No, Big E did not have a face-to-face conversation with King Kong Bundy regarding the gimmick, but he did have some interactions with him on Twitter and was grateful for Bundy’s approval however indirect it may have been.
Q: Why is Big E’s use of the five count significant?
A: Big E’s adoption of the five count is significant because it pays homage to King Kong Bundy, a legendary wrestler known for the gimmick, and it helped to establish Big E’s dominance in NXT.
Q: Did Big E and King Kong Bundy meet before Bundy passed away?
A: No, they never met in person, but they did follow each other and interact on Twitter.
Conclusion
Big E’s adoption of King Kong Bundy’s five count pinfall gimmick demonstrates the influence and respect that past legends have on the new generation of wrestlers. His humble approach to adopting this signature move and his gratitude for Bundy’s indirect approval show the depth of character within the wrestling community, where homage and legacy hold significant places. It is clear from Big E’s comments that while he regrets not having the opportunity to discuss the gimmick with King Kong Bundy, he is honored to have continued a piece of Bundy’s wrestling heritage.
