The Rating Game

By: Brian Solomon

Credit: WWF Magazine August 2001

It's no secret that the Tag Team Division is the place to look for some of the most talented Superstars in the World Wrestling Federation. The exploits and abilities of these dynamic duos are well known among even casual fans. But more often than not, these teams are judged as units. It's rare that the members are analyzed as individuals. What type of competitor is Bubba Ray Dudley, for example? How does Funaki measure up? Is Bradshaw better off on his own? These are some of the questions World Wrestling Federation Magazine asked while Putting together our in-depth analysis of each of the Federation's so-called "tag-team specialists." We broke down each team, weighing both partners separately according to each man's merit. Ten crucial criteria were used and each Superstar was given a rating between 1 and 10 in each category. The results may surprise you. We're sure there are plenty who will disagree with our opinions, so remember - none of this stuff is written in stone.

Christian:

On his first day in the World Wrestling Federation back in 1998, Christian won the Light Heavyweight Championship from Taka Michinoku. Not a bad singles debut. But for the most part, Christian's Federation career has consisted of being part of the very successful Edge & Christian tandem. The more physically solid of the duo, Christian enjoys a slight strength advantage over his brother. This makes up for the fact that he is possible even goofier than Edge - if that's possible. Should the team ever dissolve, Christian could easily take control of the Light Heavyweight Division once again. His combination of strength and speed would make him quite possible the most dangerous of the lighter competitors. But for now, Christian would be wise to stay put and continue to enjoy the plentiful success of the E&C dynasty.

Experience:
5

Strategy:
8

Brawling Ability:
7

Intimidation Factor:
5

Technical Skill:
8

Stamina:
8

Endurance:
8

Total: 75

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Edge:

Before joining forces with his brother Christian in 1999, Edge competed in the singles division for several months, at one point spending 24 hours as Intercontinental Champion. But before he could truly be tested in a one-on-one capacity, he forged his partnership with Christian. And if there's any team that has no reason to split, it's this one. E&C have won more Tag Team Championships than any other team in history. In the past year, they have begun to establish themselves as one of the most dominant duos of all time. Although many opponents may not take Edge very seriously because of his often goofy demeanor, he has proven time and again that this is a fatal mistake. His strategy and command in the ring are virtually without peer in the division.

Strength:
7

Agility:
8

Speed:
9

Experience:
5

Strategy:
9

Brawling Ability:
8

Intimidation Factor:
6

Technical Skill:
8

Stamina:
9

Endurance:
8

Total: 77

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How all the teams added up:

Faarooq:
83

Jeff Hardy:
81

Matt Hardy:
81

Bradshaw:
80

Taka Michinoku:
79

Bubba Ray Dudley:
79

D-Von Dudley:
79

Edge:
77

Christian:
75

Sho Funaki:
72