The theory behind Tag Team wrestling is that the partners with the more effective relationship will win the match. The men who are able to form the strongest bond, the ideal homo-social pairing, are presented as the better and more successful team.
This match from the 1/3/12 episode of WWE NXT presented two very different types of relationships to determine which is more effective. First we see Kassius Ohno (aka Chris Hero) enter the ring like a master dominating his slave Leo Kruger, or a pet owner handling his beast. He controls crazy Leo Kruger by yanking him around by his hair. With a proud smile, submissive Leo Kruger kneels on all fours like a dog and crawls between his Master’s legs, allowing his handler Kassius Ohno to easily dominate him.
The men are presented in a consensual Master/slave or perhaps Owner/property relationship. Both men know their role and enjoy their relative positions of power and obedience and they seem to love it that way. (Didn’t I tell you WWE NXT has the sexiest, most provocative wrestling scenarios ever?!)
Good doggie. Do as you’re told!
Next, Tyson Kidd and Justin Gabriel are depicted in a more traditional partnership of friendship and equality. They are similar in size and stature, like a couple of brothers. Kidd rests a hand on Gabriel’s shoulder as a sign of affection, not of dominance. The men wear nearly identical trunks in the same lime green and black color to indicate their allegiance and equality.
The two types of relationships are presented in contrast and compared with each other. Whoever wins this Tag Team match will send a message to the viewers about the nature of Male-Male relationships and the sort of pairing (equal partnership vs. Master/slave) that is more effective and ideal.
To start the match, the team of “International Airstrike” (Gabriel and Kidd) show off their fancy double-team moves and high flying abilities. Kidd secures a nice wrist-lock on Leo Kruger, subduing the wild man and even sticking his tongue out at Kassius Ohno: “Look what I’m doing to your little pet!”
The early domination by the two friends presents us with the theory that an equal partnership, two pals working together in harmony, is the ideal way for men to work together.
When the Beast-master, Kassius Ohno, gets in the ring, the tide changes. He quickly establishes his dominance over cute Tyson Kidd, choking the smaller man into submission as Kidd’s partner, Justin Gabriel, watches helplessly. Throughout the match, Gabriel stresses his helplessness by reaching for a desperate tag even though his partner is way too far away. They look so hopeless and ineffective when Gabriel keeps doing this, reaching out his hand even though his partner is far out of reach.
You can download complete episodes of NXT by joining Hulu Plus, or see a couple minutes of this match action on Hulu’s free site.
Kidd plays the Babyface-In-Peril for an extended time, with Ohno and Kruger just ripping him apart. Gabriel is frequently shown across the ring looking useless and frustrated.
Tyson Kidd has been effectively isolated from his caring and supportive partner. Will the two friends — the equal partnership — be able to fight back and defeat the Master and his slave?
The bearded beasts go wild on poor Tyson Kidd, crushing him under their knees and their heavy bodies. Recently, it was announced that Kidd injured himself (torn ligaments in his knee) and will be out of wrestling for six months. Did this relentless punishment by cruel Kassius Ohno and his obedient animal contribute to Kidd’s injury? The timing certainly adds the feel of authenticity and realism to the agony inflicted on Kidd in this match.
Oh GOD I wish they’d show this kind of stuff on TV! Just when you think nothing could make Leo Kruger any hotter…