Highlights

• The Figure Four Leg Lock is a legendary and feared move in professional wrestling, capable of making opponents tap out and retaining championship titles.
• "The Nature Boy" Buddy Rogers is credited with inventing the Figure Four Leg Lock, using it to exploit his opponent's vulnerability and strike fear into the hearts of fans and competitors.
• Ric Flair popularized and transformed the Figure Four Leg Lock into a symbol of his dominance, inspiring other wrestlers to add their own unique twists to the submission hold. Charlotte Flair, Ric Flair's daughter, has evolved the move into the more intense Figure Eight.

There are a few moves as legendary and feared as the Figure Four Leg Lock. This agonizing submission hold, capable of bending even the most formidable competitors to its will, has etched its name in the annals of wrestling history. But the tale of the Figure Four is not just about the move itself; it's a narrative woven with the charisma and mastery of wrestling legends, from its inception by "The Nature Boy" Buddy Rogers to its elevation to an art form by Ric Flair, and its transformation into the Figure Eight by Charlotte Flair. Fans should know the gripping history of the Figure Four Leg Lock—a hold that has made opponents tap out, champions retain their titles, and generations of wrestling enthusiasts hold their breath in anticipation.

The Figure Four Leg Lock Inception By "The Nature Boy" Buddy Rogers

To truly appreciate the Figure Four Leg Lock and its historical significance in professional wrestling, we must delve into its originator, "The Nature Boy" Buddy Rogers. During the vibrant wrestling era of the 1950s and 60s, Buddy Rogers stood out not only for his charisma but also for his innovative wrestling style. Buddy Rogers was a trailblazer in the world of wrestling. He possessed a unique blend of athleticism and showmanship that set him apart from his contemporaries. It was during this era that Rogers conceived of the Figure Four Leg Lock, a maneuver designed to exploit an opponent's vulnerability and pain threshold. The Figure Four Leg Lock was a stroke of genius on Rogers' part. To execute it, he would expertly entwine his opponent's legs, bending one at a 90-degree angle while interlocking his own legs to create a painful, unbreakable hold. Rogers realized that this submission move was not only excruciating but also had a psychological impact on his opponents. The sight of a wrestler trapped in Figure Four was enough to strike fear into the hearts of fans and fellow competitors alike. That's why it's remained a move championed by heels.

However, it wasn't until 1961 that Buddy Rogers etched his name into the annals of wrestling history using the Figure Four. He defended his NWA World Heavyweight Championship, and he employed the Figure Four Leg Lock to retain his coveted title. While Rogers deserves credit as the inventor and initial master of the Figure Four Leg Lock, he paved the way for other wrestling stars to adopt and adapt this painful submission hold. Johnny Valentine and Tito Santana recognized the effectiveness of the maneuver and used it to great effect during their careers. Yet, it would be another "Nature Boy" who would take this iconic move to new heights and ensure its enduring place in wrestling history – Ric Flair.

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The Rise of Ric Flair And A Figure Four Revolution

When discussing the legacy of the Figure Four Leg Lock in professional wrestling, it's impossible to overlook the pivotal role played by Ric Flair. While Buddy Rogers may have introduced this crippling submission hold to the wrestling world, it was Flair who not only popularized it but also transformed it into a symbol of his dominance. Ric Flair's wrestling career is a testament to his unparalleled charisma, and in-ring prowess, and the Figure Four Leg Lock became an essential part of his persona. He didn't merely adopt the move; he made it an integral aspect of his wrestling repertoire and an extension of his identity.

Ric Flair's admiration for Buddy Rogers was evident in the way he meticulously recreated the essence of "The Nature Boy." From Rogers' stylish and flamboyant attire to his eloquent promos, Flair emulated his predecessor. Yet, it was the Figure Four Leg Lock that truly solidified Flair's connection to Rogers' legacy. Ric Flair's influence extended beyond his own era. Flair's influence on the Figure Four didn't stop there. He inspired other wrestling greats to incorporate their unique twists into the submission. Bret Hart, for instance, added extra torment by locking Figure Four around the ring pole, increasing the pressure on his opponent's legs. Shawn Michaels took a creative approach by twisting one of the legs 90 degrees while applying the hold, inflicting even more anguish. He inspired a new generation of wrestlers who sought to pay homage to "The Nature Boy." His mentees, including Triple H and The Miz, incorporated Figure Four into their arsenals as a nod to their mentor.

The Figure Eight: Charlotte Flair's Evolution

Today, the Figure Four Leg Lock lives on, and it's most famously wielded by none other than Ric Flair's daughter, Charlotte Flair. Charlotte has not only carried on her father's legacy but also added her own innovative twist to the move. She arches her body during the hold, creating a more intense variation known as Figure Eight. Charlotte's execution of Figure Eight is a sight to behold. Her ability to apply the hold with grace and strength has made it even more devastating. When Charlotte locks in Figure Eight, her opponents are left with no choice but to tap out.

RELATED: Why Charlotte Flair Has To Be The One To Break Ric Flair's 16 World Championship Record

The Figure Four Leg Lock, thanks to the contributions of legends like Buddy Rogers, Ric Flair, and now Charlotte Flair, has stood the test of time. It's a symbol of wrestling excellence and a reminder of the enduring legacy of those who wield it.