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{{short description|American professional wrestler}} |
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{{references}} |
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{{good article}} |
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{{Infobox Wrestler|name=Nick Nemeth |
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{{pp-pc}} |
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|image=Nickywwe.jpg |
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{{Use mdy dates|date=May 2024}} |
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|names=Nick Nemeth<br>'''Nicky''' |
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{{Infobox professional wrestler |
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|height=6 ft (183 cm) |
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|name = Dolph Ziggler<!-- DON'T CHANGE. MATCHES NAME OF THE ARTICLE --> |
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|weight=213 lb (96.7 kg) |
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|image = Dolph Ziggler Photo Op GalaxyCon Richmond 2024.jpg |
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|birth_date = [[July 27]], [[1980]] |
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|caption = Nemeth in 2024 |
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|death_date = |
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|birth_name = Nicholas Theodore Nemeth |
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|birth_place = [[Cleveland, Ohio]] |
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|birth_date = {{birth date and age|1980|7|27}} |
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|resides= |
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|birth_place = [[Cleveland|Cleveland, Ohio]], U.S. |
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|billed= |
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|relatives = [[Ryan Nemeth]] (brother) |
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|trainer= |
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|names = Dolph Ziggler<br />'''Nic Nemeth'''<br />Nick Nemeth<br />Nicky<br />[[Colonel Sanders]] |
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|debut=[[November 2004]] |
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|alma_mater = [[Kent State University]] |
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|retired= |
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|height = 6 ft 0 in<ref name="WWEbio"/> |
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|}} |
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|weight = 218 lb<ref name="WWEbio"/> |
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|billed = [[Hollywood, Florida]]<ref name="WWEbio">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/superstars/dolph-ziggler|title=Dolph Ziggler|access-date=March 24, 2016|publisher=[[WWE]]|archive-date=November 11, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161111173347/http://www.wwe.com/superstars/dolph-ziggler|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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'''Nicholas Charles Nemeth''' (born [[July 27]], [[1980]] in [[Cleveland, Ohio]]) is an [[United States|American]] [[professional wrestler]] who currently works for [[World Wrestling Entertainment]] on its [[WWE RAW|RAW]] brand. He is currently one fifth of the [[World Tag-Team Championship|World Tag Team Champions]]. |
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|trainer = [[Florida Championship Wrestling]]<br />[[Lance Storm]]<ref>{{cite web|last=Storm|first=Lance|author-link=Lance Storm|title=Q and A|url=http://www.stormwrestling.com/041611.html|publisher=Storm Wrestling|access-date=May 4, 2011|archive-date=April 19, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110419184023/http://www.stormwrestling.com/041611.html|url-status=live}}</ref><br />[[Ohio Valley Wrestling]]<br />[[Steve Keirn]]<br />[[Tom Prichard]] |
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|debut = 2004 |
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}} |
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'''Nicholas Theodore Nemeth''' (born July 27, 1980) is an American [[professional wrestler]] and [[stand-up comedian]]. He is currently signed to [[Total Nonstop Action Wrestling]] (TNA), where he performs under his real name, stylized as '''Nic Nemeth'''. He also makes appearances on the [[independent circuit]] and for [[Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide]] (AAA), in the latter of which he is the current [[AAA Mega Championship|AAA Mega Champion]] in his first reign. He is best known for his tenure in [[WWE]] from 2004 to 2023, where he performed under the [[ring name]] '''Dolph Ziggler'''. |
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==Career== |
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=== In the beginning === |
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Nick Nemeth wrestled for the anti-prestigious [[St. Edward High School]] in Lakewood, Ohio where he holds the school record for most pins in a career (82). When he attended [[Kent State University]] he joined the wrestling team and became the winningest wrestler in Kent State history. |
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After a career in [[amateur wrestling]], where he established several school records for [[Kent State University]], Nemeth signed a developmental contract with WWE in 2004 and was sent to [[Ohio Valley Wrestling]] (OVW), where he wrestled under his real name. He was promoted to WWE's [[WWE Raw|Raw]] brand shortly afterwards in 2005, playing the [[caddie]] sidekick to [[Chavo Guerrero Jr.|Kerwin White]]. He was sent back to OVW shortly afterwards, being given the name '''Nicky''' and joining the cheerleading-themed [[Spirit Squad]], who debuted on ''[[WWE Raw|RAW]]'' in January 2006 and won the [[World Tag Team Championship (WWE, 1971–2010)|World Tag Team Championship]] [[List of World Tag Team Champions|once]] before returning to develoment. |
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===Pro Wrestling=== |
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Nemeth signed a developmental deal with WWE and began training in [[Ohio Valley Wrestling]]. |
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After working in OVW and Florida Championship Wrestling, he returned to the main roster in September 2008, Nemeth was repackaged as Dolph Ziggler. Since then, he has held the [[World Heavyweight Championship (WWE, 2002–2013)|World Heavyweight Championship]] [[List of World Heavyweight Champions (WWE)|twice]], the [[NXT Championship]] [[List of NXT Champions|once]], the [[WWE Intercontinental Championship|Intercontinental Championship]] [[List of WWE Intercontinental Champions|six times]], the [[WWE United States Championship|United States Championship]] [[List of WWE United States Champions|twice]], the [[Raw Tag Team Championship]] [[List of WWE Raw Tag Team Champions|twice]], and the [[SmackDown Tag Team Championship]] [[List of WWE SmackDown Tag Team Champions|once]]. His other accomplishments include becoming the sole survivor of two [[Survivor Series|Survivor Series elimination matches]] and the [[Money in the Bank (2012)|2012]] [[WWE Money in the Bank|Money in the Bank]] winner as well as headlining multiple WWE [[pay-per-view]] events. Nemeth was released from WWE in September 2023, ending his 19-year run with the company. |
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After working nearly 12 months as a pro, in [[September]] of [[2005]], Nemeth made an appearance in WWE working under an [[Enforcer (professional wrestling)|enforcer]] [[Gimmick (professional wrestling)|gimmick]], this sees Nemeth serve as a [[caddy]] for the [[golf|golfer]] image of [[Chavo Guerrero, Jr.|Kerwin White]] in an exclusive video found on WWE.com. His accomplishments as a wrestler on ''RAW'' include breaking a golf club over the back of Shelton Benjamin. His wrestling debut was on Sunday Night Heat, when he teamed up with Kerwin White to take on [[Shelton Benjamin]] and [[Matthew Kaye|Matt Striker]]. |
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After WWE, Nemeth would debut in the independent circuit using his real name. In January 2024, he would make his debut in [[New Japan Pro-Wrestling|New Japan Pro Wrestling]] (NJPW) appearing in the crowd alongside his younger brother, [[Ryan Nemeth|Ryan]] at [[Wrestle Kingdom 18]], and made his TNA debut at [[Hard To Kill (2024)|2024]]'s [[TNA Hard To Kill|Hard To Kill]]. One month later, he won the [[IWGP Global Heavyweight Championship]], his first major non-WWE championship, in his NJPW debut match. On April 27, 2024, at [[Triplemanía XXXII]], he won the vacant [[AAA Mega Championship]]. |
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After the death of [[Eddie Guerrero]], Chavo Guerrero dropped the Kerwin White character, and Nemeth no longer played the role of his caddy/tag partner. He wrestled singles matches against [[Tajiri]] in the WWE 2005 European tour. |
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== |
==Early life== |
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Nicholas Theodore Nemeth was born in [[Cleveland|Cleveland, Ohio]], on July 27, 1980.<ref name="slam"/> He has been a fan of professional wrestling since he was five years old, when he attended a wrestling event at the [[Richfield Coliseum]], and he decided to become a professional wrestler at age 12. He later revealed on [[Colt Cabana]]'s ''Art of Wrestling Podcast'' that he chose his WWE name "Dolph" because that was his great-grandfather's name, and his friend suggested the surname "Ziggler". Nemeth attended [[St. Edward High School (Lakewood, Ohio)|St. Edward High School]] in [[Lakewood, Ohio]], where he was an [[Scholastic wrestling|amateur wrestler]] and holds the school record for most [[Pin (amateur wrestling)|pins]] in a career with 82.<ref name="slam">{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.com/Slam/Wrestling/Bios/nemeth_nick.html|title=Nick Nemeth|date=December 19, 2006|last=Milner|first=John M.|access-date=January 7, 2012|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200228044453/http://slam.canoe.com/Slam/Wrestling/Bios/nemeth_nick.html|archive-date=February 28, 2020|url-status=dead}}</ref> At St. Edward, he was teammates with [[Gray Maynard]] and [[Andy Hrovat]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://alumni.sehs.net/resource/resmgr/wrestling/state_qualifiers.pdf |title=St. Ed's Wrestling State Placers |access-date=December 26, 2011 |publisher=[[St. Edward High School (Lakewood, Ohio)|St. Edward High School]] |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111007235047/http://alumni.sehs.net/resource/resmgr/wrestling/state_qualifiers.pdf |archive-date=October 7, 2011 }}</ref> |
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During his time at St. Edward, the wrestling team won the National Championships on two occasions.<ref name="rio"/> He was a [[Collegiate wrestling|collegiate wrestler]] at [[Kent State University]], eventually setting what was then the record for most career wins in the team's history.<ref name="slam"/><ref name="kentrecords">{{cite book|title=2009–2010 Kent State University Wrestling Media Guide|year=2009|publisher=[[Kent State University]]|page=26}}</ref> His record was passed in 2006; as of 2010, he stands second all-time in career victories at Kent State.<ref name="kentrecords"/> He had 121 career wins between 2000 and 2003.<ref name="kentrecords"/><ref name="Walsh">{{cite web|url=http://www.herald-dispatch.com/entertainment/x2075611415/Rising-WWE-star-Dolph-Ziggler-among-talent-scheduled-to-rumble-at-Huntingtons-Big-Sandy-Superstore-Arena-on-Sunday|title=Dolph Ziggler among WWE superstars scheduled for Sunday show|date=October 7, 2008|last=Walsh|first=David|access-date=January 6, 2010|work=[[The Herald-Dispatch]]|archive-date=January 3, 2013|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130103012828/http://www.herald-dispatch.com/entertainment/x2075611415/Rising-WWE-star-Dolph-Ziggler-among-talent-scheduled-to-rumble-at-Huntingtons-Big-Sandy-Superstore-Arena-on-Sunday|url-status=live}}</ref> He [[Academic major|majored]] in [[political science]] with a [[pre-law]] [[Minor (academic)|minor]].<ref name="Sweeten-Shults">{{cite web|url=http://www.timesrecordnews.com/news/2011/jan/15/excitement-lured-ziggler/|title=Excitement lured Ziggler; Wrestler, teammates ready to put on show at Yeager|date=January 15, 2011|last=Sweeten-Shults|first=Lana|access-date=January 15, 2011|work=[[Times Record News]]|archive-date=September 6, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130906075351/http://www.timesrecordnews.com/news/2011/jan/15/excitement-lured-ziggler/|url-status=dead}}</ref> Prior to his WWE tryout, he had been accepted to [[Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law|the law school]] at [[Arizona State University]], where he was due to start his first semester.<ref>{{cite web|last=Powers|first=Kevin|date=September 24, 2012|url=https://www.wwe.com/classics/classic-lists/20-most-impressive-physiques|title=The 20 most impressive physiques in WWE history|work=WWE|access-date=March 26, 2022|archive-date=March 25, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220325191432/https://www.wwe.com/classics/classic-lists/20-most-impressive-physiques|url-status=live}}</ref> He was a three-time All-Mid-American Conference champion, winning the {{convert|165|lb|kg|abbr=on}} tournament in 2000, 2002, and 2003; as of 2010, he is the last wrestler from Kent State University to have won three wrestling conference championships.<ref name="rio">{{cite web|url=http://www.rrobserver.com/sports/article_e0288c5b-197e-55f2-b818-79111739f144.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130201215158/http://www.rrobserver.com/sports/article_e0288c5b-197e-55f2-b818-79111739f144.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=February 1, 2013|title=WWE's Dolph Ziggler once planned on law career|date=May 26, 2010|last=Herron|first=Gary|access-date=May 29, 2010|work=Rio Rancho Observer}}</ref> |
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Nemeth (now know as Nicky) redebuted on RAW on January 23, 2006 as part of the [[Spirit Squad]], a male cheerleading stable. The group, also consisting of Kenny, Mitch, Johnny, and Mikey, entered the arena during [[Jonathan Coachman|Coach]] and [[Jerry Lawler]]'s [[Royal Rumble]] qualifying match. They surrounded the ring cheering for the Coach, distracting Lawler long enough for Coachman to gain a roll-up victory. |
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== Professional wrestling career == |
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Since then, The Spirit Squad have made more appearances on ''RAW'' and WWE ''Unlimited''. This included performing a special cheer for Trish Stratus during a celebration held for her by Mickie James. The Spirit Squad then became a part of an on-going feud between WWE chairman Vince McMahon and Shawn Michaels. The heel McMahon hired the Spirit Squad to perform disrespectful cheers and attack Michaels. Nicky was involved in a 4-on-1 handicap match on the [[February 20]], 2006 ''RAW'', against Shawn Michaels. John and his fellow Spirit Squad members were disqualified, but they continued the beatdown after the match, prompting Michaels' former partner [[Marty Jannetty]] to get involved. The Spirit Squad even won a 4 on 1 tornado handicap steel cage match against Michaels, and interfered during the Michaels/McMahon match at WrestleMania 22. |
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=== World Wrestling Entertainment / WWE (2004–2023)=== |
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==== Ohio Valley Wrestling (2004–2006) ==== |
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In the following weeks, Nicky would be at ringside while other members of the Spirit Squad had their turn at wrestling matches, often getting involved to help his teammates win. |
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Nemeth signed a contract with [[World Wrestling Entertainment]] (WWE) in 2004.<ref name="Walsh"/> He was assigned to its [[developmental territory]] [[Ohio Valley Wrestling]] (OVW), debuting on November 3, 2004, under the [[ring name]] "Nick Nemeth". After briefly teaming with [[Steve Lewington]], Nemeth went on to [[feud (professional wrestling)|feud]] with [[Paul Burchill]]. In August 2005, he unsuccessfully challenged [[Ken Doane]] for the [[OVW Television Championship]]. In September 2005, he unsuccessfully challenged [[Johnny Jeter]] for the [[OVW Heavyweight Championship]]. In October 2005, he began wrestling on main roster [[house shows]]. After joining WWE's main roster as a member of the [[Spirit Squad]] in January 2006, Nemeth continued to wrestle sporadically for OVW until April 2006.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=2&nr=2515&page=20 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20230223170253/https://www.cagematch.net/?id=2&nr=2515&page=20 |archive-date=February 23, 2023 |title=Dolph Ziggler Matches Per Promotion & Year |work=CAGEMATCH – The Internet Wrestling Database |last=Kreikenbohm |first=Philip |access-date=February 23, 2023}}</ref><ref name="slam"/> |
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==== Alliance with Kerwin White; Spirit Squad (2005–2006) ==== |
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[[Image:SpiritSquad TagChamps.jpg|thumb|right|The Spirit Squad, after winning the World Tag Team Championship on April 3, 2006.]] |
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{{Main|Spirit Squad}} |
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On the [[April 3]], 2006 edition of ''RAW'', Kenny, along with fellow Spirit Squad member [[Mike Brenley|Mikey]], defeated [[Paul Wight|The Big Show]] and [[Glen Jacobs|Kane]] to win the [[World Tag Team Championship]] with help from the other members of the Spirit Squad ([[Nick Nemeth|Nicky]], [[Nick Mitchell|Mitch]], and [[Johnny Jeter|Johnny]]). It was later announced that all five members of the Spirit Squad would be recognised as the World Tag Team Champions and any combination of the squad members could defend the titles in each match. |
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Nemeth made his main roster television debut on the September 25, 2005, episode of ''[[Sunday Night Heat]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_14914.shtml#.Y_eXPHbP3IU |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19991125160519/http://wcw.com/ppvevents/990117so/results.html |archive-date=November 25, 1999 |title=9/25 WWE Sunday Night Heat review: A Final Farewell to Sunday Night Heat |work=[[Wade Keller|Pro Wrestling Torch]] |last=Maes |first=Jeremy |date=September 26, 2005 |access-date=February 23, 2023}}</ref> He was made the [[Glossary of professional wrestling terms#Enforcer|enforcer]] and sidekick for [[Chavo Guerrero Jr.|Chavo Guerrero]], who was using a [[golf]]er [[Glossary of professional wrestling terms#Gimmick|in-ring persona]] and going by the [[ring name]] of "Kerwin White".<ref name="slam"/> As such, Nemeth became White's [[caddie]].<ref name="slam"/> His wrestling debut came on an episode of ''Sunday Night Heat'', teaming up with White in a [[Professional wrestling tag team match types|tag team match]] against [[Shelton Benjamin]] and [[Matt Striker]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.profightdb.com/wrestlers/dolph-ziggler-450.html??prom_id=2&sort=rev |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20230223171255/http://www.profightdb.com/wrestlers/dolph-ziggler-450.html?%3Fprom_id=2&sort=rev |archive-date=February 23, 2023 |title=Dolph Ziggler WWE Matches |work=The Internet Wrestling Database |access-date=February 23, 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestlingobserver.com/wo/news/features/default.asp?aID=14575 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20051223203114/http://www.wrestlingobserver.com/wo/news/features/default.asp?aID=14575 |archive-date=December 23, 2005 |title=WWE Sunday Night Heat TV report |work=[[Wrestling Observer Newsletter|Wrestling Observer]] |last=O'Neil |first=Graeme |date=October 23, 2005 |access-date=February 23, 2023}}</ref> After the death of [[Eddie Guerrero]], Chavo Guerrero dropped the "Kerwin White" character, and Nemeth no longer played the role of his caddie and tag partner. After a few months of wrestling in [[Glossary of professional wrestling terms#Dark match|dark match]]es and at [[house show]]s, he was sent back to OVW.<ref name="slam"/> |
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[[File:Nick Nemeth, Michael Brendli, and Ken Doane during a tag team match.jpg|thumb|Nicky (Dolph Ziggler) (left) with [[Mike Mondo|Mikey]] and [[Kenny Dykstra|Kenny]] as part of the Spirit Squad in 2006]] |
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On the April 17, 2006 edition of RAW, all five members of the Spirit Squad defeated Rob Van Dam in a 5-on-1 Handicap match. On the April 24, 2006 edition of RAW, all five members of the Spirit Suqad faced John Cena, Triple H, and Edge in a Handicap match. The match went to a no contest when Triple H started brawling with John Cena. |
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Nemeth became a part of the [[Spirit Squad]] faction, a group of five wrestlers who used the in-ring personas of male cheerleaders, and adopted the name Nicky in OVW during late 2005.<ref name="slam"/> The Spirit Squad members trained with real cheerleaders and gymnasts to ensure their characters were believable.<ref name="Varsallone 2">{{cite web|url=http://www.miamiherald.com/2010/09/30/1849718_p2/wwe-superstar-dolph-ziggler-prepares.html |title=WWE superstar Dolph Ziggler prepares for TV life on Syfy |date=September 2010 |last=Varsallone |first=Jim |access-date=May 8, 2011 |work=[[The Miami Herald]] |page=2 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20110508024807/http://www.miamiherald.com/2010/09/30/1849718_p2/wwe-superstar-dolph-ziggler-prepares.html |archive-date=May 8, 2011 |url-status=dead}}</ref> On January 23, 2006, they had their WWE television debut as a group, appearing on ''Raw'' and helping [[Jonathan Coachman]] win a [[Royal Rumble (2006)|Royal Rumble]] qualifying match against [[Jerry Lawler|Jerry "The King" Lawler]] by performing cheers for Coachman and distracting Lawler.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/01232006/mainarticle|title=Ready to Rumble|date=January 23, 2006|access-date=December 26, 2007|publisher=[[WWE]]|archive-date=November 3, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121103045634/http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/01232006/mainarticle|url-status=live}}</ref> They later became a part of the ongoing scripted feud between WWE chairman [[Vince McMahon]] and [[Shawn Michaels]]. The [[Heel (professional wrestling)|heel]] McMahon brought in the Spirit Squad to attack Michaels on numerous occasions, including placing them in multiple [[Professional wrestling match types#Handicap match|handicap match]]es.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2006/02/21/1454932.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120715011024/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2006/02/21/1454932.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 15, 2012|title=Raw: Gee, Triple H wins, surprise, surprise|date=February 21, 2006|last=Plummer|first=Dale|access-date=January 6, 2010|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2006/03/14/1487424.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120803002628/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2006/03/14/1487424.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=August 3, 2012|title=Raw: Testing the HBK-McMahons feud|date=March 14, 2006|last=Plummer|first=Dale|access-date=January 6, 2010|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref> |
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== Trivia == |
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*He has three dogs: Sadie (English Cocker), Gizmo (Shih Tzu) and Jack the Dog (Shih Tzu). |
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*His favorite film is ''Fletch'', starring Chevy Chase. |
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*He prefers Vanilla Coca Cola to Pepsi. |
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*Nemeth is fluent in [[American Sign Language]]. |
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*His brother, Ryan, can be seen playing Gustavo Jordanivich in "The Magical Russian Musical Part 2" on broadway. |
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They also wrestled in the tag team division, and on April 3, on ''Raw'', won the [[World Tag Team Championship (WWE, 1971–2010)|World Tag Team Championship]] when [[Kenny Dykstra|Kenny]] and [[Mike Mondo|Mikey]], with outside help from the other three Spirit Squad members, defeated [[Big Show and Kane]].<ref name="WWE-tag">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/worldtagteam/2448432 |title=History of the World Tag Team Championship – Spirit Squad |date=April 3, 2006 |access-date=August 9, 2008 |publisher=[[WWE]] |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080329062858/http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/worldtagteam/2448432 |archive-date=March 29, 2008 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2006/04/04/1519426.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120716071915/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2006/04/04/1519426.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 16, 2012|title=Raw: Debuts, new tag champs, staredowns|date=April 4, 2006|last=Sokol|first=Chris|access-date=January 6, 2010|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref> After winning the championship, all five members of the Spirit Squad were recognized as the champions, allowing any combination of them to defend the championship under the [[The Fabulous Freebirds#Freebird Rule|Freebird Rule]].<ref name="slam"/> |
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==Championships and accomplishments== |
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In May, McMahon signed another Handicap match, with the Spirit Squad facing Michaels. The match never started, however; instead the Spirit Squad attacked Michaels, and, as part of the [[kayfabe|storyline]], shattered his knee with a [[Folding chair|steel chair]].<ref name="knee"/> McMahon brought [[Triple H]] to the ring to attack Michaels with a sledgehammer; however, after Triple H felt that the Spirit Squad had disrespected him, he attacked the group.<ref name="knee">{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2006/05/23/1593335.html|title=Raw: HHH helps out HBK|date=May 22, 2006|last=Plummer|first=Dale|access-date=January 6, 2010|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]|archive-date=July 14, 2012|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120714112542/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2006/05/23/1593335.html|url-status=usurped}}</ref> This led to Triple H and Michaels reforming [[D-Generation X]] (DX) and they began a feud with the Spirit Squad.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2006/06/20/1643070.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120718031546/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2006/06/20/1643070.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 18, 2012|title=Raw: DX pranks – butts, boobs, slime|date=June 20, 2006|last=Plummer|first=Dale|access-date=January 6, 2010|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref><ref name="crap">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/06262006/mainarticle|title=It happens|date=June 26, 2006|last=Dee|first=Louie|access-date=August 8, 2008|publisher=[[WWE]]|archive-date=November 3, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121103045704/http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/06262006/mainarticle|url-status=live}}</ref> DX played various [[Student|sophomoric]] [[Practical joke|jokes]] on the Spirit Squad and the McMahons, as well as defeating the Spirit Squad in handicap tag team matches at [[Vengeance (2006)|Vengeance]] and a clean sweep in an [[Professional wrestling match types#Basic elimination matches|elimination]] handicap match at ''[[Saturday Night's Main Event XXXIII]]''.<ref name="crap"/><ref name="stolen">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/07032006/mainarticle|title=Stolen Championship|date=July 3, 2006|last=Williams III|first=Ed|access-date=August 8, 2008|publisher=[[WWE]]|archive-date=November 3, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121103045747/http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/07032006/mainarticle|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2006/06/21/1646013.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120714045133/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2006/06/21/1646013.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 14, 2012|title=DX returns with a Vengeance|date=June 21, 2006|last=Plummer|first=Dale|author2=Tylwalk, Nick|access-date=January 6, 2010|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/snme/history/july152006/matches/25815981/|title=DX dismantles the Spirit Squad|date=July 15, 2006|last=Zeigler|first=Zack|access-date=August 8, 2008|publisher=[[WWE]]|archive-date=April 8, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110408001910/http://www.wwe.com/shows/snme/history/july152006/matches/25815981|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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*'''[[World Wrestling Entertainment]]''' |
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:*1-time [[World Tag-Team Championship|WWE World Tag Team Champion]] (with the other members of the [[Spirit Squad]]) |
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At the same time as their feud with DX and their alignment with McMahon, the Spirit Squad also wrestled other teams in ''Raw''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s tag division over their World Tag Team Championship, successfully defending the championship against the teams of [[Jim Duggan]] and [[Eugene (wrestler)|Eugene]], [[Charlie Haas]] and [[Viscera (wrestler)|Viscera]], and [[Gene Snitsky|Snitsky]] and [[Val Venis]].<ref name="stolen"/> They then entered a lengthy feud with [[Highlanders (professional wrestling)|The Highlanders]], whom they eventually defeated to retain the championship at the [[Unforgiven (2006)|Unforgiven]] [[pay-per-view]] on September 17.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2006/07/25/1701439.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120718111449/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2006/07/25/1701439.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 18, 2012|title=Raw: Baby, Flair's still a main eventer|date=July 25, 2006|last=Plummer|first=Dale|access-date=January 6, 2010|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2006/09/18/1857196.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120716164641/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2006/09/18/1857196.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 16, 2012|title=Unforgiven just averages out|date=September 18, 2006|last=Elliott|first=Brian|access-date=January 6, 2010|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref> The Spirit Squad as a whole later began a losing streak with separate members losing singles matches to [[Ric Flair]] on consecutive episodes of ''Raw'', until Kenny managed to defeat him on the October 23 episode.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2006/09/19/1862283.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120715222633/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2006/09/19/1862283.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 15, 2012|title=Raw: Montreal crowd hot for super show|date=September 19, 2006|last=LeRoux|first=Yves|access-date=January 6, 2010|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2006/09/27/1906302.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120717095921/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2006/09/27/1906302.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 17, 2012|title=Raw: The King's court invades|date=September 27, 2006|last=Plummer|first=Dale|access-date=January 6, 2010|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2006/10/10/1992394.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120720191608/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2006/10/10/1992394.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 20, 2012|title=Raw: Brands mix at Family Reunion|date=October 10, 2006|last=Plummer|first=Dale|access-date=January 6, 2010|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2006/10/17/2049046.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120719132342/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2006/10/17/2049046.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 19, 2012|title=Raw: Bring out the "celebrities"|date=October 17, 2006|last=Plummer|first=Dale|access-date=January 6, 2010|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref><ref name="Ric1">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/10232006/mainarticle|title=On the same page?|date=October 23, 2006|last=Zeigler|first=Zack|access-date=August 8, 2008|publisher=[[WWE]]|archive-date=November 3, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121103045812/http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/archive/10232006/mainarticle|url-status=live}}</ref> It was then announced that Flair and a WWE legend, selected by interactive voting, would wrestle the team for the World Tag Team Championship at [[Cyber Sunday (2006)|Cyber Sunday]].<ref name="Ric1"/> The fans chose [[Roddy Piper]], and he and Flair defeated Kenny and Mikey to win the championship at the event on November 5.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2006/11/06/2253315.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120719233729/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2006/11/06/2253315.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 19, 2012|title=K-Fed costs Cena at Cyber Sunday|date=June 11, 2006|last=Elliott|first=Brian|access-date=January 6, 2010|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref> |
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{{start box}} |
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The group disbanded on the November 27 episode of ''Raw'', when they were defeated in a five-on-three handicap match by DX and Flair. In a backstage segment later that night, DX placed all members into a crate stamped "OVW, [[Louisville, Kentucky]]", a reference to the developmental territory from which the Spirit Squad had come.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2006/11/28/2530992.html|title=Raw: The return of the Hardys|date=November 28, 2006|last=Plummer|first=Dale|access-date=January 6, 2010|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]|archive-date=July 21, 2012|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120721084202/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2006/11/28/2530992.html|url-status=usurped}}</ref> |
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==== Return to developmental (2007–2008) ==== |
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Nemeth returned to OVW on January 17, 2007, at the television tapings, again using his Nick Nemeth ring name, along with Mike Mondo, formerly Mikey in the Spirit Squad, as the "Frat Pack". The pair teamed with Mike Kruel in a match against Seth Skyfire, [[Tye Dillinger|Shawn Spears]], and [[Cody Rhodes|Cody Runnels]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/ovw/_2007/|title=January 17, 2007–OVW TV Tapings in Louisville, Kentucky|date=January 17, 2007|access-date=August 9, 2008|publisher=Online World of Wrestling|archive-date=November 26, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151126012826/http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/ovw/_2007/|url-status=live}}</ref>{{unreliable source?|date=March 2019}} The team disbanded in the early parts of 2007.<ref name="Online World of Wrestling">{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/ovw/_2007|title=Valley Wrestling in Elizabethtown, Kentucky before 270 fans|date=March 24, 2007|access-date=August 9, 2008|publisher=Online World of Wrestling|archive-date=June 13, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180613183912/http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/ovw/_2007/|url-status=live}}</ref> Nemeth then competed in several dark matches before the OVW television tapings, competing against several wrestlers including [[Caylen Croft|Chris Cage]], [[Jay Bradley|Bradley Jay]] and [[Jake Hager]], before he began teaming with Mondo again in August.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/ovw/_2007/|title=March 28, 2007–OVW TV Tapings in Louisville, Kentucky|date=March 28, 2007|access-date=August 9, 2008|publisher=Online World of Wrestling|archive-date=November 26, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151126012826/http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/ovw/_2007/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/ovw/_2007/|title=May 2, 2007–OVW TV Tapings in Louisville, Kentucky|date=May 2, 2007|access-date=August 9, 2008|publisher=Online World of Wrestling|archive-date=November 26, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151126012826/http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/ovw/_2007/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/ovw/_2007/|title=June 13, 2007–OVW TV Tapings in Louisville, Kentucky|date=June 13, 2007|access-date=August 9, 2008|publisher=Online World of Wrestling|archive-date=November 26, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151126012826/http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/ovw/_2007/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/ovw/_2007/|title=August 10, 2007–OVW Six Flags in Louisville, Kentucky at Six Flags Kentucky Kingdom|date=August 10, 2007|access-date=August 9, 2008|publisher=Online World of Wrestling|archive-date=November 26, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151126012826/http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/ovw/_2007/|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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At the end of August 2007, Nemeth and Mike Mondo were moved to the [[Florida Championship Wrestling]] (FCW) developmental territory and in his debut there, Nemeth gained the [[nickname]] "The Natural" and defeated Hade Vansen.<ref name="slam"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/fcw/_2007/|title=September 15, 2007–Florida Championship Wrestling in New Port Richey, Florida at the Jewish Community Center|date=September 15, 2007|access-date=August 9, 2008|publisher=Online World of Wrestling|archive-date=August 18, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170818202851/http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/fcw/_2007|url-status=live}}</ref> In November 2007, Nemeth gained [[Rob Terry|Big Rob]] as his [[Manager (professional wrestling)|manager]], but their alliance was short-lived.{{citation needed|date=February 2019}} At the start of 2008, he tweaked his name to "Nic Nemeth" and began teaming with Brad Allen, with the pair gaining [[Taryn Terrell]] as their [[Manager (professional wrestling)|valet]].<ref name="Walsh"/> Nemeth and Allen started a [[Fraternities and sororities in North America|frat boy]] type [[Glossary of professional wrestling terms#Gimmick|ring character]] with Terrell as a sorority girl. On March 22, Nemeth and Allen won the [[Florida Tag Team Championship|FCW Florida Tag Team Championship]] by defeating defending champions [[Primo Colón|Eddie Colón]] and [[Eric Pérez]], but lost the championship to Colón and Pérez on April 15.<ref name="Walsh"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/fcw/_2008/|title=April 15, 2008–Florida Championship Wrestling in New Port Richey, Florida at the Bourbon Street Night Club|date=April 15, 2008|access-date=January 6, 2010|publisher=Online World of Wrestling|archive-date=March 26, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090326015646/http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/fcw/_2008/|url-status=live}}</ref> Throughout April and May 2008, Nemeth wrestled in several dark matches prior to ''Raw'', losing to [[Kofi Kingston]] and [[R-Truth|Ron Killings]] on several occasions.{{citation needed|date=February 2019}} Soon after, he returned to the name "Nic Nemeth", and began teaming with Gavin Spears.{{citation needed|date=February 2019}} The pair defeated Colón and Pérez to win the FCW Florida Tag Team Championship on August 16, but lost it to [[Heath Slater|Heath Miller]] and [[Curtis Axel|Joe Hennig]] less than a month later.<ref name="FCW-tag2">{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/fcw/_2008/|title=August 16, 2008–Florida Championship Wrestling in Florida|date=August 16, 2008|access-date=January 6, 2010|publisher=Online World of Wrestling|archive-date=March 26, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090326015646/http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/fcw/_2008/|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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==== Repackaging as Dolph Ziggler (2008–2010) ==== |
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[[File:Dolph Ziggler Milwaukee 090908.jpg|thumb|upright|Ziggler in September 2008]] |
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On September 15, 2008, Nemeth re-debuted on ''Raw'' (as a heel), introducing himself in a backstage segment under the name "Dolph Ziggler".<ref name=WVreturn>{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/news2008/1221546800.shtml|title=Dark match from Raw in Memphis, identity of wrestler, The Condemned|date=September 16, 2008|access-date=September 16, 2008|publisher=WrestleView|first=Adam|last=Martin|archive-date=January 2, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180102073933/http://www.wrestleview.com/news2008/1221546800.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> On October 10, Nemeth was suspended for 30 days for a violation of WWE's [[WWE#Drug testing and wellness program|Wellness Program policy]].<ref name="suspension">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/news/dolphzigglersuspended|title=Dolph Ziggler suspended for 30 days|date=October 10, 2008|access-date=October 10, 2008|publisher=[[WWE]]|archive-date=August 11, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170811145922/http://www.wwe.com/inside/news/dolphzigglersuspended|url-status=live}}</ref> He returned to ''Raw'' on November 17 in a backstage segment with [[Rey Mysterio]] and [[Shawn Michaels]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_27990.shtml|title=Keller's WWE Raw Report 11/17: Ongoing coverage of live show including Santino raps for Akon, Orton-Punk|date=November 17, 2008|last=Keller|first=Wade|access-date=January 7, 2010|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|archive-date=March 3, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303180036/http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_27990.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> In his first match on ''Raw'' under the Ziggler name, he lost to [[Dave Bautista|Batista]] on the December 1, 2008, episode.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2008/12/02/7605616.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120714225535/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2008/12/02/7605616.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 14, 2012|title=Raw: Enemies of Jericho's enemies become his friends|date=December 2, 2008|last=Tylwalk|first=Nick|access-date=March 26, 2009|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref> The following week he got his first victory as Ziggler, by [[Professional wrestling#Countout|countout]], against [[Ron Killings|R-Truth]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2008/12/08/7678596.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120630060100/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2008/12/08/7678596.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=June 30, 2012|title=Raw: A night of Slammys, solid matches|date=December 8, 2008|last=Bishop|first=Matt|access-date=March 26, 2009|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref> The next week on ''Raw'', he picked up his first televised [[Pin (professional wrestling)|pinfall]] victory, when he defeated [[Charlie Haas]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2008/12/16/7764326.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120715005731/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2008/12/16/7764326.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 15, 2012|title=Raw: Legacy building in Pittsburgh|date=December 16, 2008|last=Tylwalk|first=Nick|access-date=March 26, 2009|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref> Ziggler would compete in the [[Royal Rumble match]] at the eponymous [[Royal Rumble (2009)|event]] on January 25, 2009, in which he was eliminated by [[Kane (wrestler)|Kane]] after 21 seconds. |
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On April 15, 2009, Ziggler was drafted to the [[WWE SmackDown|SmackDown]] brand as part of the [[2009 WWE Draft#Supplemental Draft|2009 Supplemental Draft]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2009draft/2009supplementaldraftresults/|title=2009 WWE Supplemental Draft results|date=April 15, 2009|access-date=April 15, 2009|publisher=[[WWE]]|archive-date=December 25, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161225191133/http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2009draft/2009supplementaldraftresults/|url-status=live}}</ref> He made his debut on the April 17 episode of ''SmackDown'', defeating [[WWE United States Championship|United States Champion]], [[Montel Vontavious Porter]] (MVP) in a non-title match, and, as a result, the following week he demanded a match for the championship.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2009/04/18/9157721.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120717085954/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2009/04/18/9157721.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 17, 2012|title=Smackdown: Batista takes a bite out of Legacy|date=April 18, 2009|last=McNamara|first=Andy|access-date=April 18, 2009|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/archive/04242009/mainarticle|title=Bedlam beckons Backlash|date=April 24, 2009|last=Burdick|first=Michael|access-date=May 2, 2009|publisher=[[WWE]]|archive-date=November 3, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121103052728/http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/archive/04242009/mainarticle|url-status=live}}</ref> On the May 1 episode of ''SmackDown'', however, he failed to win the championship, after he was pinned by MVP.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2009/05/01/9320941.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120918070554/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2009/05/01/9320941.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=September 18, 2012|title=Punk wins, but Hardy stands tall|date=May 1, 2009|last=McNamara|first=Andy|access-date=May 2, 2009|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref> Ziggler then started a rivalry with [[The Great Khali]], losing to him by [[Professional wrestling#Disqualification|disqualification]] after attacking Khali with a [[Folding chair|steel chair]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2009/05/08/9402011.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120718182531/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2009/05/08/9402011.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 18, 2012|title=Smackdown: Hardy's hot, Edge is not|date=May 8, 2009|last=McNamara|first=Andy|access-date=January 6, 2010|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref> As a result, Khali began coming out to the ring during and after Ziggler's matches, in attempt to gain revenge and to stop Ziggler from cheating.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2009/05/16/9476311.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120715023257/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2009/05/16/9476311.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 15, 2012|title=Smackdown: re-writing a good show|date=May 16, 2009|last=Waldman|first=Jon|access-date=January 6, 2010|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2009/05/22/9542806.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120713162747/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2009/05/22/9542806.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 13, 2012|title=Smackdown: Edge talks tough, but Hardy delivers|date=May 22, 2009|last=McNamara|first=Andy|access-date=January 6, 2010|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref> Over the next few weeks, Ziggler would defeat Khali by countout and disqualification after making it look like Khali had struck him with a steel chair.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2009/06/13/9784486.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120715190930/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2009/06/13/9784486.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 15, 2012|title=Smackdown: Contenders and conflict|date=June 13, 2009|last=Waldman|first=Jon|access-date=January 6, 2010|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2009/06/19/9867356.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120721013803/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2009/06/19/9867356.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 21, 2012|title=Smackdown: Jericho outsmarts Mysterio|date=June 19, 2009|last=McNamara|first=Andy|access-date=January 6, 2010|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref> At [[WWE The Bash|The Bash]] pay-per-view on June 28, Ziggler defeated Khali in a [[Professional wrestling match types#No Holds Barred match|No Disqualification match]] by pinfall, after Kane interfered and attacked Khali.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2009/06/29/9968166.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120629143632/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2009/06/29/9968166.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=June 29, 2012|title=Mysterio & Jericho save The Bash from wash-out|date=June 29, 2009|last=Elliott|first=Brian|access-date=July 27, 2009|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref> |
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Ziggler then entered an on-screen relationship with [[WWE Diva]] [[Maria Kanellis|Maria]] and she became his valet.<ref name="slam"/> He simultaneously started a scripted rivalry with [[WWE Intercontinental Championship|Intercontinental Champion]] Rey Mysterio, who defeated Ziggler at [[Night of Champions (2009)|Night of Champions]] on July 26 and [[SummerSlam (2009)|SummerSlam]] on August 23 to retain the championship.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2009/07/26/10270086.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120629155724/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2009/07/26/10270086.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=June 29, 2012|title=Night of Champions: Punk loses title, but keeps star performer tag|date=July 26, 2009|last=Elliott|first=Brian|access-date=July 27, 2009|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref> In September, Mysterio lost the Intercontinental Championship to [[John Morrison (wrestler)|John Morrison]], and Ziggler entered a feud with Morrison after defeating him by countout in a non-title match, but lost to him at the [[Hell in a Cell (2009)|Hell in a Cell]] pay-per-view on October 4.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2009/10/05/11300786.html|title=Title changes highlight Hell in a Cell|date=October 5, 2009|last=Sokol|first=Chris|author2=Sokol, Bryan|access-date=January 6, 2010|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]|archive-date=July 14, 2012|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120714103825/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2009/10/05/11300786.html|url-status=usurped}}</ref> On the episode of ''SmackDown'' following Hell in a Cell, Ziggler ended his on-screen relationship with Maria after she accidentally cost him a match against Morrison for the Intercontinental Championship. At [[WWE Breaking Point|Breaking Point]] on September 13, Ziggler made an appearance during a promo by [[Pat Patterson (wrestler)|Pat Patterson]], in which Ziggler attacked Patterson until Morrison made the save. He again failed to win the Intercontinental title from Morrison twice, wrestling him to a double countout on the November 13 episode of ''SmackDown'' and losing a two-out-of-three falls match the following week to end the feud. On the February 26, 2010, episode of ''SmackDown'', Ziggler defeated John Morrison and R-Truth in a [[Triple Threat match|triple threat]] qualifying match to compete in the [[Money in the Bank ladder match]] at [[WrestleMania XXVI]] on March 28, but was ultimately unsuccessful.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2010/02/27/13051991.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120713230951/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2010/02/27/13051991.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 13, 2012|title=Smackdown: Spear, spear, spear|date=February 27, 2010|last=Bishop|first=Matt|access-date=April 7, 2010|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2010/03/29/13391691.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120714104045/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2010/03/29/13391691.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 14, 2012|title=Undertaker ends Shawn Michaels' career in thrilling rematch to cap off Wrestlemania XXVI|date=March 29, 2010|last1=Plummer|first1=Dale|last2=Tylwalk|first2=Nick|access-date=April 7, 2010|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref> |
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==== Alliance with Vickie Guerrero (2010–2012) ==== |
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[[File:Dolph Ziggler 2010 Tribute to the Troops.jpg|thumb|upright|Ziggler as [[WWE Intercontinental Championship]] at the 2010 ''[[WWE Tribute to the Troops|Tribute to the Troops]]'' event]] |
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In June 2010, he began a romantic storyline with [[Vickie Guerrero]], who began accompanying him to the ring.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1276964327 |title=Smackdown Recap – 6/18/10 |date=June 19, 2010 |last=Tedesco |first=Mike |access-date=July 29, 2010 |publisher=WrestleView |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100621043310/http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1276964327 |archive-date=June 21, 2010 }}</ref> Ziggler won the WWE Intercontinental Championship from [[Kofi Kingston]] on July 28 (aired August 6) at ''SmackDown''.<ref name=SmackDown080610>{{cite web|url=http://wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1280413812|title=Spoilers: WWE Smackdown for August 6|date=July 29, 2010|last=Gerweck|first=Steve|access-date=July 29, 2010|publisher=WrestleView|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100928015436/http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1280413812|archive-date=September 28, 2010}}</ref><ref name="IC1"/> In his first title defense at [[SummerSlam (2010)|SummerSlam]] on August 15, he retained the championship against Kingston when the match ended in a no contest due to interference from [[Nexus (professional wrestling)|The Nexus]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1281918110|title=SummerSlam: Ziggler vs. Kingston – IC Title|date=August 15, 2010|last=Martin|first=Adam|access-date=August 16, 2010|publisher=WrestleView|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100819040551/http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1281918110|archive-date=August 19, 2010}}</ref> Ziggler was able to make a successful title defense against Kingston at the [[Night of Champions (2010)|Night of Champions]] pay-per-view on September 19, and against [[Low Ki|Kaval]] at [[Survivor Series (2010)|Survivor Series]] on November 21.<ref>{{cite web|first=Nick|last=Tylwalk|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2010/09/20/15407301.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120716063558/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2010/09/20/15407301.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 16, 2012|title=Few gimmicks, more title changes at Night of Champions|access-date=September 21, 2010|date=September 20, 2010|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]|work=Slam! Sports}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2010/11/22/16256891.html|title=The fate of Cena is finally decided at so-so Survivor Series|date=November 22, 2010|last1=Plummer|first1=Dale|last2=Tylwalk|first2=Nick|access-date=December 20, 2010|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]|archive-date=July 15, 2012|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120715095439/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2010/11/22/16256891.html|url-status=usurped}}</ref> During this time, Ziggler was chosen as a "Pro" for the [[WWE NXT (TV series)#Season 4|fourth season]] of ''[[WWE NXT (TV series)|NXT]]'', with Jacob Novak as his Rookie, but later was changed to [[Byron Saxton]] when Ziggler won a battle royal.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2010/11/30/16381991.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120630191038/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2010/11/30/16381991.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=June 30, 2012|title=WWE NXT: Season 3 mercifully ends with new breakout diva crowned|date=November 30, 2010|last=Bishop|first=Matt|access-date=December 1, 2010|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_45683.shtml|title=WWE News: NXT Season 4 cast – full list of Pros & Rookies for the new season of NXT, plus noticeable absences|date=November 30, 2010|last=Caldwell|first=James|access-date=December 1, 2010|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|archive-date=December 12, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101212153543/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_45683.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2011/01/05/16764121.html|title=WWE NXT: First rookie sent packing|date=January 5, 2011|last=Bishop|first=Matt|access-date=January 7, 2011|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]|archive-date=June 30, 2012|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120630191057/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2011/01/05/16764121.html|url-status=usurped}}</ref> |
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[[File:Dolph-Ziggler-US-Champ-2011.jpg|thumb|200px|left|In 2011, Ziggler won the [[WWE United States Championship]]]] |
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Ziggler successfully retained the Intercontinental Championship at [[TLC: Tables, Ladders and Chairs (2010)|TLC: Tables, Ladders and Chairs]] on December 19 in a three-way [[ladder match]] against Kingston and [[Jack Swagger]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2010/12/20/16615521.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120525125119/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2010/12/20/16615521.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=May 25, 2012|title=TLC delivers highs, lows and a new champ|date=December 20, 2010|last=Sokol|first=Bryan|access-date=December 20, 2010|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref> but lost the title to Kingston at ''SmackDown'' on January 4, 2011, ending his reign at 160 days. That same night, Ziggler won a four-way match against [[Cody Rhodes]], [[Drew McIntyre]] and [[Big Show]] to become the number one contender to the [[World Heavyweight Championship (WWE, 2002–2013)|World Heavyweight Championship]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_46536.shtml|title=WWE News: Smackdown Spoilers – four big developments at Tuesday's TV taping for Friday's first episode of 2011|date=January 5, 2011|last=Caldwell|first=James|access-date=January 5, 2011|publisher=Pro Wrestling|archive-date=October 6, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121006151558/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_46536.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> At the [[Royal Rumble (2011)|Royal Rumble]] on January 30, Ziggler was unsuccessful in his title match against [[Edge (wrestler)|Edge]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2011/01/31/17094896.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120716045430/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2011/01/31/17094896.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 16, 2012|title=Super-size Royal Rumble saves biggest surprise for last|date=January 30, 2011|last1=Plummer|first1=Dale|last2=Tylwalk|first2=Nick|access-date=February 1, 2011|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref> On February 4, Ziggler's [[kayfabe|storyline]] girlfriend Vickie Guerrero, who was the acting General Manager of SmackDown, banned the [[Professional wrestling attacks#Spear|spear]] – Edge's [[Glossary of professional wrestling terms#Finisher|finishing move]] – and decided that if Edge used it, Ziggler would be awarded the championship.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2011/02/05/17167066.html|title=Smackdown: Edge and Del Rio avoiding collision course|last=Hillhouse|first=Dave|date=February 5, 2011|access-date=February 10, 2011|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]|archive-date=July 15, 2012|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120715175145/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2011/02/05/17167066.html|url-status=usurped}}</ref> Ziggler was again defeated by Edge in a rematch on the February 11 episode of ''SmackDown'', but because Edge used the spear,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2011/02/12/17250356.html|title=Smackdown: Green Bay Packers LB helps even odds for Edge|last=Bishop|first=Matt|date=February 12, 2011|access-date=February 20, 2011|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]|archive-date=July 16, 2012|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120716071347/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2011/02/12/17250356.html|url-status=usurped}}</ref> Guerrero declared Ziggler the new World Heavyweight Champion on the February 14 episode of ''Raw''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2011/02/15/17278316.html|title=Raw: Finally, The Rock has returned to WWE|last=Bishop|first=Matt|date=February 15, 2011|access-date=February 20, 2011|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]|archive-date=June 30, 2012|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120630092754/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2011/02/15/17278316.html|url-status=usurped}}</ref> That same night, Ziggler lost the title to Edge<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2011/02/19/17338356.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120716010506/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2011/02/19/17338356.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 16, 2012|title=Smackdown: 600 birthday smacks|date=February 19, 2011|last=Hillhouse|first=Dave|access-date=February 20, 2011|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref> and, following the storyline, Theodore Long fired him.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_47847.shtml|title=WWE News: Smackdown results – two new World Hvt. champions on the same night, Ziggler "fired," open slot at Chamber PPV|date=February 18, 2011|last=Caldwell|first=James|access-date=February 20, 2011|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|archive-date=February 24, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110224033342/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_47847.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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The next month, Ziggler was introduced as the newest member of the Raw roster with Guerrero.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.com/Slam/Wrestling/2011/03/07/17530751.html|title=Raw: Stone Cold stuns Cole's Wrestlemania plans|date=March 7, 2011|last=Plummer|first=Dale|access-date=March 8, 2011|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]|archive-date=March 29, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200329190042/http://slam.canoe.com/Slam/Wrestling/2011/03/07/17530751.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> Ziggler, Guerrero, and [[LayCool]] then feuded with Morrison, [[Trish Stratus]], and ''[[Jersey Shore (TV series)|Jersey Shore]]'' guest star [[Snooki]], culminating in a mixed tag team match at [[WrestleMania XXVII]] on April 3, which Ziggler and his team lost.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2011/03/14/17616206.html|title=Raw: Cena wrecked on the Road to Wrestlemania|date=March 14, 2011|last=Plummer|first=Dale|access-date=May 17, 2011|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]|archive-date=July 24, 2012|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120724162312/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2011/03/14/17616206.html|url-status=usurped}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/WrestleMania27/2011/04/03/17863646.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120730185556/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/WrestleMania27/2011/04/03/17863646.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 30, 2012|title=The Rock costs Cena as The Miz retains at WrestleMania XXVII|date=March 7, 2011|last=Bishop|first=Matt|access-date=May 17, 2011|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref>[[File:Dolph Ziggler and Vickie Guerrero.jpg|thumb|In 2011, Ziggler teased a new look with brown hair]] |
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At [[WWE Capitol Punishment|Capitol Punishment]], Ziggler defeated Kingston via a [[Rear naked choke#"Sleeper Hold" in professional wrestling|sleeper hold]] [[submission]] to earn his first WWE United States Championship.<ref name="WWEUS"/><ref name="Caldwell's WWE Raw Results 5">{{cite web|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_50438.shtml|title=Caldwell's WWE Raw Results 5/30: Complete "virtual time" coverage of live Raw – Cena vs. Truth main event, Kharma speaks|date=May 30, 2011|last=Caldwell|first=James|access-date=June 20, 2011|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|archive-date=June 5, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110605023953/http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_50438.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Passero">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/capitolpunishment/2011/kingston-ziggler |title=Dolph Ziggler def. Kofi Kingston (New United States Champion) |date=June 19, 2011 |last=Passero |first=Mitch |access-date=January 7, 2012 |publisher=[[WWE]] |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110902072349/http://www.wwe.com/shows/capitolpunishment/2011/kingston-ziggler |archive-date=September 2, 2011 }}</ref> The next night on ''Raw'', Kingston invoked his rematch clause in a [[Professional wrestling match types#Series variations|two out of three falls match]] and won via disqualification, allowing Ziggler to retain. After [[Jack Swagger]] suggested to Vickie Guerrero that she should manage him in addition to Ziggler, a jealous Ziggler teased tension with Swagger.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_52193.shtml|title=Caldwell's WWE Raw Results 8/15: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of live Raw – Triple H addresses Summerslam, Punk-Nash, missing segment, WWE Title match|date=August 15, 2011|last=Caldwell|first=James|access-date=October 26, 2011|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|archive-date=August 18, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110818083503/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_52193.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_52740.shtml|title=Xander's WWE Raw Report 8/29: Alt. perspective review of Raw Supershow, why was it a "wildly uneven" show?|date=August 29, 2011|last=Assaad|first=Xander|access-date=October 26, 2011|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|archive-date=March 3, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303213754/http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_52740.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> This, coupled with Ziggler's concurrent feud with [[Alex Riley]], led Ziggler to defend and retain his United States Championship in a [[Triple Threat match|fatal four-way match]] against Swagger, Riley, and [[John Morrison (wrestler)|John Morrison]] at [[Night of Champions (2011)|Night of Champions]] on September 18.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/nightofchampions/2011/fatal-4-way-us-championship|title=U.S. Champion Dolph Ziggler won the Fatal 4-Way Match|date=September 18, 2011|last=Powers|first=Kevin|access-date=January 7, 2012|publisher=[[WWE]]|archive-date=March 4, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304121753/http://www.wwe.com/shows/nightofchampions/2011/fatal-4-way-us-championship/|url-status=live}}</ref> On the following episode of ''Raw SuperShow'', Ziggler lost a non-title match to [[Zack Ryder]] when guest star [[Hugh Jackman]] helped Ryder by punching Ziggler in the face.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_53457.shtml|title=Caldwell's WWE Raw Results 9/19: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of live Raw Supershow following Night of Champions|date=September 19, 2011|last=Caldwell|first=James|access-date=September 22, 2011|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|archive-date=September 23, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110923201128/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_53457.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> Although Ziggler later claimed to have a broken jaw due to Jackman's punch, it was reported that the supposed injury was fake.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/09/22/hugh-jackman-on-wwe-raw-b_n_975514.html|title=Hugh Jackman, On WWE Raw, Breaks Dolph Ziggler's Jaw|date=September 22, 2011|access-date=January 7, 2012|work=[[The Huffington Post]]|archive-date=December 29, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111229201109/http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/09/22/hugh-jackman-on-wwe-raw-b_n_975514.html?|url-status=live}}</ref> Later that night, Guerrero officially began managing Swagger, and Swagger began interfering in Ziggler's matches to help him win.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_53690.shtml|title=Caldwell's WWE Raw Results 9/26: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of live Raw Supershow leading to Hell in a Cell|date=September 26, 2011|last=Caldwell|first=James|access-date=October 26, 2011|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|archive-date=October 30, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111030031951/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_53690.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> Ziggler and Swagger unsuccessfully challenged Air Boom for the [[WWE Raw Tag Team Championship|WWE Tag Team Championship]] at [[Hell in a Cell (2011)|Hell in a Cell]] on October 2 and at [[Vengeance (2011)|Vengeance]] on October 23, where Ziggler also successfully defended the United States Championship against Ryder.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_53872.shtml|title=Caldwell's WWE Hell In A Cell PPV Results 10/2: Complete "virtual time" coverage of live PPV|date=October 2, 2011|last=Caldwell|first=James|access-date=October 12, 2011|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|archive-date=August 3, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200803172202/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_53872.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_54494.shtml|title=Caldwell's WWE Vengeance PPV Results 10/23: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of live PPV – Triple H & Punk, Cena vs. Del Rio, Henry vs. Show|date=October 24, 2011|last=Caldwell|first=James|access-date=October 24, 2011|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|archive-date=October 27, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111027170221/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_54494.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> He went on to successfully defend the championship against Morrison at [[Survivor Series (2011)|Survivor Series]] on November 20.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2011/11/21/18996341.html|title=No swerves but plenty of Rock and Punk at Survivor Series|date=November 21, 2011|last=Tylwalk|first=Nick|access-date=December 8, 2011|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]|archive-date=July 16, 2012|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120716184350/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2011/11/21/18996341.html|url-status=usurped}}</ref> At [[TLC: Tables, Ladders and Chairs (2011)|TLC: Tables, Ladders and Chairs]] on December 18, Ziggler lost the United States Championship to Ryder, ending his reign at 182 days.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2011/12/18/19140816.html|title=TLC: The trouble with tables|date=December 18, 2011|last=Hillhouse|first=Dave|access-date=December 19, 2011|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]|archive-date=July 13, 2012|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120713194614/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2011/12/18/19140816.html|url-status=usurped}}</ref> |
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On the December 26 episode of ''Raw SuperShow'', Ziggler defeated WWE Champion [[CM Punk]] in a gauntlet match for a championship opportunity following interference from [[John Laurinaitis]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2011/12/27/19170681.html|title=Raw: CM Punk returns home, runs the gauntlet|date=December 27, 2012|last=Bishop|first=Matt|access-date=February 17, 2012|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]|archive-date=July 13, 2012|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120713202548/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2011/12/27/19170681.html|url-status=usurped}}</ref> The following ''Raw SuperShow'', Ziggler defeated Punk by countout after Laurinaitis interfered again; as a result, Ziggler did not win the championship.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2012/01/03/19192891.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120716041335/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2012/01/03/19192891.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 16, 2012|title=Raw: A puzzling return and a narrow escape highlight the first show of 2012|date=January 3, 2012|last=Tylwalk|first=Nick|access-date=February 17, 2012|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref> At the [[Royal Rumble (2012)|Royal Rumble]] on January 29, 2012, Ziggler failed to capture the WWE Championship from CM Punk.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2012/01/30/19312591.html|title=The Great White takes a big bite out out of the 25th Royal Rumble|date=January 30, 2012|last1=Plummer|first1=Dale|last2=Tylwalk|first2=Nick|access-date=February 17, 2012|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]|archive-date=July 16, 2012|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120716205717/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2012/01/30/19312591.html|url-status=usurped}}</ref> At the [[Elimination Chamber (2012)|Elimination Chamber]] on February 19, Ziggler failed again to capture the WWE Championship after being eliminated second by [[Chris Jericho]].<ref name="Raw">{{cite web|title=Raw Elimination Chamber Match|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/eliminationchamber/2012/raw-elimination-chamber-2012-preview|publisher=[[WWE]]|date=January 30, 2012|access-date=January 30, 2012|archive-date=February 2, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120202035722/http://www.wwe.com/shows/eliminationchamber/2012/raw-elimination-chamber-2012-preview|url-status=live}}</ref> Nemeth noted to [[Arda Ocal]] in an interview for [[The Score Television Network]] that the Elimination Chamber left him with multiple minor injuries and it is a match he least looked forward to working.<ref name="Arda">{{cite web|title=Dolph Ziggler with Arda Ocal|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dLjYYCjAmKs&context=C4753f0dVDvjVQa1PpcFNxakIJN8oUbezD3zoLd1923CPO6WL7Wv4=|publisher=[[The Score Television Network]]|date=March 9, 2012|access-date=March 9, 2012}}{{cbignore}}{{Dead YouTube link|date=February 2022}}</ref> |
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On the February 27 ''Raw SuperShow'', Ziggler and Swagger unsuccessfully challenged [[Primo & Epico]] for the WWE Tag Team Championship in a Triple Threat tag team match, also involving Kofi Kingston and [[R-Truth]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/1083111-wwe-monday-night-raw-22712-results-live-blog-coverage-and-analysis|title=WWE Monday Night Raw (2/27/12) Results: Live Blog, Coverage and Analysis|first=Kaleb|last=Kelchner|website=Bleacher Report|access-date=October 18, 2019|archive-date=July 30, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200730014939/https://bleacherreport.com/articles/1083111-wwe-monday-night-raw-22712-results-live-blog-coverage-and-analysis|url-status=live}}</ref> On the March 19 ''Raw SuperShow'', Ziggler and Swagger were announced as the newest members of Team Johnny for the 12-man tag team match at [[WrestleMania XXVIII]] and on the April 2 ''Raw SuperShow'', Ziggler and Swagger unsuccessfully challenged [[Santino Marella]] for the United States Championship in a triple threat match.<ref name="Feud">{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_59908.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S WWE RAW RESULTS 4/2: Ongoing "virtual-time" coverage of live Raw - WM28 fall-out, how will Cena respond to Rock loss?, two big title matches|website=www.pwtorch.com|access-date=October 18, 2019|archive-date=February 17, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230217133715/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_59908.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> After the match, Ziggler began a feud with [[Brodus Clay]], who attacked Ziggler with a [[Professional wrestling attacks#Headbutt drop|headbutt]] after he and Swagger tried to attack Marella.<ref name="Feud"/> On the following episode of ''Raw SuperShow'', Ziggler and Swagger were defeated by Clay and Marella in a tag team match.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_60192.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S WWE RAW RESULTS 4/9: Ongoing "virtual-time" coverage of live Raw - Lesnar officially returns & Cena responds, Stooges|website=www.pwtorch.com|access-date=October 18, 2019|archive-date=March 30, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190330044631/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_60192.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> In the following weeks, Ziggler and Swagger lost to Clay and [[Hornswoggle]] in singles and tag matches.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_60454.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S WWE RAW RESULTS 4/16: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of Raw from London - WWE Title match, Extreme Rules hype|website=www.pwtorch.com|access-date=October 18, 2019|archive-date=July 29, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200729235259/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_60454.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_60687.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S WWE RAW RESULTS 4/23: Ongoing "virtual-time" coverage of live three-hour Raw - Cena-Lesnar contract signing, surprise appearance in opening segment|website=www.pwtorch.com|access-date=October 18, 2019|archive-date=July 30, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200730015820/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_60687.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> At [[Extreme Rules (2012)|Extreme Rules]] on April 29, Ziggler was again defeated by Clay.<ref name=PWTorch1>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=Caldwell's WWE Extreme Rules PPV Report 4/29: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of live PPV – Brock-Cena, Punk-Jericho in Chicago|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_60881.shtml|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=April 30, 2012|date=April 29, 2012|archive-date=November 6, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151106053223/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_60881.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> Ziggler and Swagger unsuccessfully challenged Kofi Kingston and R-Truth for WWE Tag Team Championship, first at [[Over the Limit (2012)|Over the Limit]] on May 20 and second on the May 28 episode of ''Raw SuperShow'', resulting in Ziggler showing signs of wanting to break away from Guerrero and Swagger.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wweoverthelimit/2012/kingston-truth-swagger-ziggler|title=WWE Tag Team Champions Kofi Kingston & R-Truth vs. Jack Swagger & Dolph Ziggler|publisher=[[WWE]]|access-date=May 10, 2012|archive-date=March 3, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303192138/http://www.wwe.com/shows/wweoverthelimit/2012/kingston-truth-swagger-ziggler|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_61856.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S WWE RAW RESULTS 5/28: Ongoing "virtual-time" coverage of live Raw #991 - Show vs. Brodus teased main event, Punk-Bryan, no Cena|website=www.pwtorch.com|access-date=October 18, 2019|archive-date=November 16, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181116084136/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_61856.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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On the June 11 episode of ''Raw SuperShow'', Ziggler defeated [[The Great Khali]], Swagger and [[Christian (wrestler)|Christian]] in a fatal four-way elimination match to become the number one contender to the World Heavyweight Championship,<ref>{{cite web|last=Tylwalk|first=Nick|title=Raw: Vince McMahon stops by for a John Laurinaitis performance review|url=http://slam.canoe.com/Slam/Wrestling/2012/06/11/19865686.html?cid=rsssportswrestling|work=SLAM! Wrestling|access-date=June 12, 2012|date=June 11, 2012|archive-date=January 26, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160126190523/http://slam.canoe.com/Slam/Wrestling/2012/06/11/19865686.html?cid=rsssportswrestling|url-status=dead}}</ref> but at [[No Way Out (2012)|No Way Out]] on June 17, Ziggler lost the title match to champion [[Sheamus]].<ref name=Nowayout12>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=Caldwell's WWE No Way Out report 6/17: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of live PPV – Cena vs. Show, potential "firings," who will A.J. choose?|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_62544.shtml|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=June 23, 2012|date=June 17, 2012|archive-date=April 10, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160410063809/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_62544.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> On the following ''Raw SuperShow'', Guerrero, finally tired of the bickering between Ziggler and Swagger, arranged for a match between them; Ziggler won the match and Guerrero's affections, ending their partnership.<ref>{{cite web|last=Tylwalk|first=Nick|title=Raw: People Power goes out with a whimper in Long Island|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2012/06/18/19892661.html|work=SLAM! Wrestling|access-date=June 23, 2012|date=June 18, 2012|archive-date=January 15, 2013|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130115085105/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2012/06/18/19892661.html|url-status=usurped}}</ref> Ziggler received another shot at the World Heavyweight Championship on the June 29 ''SmackDown'', but was again defeated by Sheamus in a triple threat match, also involving [[Alberto Del Rio]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_62913.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - PARKS' WWE SMACKDOWN REPORT 6/29: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of the show, including Triple Threat match for the World Title|website=www.pwtorch.com|access-date=October 18, 2019|archive-date=September 29, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190929104956/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_62913.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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==== Money in the Bank; World Heavyweight Champion (2012–2013) ==== |
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[[File:Ziggler MITB9.jpg|thumb|upright|Ziggler with [[AJ Lee]] and his [[Money in the Bank ladder match|Money in the Bank]] briefcase in February 2013]] |
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On the July 3 ''SmackDown'', Ziggler defeated [[Alex Riley]] to qualify for a spot in the [[Money in the Bank ladder match|World Heavyweight Championship Money in the Bank ladder match]].<ref>{{cite web|title=PARKS' WWE SMACKDOWN REPORT 7/3: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of the live Great American Bash special, including 20-man Battle Royal; winner acts as GM for Smackdown next week|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_63002.shtml|first=Greg|last=Parks|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=July 7, 2012|archive-date=March 5, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160305140236/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_63002.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> On July 13, Ziggler, [[Zack Ryder]] and [[Justin Roberts]] were involved in a car accident in [[San Diego]] while driving from [[San Diego Comic-Con International|Comic-Con]]; none of them suffered severe injuries.<ref>{{cite web|last=Michael|first=Patrick|url=https://sports.yahoo.com/news/zack-ryder-dolph-ziggler-car-accident-shows-far-042500197--spt.html|title=Zack Ryder, Dolph Ziggler Car Accident Shows How Far Wrestling Has Come – Yahoo! Sports|publisher=Sports.yahoo.com|date=July 14, 2012|access-date=November 9, 2012|archive-date=December 4, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131204053820/http://sports.yahoo.com/news/zack-ryder-dolph-ziggler-car-accident-shows-far-042500197--spt.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> Two days later at the [[Money in the Bank (2012)|Money in the Bank]] pay-per-view, Ziggler won the Money in the Bank ladder match to guarantee him the opportunity to challenge for the World Heavyweight Championship at a time of his choosing within the next year.<ref name=MITB>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=CALDWELL'S WWE MITB PPV REPORT 7/15: Complete "virtual time" coverage of live PPV – Punk vs. Bryan, Sheamus vs. Del Rio, two MITB matches|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_63339.shtml|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=August 4, 2012|archive-date=March 22, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160322041550/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_63339.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> Later that night, Ziggler attempted to cash in the briefcase on [[Sheamus (wrestler)|Sheamus]] after [[Alberto Del Rio]] attacked him after their match, but Del Rio stopped Ziggler from cashing in.<ref name=MITB/> On the following episode of ''SmackDown'', Ziggler again attempted to cash in the briefcase on Sheamus following a tag team match with Del Rio, but was laid out by [[Rey Mysterio]] and Sheamus before he could do so.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_63539.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - PARKS' WWE SMACKDOWN REPORT 7/20: Complete coverage of the Friday night show, including Ziggler & Del Rio vs. Sheamus & Mysterio|website=www.pwtorch.com|access-date=October 18, 2019|archive-date=July 3, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190703162522/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_63539.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> During this time, Ziggler began a feud with [[Chris Jericho]] after claiming he had lost his touch, which resulted in Jericho attacking him on two occasions,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_63388.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S WWE RAW RESULTS 7/16: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of live Raw #998 - MITB PPV fall-out, Cena's announcement|website=www.pwtorch.com|access-date=October 18, 2019|archive-date=April 22, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190422004841/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_63388.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_63674.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - WWE News: Smackdown SPOILERS 7/27 - complete results for Friday's show featuring #1 contender match|website=www.pwtorch.com|access-date=October 18, 2019|archive-date=July 30, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200730020103/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_63674.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> and defeating him in a singles match at [[SummerSlam (2012)|SummerSlam]] on August 19.<ref>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=CALDWELL'S WWE SUMMERSLAM PPV REPORT 8/19: Complete "virtual time" coverage of live PPV – Lesnar vs. Triple H, Punk vs. Cena vs. Show|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_64430.shtml|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=August 20, 2012|archive-date=March 3, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303195441/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_64430.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> The night after SummerSlam, Ziggler defeated Jericho in a rematch; as a result Ziggler retained his Money in the Bank contract and Jericho's WWE contract was terminated.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_64450.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S WWE RAW RESULTS 8/20: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of live Raw - Punk-Cena, Lesnar opens show, Triple H "speculation," Jericho farewell|website=www.pwtorch.com|access-date=October 18, 2019|archive-date=April 6, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160406172924/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_64450.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> Following this, Ziggler began feuding with [[Randy Orton]] on ''SmackDown'' four days later, after Orton hit him with an ''[[Cutter (professional wrestling)#Jumping cutter|RKO]]'' when Ziggler tried to cash his Money in the Bank contract on a vulnerable Sheamus.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_64590.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - PARKS' WWE SMACKDOWN REPORT 8/24: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of Friday night show, including Orton vs. Del Rio in a #1 Contender match|website=www.pwtorch.com|access-date=October 18, 2019|archive-date=July 3, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190703165626/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_64590.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> The following week on ''SmackDown'', Ziggler faced Orton in a match that was won by Orton,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_64790.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - PARKS' WWE SMACKDOWN REPORT 8/31: Complete coverage of the Friday night show, including Dolph Ziggler vs. Orton|website=www.pwtorch.com|access-date=October 18, 2019|archive-date=November 30, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201130083400/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_64790.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> Ziggler defeated him in a rematch on ''Raw'' by pinning him while holding his tights.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_64825.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S WWE RAW RESULTS 9/3: Ongoing "virtual-time" coverage of live Raw - Punk returns home, Anger Management|website=www.pwtorch.com|access-date=October 18, 2019|archive-date=March 29, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190329074411/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_64825.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> Ziggler faced Orton again at [[Night of Champions (2012)|Night of Champions]] on September 16 where he lost again, ending the feud.<ref>{{cite web|title=Randy Orton def. Dolph Ziggler|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/nightofchampions/2012/randy-orton-dolph-ziggler-26050507|publisher=WWE|access-date=September 23, 2012|date=September 16, 2012|archive-date=March 3, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303170917/http://www.wwe.com/shows/nightofchampions/2012/randy-orton-dolph-ziggler-26050507|url-status=live}}</ref> On November 18 at [[Survivor Series (2012)|Survivor Series]], Ziggler captained the traditional 5-on-5 elimination tag team match opposite [[Mick Foley]] and won the match by last pinning Orton, making him the sole survivor of the match.<ref>{{Cite web|title=WWE.com: Team Ziggler (Dolph Ziggler, Alberto Del Rio, Wade Barrett, Damien Sandow & David Otunga) def. Team Foley (Randy Orton, WWE Tag Team Champions Team Hell No, The Miz & Intercontinental Champion Kofi Kingston)|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/survivorseries/2012/team-foley-team-ziggler-26066222|access-date=November 19, 2012|archive-date=March 4, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304063015/http://www.wwe.com/shows/survivorseries/2012/team-foley-team-ziggler-26066222|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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Ziggler then began feuding with [[John Cena]] after he sided with [[Vickie Guerrero]] to help defame Cena and AJ Lee by alleging they had a romantic relationship. On December 16 at [[TLC: Tables, Ladders and Chairs (2012)|TLC: Tables, Ladders and Chairs]], Ziggler retained his Money in the Bank briefcase in a ladder match after AJ interfered and turned on Cena.<ref name="Ziggler-defeated-Cena">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wwetlc/2012/john-cena-dolph-ziggler-26073199|title=WWE.com: Dolph Ziggler def. John Cena (Ladder Match for the World Heavyweight Championship Money in the Bank contract)|last=Styles|first=Irfan Nasir|date=December 16, 2012|publisher=[[WWE]]|access-date=December 16, 2012|quote=Dolph Ziggler def. John Cena (Ladder Match for the World Heavyweight Championship Money in the Bank contract)|archive-date=March 3, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303205007/http://www.wwe.com/shows/wwetlc/2012/john-cena-dolph-ziggler-26073199|url-status=live}}</ref> The following night on ''Raw'', while trying to diffuse an argument between Vickie and AJ, AJ unexpectedly kissed Ziggler, leaving him confused. Ziggler then attempted to cash in his Money in the Bank briefcase on [[Big Show]] after Show was assaulted by Sheamus, but he was attacked by Cena before the match could start. Later, Ziggler teamed with AJ to face Cena and Vickie Guerrero, however, the match ended in a disqualification after the debuting Big E Langston attacked Cena, also starting an on-screen relationship between Dolph and AJ.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_67322.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S WWE RAW RESULTS 12/17: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of live Raw - The strangest show of the year concludes with the debut of a new monster heel; Ric Flair returns|website=www.pwtorch.com|access-date=October 18, 2019|archive-date=May 13, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190513182452/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_67322.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> Ziggler ended 2012 having wrestled the second most TV/PPV matches that year with 90; however, he had the most TV/PPV losses with 57.<ref>{{cite web|title=FINAL 2012 WWE WRESTLER STATS: Who was WWE's top workhorse in 2012?, Who lost the most televised matches?, more categories for Superstars & Divas|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_67590.shtml|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=January 13, 2013|archive-date=January 5, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130105021743/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_67590.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> Ziggler ended his feud with Cena after losing to him on the January 7, 2013, episode of ''Raw'', in a singles match and in steel cage match the following week, despite outside interference from AJ and Langston in both matches.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_67712.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S WWE RAW RESULTS 1/7: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of live Raw - WWE Title match, The Rock returns, Cena vs. Ziggler (updated w/Box Score)|website=www.pwtorch.com|access-date=October 18, 2019|archive-date=April 4, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230404122913/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_67712.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_67856.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S WWE RAW RESULTS 1/14: Live, in-person results from 20th Anniv. show - Rock Concert, off-air happenings, more (updated w/Box Score)|website=www.pwtorch.com|access-date=October 18, 2019|archive-date=November 16, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181116105302/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_67856.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> On the January 21 episode of ''Raw'', Ziggler won a Beat the Clock Challenge to earn the right to choose what number he can enter in the Royal Rumble match, first or second.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_68036.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S WWE RAW RESULTS 1/21: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of live Raw - Rock attacked on final Raw before Rumble, Cena speech closes Raw (updated w/Box Score)|website=www.pwtorch.com|access-date=October 18, 2019|archive-date=March 23, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200323221152/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_68036.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> Six days later at the [[Royal Rumble (2013)|Royal Rumble]], Ziggler entered at number one, eliminating Chris Jericho and [[The Godfather (wrestler)|The Godfather]] and lasted nearly fifty minutes before being eliminated by Sheamus. During the match, Ziggler resumed his feud with the returning Jericho.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/royalrumble/2013/royal-rumble-match-26080784/page-5 |title=Full list of Royal Rumble Match participants and eliminations |publisher=[[WWE]] |date=January 28, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130131095418/http://www.wwe.com/shows/royalrumble/2013/royal-rumble-match-26080784/page-5 |archive-date=January 31, 2013 |access-date=January 28, 2012 |url-status=dead}}</ref> The following night on ''Raw'', Ziggler and Jericho were placed in a "Strange Bedfellows" match against WWE Tag Team Champions [[Team Hell No]] ([[Bryan Danielson|Daniel Bryan]] and [[Kane (wrestler)|Kane]]), but they lost when Kane hit a [[chokeslam]] on Ziggler and pinned him after Jericho framed him for pushing Kane.<ref name="Raw 01.28.13">{{cite web|last=Tylwalk|first=Nick|title=Raw: It's The Rock, Brock, the wheel and The Shield in Vegas|url=http://slam.canoe.com/Slam/Wrestling/2013/01/29/20534381.html|publisher=SLAM! Wrestling|access-date=February 6, 2013|date=January 29, 2013|archive-date=July 24, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150724122205/http://slam.canoe.com/Slam/Wrestling/2013/01/29/20534381.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> On the February 18 episode of ''Raw'', Ziggler was defeated by World Heavyweight Champion Alberto Del Rio by submission in a non-title match, and afterwards Langston attacked Del Rio and then Ziggler made a failed attempt to cash in his Money in the Bank briefcase after Del Rio's ring announcer [[Ricardo Rodriguez (wrestler)|Ricardo Rodriguez]] ran off with it.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_68750.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S WWE RAW RESULTS 2/18: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of live Raw - Chamber PPV fall-out, big Mania news, Rock's Celebration, Shield six-man tag match|website=www.pwtorch.com|access-date=October 18, 2019|archive-date=April 1, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190401134121/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_68750.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> After defeating WWE Tag Team Champions Daniel Bryan and Kane in singles matches due to interference from Langston,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_69177.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S WWE RAW RESULTS 3/11: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of live Raw - WWE recognizes Bearer by incorporating him into Taker-Punk, Lesnar challenges Hunter, no Cena, more|website=www.pwtorch.com|access-date=October 18, 2019|archive-date=April 4, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190404155029/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_69177.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_69333.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - PARKS' WWE SMACKDOWN REPORT 3/15: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of the Friday night show, including Henry vs. Ryback|website=www.pwtorch.com|access-date=October 18, 2019|archive-date=February 3, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190203084512/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_69333.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> Ziggler and Langston were given a shot at their titles.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_69381.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S WWE RAW RESULTS 3/18: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of live Raw - Hunter signs WM29 contract, IC Title match, more WM29 developments|website=www.pwtorch.com|access-date=October 18, 2019|archive-date=February 3, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190203084316/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_69381.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> The title match took place on April 7 at [[WrestleMania 29]], where Ziggler and Langston unsuccessfully challenged Bryan and Kane for the WWE Tag Team Championship.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_69830.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S WWE WRESTLEMANIA 29 PPV RESULTS: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of live PPV from MetLife Stadium - Rock-Cena II, Taker-Punk, Lesnar-Hunter, more|website=www.pwtorch.com|access-date=October 18, 2019|archive-date=April 3, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190403010032/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_69830.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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[[File:Dolph Ziggler with AJ Lee & Big E Langston.jpg|thumb|Ziggler as [[World Heavyweight Championship (WWE, 2002–2013)|World Heavyweight Championship]] making his entrance with AJ Lee and [[Big E Langston]]]] |
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The following night on ''Raw'', Ziggler cashed in his Money in the Bank contract on an injured Alberto Del Rio to win his second World Heavyweight Championship.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_69884.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S WWE RAW RESULTS 4/8: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of live Raw - WM29 fall-out, new World Champ, no Rock, Taker live, crowd takes over|website=www.pwtorch.com|access-date=October 18, 2019|archive-date=April 3, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190403092537/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_69884.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> After gaining the World Heavyweight Championship, Ziggler began feuding with Del Rio and [[Jack Swagger]] over the title.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_70029.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S WWE RAW RESULTS 4/15: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of live Raw - Lesnar returns, Punk walks away, WM29 fallout, new U.S. champion, more|website=www.pwtorch.com|access-date=October 18, 2019|archive-date=March 29, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190329040531/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_70029.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_70127.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - PARKS' WWE SMACKDOWN REPORT 4/19: Complete coverage of Friday night show, including Sheamus & Orton vs. Mark Henry & Big Show tag main event|website=www.pwtorch.com|access-date=October 18, 2019|archive-date=July 3, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190703152330/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_70127.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_70252.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - PARKS' WWE SMACKDOWN REPORT 4/26: Complete coverage of the loaded Friday night show, including Undertaker vs. Ambrose, Henry vs. Orton|website=www.pwtorch.com|access-date=October 18, 2019|archive-date=November 16, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181116083307/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_70252.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> Ziggler was originally booked to face Del Rio and Swagger in a three-way ladder match at [[Extreme Rules (2013)|Extreme Rules]] on May 19;<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_70287.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S WWE RAW RESULTS 4/29 (Hour 1): Ongoing "virtual-time" coverage of live Raw - Orton vs. Rhodes PPV-quality match, bizarre opening, more|website=www.pwtorch.com|access-date=October 18, 2019|archive-date=July 3, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190703174708/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_70287.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> however, Ziggler suffered a legitimate concussion at a ''SmackDown'' taping, thus removing their match from the pay-per-view and resulting in Ziggler being absent from television for a month.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_70467.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - WWE NEWS: Major updates on Ziggler's concussion & health|website=www.pwtorch.com|access-date=October 18, 2019|archive-date=July 3, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190703152504/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_70467.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_70521.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - PARKS' WWE SMACKDOWN REPORT 5/10: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of Friday show, including Daniel Bryan vs. Dean Ambrose, Jack Swagger vs. Big E. Langston|website=www.pwtorch.com|access-date=October 18, 2019|archive-date=September 15, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180915111043/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_70521.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_70568.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S WWE RAW RESULTS 5/13 (Hour 1): Ongoing "virtual-time" coverage of live Raw - Jericho vs. Fandango Dance-off starts the show, World Title announcement|website=www.pwtorch.com|access-date=October 18, 2019|archive-date=July 3, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190703163958/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_70568.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=RAW NEWS: Next week's top match, Where was Punk during Raw?, Ziggler returns, Henry's return date, Kaitlyn's "secret admirer", Bryan vs. Rollins, Fandango, more|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_71194.shtml|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=June 18, 2013|archive-date=June 15, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130615020718/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_71194.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> On June 16 at [[Payback (2013)|Payback]], Ziggler faced Del Rio in his first title defense of the World Heavyweight Championship and during the match, a double turn took place; Ziggler turned [[Face (professional wrestling)|face]] by displaying a never-say-die attitude while Del Rio turned [[Heel (professional wrestling)|heel]] by repeatedly and ruthlessly targeting his head to take advantage of his concussion, win the match, and end Ziggler's reign at 69 days.<ref>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=PAYBACK NEWS: RVD returning, WWE attempts memorable end to Cena vs. Ryback, Punk returns vs. Jericho, new World champ|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_71323.shtml|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=June 18, 2013|archive-date=June 20, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130620163620/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_71323.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=CALDWELL'S WWE PAYBACK PPV RESULTS 6/16 (Hour 2): Punk vs. Jericho, New World Hvt. champion & double-turn|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_71317.shtml|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=June 18, 2013|last=Caldwell|first=James|archive-date=March 4, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304074434/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_71317.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=RAW NEWS: Lesnar returns to set up big feud, Henry retirement tease, Christian returns, Bryan injured?, Bryan & Hunter get heated, Stephanie-A.J., Smackdown match, more|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_71359.shtml|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=June 18, 2013|quote=WWE confirmed multiple heel and face turns during Raw. New World Hvt. champion Alberto Del Rio opened the show in full heel mode, Dolph Ziggler was presented as a face, and C.M. Punk is officially returning as a face.|archive-date=June 21, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130621194554/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_71359.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> On July 14 at [[Money in the Bank (2013)|Money in the Bank]], AJ cost Ziggler his title rematch against Alberto Del Rio, after she prematurely snuck into the ring and hit Del Rio with her own title, prompting a disqualification.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_71943.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S WWE MITB PPV RESULTS 7/14 (Hour 2): Ziggler vs. Del Rio for the World Title, Ryback vs. Jericho|website=www.pwtorch.com|access-date=October 18, 2019|archive-date=February 26, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230226204220/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_71943.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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On the following ''Raw'', Ziggler ended his relationship with AJ due to her actions the previous night and AJ exacted revenge by costing Ziggler a non-title match against Del Rio, then she attacked Ziggler and unleashed Langston on him.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_71982.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S WWE RAW RESULTS 7/15 (Hour 1): Immediate MITB fall-out, Ziggler vs. Del Rio re-match, Orton vs. Fandango|website=www.pwtorch.com|access-date=October 18, 2019|archive-date=July 3, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190703163723/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_71982.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> On the July 29, 2013, episode of ''Raw'', Ziggler defeated Big E Langston via disqualification after AJ Lee attacked Ziggler.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_72345.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S WWE RAW RESULTS 7/29 (Hour 2): World champ Del Rio vs. Christian, Ziggler faces Big E. Langston & A.J. snaps again, Rhodes-Sandow feud continues|website=www.pwtorch.com|access-date=October 18, 2019|archive-date=July 3, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190703170724/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_72345.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> In a rematch on the following week, Ziggler was defeated by Langston after a distraction by AJ and [[Kaitlyn (wrestler)|Kaitlyn]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_72509.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S WWE RAW RESULTS 8/5 (Hour 3): The Shield vs. Cena & Bryan & Orton main event, Ziggler vs. Big E.|website=www.pwtorch.com|access-date=October 18, 2019|archive-date=November 30, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201130083756/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_72509.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> This led to the host of [[SummerSlam (2013)|SummerSlam]], [[The Miz]] creating a mixed tag team match at SummerSlam on August 18, where Ziggler and Kaitlyn defeated Big E and AJ.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_72779.shtml|title=PWTorch.com - CALDWELL'S WWE SSLAM PPV RESULTS 8/18 (Hour 3): Cena vs. Bryan WWE Title main event, did Orton cash in?|website=www.pwtorch.com|access-date=October 18, 2019|archive-date=August 22, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130822061736/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_72779.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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==== Feud with The Authority (2013–2015) ==== |
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[[File:Dolph ziggler 2013.jpg|thumb|upright|Ziggler posing at the [[Wrestling ring|ring]] during a WWE [[house show]] in November 2013]] |
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Ziggler was later unsuccessful in capturing the [[WWE United States Championship|United States Championship]], when he lost to [[Dean Ambrose]] at [[Night of Champions (2013)|Night of Champions]] on September 15<ref name="NoC2013">{{cite web|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/nightofchampions/2013/united-states-champion-dean-ambrose-vs-dolph-ziggler |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230112020155/https://www.wwe.com/shows/nightofchampions/2013/united-states-champion-dean-ambrose-vs-dolph-ziggler |archive-date=January 12, 2023 |title=United States Champion Dean Ambrose def. Dolph Ziggler |work=[[WWE|World Wrestling Entertainment]] |last=Clapp |first=John |date=September 15, 2013 |access-date=February 16, 2023}}</ref> and on the October 16 episode of ''Main Event'', ending their feud.<ref name="MEOCT">{{cite web|last=Trionfo|first=Richard|title=WWE MAIN EVENT REPORT: US TITLE MATCH; SIX MAN TAG MATCH; TRUTH VERSUS SANDOW; AND KHALI VERSUS FANDANGO|url=http://www.pwinsider.com/article/80949/wwe-main-event-report-us-title-match-six-man-tag-match-truth-versus-sandow-and-khali-versus-fandango.html?p=1|access-date=October 18, 2013|publisher=PWInsider|archive-date=October 24, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131024013508/http://www.pwinsider.com/article/80949/wwe-main-event-report-us-title-match-six-man-tag-match-truth-versus-sandow-and-khali-versus-fandango.html?p=1|url-status=live}}</ref> After that rivalry was over, Ziggler lost several matches during the late-2013 calendar year when he also failed to win the [[WWE Intercontinental Championship|Intercontinental Championship]] from [[Curtis Axel]] on the November 11 episode of ''Raw''.<ref>{{cite web|last=Tedesco|first=Mike|title=WWE Raw Results – 11/11/13 (2-on-3 Handicap match)|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-raw-results/44916|publisher=WrestleView|access-date=December 21, 2013|archive-date=December 24, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131224114626/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-raw-results/44916|url-status=live}}</ref> In December, Ziggler lost two number one contender matches for the Intercontinental Championship, first to [[Damien Sandow]] and later to [[Fandango (wrestler)|Fandango]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Stephens|first=David|title=WWE RAW Results – 12/2/13 (Cena/Orton contract signing)|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-raw-results/45309-wwe-raw-results-12-2-13-cena-orton-contract-signing|access-date=November 7, 2013|publisher=WrestleView|archive-date=March 4, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304045223/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-raw-results/45309-wwe-raw-results-12-2-13-cena-orton-contract-signing|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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At the [[Royal Rumble (2014)|Royal Rumble]] on January 26, 2014, Ziggler entered the [[Royal Rumble match]], but was eliminated by [[Roman Reigns]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.wwe.com/node/26173503/dolph-ziggler-injury-update-26174399|title=Old School Raw: Jan. 6, 2014|website=WWE|access-date=October 18, 2019|archive-date=October 26, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231026064503/https://www.wwe.com/|url-status=live}}</ref> On April 6 at [[WrestleMania XXX]], Ziggler competed in the 31-man [[Andre the Giant]] Memorial Battle Royal, but was eliminated by [[Alberto Del Rio]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=WRESTLEMANIA 30 PPV RESULTS (Hour 2): Complete "virtual-time" coverage of Cena vs. Bray, big moment for Cesaro in the Andre Battle Royal, Shield vs. Outlaws|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/PPV_Reports_5/article_77520.shtml|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=April 6, 2014|access-date=April 6, 2014|archive-date=August 30, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170830003703/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/PPV_Reports_5/article_77520.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> On June 29 at [[Money in the Bank (2014)|Money in the Bank]], Ziggler competed in the [[Money in the Bank ladder match]] for a [[WWE Championship|WWE World Heavyweight Championship]] contract, but the match was won by [[Seth Rollins]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_79316.shtml|title=CALDWELL'S WWE MITB PPV RESULTS 6/29: Ongoing "virtual-time" coverage of WWE Title ladder match, MITB match, more|author=Caldwell, James|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=June 29, 2014|access-date=June 30, 2014|archive-date=July 14, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714200813/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_79316.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> Ziggler later competed in a Battle Royal for the vacant Intercontinental Championship on July 20 at [[Battleground (2014)|Battleground]]; however, he was abruptly eliminated from behind by [[The Miz]].<ref>{{cite web|last1=Caldwell|first1=James|title=Caldwell's WWE Battleground PPV report 7/20: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of live PPV – Cena defends WWE Title, IC Title battle royal, Usos vs. Wyatts Tag Title match, more|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_79701.shtml|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=July 21, 2014|archive-date=July 24, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140724035354/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_79701.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> After Ziggler defeated Miz in a non-title match the following night on ''Raw'', he received a rematch at [[SummerSlam (2014)|SummerSlam]] on August 17, where he defeated Miz to win the championship for a second time.<ref>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=Caldwell's WWE SummerSlam PPV Results 8/17|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_80257.shtml|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=August 17, 2014|access-date=August 17, 2014|archive-date=August 19, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140819082244/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_80257.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> The next night on ''Raw'', Ziggler successfully retained his title against Miz, after he was counted out.<ref>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=CALDWELL'S WWE RAW RESULTS 8/18: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of Summerslam fall-out, Brock gets new WWE World Title belt, Ambrose & Rollins tear it up, more|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_80290.shtml|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=August 18, 2014|access-date=August 18, 2014|archive-date=March 4, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304111617/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_80290.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> At [[Night of Champions (2014)|Night of Champions]] on September 21, Ziggler dropped the title to Miz, only for Ziggler to win it back the following night on ''Raw''.<ref>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=Caldwell's WWE NoC PPV Report 9/21: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of live PPV – Lesnar vs. Cena|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_80844.shtml|access-date=September 21, 2014|date=September 21, 2014|archive-date=September 24, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140924044919/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_80844.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Dolph Ziggler vs. The Miz – Intercontinental Championship Match: Raw, Sept 22, 2014|url=http://www.wwe.com/videos/dolph-ziggler-vs-the-miz-intercontinental-championship-match-raw-sept-22-2014-26675179|access-date=September 23, 2014|date=September 21, 2014|archive-date=September 25, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140925033611/http://www.wwe.com/videos/dolph-ziggler-vs-the-miz-intercontinental-championship-match-raw-sept-22-2014-26675179|url-status=live}}</ref> Ziggler then retained the championship against [[Antonio Cesaro|Cesaro]] on September 26 episode of ''SmackDown'',<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/2014-09-26/results-september-26-2014-26679922/page-5|title=SmackDown Results – Sept. 26, 2014: Big Show knocked out Rusev; Ambrose stole Rollins' Money in the Bank briefcase|publisher=WWE|last=Burdick|first=Michael|date=September 26, 2014|access-date=October 3, 2014|archive-date=September 29, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140929170836/http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/2014-09-26/results-september-26-2014-26679922/page-5|url-status=live}}</ref> in a triple threat match against Cesaro and Miz the next week on ''Raw''<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2014-09-29/wwe-raw-results-26691727/page-2|title=WWE Raw results, September 29, 2014: Dean Ambrose pranks Seth Rollins and suffers The Authority's wrath|publisher=WWE|last=Benigno|first=Anthony|date=September 29, 2014|access-date=October 3, 2014|archive-date=October 3, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141003022838/http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2014-09-29/wwe-raw-results-26691727/page-2|url-status=live}}</ref> and at [[Hell in a Cell (2014)|Hell in a Cell]] on October 26 against Cesaro in a 2-out-of-3 falls match. |
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{{Blockquote|quote=Dolph Ziggler, the 2011 winner... has been the victim of as many stop-and-start [[Push (professional wrestling)|pushes]] of anyone in history. The crowds always get behind him for the start, no matter how many false teases there are, and then a few weeks later, [[WWE|the company]] always takes him back down.|source= —[[Dave Meltzer]] on Ziggler placing fourth for the [[List of Wrestling Observer Newsletter awards#Most Underrated|2014 Wrestling Observer Newsletter awards for Most Underrated]].<ref>{{cite journal|last=Meltzer|first=Dave|author-link=Dave Meltzer|date=January 26, 2015|title=Jan. 26, 2015 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: 2014 awards issue w/ results & Dave's commentary, Conor McGregor, and much more|journal=[[Dave Meltzer#Wrestling Observer Newsletter|Wrestling Observer Newsletter]]|location=[[Campbell, California]]|issn=1083-9593|page=17|url=http://www.f4wonline.com/component/content/article/110-wrestling-observer-newsletter/40865-jan-26-2015-wrestling-observer-newsletter-2014-awards-issue-w-results-a-daves-commentary-conor-mcgregor-and-much-more|access-date=January 22, 2015|archive-date=February 15, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150215081415/http://www.f4wonline.com/component/content/article/110-wrestling-observer-newsletter/40865-jan-26-2015-wrestling-observer-newsletter-2014-awards-issue-w-results-a-daves-commentary-conor-mcgregor-and-much-more|url-status=live}}</ref>}} |
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On the October 28, 2014, episode of ''Raw'', Ziggler and [[John Cena]] shook hands together backstage, which [[The Authority (professional wrestling)|The Authority]] interpreted as a deal to plot against them. As a result, Ziggler was put in a match against [[Kane (wrestler)|Kane]], which Ziggler won. Ziggler then joined Team Cena at [[Survivor Series (2014)|Survivor Series]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/general/wwe-mma-wrestling/wwe-raw-results-john-cena-and-dolph-ziggler-form-an-unlikely-alliance-as-the-survivor-series-10-man-9822380.html|title=WWE Raw results: John Cena and Dolph Ziggler form an unlikely alliance|date=October 28, 2014|website=The Independent|access-date=October 18, 2019|archive-date=April 24, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190424002115/https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/general/wwe-mma-wrestling/wwe-raw-results-john-cena-and-dolph-ziggler-form-an-unlikely-alliance-as-the-survivor-series-10-man-9822380.html|url-status=live}}</ref> On the November 10 episode of ''Raw'', Ziggler was brutally attacked by the returning [[Luke Harper]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_81724.shtml|title=Caldwell's WWE Raw results 11/10: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of U.K. Raw – Cena vs. Ryback, Survivor Series teams formed, U.S. Title re-match, more|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=November 10, 2014|access-date=November 11, 2014|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|archive-date=November 11, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141111135553/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_81724.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> The following week, Harper was awarded a title match against Ziggler, which Harper won with assistance from The Authority, ending Ziggler's reign at 56 days.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2014-11-17/wwe-raw-results-26826876/page-2|title=WWE Raw live results: November 17, 2014|author=Benigno, Anthony.|website=WWE.com|date=November 17, 2014|access-date=November 17, 2014|archive-date=November 21, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141121111243/http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2014-11-17/wwe-raw-results-26826876/page-2|url-status=live}}</ref> At Survivor Series on November 23, Ziggler emerged as the sole survivor for a second time. Ziggler contributed to [[Alexander Rusev|Rusev]] being counted out, then after all his teammates were eliminated, he pinned Kane and Luke Harper. [[Triple H]] twice prevented Ziggler from pinning final opponent Seth Rollins, but the debuting [[Sting (wrestler)|Sting]] provided an assist to help Ziggler win the match, thus ousting the Authority from power.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_81932.shtml|title=Caldwell's WWE S. Series PPV results 11/23: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of Team Cena vs. Team Authority, more|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=November 23, 2014|access-date=November 23, 2014|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|archive-date=November 26, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141126142750/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_81932.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> At [[TLC: Tables, Ladders and Chairs (2014)|TLC]] on December 14, Ziggler defeated Harper in a [[ladder match]] to win his fourth Intercontinental Championship.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_82280.shtml|title=Caldwell's WWE TLC PPV report 12/14: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of Cena vs. Rollins, Roman Reigns involved, Ambrose vs. Wyatt, set-up for the Royal Rumble, more|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=December 14, 2014|access-date=December 15, 2014|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|archive-date=December 15, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141215063101/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_82280.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> On the December 16 episode of ''SmackDown'', Ziggler finally defeated Seth Rollins in a singles match after failing numerous times before. Three days later, ''[[Rolling Stone]]'' named Ziggler as the 2014 WWE Wrestler of the Year.<ref name="rollingstone">{{cite magazine|url=https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/features/wwe-wrestler-of-the-year-dolph-ziggler-20141217|title=WWE Wrestler of the Year: Dolph Ziggler|last=Herzog|first=Kenny|date=December 17, 2014|access-date=December 17, 2014|magazine=Rolling Stone|archive-date=March 24, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160324013714/http://www.rollingstone.com/culture/features/wwe-wrestler-of-the-year-dolph-ziggler-20141217|url-status=live}}</ref> On the first ''Raw'' of 2015 (dated January 5), the recently reinstated Authority forced Ziggler to defend his Intercontinental Championship against [[Wade Barrett|Bad News Barrett]] and he initially won. After Barrett then attacked and injured Ziggler's shoulder, Kane declared the match as [[Professional wrestling match types#Series variations|two-out-of-three falls]], Barrett proceeded to defeat Ziggler for the title after Kane distracted him. Later that night, Ziggler alongside [[Ryback]] and [[Erick Rowan]] were fired by the Authority.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Tedesco|first1=Mike|title=WWE RAW Results – 1/5/15 (The Authority resumes power)|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-raw-results/52403-wwe-raw-results-1-5-15-live-results-from-corpus-christi|website=wrestleview.com|access-date=January 6, 2015|date=January 6, 2015|archive-date=March 19, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160319053030/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-raw-results/52403-wwe-raw-results-1-5-15-live-results-from-corpus-christi|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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On the January 19 episode of ''Raw'', Sting provided another assist, as John Cena won Ziggler, Ryback and Rowan's jobs back.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Caldwell|first1=James|title=CALDWELL'S WWE RAW RESULTS 1/19: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of live Raw – final Rumble hype, big "Legends Reunion" theme, Brock Lesnar, Bryan's Raw in-ring return, more|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_82830.shtml#.V53V-9KLTIU|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=January 19, 2015|access-date=July 31, 2016|archive-date=March 4, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304001448/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_82830.shtml#.V53V-9KLTIU|url-status=live}}</ref> Ziggler returned to television on the next ''SmackDown'' and qualified for the [[Royal Rumble (2015)|Royal Rumble]] match by beating Barrett in a non-title match.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Tedesco|first1=Mike|title=WWE Smackdown Results – 1/22/15 (Bryan vs. Kane)|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/52695-wwe-smackdown-results-1-22-15-bryan-vs-kane|website=wrestleview.com|access-date=January 23, 2015|date=January 23, 2015|archive-date=January 23, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150123061801/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/52695-wwe-smackdown-results-1-22-15-bryan-vs-kane|url-status=live}}</ref> In the Royal Rumble match on January 25, Ziggler entered as the last entrant, eliminating Bad News Barrett and Cesaro but was quickly eliminated by [[Big Show]] and Kane.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Caldwell|first1=James|title=Royal Rumble PPV Report 1/25: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of Lesnar vs. Cena vs. Rollins for WWE Title, Royal Rumble, post-PPV Network show|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_82945.shtml|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=January 26, 2015|archive-date=November 1, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161101085921/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_82945.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> At [[Fastlane (2015)|Fastlane]] on February 22, Ziggler competed together with Rowan and Ryback in a six-man tag team match against Rollins, Big Show and Kane, which they lost.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Melok|first1=Bobby|title=Seth Rollins, Kane & Big Show def. Dolph Ziggler, Erick Rowan & Ryback|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wwefastlane/2015/six-man-tag-team-match-27070059|website=wwe.com|access-date=February 22, 2015|archive-date=March 3, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303210517/http://www.wwe.com/shows/wwefastlane/2015/six-man-tag-team-match-27070059|url-status=live}}</ref> On the March 5 episode of ''SmackDown'', Ziggler was announced as a participant in the 7-man ladder match for the Intercontinental Championship at [[WrestleMania 31]] on March 29, which was won by [[Bryan Danielson|Daniel Bryan]].<ref>{{cite web|last1=Wortman|first1=James|title=Daniel Bryan won the Intercontinental Championship Ladder Match|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/31/intercontinental-championship-ladder-match-27145665|publisher=WWE|access-date=March 29, 2015|archive-date=March 3, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303172006/http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/31/intercontinental-championship-ladder-match-27145665|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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==== Storyline with Lana and Rusev (2015–2016) ==== |
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Between March and June, Ziggler feuded with [[Sheamus]], facing him in a [[Professional wrestling match types#Kiss My Foot/Ass match|Kiss Me Arse match]] at [[Extreme Rules (2015)|Extreme Rules]] and at [[Payback (2015)|Payback]],<ref>{{cite web|last1=Burdick|first1=Michael|title=Dolph Ziggler def. Sheamus (Kiss Me Arse Match)|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/extremerules/2015/dolph-ziggler-vs-sheamus-27300103|publisher=WWE|access-date=April 26, 2015|archive-date=March 3, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303184951/http://www.wwe.com/shows/extremerules/2015/dolph-ziggler-vs-sheamus-27300103|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wwepayback/2015/wwe-payback-2015-matches|title=We're Sorry!|access-date=June 5, 2015|archive-date=June 2, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150602022307/http://www.wwe.com/shows/wwepayback/2015/wwe-payback-2015-matches|url-status=live}}</ref> while also participated in the Elimination Chamber match for the vacated Intercontinental Championship at [[Elimination Chamber (2015)|Elimination Chamber]] and the [[Money in the Bank ladder match]] at [[Money in the Bank (2015)|Money in the Bank]], which ws won by Sheamus.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/eliminationchamber/2015/wwe-elimination-chamber-2015-results-27431961|title=WWE Elimination Chamber 2015 results|work=WWE|access-date=June 6, 2015|archive-date=June 2, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150602220110/http://www.wwe.com/shows/eliminationchamber/2015/wwe-elimination-chamber-2015-results-27431961|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/moneyinthebank/2015/money-in-the-bank-contract-ladder-match-27450148|title=Sheamus wins the Money in the Bank Contract Ladder Match|work=WWE|access-date=July 6, 2015|archive-date=August 21, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150821061319/http://www.wwe.com/shows/moneyinthebank/2015/money-in-the-bank-contract-ladder-match-27450148|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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{{Blockquote|quote=They've 50/50ed the roster to death to the point where no one is [[Glossary of professional wrestling terms#over|over]]. Dolph Ziggler's character is dead. He used to get a great [[Glossary of professional wrestling terms#pop|pop]] coming out, but now the fans are conditioned to know that he's gone as far as he'll ever go, so they sit on their hands when his music hits now.|source= —Mike Tedesco, writing for WrestleView.com in 2015, describing Ziggler's slump into irrelevance<ref>{{cite web|last1=Tedesco|first1=Mike|access-date=December 10, 2015|title=12/7 Raw: This show is a total mess|website=wrestleview.com|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/featured-articles/57097-12-7-raw-this-show-is-a-total-mess/|date=December 9, 2015|archive-date=December 11, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151211173945/http://www.wrestleview.com/featured-articles/57097-12-7-raw-this-show-is-a-total-mess|url-status=live}}</ref>}} |
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Ziggler became involved in an on-screen love affair with [[Lana (wrestling)|Lana]], the former manager of [[Alexander Rusev|Rusev]], when she kissed him at ''Raw'' on May 25, with Lana serving as Ziggler's [[Manager (professional wrestling)|valet]] during his matches.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_85078.shtml|title=CALDWELL'S WWE RAW RESULTS 5/18: Ongoing "virtual-time" coverage of live Raw – Payback PPV fall-out, three title matches advertised, more|author=Caldwell, James|website=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=May 18, 2015|access-date=May 18, 2015|archive-date=May 20, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150520124814/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_85078.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_85213.shtml|title=Caldwell's WWE Raw Results 5/25|author=Caldwell, James|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=May 24, 2015|access-date=May 26, 2015|archive-date=July 2, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190702100727/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_85213.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> In June, after Ziggler and Lana confirmed their [[Kayfabe|storyline]] relationship, [[Summer Rae]] allied with Rusev to even the odds.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2015-06-29/wwe-raw-results-27575364/page-7|title=WWE Raw results, June 29, 2015: Bray Wyatt stalks Roman Reigns and Dolph and Lana go public|work=WWE|access-date=July 8, 2015|archive-date=July 2, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150702234206/http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2015-06-29/wwe-raw-results-27575364/page-7|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_85926.shtml|title=CALDWELL'S WWE RAW RESULTS 6/29: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of live Raw – The Shield trio in big tag match, Cena's U.S. Title Open Challenge, Dolph/Lana, more|author=Caldwell, James|website=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=June 29, 2015|access-date=June 29, 2015|archive-date=March 3, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303224342/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_85926.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> After an attack by Rusev, Ziggler suffered a bruised [[trachea]] in storyline,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2015-07-06/wwe-raw-results-27609511/page-5|title=WWE Raw results, July 6, 2015: Lesnar tears J&J to pieces, Randy Orton makes his return and Cesaro challenges Cena again|work=WWE|access-date=July 8, 2015|archive-date=September 12, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150912062459/http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2015-07-06/wwe-raw-results-27609511/page-5|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2015-07-06/dolph-ziggler-suffers-throat-injury-on-raw-27610556|title=Dolph Ziggler suffers throat injury on Raw|work=WWE|access-date=July 16, 2015|archive-date=August 20, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150820050805/http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2015-07-06/dolph-ziggler-suffers-throat-injury-on-raw-27610556|url-status=live}}</ref> which was to give him some time off to film a new [[WWE Studios]] movie, titled ''6:42''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://whatculture.com/wwe/dolph-ziggler-out-of-action-due-to-filming-wwe-movie.php|title=Dolph Ziggler Out Of Action Due To Filming WWE Movie|work=WhatCulture.com|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150717015357/http://whatculture.com/wwe/dolph-ziggler-out-of-action-due-to-filming-wwe-movie.php|archive-date=July 17, 2015}}</ref> While Ziggler and Rusev match at [[SummerSlam (2015)|SummerSlam]] ended in a double countout due to interference from Lana and Rae,<ref name="pwtorch.com">{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_87122.shtml#.Vdp6SvlViko|title=CALDWELL'S SUMMERSLAM REPORT 8/23: Ongoing "virtual-time" coverage of Lesnar vs. Taker, Title vs. Title, more big matches|author=Caldwell, James|website=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=August 23, 2015|access-date=August 23, 2015|archive-date=November 26, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151126220647/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_87122.shtml#.Vdp6SvlViko|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Benigno|first1=Anthony|title=Dolph Ziggler vs. Rusev|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/2015/dolph-ziggler-rusev-27828983|publisher=WWE|access-date=August 17, 2015|archive-date=December 17, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151217175851/http://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/2015/dolph-ziggler-rusev-27828983|url-status=live}}</ref> Ziggler won the rematch at [[Night of Champions (2015)|Night of Champions]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_87253.shtml#.VeULfPlViko|title=CALDWELL'S WWE RAW RESULTS 8/31: Ongoing "virtual-time" coverage of live Raw – Sting opening Raw, Night of Champions hype, Beat the Clock, SSlam re-match, more|website=Pro Wrestling Torch|author=Caldwell, James|date=August 31, 2015|access-date=August 31, 2015|archive-date=November 23, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151123184432/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_87253.shtml#.VeULfPlViko|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/56053-wwe-smackdown-results-9-3-15-tag-team-main-event|title=WWE SMACKDOWN RESULTS – 9/3/15 (TAG TEAM MAIN EVENT)|author=Namako, Jason|website=WrestleView|date=September 3, 2015|access-date=September 7, 2015|archive-date=September 6, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150906230240/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/56053-wwe-smackdown-results-9-3-15-tag-team-main-event|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Clapp|first=John|title=Dolph Ziggler vs. Rusev|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/nightofchampions/2015/rusev-ziggler-27916170|publisher=WWE|access-date=September 7, 2015|archive-date=November 24, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151124075700/http://www.wwe.com/shows/nightofchampions/2015/rusev-ziggler-27916170|url-status=live}}</ref> but the storyline was cancelled after ''[[TMZ]]'' reported the real–life engagement of Rusev and Lana.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.tmz.com/2015/10/11/lana-rusev-engaged-wwe/|title=WWE Stars Lana and Rusev Are Getting Married!!|website=[[TMZ]]|date=October 11, 2015|access-date=October 14, 2015|archive-date=October 13, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151013220812/http://www.tmz.com/2015/10/11/lana-rusev-engaged-wwe|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/rusev-lana-engaged-28045055|title=WWE.com Exclusive: Lana confirms engagement to Rusev|website=[[WWE]]|date=October 12, 2015|access-date=October 14, 2015|archive-date=December 12, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151212021450/http://www.wwe.com/inside/rusev-lana-engaged-28045055|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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[[File:Ziggler in April 2016.jpg|thumb|Ziggler in April 2016]] |
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On the October 22 episode of ''SmackDown'', Ziggler started a feud with the debuting [[Tyler Breeze]], who aligned with Summer Rae and attacked Ziggler.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/index.php/2015/10/22/1022-wwe-smackdown-report-by-greg-parks/|title=10/22 WWE Smackdown Report by Greg Parks|author=Parks, Greg|website=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=October 22, 2015|access-date=October 22, 2015|archive-date=November 16, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151116121137/http://www.pwtorch.com/index.php/2015/10/22/1022-wwe-smackdown-report-by-greg-parks/|url-status=live}}</ref> Ziggler entered a [[Survivor Series (2015)#WWE World Heavyweight Championship tournament|tournament]] for the vacant [[WWE Championship|WWE World Heavyweight Championship]], defeating [[The Miz]] in the first round match<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/index.php/2015/11/09/119-wwe-raw-results-caldwells-ongoing-live-report/|title=11/9 WWE Raw Results – CALDWELL's Complete Live Report|author=Caldwell, James|website=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=November 9, 2015|access-date=November 9, 2015|archive-date=November 18, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151118154833/http://www.pwtorch.com/index.php/2015/11/09/119-wwe-raw-results-caldwells-ongoing-live-report/|url-status=live}}</ref> before being eliminated by [[Dean Ambrose]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/index.php/2015/11/16/1116-wwe-raw-caldwells-live-report-on-pre-survivor-series-show/|title=11/16 WWE Raw Results: CALDWELL's Complete Live Report|author=Caldwell, James|website=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=November 16, 2015|access-date=November 16, 2015|archive-date=November 17, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151117202052/http://www.pwtorch.com/index.php/2015/11/16/1116-wwe-raw-caldwells-live-report-on-pre-survivor-series-show/|url-status=live}}</ref> Ziggler and Breeze continued their feud,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2015/11/19/1119-smackdown-parkss-complete-live-report/|title=11/19 Smackdown: Parks's Complete Live Report|author=Parks, Greg|website=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=November 19, 2015|access-date=November 19, 2015|archive-date=November 21, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151121073642/http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2015/11/19/1119-smackdown-parkss-complete-live-report/|url-status=live}}</ref> which culminated in a match between the two at [[Survivor Series (2015)|Survivor Series]] on November 22, which Ziggler lost.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/survivorseries/2015/dolph-ziggler-tyler-breeze-28201142|title=Dolph Ziggler vs. Tyler Breeze|author=Clapp, John|website=WWE.com|date=November 19, 2015|access-date=November 19, 2015|archive-date=January 1, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160101001802/http://www.wwe.com/shows/survivorseries/2015/dolph-ziggler-tyler-breeze-28201142|url-status=live}}</ref> Ziggler would then enter a feud with [[Kevin Owens]] with the pair trading victories throughout the rest of December and beginning of 2016. Ziggler entered the [[Royal Rumble (2016)|Royal Rumble]] on January 24 as the 28th entrant, lasting 7 minutes, but was eliminated by the eventual winner, [[Triple H]].<ref>{{cite web|last1=Caldwell|first1=James|title=1/24 WWE Royal Rumble PPV Results – CALDWELL's Complete Live PPV Report|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/01/24/caldwell2016rumblereport/|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=January 24, 2016|archive-date=January 29, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160129144314/http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/01/24/caldwell2016rumblereport/|url-status=live}}</ref> The next night on ''Raw'', Ziggler faced Kevin Owens in a losing effort, but defeated him the following two weeks in a row.<ref>{{cite web|last=Tedesco|first=Mike|title=WWE RAW Results – 1/25/16 (The Rock, Fastlane main event)|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-raw-results/57562-wwe-raw-results-1-25-16-live-results-from-miami|website=wrestleview.com|access-date=January 25, 2016|archive-date=January 27, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160127204619/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-raw-results/57562-wwe-raw-results-1-25-16-live-results-from-miami|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Tedesco|first1=Mike|title=WWE RAW Results – WWE RAW Results – 2/1/16 (Tag Team Match Main Event)|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-raw-results/57635-wwe-raw-results-2-1-16-live-results-from-birmingham/|website=wrestleview.com|access-date=June 3, 2016|date=February 2, 2016|archive-date=June 9, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160609151246/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-raw-results/57635-wwe-raw-results-2-1-16-live-results-from-birmingham/|url-status=live}}</ref> On the February 15 ''Raw'', Ziggler was involved in a fatal five-way match for the Intercontinental Championship, where Owens regained the title after pinning Tyler Breeze.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Tedesco|first1=Mike|title=WWE RAW Results – 2/15/16 (Big Show vs. Braun Strowman)|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-raw-results/57788-wwe-raw-results-2-15-16-live-results-from-anaheim|website=wrestleview.com|access-date=February 16, 2016|date=February 16, 2016|archive-date=February 17, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160217015325/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-raw-results/57788-wwe-raw-results-2-15-16-live-results-from-anaheim|url-status=live}}</ref> At [[Fastlane (2016)|Fastlane]] on February 21, Ziggler challenged Owens to a match for the Intercontinental Championship, which he lost.<ref>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=2/21 WWE Fast Lane Results – CALDWELL's Complete Live PPV Report|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/02/21/caldwellfastlaneppvreport/|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=February 21, 2016|access-date=February 21, 2016|archive-date=May 4, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160504060821/http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/02/21/caldwellfastlaneppvreport/|url-status=live}}</ref> In the following weeks, Ziggler began to re-ignite his feud with [[The Authority (professional wrestling)|The Authority]], and on the March 14 episode of ''Raw'', he confronted Triple H and [[Stephanie McMahon]].<ref name=raw03142016>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=3/14 WWE Raw Results – CALDWELL's Complete Live Report|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/03/14/march14rawreport/|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=March 14, 2016|access-date=June 3, 2016|archive-date=May 21, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160521155438/http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/03/14/march14rawreport/|url-status=live}}</ref> This resulted in Ziggler being granted a match against Triple H where if he won, he could pick his match at WrestleMania (excluding the WWE World Heavyweight Championship match); however, Ziggler lost.<ref name=raw03142016/> At [[WrestleMania 32]] on April 3, Ziggler competed against Kevin Owens, [[Sami Zayn]], The Miz, [[Cody Rhodes|Stardust]], [[Hunico|Sin Cara]] and [[Zack Ryder]] in a [[ladder match]] for the Intercontinental Championship, which Ryder won.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Caldwell|first1=James|title=3/21 WWE Raw Results – Caldwell's Complete Live Report|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/03/21/march21rawresults/|website=PWTorch.com|access-date=March 25, 2016|date=March 22, 2016|archive-date=October 6, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161006032515/http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/03/21/march21rawresults/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Caldwell|first1=James|title=4/3 WrestleMania 32 PPV Results – CALDWELL's Complete Live Report on Main PPV|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/04/03/wm32liveresults/|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=April 3, 2016|archive-date=April 4, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160404040347/http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/04/03/wm32liveresults/|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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After WrestleMania 32, Ziggler went to a double countout with [[Baron Corbin]] on the April 4 episode of ''Raw'', leading to Corbin hitting an ''[[Facebuster#Modified lifting reverse STO|End of Days]]'' outside of the ring to Ziggler, igniting a feud in the process.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Caldwell|first1=James|title=4/4 WWE Raw Results – CALDWELL'S Complete Report on post-WM32|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/04/04/april4rawresults/|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=April 4, 2016|archive-date=October 6, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161006032510/http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/04/04/april4rawresults/|url-status=live}}</ref> At the [[WWE Payback (2016)|Payback]] pre-show on May 1, Ziggler faced Baron Corbin in a winning effort.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Caldwell|first1=James|title=5/1 WWE Payback Results – CALDWELL's Complete Live Report|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/05/01/payback2016results/|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=May 1, 2016|archive-date=June 3, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160603032153/http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/05/01/payback2016results/|url-status=live}}</ref> The two then had a [[Professional wrestling match types#No Holds Barred match|no disqualification match]] at [[Extreme Rules (2016)|Extreme Rules]] on May 22 where Corbin won after hitting a low blow on Ziggler.<ref>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=5/22 WWE Extreme Rules PPV Results – Caldwell's Complete Live Report|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/05/22/extremerulesliveresults/|date=May 22, 2016|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=May 22, 2016|archive-date=May 23, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160523061426/http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/05/22/extremerulesliveresults/|url-status=live}}</ref> Following Extreme Rules, on the May 23 episode of ''Raw'', Ziggler had a confrontation backstage with Corbin and challenged him to a technical wrestling match the next week.<ref>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=5/23 WWE Raw TV Results – CALDWELL's Complete Live Report|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/05/23/may23rawresultscomplete/|date=May 23, 2016|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=May 23, 2016|archive-date=May 25, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160525011315/http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/05/23/may23rawresultscomplete/|url-status=live}}</ref> In that match, Ziggler intentionally got himself disqualified when he kicked Corbin in the groin immediately after the match began.<ref>{{cite web|last=Tedesco|first=Mike|title=WWE RAW RESULTS – 5/30/16 (LIVE RESULTS FROM GREEN BAY, AJ STYLES AND THE CLUB ATTACK JOHN CENA, SIX MAN TAG MAIN EVENT)|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-raw-results/62559-wwe-raw-results-53016-john-cena-returns-ziggler-vs-corbin/|publisher=Wrestleview|access-date=May 30, 2016|date=May 30, 2016|archive-date=February 9, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230209121734/https://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-raw-results/62559-wwe-raw-results-53016-john-cena-returns-ziggler-vs-corbin/|url-status=live}}</ref> This led to a rubber match at [[Money in the Bank (2016)|Money in the Bank]] on June 19, which Corbin won to end their feud.<ref>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=6/19 WWE MITB PPV Results – CALDWELL'S Complete Live Report|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/06/19/619-wwe-mitb-ppv-results-caldwells-ongoing-live-report/|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=June 19, 2016|archive-date=June 25, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160625124902/http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/06/19/619-wwe-mitb-ppv-results-caldwells-ongoing-live-report/|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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====Championship reigns (2016–2018)==== |
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On July 19 at the [[2016 WWE draft]], Ziggler was drafted to ''SmackDown''.<ref>{{cite web|title=2016 WWE Draft results: WWE officially ushers in New Era|url=http://www.wwe.com/2016-wwe-draft-results|publisher=WWE|access-date=July 19, 2016|archive-date=July 20, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160720044640/http://www.wwe.com/2016-wwe-draft-results|url-status=live}}</ref> On the July 26 episode of ''SmackDown'', Ziggler won a [[Professional wrestling match types#Basic non-elimination matches|six-pack challenge]] against [[AJ Styles]], [[Apollo Crews]], [[Baron Corbin]], [[Bray Wyatt]], and [[John Cena]] to become the number one contender for the [[WWE Championship|WWE World Championship]].<ref>{{cite web|title=SmackDown Live results: July 26, 2016|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/smackdown-live-july-26-2016|publisher=WWE|access-date=July 27, 2016|archive-date=August 2, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200802210955/https://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/smackdown-live-july-26-2016|url-status=live}}</ref> On the August 2 edition of ''SmackDown'', Ziggler defended his contendership against [[Bray Wyatt]]. Ziggler won the match, but was attacked afterwards by Wyatt and [[Erick Rowan]], who also laid out [[Dean Ambrose]] when he attempted to save Ziggler.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Parks|first1=Greg|title=8/2 WWE Smackdown LIVE – Parks's Complete Live Report|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/08/02/82-wwe-smackdown-live-parkss-complete-live-report/|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=August 2, 2016|archive-date=October 7, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161007001652/http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/08/02/82-wwe-smackdown-live-parkss-complete-live-report/|url-status=live}}</ref> On August 21 at SummerSlam, Ziggler was defeated by Ambrose.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestlezone.com/news/746167-wwe-summerslam-result-dolph-ziggler-vs-dean-ambrose-for-the-wwe-title|title=WWE SummerSlam Result: Dolph Ziggler vs Dean Ambrose For The WWE Title|date=August 21, 2016|access-date=August 22, 2016|archive-date=August 23, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160823021037/http://www.wrestlezone.com/news/746167-wwe-summerslam-result-dolph-ziggler-vs-dean-ambrose-for-the-wwe-title|url-status=live}}</ref> Next, Ziggler started a feud over [[The Miz]]'s Intercontinental Championship, failing to capture the title at [[Backlash (2016)|Backlash]] on September 11 after [[Maryse Ouellet|Maryse]] sprayed something at Ziggler whilst Miz distracted the referee.<ref name="backlash">{{cite web|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/09/11/backlashppvresults/|title=9/11 WWE Backlash Results – CALDWELL'S Ongoing PPV Report|author=Caldwell, James|website=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=September 11, 2016|access-date=September 11, 2016|archive-date=September 17, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160917134241/http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/09/11/backlashppvresults/|url-status=live}}</ref> After failing to win the Intercontinental title in the following weeks,<ref name="Smackdown09202016">{{cite web|last=Parks|first=Greg|title=9/20 WWE Smackdown LIVE – Parks's Complete, Real-Time Report|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/09/20/920-wwe-smackdown-live-parkss-ongoing-real-time-report/|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=September 20, 2016|archive-date=September 22, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160922124516/http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/09/20/920-wwe-smackdown-live-parkss-ongoing-real-time-report/|url-status=live}}</ref> Ziggler would defeat The Miz at [[No Mercy (2016)|No Mercy]] on October 9 to win the title in a match where he would have to retire if he lost.<ref>{{cite web|last=Silverstein|first=Adam|title=WWE No Mercy 2016 results: Ziggler wins intercontinental title, Styles retains|url=http://www.cbssports.com/general/news/wwe-no-mercy-2016-results-live-updates-matches-card-start-time-highlights/|work=[[CBS Sports]]|date=October 10, 2016|access-date=October 13, 2016|archive-date=July 29, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230729200606/https://www.cbssports.com/general/news/wwe-no-mercy-2016-results-live-updates-matches-card-start-time-highlights/|url-status=live}}</ref> However, he lost the title 37 days later against The Miz on the 900th episode of ''SmackDown''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/2016-11-15|title=WWE SmackDown LIVE, Nov. 15, 2016: The Undertaker interrupted "The Cutting Edge" with a chilling Survivor Series warning on #SDLive900|access-date=December 7, 2016|archive-date=November 19, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161119141710/http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/2016-11-15?|url-status=live}}</ref> The feud culminated in a [[Ladder match]] at the [[TLC: Tables, Ladders & Chairs (2016)|TLC: Tables, Ladders, & Chairs]] event on December 4 for the championship in what was advertised as their final match, where Ziggler was defeated.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cbssports.com/general/news/wwe-tlc-2016-results-styles-retains-title-in-epic-tlc-match-two-new-champions/|title=WWE TLC 2016 results: Styles retains title in epic TLC match, two new champions|date=December 5, 2016|access-date=December 7, 2016|archive-date=December 7, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161207091619/http://www.cbssports.com/general/news/wwe-tlc-2016-results-styles-retains-title-in-epic-tlc-match-two-new-champions/|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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On the December 13 edition of ''SmackDown'', Ziggler pinned Dean Ambrose in a fatal four-way elimination match also involving The Miz and [[Luke Harper]], to become the number one contender to AJ Styles' WWE Championship.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2681724-wwe-smackdown-live-results-reaction-and-analysis-for-december-13|title=WWE SmackDown: Live Results, Reaction and Analysis for December 13|first=The Doctor Chris|last=Mueller|website=[[Bleacher Report]]|access-date=December 14, 2016|archive-date=December 16, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161216135318/http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2681724-wwe-smackdown-live-results-reaction-and-analysis-for-december-13|url-status=live}}</ref> The following week, Baron Corbin confronted Ziggler, and the two had a match with Ziggler's number one contender's spot on the line. The match ended in a double count-out and [[Bryan Danielson|Daniel Bryan]] made the December 27 episode's WWE Championship match a triple-threat between Styles, Ziggler, and Corbin.<ref name="Smackdown12202016">{{cite web|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/12/20/1220-wwe-smackdown-live-parkss-ongoing-real-time-report/|title=12/20 WWE Smackdown LIVE – Parks's Complete, Real-Time Report|date=December 20, 2016|last=Parks|first=Greg|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=December 20, 2016|archive-date=December 21, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161221162630/http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/12/20/1220-wwe-smackdown-live-parkss-ongoing-real-time-report/|url-status=live}}</ref> In that match, Styles retained the WWE Championship after pinning Ziggler.<ref name="Smackdown12272016">{{cite web|last1=Parks|first1=Greg|title=12/27 WWE Smackdown LIVE – Parks's Complete, Real-Time Report, including three title matches, John Cena's return|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/12/27/1227-wwe-smackdown-live-parkss-ongoing-real-time-report-including-three-title-matches-john-cenas-return/|website=pwtorch.com|publisher=TDH Communications Inc.|access-date=December 27, 2016|archive-date=December 28, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161228194940/http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/12/27/1227-wwe-smackdown-live-parkss-ongoing-real-time-report-including-three-title-matches-john-cenas-return/|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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On the January 3, 2017, episode of ''SmackDown'', after he lost to Baron Corbin, [[Kalisto (wrestler)|Kalisto]] came to the save of Ziggler during a post match assault by Corbin, he superkicked Kalisto, turning [[Heel (professional wrestling)|heel]] for the first time since 2013.<ref>{{cite web|last=Martin|first=Adam|title=WWE Smackdown Results – 1/3/17 (Live from Jacksonville, Royal Rumble contract signing, Miz vs. Dean Ambrose)|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/71382-wwe-smackdown-results-1317-live-jacksonville-royal-rumble-contract-signing-miz-vs-dean-ambrose/|date=January 3, 2017|work=Wrestleview|access-date=January 3, 2017|archive-date=January 4, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170104120009/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/71382-wwe-smackdown-results-1317-live-jacksonville-royal-rumble-contract-signing-miz-vs-dean-ambrose/|url-status=live}}</ref> At [[Elimination Chamber (2017)|Elimination Chamber]] on February 12, Ziggler lost to [[Apollo Crews]] and Kalisto in two-on-one handicap match. Following the match, Ziggler attacked the victors, stomping on Crews' ankle after placing it in a chair.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2017/02/12/kellers-wwe-elimination-chamber-report-212-ongoing/|title=Keller's WWE Elimination Chamber report 2/12: Ongoing coverage including Chamber, Bliss vs. Naomi, Tag Team Turmoil, more|last=Keller|first=Wade|author-link=Wade Keller|date=February 12, 2017|access-date=February 14, 2017|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|archive-date=February 14, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170214002243/http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2017/02/12/kellers-wwe-elimination-chamber-report-212-ongoing/|url-status=live}}</ref> This led to a chairs match on the February 28 ''SmackDown'', where Ziggler was victorious.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2017/02/28/228-wwe-smackdown-live-parkss-complete-real-time-report-including-luke-harper-vs-j-styles-1-contenders-match-mickie-james-vs-becky-lynch-two-three-falls/|title=2/28 WWE Smackdown Live – Parks's Complete, Real-Time Report, including Luke Harper vs. A.J. Styles in a #1 contender's match, Mickie James vs. Becky Lynch in two-out-of-three falls|last=Parks|first=Greg|date=February 28, 2017|access-date=March 1, 2017|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|archive-date=March 1, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170301184054/http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2017/02/28/228-wwe-smackdown-live-parkss-complete-real-time-report-including-luke-harper-vs-j-styles-1-contenders-match-mickie-james-vs-becky-lynch-two-three-falls/|url-status=live}}</ref> On April 2 on the [[WrestleMania 33]] kickoff show, Ziggler was part of the [[André the Giant Memorial Battle Royal]], managing to eliminate [[R-Truth]], [[Rhyno]] and [[Tian Bing]], from which he was eliminated by the eventual winner [[Mojo Rawley]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://prowrestling.net/site/2017/04/02/powells-wrestlemania-33-kickoff-show-live-review-neville-vs-austin-aries-wwe-cruiserweight-championship-andre-giant-memorial-battle-royal/|title=Powell's WrestleMania 33 Kickoff Show live review: Neville vs. Austin Aries for the WWE Cruiserweight Championship, Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal|last=Powell|first=Jason|date=April 2, 2017|access-date=April 3, 2017|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|archive-date=April 3, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170403112128/http://prowrestling.net/site/2017/04/02/powells-wrestlemania-33-kickoff-show-live-review-neville-vs-austin-aries-wwe-cruiserweight-championship-andre-giant-memorial-battle-royal/|url-status=live}}</ref> He lost to [[Shinsuke Nakamura]] at [[Backlash (2017)|Backlash]] on May 21.<ref name="Smackdown05092017">{{cite web|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2017/05/09/kellers-wwe-smackdown-report-59-full-report-analysis-london-based-show-including-latest-backlash-hype-owens-styles-orton-jinder/|title=KELLER'S WWE SMACKDOWN REPORT 5/9: Full report and analysis of London-based show including latest Backlash hype for Owens-Styles, Orton-Jinder|date=May 9, 2017|last=Keller|first=Wade|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=May 10, 2017|archive-date=May 21, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170521133225/http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2017/05/09/kellers-wwe-smackdown-report-59-full-report-analysis-london-based-show-including-latest-backlash-hype-owens-styles-orton-jinder/|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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After some time away from TV, Ziggler returned on the August 22 edition of ''SmackDown Live'' to declare that he would undergo a gimmick change on the following week's edition.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestlinginc.com/wi/news/2017/0822/630471/dolph-ziggler-returns-to-smackdown-video/|title=Kurt Angle On Shelton Benjamin, Dolph Ziggler Returns To WWE TV (Video), 205 Live No DQ Match Set - WrestlingInc.com|date=August 23, 2017|access-date=August 23, 2017|archive-date=October 23, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171023192858/http://www.wrestlinginc.com/wi/news/2017/0822/630471/dolph-ziggler-returns-to-smackdown-video/|url-status=live}}</ref> He later started mocking, week after week, the entrances of current and former wrestlers such as [[John Cena]], [[Naomi (wrestler)|Naomi]], [[Shawn Michaels]] and [[Randy Savage]]. Ziggler believed that fans only cared about elaborated entrances, and not about the in-ring performances, where he claimed he was the best. This led to a feud with [[Bobby Roode]], being defeated by him at [[Hell in a Cell (2017)|Hell in a Cell]] on October 8, but at [[Clash of Champions (2017)|Clash of Champions]] on December 17, he defeated Baron Corbin and Roode in a triple threat match to win his second United States Championship.<ref name="COC2017">{{cite web|last=Powell|first=Jason|title=Powell's WWE Clash of Champions 2017 live review: AJ Styles vs. Jinder Mahal for the WWE Championship, Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn put their WWE careers on the line vs. Randy Orton and Shinsuke Nakamura with Shane McMahon and Daniel Bryan as referees|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2017/12/17/powells-wwe-clash-champions-2017-live-review-aj-styles-vs-jinder-mahal-wwe-championship-kevin-owens-sami-zayn-put-wwe-careers-line-vs-randy-orton-shinsuke-nak/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|access-date=December 17, 2017|archive-date=December 22, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171222105022/https://prowrestling.net/site/2017/12/17/powells-wwe-clash-champions-2017-live-review-aj-styles-vs-jinder-mahal-wwe-championship-kevin-owens-sami-zayn-put-wwe-careers-line-vs-randy-orton-shinsuke-nak/|url-status=live}}</ref> On the following episode of ''SmackDown'' on December 19, Ziggler held a celebration that was a retrospective of his WWE career; he said that the fans did not deserve him and placed the title belt in the ring before leaving.<ref name="SmackDown12192017">{{cite web|last1=Barnett|first1=Jake|title=12/19 Barnett's WWE Smackdown Live TV Review: AJ Styles, Shinsuke Nakaura, and Randy Orton vs. Jinder Mahal, Kevin Owens, and Sami Zayn, The Usos vs. Chad Gable and Shelton Benjamin in a non-title match, Shane McMahon and Daniel Bryan fallout from Clash of Champions|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2017/12/19/12-19-barnetts-wwe-smackdown-live-tv-review-aj-styles-shinsuke-nakaura-randy-orton-vs-jinder-mahal-kevin-owens-sami-zayn-usos-vs-chad-gable-shelton-benjamin-non-title-mat/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|access-date=December 19, 2017|archive-date=December 23, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171223051440/https://prowrestling.net/site/2017/12/19/12-19-barnetts-wwe-smackdown-live-tv-review-aj-styles-shinsuke-nakaura-randy-orton-vs-jinder-mahal-kevin-owens-sami-zayn-usos-vs-chad-gable-shelton-benjamin-non-title-mat/|url-status=live}}</ref> A week later, general manager Daniel Bryan vacated the title.<ref name="SmackDown01162018">{{cite web|last=Keller|first=Wade|title=KELLER'S WWE SMACKDOWN REPORT 1/16: U.S. Title Tournament semi-finals with Xavier vs. Jinder, Roode vs. Mojo, Shane-Bryan drama continues|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/01/16/kellers-wwe-smackdown-report-1-16/|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=January 16, 2018|archive-date=January 17, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180117131639/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/01/16/kellers-wwe-smackdown-report-1-16/|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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Ziggler returned at the [[Royal Rumble (2018)|Royal Rumble]] on January 28, 2018, as the surprise #30 entrant in the men's Royal Rumble match. After eliminating [[Goldust]], however, Ziggler was eliminated by [[Finn Bálor]].<ref name="RR2018">{{cite web|last=Powell|first=Jason|title=WWE Royal Rumble 2018 live review: Men's and Women's Royal Rumble matches, Brock Lesnar vs. Braun Strowman vs. Kane for the WWE Universal Championship, AJ Styles vs. Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn in a handicap match for the WWE Championship|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2018/01/28/wwe-royal-rumble-2018-live-review-mens-womens-royal-rumble-matches-brock-lesnar-vs-braun-strowman-vs-kane-wwe-universal-championship-aj-styles-vs-kevin-owens-sami-zayn-han/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|access-date=January 28, 2018|date=January 28, 2018|archive-date=January 29, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180129080616/https://prowrestling.net/site/2018/01/28/wwe-royal-rumble-2018-live-review-mens-womens-royal-rumble-matches-brock-lesnar-vs-braun-strowman-vs-kane-wwe-universal-championship-aj-styles-vs-kevin-owens-sami-zayn-han/|url-status=live}}</ref> He would be involved at [[Fastlane (2018)|Fastlane]] on March 11 in a [[Professional wrestling match types#Basic non-elimination matches|six pack challenge]] for the WWE Championship, where the champion AJ Styles retained. Next month, Ziggler took part in the [[André the Giant Memorial Battle Royal]] at [[WrestleMania 34]] on April 8, but did not win the trophy. |
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====Alliance with Drew McIntyre (2018–2019)==== |
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[[File:Dolph Ziggler March 2018.jpg|thumb|Ziggler in March 2018]] |
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On April 16, Ziggler was moved to Raw as part of the [[2018 WWE Superstar Shake-up|Superstar Shake-up]], and that night, he allied himself with the returning [[Drew McIntyre]] to attack Titus Worldwide ([[Titus O'Neil]] and [[Apollo Crews]]),<ref>{{cite web |title=Dolph Ziggler and Drew McIntyre attacked Titus Worldwide |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2018-04-16#full-detail-40041581 |website=WWE.com |access-date=April 16, 2018 |archive-date=April 17, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180417013547/http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2018-04-16#full-detail-40041581 |url-status=live }}</ref> whom they defeated the following week.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Benigno |first1=Anthony |title=Dolph Ziggler & Drew McIntyre def. Titus Worldwide |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2018-04-23/article/dolph-ziggler-drew-mcintyre-def-titus-worldwide |website=WWE.com |access-date=April 23, 2018 |archive-date=July 17, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180717095936/https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2018-04-23/article/dolph-ziggler-drew-mcintyre-def-titus-worldwide |url-status=live }}</ref> On the June 18 episode of ''Raw'', Ziggler answered [[Seth Rollins]]' open challenge for the Intercontinental Championship and defeated Rollins to capture the title for a sixth time.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Benigno |first1=Anthony |title=Dolph Ziggler def. Seth Rollins to become the new Intercontinental Champion |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2018-06-18/article/dolph-ziggler-def-seth-rollins-win-intercontinental-championship |website=WWE.com |access-date=June 18, 2018 |archive-date=June 19, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180619090451/https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2018-06-18/article/dolph-ziggler-def-seth-rollins-win-intercontinental-championship |url-status=live }}</ref> After weeks of McIntyre assisting Ziggler in all situations,<ref>{{cite web |last1=Benigno |first1=Anthony |title=Seth Rollins def. Intercontinental Champion Dolph Ziggler via Disqualification |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2018-06-25/article/seth-rollins-def-intercontinental-champion-dolph-ziggler |website=WWE.com |access-date=June 25, 2018 |archive-date=June 26, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180626111706/https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2018-06-25/article/seth-rollins-def-intercontinental-champion-dolph-ziggler |url-status=live }}</ref> including [[Extreme Rules (2018)|Extreme Rules]] on July 15 where Ziggler defeated Rollins 5–4 in sudden death overtime of a 30-Minute [[Iron Man match]],<ref>{{cite web |last1=Benigno |first1=Anthony |title=Intercontinental Champion Dolph Ziggler def. Seth Rollins (30-Minute WWE Iron Man Match) |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/extremerules/2018/dolph-ziggler-seth-rollins-results |website=WWE.com |access-date=July 15, 2018 |archive-date=July 16, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180716111727/https://www.wwe.com/shows/extremerules/2018/dolph-ziggler-seth-rollins-results |url-status=live }}</ref> [[Dean Ambrose]] returned on the August 13 episode of ''Raw'' to even the odds for Rollins.<ref>{{cite web |title=Dean Ambrose returned to help Seth Rollins attack Intercontinental Champion Dolph Ziggler and Drew McIntyre |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2018-08-13#full-detail-40047080 |website=WWE.com |access-date=August 13, 2018 |archive-date=August 14, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180814165856/https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2018-08-13#full-detail-40047080 |url-status=live }}</ref> At [[SummerSlam (2018)|SummerSlam]] on August 19, Ziggler lost the championship to Rollins, who had Ambrose in his corner.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Pappolla |first1=Ryan |title=Seth Rollins def. Dolph Ziggler to win the Intercontinental Championship |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/summerslam-2018/dolph-ziggler-seth-rollins-results |website=WWE.com |access-date=August 19, 2018 |archive-date=August 20, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180820074800/https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/summerslam-2018/dolph-ziggler-seth-rollins-results |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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On the September 3 episode of ''Raw'', Ziggler and McIntyre temporarily formed a stable with [[Braun Strowman]] known as "The Dogs of War" to combat the newly reunited [[The Shield (professional wrestling)|The Shield]] ([[Roman Reigns]], Seth Rollins and Dean Ambrose). Later that night, they won the [[WWE Raw Tag Team Championship|Raw Tag Team Championship]] by defeating The B-Team ([[Bo Dallas]] and [[Curtis Axel]]).<ref>{{cite web |last1=Benigno |first1=Anthony |title=Dolph Ziggler & Drew McIntyre def. The B-Team to become the new Raw Tag Team Champions |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2018-09-03/article/dolph-ziggler-drew-mcintyre-win-raw-tag-team-titles |website=WWE.com |access-date=September 3, 2018 |archive-date=September 4, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180904084936/https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2018-09-03/article/dolph-ziggler-drew-mcintyre-win-raw-tag-team-titles |url-status=live }}</ref> They then successfully defended their titles at [[Hell in a Cell (2018)|Hell in a Cell]] on September 16 against Rollins and Ambrose.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Instant-classic title bout ends in thrilling fashion as Ziggler & McIntyre deny Ambrose & Rollins |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/hellinacell/2018/dolph-ziggler-drew-mcIntrye-seth-rollins-dean-ambrose-results |access-date=September 14, 2022 |website=WWE |language=en |archive-date=May 31, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190531203904/https://www.wwe.com/shows/hellinacell/2018/dolph-ziggler-drew-mcintrye-seth-rollins-dean-ambrose-results |url-status=live }}</ref> At the [[WWE Super Show-Down|Super Show-Down]] event on October 6, Ziggler teamed with McIntyre and Strowman in a losing effort to The Shield in a six-man tag team match.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwe-super-show-down/article/wwe-super-show-down-2018-results|title=WWE Super Show-Down 2018 results|publisher=[[WWE]]|date=October 6, 2018|access-date=October 6, 2018|archive-date=April 11, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190411063646/https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwe-super-show-down/article/wwe-super-show-down-2018-results|url-status=live}}</ref> Over the next two weeks, the respective groups faced each other again on ''Raw'', with The Dogs of War winning the first match,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/10/08/10-8-wwe-raw-results-kellers-report-on-super-show-down-fallout-as-they-head-to-evolution-and-crown-jewel-in-saudi-arabia/|title=10/8 WWE Raw Results: Keller's report on Super Show-down fallout as they head to Evolution and Crown Jewel in Saudi Arabia|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|first=Wade|last=Keller|date=October 8, 2018|access-date=October 13, 2018|archive-date=May 31, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190531210815/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/10/08/10-8-wwe-raw-results-kellers-report-on-super-show-down-fallout-as-they-head-to-evolution-and-crown-jewel-in-saudi-arabia/|url-status=live}}</ref> but losing the latter after Ziggler got pinned by Ambrose.<ref name="Raw1015">{{Cite news|url=https://www.f4wonline.com/wwe-results/wwe-raw-live-results-world-cup-qualifiers-267916|title=WWE Raw live results: World Cup qualifiers|date=October 15, 2018|work=WON/F4W - WWE news, Pro Wrestling News, WWE Results, UFC News, UFC results|access-date=October 16, 2018|language=en|archive-date=October 16, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181016033932/https://www.f4wonline.com/wwe-results/wwe-raw-live-results-world-cup-qualifiers-267916|url-status=live}}</ref> During both matches, tensions arose between Ziggler, McIntyre and Strowman, who felt he was carrying the group. After losing the last match, Strowman turned on Ziggler and attacked him, before being attacked by McIntyre.<ref name="Raw1015"/> |
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Ziggler and McIntyre lost the Raw Tag Team Championship to Rollins and Ambrose on the October 22 episode of ''Raw'' after interference from Braun Strowman.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Powell|first1=Jason|title=10/22 Powell's WWE Raw Live TV Review: Roman Reigns announces he has leukemia, forfeits the WWE Universal Championship, Drew McIntyre and Dolph Ziggler vs. Seth Rollins and Dean Ambrose for the Raw Tag Titles, Ronda Rousey and Nikki Bella contract signing for WWE Evolution, Triple H and Shawn Michaels appear|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2018/10/22/10-22-powells-wwe-raw-live-tv-review-drew-mcintyre-and-dolph-ziggler-vs-seth-rollins-and-dean-ambrose-for-the-raw-tag-titles-ronda-rousey-and-nikki-bella-contract-signing-for-wwe-evolution/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|access-date=October 22, 2018|date=October 22, 2018|archive-date=October 23, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181023080253/https://prowrestling.net/site/2018/10/22/10-22-powells-wwe-raw-live-tv-review-drew-mcintyre-and-dolph-ziggler-vs-seth-rollins-and-dean-ambrose-for-the-raw-tag-titles-ronda-rousey-and-nikki-bella-contract-signing-for-wwe-evolution/|url-status=live}}</ref> On the December 3 episode of ''Raw'', the alliance between Ziggler and McIntyre ended when McIntyre claimed that Ziggler was "a means to an end to get him into a prominent position" and ended their association. The two later faced each other in a match which Ziggler won after interference from [[Finn Bálor]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/12/03/12-3-wwe-raw-results-kellers-report-on-a-show-that-is-likely-going-to-have-a-lot-of-baron-corbin-in-it-like-it-or-not/|title=12/3 WWE Raw Results: Keller's report on a show that is likely going to have a lot of Baron Corbin in it, like it or not|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|first=Wade|last=Keller|date=December 3, 2018|access-date=February 25, 2019|archive-date=January 1, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190101145528/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/12/03/12-3-wwe-raw-results-kellers-report-on-a-show-that-is-likely-going-to-have-a-lot-of-baron-corbin-in-it-like-it-or-not/|url-status=live}}</ref> After the three men had traded wins among each other and interfered in each other's matches over the next few weeks,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/12/10/12-10-wwe-raw-results-kellers-report-on-an-episode-that-might-set-another-new-record-for-lowest-raw-rating-ever/|title=12/10 WWE Raw Results: Keller's report on an episode that might set another new record for lowest Raw rating ever|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|first=Wade|last=Keller|date=December 10, 2018|access-date=February 25, 2019|archive-date=February 25, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190225223755/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/12/10/12-10-wwe-raw-results-kellers-report-on-an-episode-that-might-set-another-new-record-for-lowest-raw-rating-ever/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/12/17/12-17-wwe-raw-results-kellers-report-on-vince-mcmahon-shaking-things-up-tlc-fallout-balor-vs-zigg/|title=12/17 WWE Raw Results: Keller's report on Vince McMahon shaking things up, TLC fallout, Balor vs. Ziggler|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|first=Wade|last=Keller|date=December 17, 2018|access-date=February 25, 2019|archive-date=March 30, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190330042556/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/12/17/12-17-wwe-raw-results-kellers-report-on-vince-mcmahon-shaking-things-up-tlc-fallout-balor-vs-zigg/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/12/24/12-24-wwe-monday-night-raw-results-kellers-report-and-analysis-on-special-christmas-themed-episode-including-rousey-vs-natalya-corbin-vs-seth-lashley-vs-elias/|title=12/24 WWE Monday Night Raw Results: Keller's report and analysis on special Christmas-themed episode including Rousey vs. Natalya, Corbin vs. Seth, Lashley vs. Elias|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|first=Wade|last=Keller|date=December 24, 2018|access-date=February 25, 2019|archive-date=February 25, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190225223751/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/12/24/12-24-wwe-monday-night-raw-results-kellers-report-and-analysis-on-special-christmas-themed-episode-including-rousey-vs-natalya-corbin-vs-seth-lashley-vs-elias/|url-status=live}}</ref> McIntyre defeated Ziggler in a cage match on the December 31 episode of ''Raw''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/12/31/12-31-wwe-raw-results-kellers-report-on-new-years-eve-edition-including-lashley-seth-rousey-crews-drew-dolph-sasha-all-in-action/|title=12/31 WWE Raw Results: Keller's report on New Year's Eve edition including Lashley, Seth, Rousey, Crews, Drew, Dolph, Sasha all in action|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|first=Wade|last=Keller|date=December 31, 2018|access-date=February 25, 2019|archive-date=April 21, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190421140401/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/12/31/12-31-wwe-raw-results-kellers-report-on-new-years-eve-edition-including-lashley-seth-rousey-crews-drew-dolph-sasha-all-in-action/|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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After this, Ziggler was off television until his appearance at the Royal Rumble match at the [[Royal Rumble (2019)|titular event]] on January 27, 2019, as participant number 28, eliminating McIntyre and lasting until the final three, before being eliminated by Braun Strowman.<ref>{{cite web|last=Powell|first=Jason|title=Powell's WWE Royal Rumble 2019 live review: Men's and Women's Royal Rumble matches, Brock Lesnar vs. Finn Balor for the WWE Universal Championship, Daniel Bryan vs. AJ Styles for the WWE Championship, Ronda Rousey vs. Sasha Banks for the Raw Women's Championship|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2019/01/27/powells-wwe-royal-rumble-2019-live-review-mens-and-womens-royal-rumble-matches-brock-lesnar-vs-finn-balor-for-the-wwe-universal-championship-daniel-bryan-vs-aj-styles-for-the-wwe-championsh/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|access-date=January 27, 2019|date=January 27, 2019|archive-date=January 28, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190128082804/https://prowrestling.net/site/2019/01/27/powells-wwe-royal-rumble-2019-live-review-mens-and-womens-royal-rumble-matches-brock-lesnar-vs-finn-balor-for-the-wwe-universal-championship-daniel-bryan-vs-aj-styles-for-the-wwe-championsh/|url-status=live}}</ref> He would then disappear again from WWE television without notice due to a [[#Stand-up comedy|stand-up comedy tour]] that started following the Royal Rumble.<ref name="comedy">{{cite web|url=http://www.prowrestlingsheet.com/dolph-ziggler-comedy-tour/|title=Dolph Ziggler To Hit The Road With Comedy Tour|work=Pro Wrestling Sheet|first=Ryan|last=Satin|author-link=Ryan Satin|date=December 10, 2018|access-date=March 14, 2019|archive-date=March 20, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190320015849/http://www.prowrestlingsheet.com/dolph-ziggler-comedy-tour|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.wkyc.com/article/entertainment/wwe-star-dolph-ziggler-bringing-stand-up-comedy-show-to-hometown-of-cleveland/95-b251f100-7c6c-4f8f-b1e6-c998425fd8bc|title=WWE star Dolph Ziggler bringing stand-up comedy show to hometown of Cleveland|work=[[WKCY-FM|WKCY]]|first=Ben|last=Axelrod|date=December 14, 2018|access-date=March 14, 2019|archive-date=October 26, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231026064504/https://www.wkyc.com/article/entertainment/wwe-star-dolph-ziggler-bringing-stand-up-comedy-show-to-hometown-of-cleveland/95-b251f100-7c6c-4f8f-b1e6-c998425fd8bc|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://411mania.com/wrestling/dolph-ziggler-wasnt-told-he-would-be-at-royal-rumble-until-night-before-is-still-on-vacation/|title=411MANIA|website=Dolph Ziggler Wasn't Told He Would Be at Royal Rumble Until Night Before, Is Still 'On Vacation'|access-date=October 18, 2019|archive-date=April 20, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190420065509/https://411mania.com/wrestling/dolph-ziggler-wasnt-told-he-would-be-at-royal-rumble-until-night-before-is-still-on-vacation/|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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==== The Dirty Dawgs (2019–2022) ==== |
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{{main|Dolph Ziggler and Robert Roode|l1=The Dirty Dawgs}} |
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After a four-month hiatus, Ziggler returned on the May 21 episode of ''SmackDown Live'', attacking [[WWE Championship|WWE Champion]] [[Kofi Kingston]].<ref>{{cite web|last1=Pappolla|first1=Ryan|title=Kofi Kingston def. Sami Zayn; Dolph Ziggler returned and brutally attacked Kofi|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/2019-05-21/article/kofi-kingston-def-sami-zayn|website=WWE.com|access-date=May 21, 2019|archive-date=October 26, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231026064513/https://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/2019-05-21/article/kofi-kingston-def-sami-zayn|url-status=live}}</ref> Ziggler failed to win the title from Kingston at [[Super ShowDown (2019)|Super ShowDown]] on June 7 and [[WWE Stomping Grounds|Stomping Grounds]] on June 23 in a [[steel cage match]], ending their long-time feud.<ref name="wwe.com">{{cite web |last1=Melok |first1=Bobby |title=WWE Champion Kofi Kingston def. Dolph Ziggler |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwe-super-showdown/2019/kofi-kingston-vs-dolph-ziggler-results |website=WWE.com |access-date=June 7, 2019 |archive-date=June 7, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190607232618/https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwe-super-showdown/2019/kofi-kingston-vs-dolph-ziggler-results |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="WWE Champion Kofi Kingston def. Dol">{{cite web |last1=Pappolla |first1=Ryan |title=WWE Champion Kofi Kingston def. Dolph Ziggler (Steel Cage Match) |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwe-stomping-grounds/2019/kofi-kingston-vs-dolph-ziggler-results |website=WWE.com |access-date=June 23, 2019 |archive-date=June 26, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190626182525/https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwe-stomping-grounds/2019/kofi-kingston-vs-dolph-ziggler-results |url-status=live }}</ref> At [[Extreme Rules (2019)|Extreme Rules]] on July 14, he lost to [[Kevin Owens]] in only 17 seconds<ref>{{cite web |last1=Benigno |first1=Anthony |title=Kevin Owens def. Dolph Ziggler |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/extremerules/extreme-rules-2019/kevin-owens-vs-dolph-ziggler-results |website=WWE.com |access-date=July 14, 2019 |archive-date=July 15, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190715042222/https://www.wwe.com/shows/extremerules/extreme-rules-2019/kevin-owens-vs-dolph-ziggler-results |url-status=live }}</ref> and failed to win the WWE Championship from Kingston in a triple threat match also including [[Samoa Joe]] at [[Smackville]] on July 27.<ref>{{Cite web |last=MacDonald |first=Josiah |date=July 27, 2019 |title=WWE Smackville live results: Kingston vs. Joe vs. Ziggler |url=https://www.f4wonline.com/news/wwe/results/wwe-smackville-live-results-kingston-vs-joe-vs-ziggler-288866 |access-date=September 13, 2022 |website=[[Wrestling Observer Newsletter]] |archive-date=September 14, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220914025225/https://www.f4wonline.com/news/wwe/results/wwe-smackville-live-results-kingston-vs-joe-vs-ziggler-288866 |url-status=live }}</ref> On the July 23 episode of ''SmackDown Live'', Ziggler interrupted ''Miz TV'' featuring [[Shawn Michaels]] and attacked Michaels and [[The Miz]].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Pappolla |first1=Ryan |title=Dolph Ziggler attacked Shawn Michaels and The Miz during "Miz TV" |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/2019-07-23/article/miz-tv |website=WWE.com |access-date=July 23, 2019 |archive-date=August 27, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190827191229/https://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/2019-07-23/article/miz-tv |url-status=live }}</ref> This led to a match against [[Bill Goldberg|Goldberg]] at [[SummerSlam (2019)|SummerSlam]] on August 11, being defeated in a short match.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Pappolla |first1=Ryan |title=Goldberg def. Dolph Ziggler |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/2019/goldberg-vs-dolph-ziggler-results |website=WWE.com |access-date=August 11, 2019 |archive-date=August 12, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190812012034/https://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/2019/goldberg-vs-dolph-ziggler-results |url-status=live }}</ref> |
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On the August 26 episode of ''Raw'', Ziggler teamed with [[Bobby Roode|Robert Roode]] to win a tag-team turmoil match, earning a [[WWE Raw Tag Team Championship|Raw Tag Team Championship]] match at [[Clash of Champions (2019)|Clash of Champions]].<ref name="Raw08262019">{{Cite web|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2019/08/26/8-26-wwe-raw-results-powells-review-of-ricochet-vs-drew-mcintyre-and-baron-corbin-vs-the-miz-in-first-round-king-of-the-ring-tournament-matches-smackdown-womens-champion-bayley-vs-nikki-cross/|title=8/26 WWE Raw Results: Powell's review of Ricochet vs. Drew McIntyre and Baron Corbin vs. The Miz in first round King of the Ring tournament matches, Smackdown Women's Champion Bayley vs. Nikki Cross, the build to Clash of Champions continues|date=August 26, 2019|website=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|access-date=August 30, 2019|archive-date=August 27, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190827042548/https://prowrestling.net/site/2019/08/26/8-26-wwe-raw-results-powells-review-of-ricochet-vs-drew-mcintyre-and-baron-corbin-vs-the-miz-in-first-round-king-of-the-ring-tournament-matches-smackdown-womens-champion-bayley-vs-nikki-cross/|url-status=live}}</ref> At the event on September 15, Ziggler and Roode won the titles from [[Seth Rollins]] and [[Braun Strowman]].<ref name="COC2019">{{cite web|last=Powell|first=Jason|title=WWE Clash of Champions results: Powell's live review of Seth Rollins vs. Braun Strowman for the WWE Universal Championship, Kofi Kingston vs. Randy Orton for the WWE Championship, Becky Lynch vs. Sasha Banks for the Raw Women's Championship|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2019/09/15/wwe-clash-of-champions-results-powells-live-review-of-seth-rollins-vs-braun-strowman-for-the-wwe-universal-championship-kofi-kingston-vs-randy-orton-for-the-wwe-championship-becky-lynch-vs-sas/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|access-date=September 15, 2019|date=September 15, 2019|archive-date=September 16, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190916182012/https://prowrestling.net/site/2019/09/15/wwe-clash-of-champions-results-powells-live-review-of-seth-rollins-vs-braun-strowman-for-the-wwe-universal-championship-kofi-kingston-vs-randy-orton-for-the-wwe-championship-becky-lynch-vs-sas/|url-status=live}}</ref> On the October 14 episode of ''Raw'', Ziggler and Roode lost the titles to [[The Viking Raiders]] ([[Erik (wrestler)|Erik]] and [[Ivar (wrestler)|Ivar]]), ending their reign at 29 days, and they were drafted to the [[SmackDown (brand)|SmackDown]] [[WWE brand extension|brand]] as part of the [[2019 WWE Draft]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Middleton|first=Marc|url=https://www.wrestlinginc.com/news/2019/10/wwe-draft-night-2-fourth-round-picks-carmella-660762/|title=WWE Draft Night 2 Fourth Round Picks - Carmella, R-Truth, Robert Roode And Dolph Ziggler, Others|work=Wrestling Inc.|date=October 14, 2019|access-date=October 15, 2019|archive-date=October 15, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191015053724/https://www.wrestlinginc.com/news/2019/10/wwe-draft-night-2-fourth-round-picks-carmella-660762/|url-status=live}}</ref> At [[Survivor Series (2019)|Survivor Series]] on November 24, Ziggler and Roode won a 10-team [[Glossary of professional wrestling terms#I|Interbrand]] [[Battle royal (professional wrestling)#Team variations|Tag Team Battle Royal]].<ref>{{cite web|last1=Benigno|first1=Anthony|title=Dolph Ziggler & Robert Roode won a cross-brand Tag Team Battle Royal (Kickoff Match)|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/survivor-series/2019/battle-royal-results|work=WWE|date=November 24, 2019|access-date=November 24, 2019|archive-date=December 7, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191207161932/https://www.wwe.com/shows/survivor-series/2019/battle-royal-results|url-status=live}}</ref> In the following weeks, they aligned themselves with [[King Corbin]] during his feud against [[Roman Reigns]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2019/11/29/11-29-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-powells-review-of-a-new-face-in-bray-wyatts-firefly-funhouse-new-days-open-challenge-for-a-smackdown-tag-title-match-roman-reigns-opening-the-show/|title=11/29 WWE Friday Night Smackdown results: Powell's review of a new face in Bray Wyatt's Firefly Funhouse, New Day's open challenge for a Smackdown Tag Title match, Roman Reigns opening the show|date=November 29, 2019|last=Powell|first=Jason|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|access-date=November 30, 2019|archive-date=December 25, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191225050318/https://prowrestling.net/site/2019/11/29/11-29-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-powells-review-of-a-new-face-in-bray-wyatts-firefly-funhouse-new-days-open-challenge-for-a-smackdown-tag-title-match-roman-reigns-opening-the-show/|url-status=live}}</ref> On January 26, 2020, at the [[Royal Rumble (2020)|Royal Rumble]], Ziggler entered the Royal Rumble match at number 19, but was eliminated by Reigns.<ref>{{cite web|last=Powell|first=Jason|title=WWE Royal Rumble results: Powell's live review of the Royal Rumble matches, "The Fiend" Bray Wyatt vs. Daniel Bryan in a strap match for the WWE Universal Championship, Becky Lynch vs. Asuka for the Raw Women's Championship|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2020/01/26/wwe-royal-rumble-results-powells-live-review-of-the-royal-rumble-matches-the-fiend-bray-wyatt-vs-daniel-bryan-in-a-strap-match-for-the-wwe-universal-championship-becky-lynch-vs-asuka-for-th/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|access-date=January 26, 2020|date=January 26, 2020|archive-date=January 27, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200127093709/https://prowrestling.net/site/2020/01/26/wwe-royal-rumble-results-powells-live-review-of-the-royal-rumble-matches-the-fiend-bray-wyatt-vs-daniel-bryan-in-a-strap-match-for-the-wwe-universal-championship-becky-lynch-vs-asuka-for-th/|url-status=live}}</ref> At [[Super ShowDown (2020)|Super ShowDown]] on February 27, Ziggler lost to [[Mansoor (wrestler)|Mansoor]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Powell|first=Jason|title=WWE Super ShowDown results: Powell's live review of "The Fiend" Bray Wyatt vs. Goldberg for the WWE Universal Championship, Brock Lesnar vs. Ricochet for the WWE Championship, Big E and Kofi Kingston vs. The Miz and John Morrison for the Smackdown Tag Titles|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2020/02/27/wwe-super-showdown-results-powells-live-review-of-the-fiend-bray-wyatt-vs-goldberg-for-the-wwe-universal-championship-brock-lesnar-vs-ricochet-for-the-wwe-championship-big-e-and-kofi-kingst/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|date=February 27, 2020|access-date=February 27, 2020|archive-date=February 29, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200229152833/https://prowrestling.net/site/2020/02/27/wwe-super-showdown-results-powells-live-review-of-the-fiend-bray-wyatt-vs-goldberg-for-the-wwe-universal-championship-brock-lesnar-vs-ricochet-for-the-wwe-championship-big-e-and-kofi-kingst/|url-status=live}}</ref> At [[Elimination Chamber (2020)|Elimination Chamber]] on March 8, Ziggler and Roode competed in the [[elimination chamber|namesake match]] for the SmackDown Tag Team Championship, where the champions [[The Miz and John Morrison]] retained.<ref>{{cite web|last=Powell|first=Jason|title=WWE Elimination Chamber results: Powell's live review of Shayna Baszler vs. Asuka vs. Ruby Riott vs. Liv Morgan vs. Sarah Logan vs. Natalya in an Elimination Chamber match for a shot at the Raw Women's Championship at WrestleMania 36, Smackdown Tag Title Elimination Chamber match|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2020/03/08/wwe-elimination-chamber-results-powells-live-review-of-shayna-baszler-vs-asuka-vs-ruby-riott-vs-liv-morgan-vs-sarah-logan-vs-natalya-in-an-elimination-chamber-match-for-a-shot-at-the-raw-women/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|date=March 8, 2020|access-date=March 8, 2020|archive-date=March 22, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200322144823/https://prowrestling.net/site/2020/03/08/wwe-elimination-chamber-results-powells-live-review-of-shayna-baszler-vs-asuka-vs-ruby-riott-vs-liv-morgan-vs-sarah-logan-vs-natalya-in-an-elimination-chamber-match-for-a-shot-at-the-raw-women/|url-status=live}}</ref> In March, due to the outbreak of the [[COVID-19 pandemic]], Roode was forced to stay in his native [[Canada]], putting the team on hiatus. |
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At the same time, Ziggler entered a feud with [[Otis (wrestler)|Otis]] over the affections of [[Mandy Rose]], using underhanded tactics to secure a [[Valentine's Day]] date and short-term relationship, but was soon exposed.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/truth-heard-sonya-deville-behind-mandy-rose-and-dolph-ziggler-relationship|website=Fightful|title=The Truth Is Heard: Sonya Deville Behind Mandy Rose And Dolph Ziggler Relationship|last=Lamber|first=Jeremy|date=April 3, 2020|access-date=April 6, 2020|archive-date=May 8, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200508005152/https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/truth-heard-sonya-deville-behind-mandy-rose-and-dolph-ziggler-relationship|url-status=live}}</ref> On the second night of [[WrestleMania 36]] on April 5, Ziggler lost to Otis.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Powell|first1=Jason|title=WrestleMania 36 results: Powell's live review of Night Two featuring Brock Lesnar vs. Drew McIntyre for the WWE Championship, John Cena vs. "The Fiend" Bray Wyatt in a Firefly Funhouse match, Edge vs. Randy Orton in a Last Man Standing match, Rhea Ripley vs. Charlotte Flair for the NXT Women's Championship|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2020/04/05/wrestlemania-36-results-powells-live-review-of-night-two-featuring-brock-lesnar-vs-drew-mcintyre-for-the-wwe-championship-john-cena-vs-the-fiend-bray-wyatt-in-a-firefly-funhouse-match/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|date=April 5, 2020|access-date=April 5, 2020|archive-date=April 6, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200406115513/https://prowrestling.net/site/2020/04/05/wrestlemania-36-results-powells-live-review-of-night-two-featuring-brock-lesnar-vs-drew-mcintyre-for-the-wwe-championship-john-cena-vs-the-fiend-bray-wyatt-in-a-firefly-funhouse-match/|url-status=live}}</ref> After a few more assaults and promos, the feud ended when Otis defeated Ziggler in a Money in the Bank qualifying match.<ref>{{cite web|last=Barnett|first=Jake|title=5/1 WWE Friday Night Smackdown results: Barnett's review of Otis vs. Dolph Ziggler and Mandy Rose vs. Carmella in Money in the Bank qualifiers, Daniel Bryan vs. King Corbin, Big E and Kofi Kingston vs. The Forgotten Sons|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2020/05/01/5-1-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-barnetts-review-of-otis-vs-dolph-ziggler-and-mandy-rose-vs-carmella-in-money-in-the-bank-qualifiers-daniel-bryan-vs-king-corbin-big-e-and-kofi-kingston-v/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|date=May 1, 2020|access-date=May 1, 2020|archive-date=May 7, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200507104651/https://prowrestling.net/site/2020/05/01/5-1-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-barnetts-review-of-otis-vs-dolph-ziggler-and-mandy-rose-vs-carmella-in-money-in-the-bank-qualifiers-daniel-bryan-vs-king-corbin-big-e-and-kofi-kingston-v/|url-status=live}}</ref> On the June 22 episode of ''Raw'', it was announced that Ziggler and Roode were traded to the Raw brand for [[A.J. Styles]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2020-06-22|title=Raw results, June 22, 2020: Seth Rollins' next sacrifice foiled by Rey Mysterio and allies|work=[[WWE]]|date=June 22, 2020|access-date=July 19, 2020|archive-date=August 14, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200814175951/https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2020-06-22|url-status=live}}</ref> On that night, Ziggler issued a challenge to WWE Champion [[Drew McIntyre]], which McIntyre accepted for [[The Horror Show at Extreme Rules]].<ref>{{cite web|last1=Powell|first1=Jason|title=6/22 WWE Raw Results: Powell's live review of Championship Monday featuring Asuka vs. Charlotte Flair for the Raw Women's Championship, The Street Profits vs. The Viking Raiders for the Raw Tag Titles, Sasha Banks and Bayley vs. The IIconics for the WWE Women's Tag Titles|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2020/06/22/6-22-wwe-raw-results-powells-live-review-of-championship-monday-featuring-asuka-vs-charlotte-flair-for-the-raw-womens-championship-the-street-profits-vs-the-viking-raiders-for-the-raw-tag/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|date=June 22, 2020|access-date=June 23, 2020|archive-date=June 4, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220604204745/https://prowrestling.net/site/2020/06/22/6-22-wwe-raw-results-powells-live-review-of-championship-monday-featuring-asuka-vs-charlotte-flair-for-the-raw-womens-championship-the-street-profits-vs-the-viking-raiders-for-the-raw-tag/|url-status=live}}</ref> At the event on July 19, Ziggler failed to win the title.<ref>{{cite web|last=Garretson|first=Jordan|title=WWE Champion Drew McIntyre def. Dolph Ziggler|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/extremerules/extreme-rules-2020/wwe-champion-drew-mcintyre-def-dolph-ziggler|work=WWE|date=July 19, 2020|access-date=July 19, 2020|archive-date=February 6, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210206104604/https://www.wwe.com/shows/extremerules/extreme-rules-2020/wwe-champion-drew-mcintyre-def-dolph-ziggler|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Powell|first1=Jason|title=WWE Extreme Rules results: Powell's review of Seth Rollins vs. Rey Mysterio in An Eye For An Eye match, WWE Universal Champion Braun Strowman vs. Bray Wyatt in a non-title Swamp Fight, Asuka vs. Sasha Banks for the Raw Women's Championship, Drew McIntyre vs. Dolph Ziggler for the WWE Championship|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2020/07/19/wwe-extreme-rules-results-powells-review-of-seth-rollins-vs-rey-mysterio-in-an-eye-for-an-eye-match-wwe-universal-champion-braun-strowman-vs-bray-wyatt-in-a-non-title-swamp-fight-asuka-vs-sash/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|date=July 19, 2020|access-date=July 19, 2020|archive-date=July 19, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200719223726/https://prowrestling.net/site/2020/07/19/wwe-extreme-rules-results-powells-review-of-seth-rollins-vs-rey-mysterio-in-an-eye-for-an-eye-match-wwe-universal-champion-braun-strowman-vs-bray-wyatt-in-a-non-title-swamp-fight-asuka-vs-sash/|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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As part of the [[2020 WWE Draft|2020 Draft]] in October, both Ziggler and Roode were drafted back to the SmackDown brand.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/10-09-2020/article/latest-wwe-draft-results-2020|title=See all the results from the 2020 Draft|date=October 9, 2020|author=WWE.com Staff|work=[[WWE]]|access-date=October 12, 2020|archive-date=November 3, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201103213249/https://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/10-09-2020/article/latest-wwe-draft-results-2020|url-status=live}}</ref> On the January 8, 2021, episode of ''SmackDown'', Ziggler and Roode defeated [[The Street Profits]] ([[Angelo Dawkins]] and [[Montez Ford]]) to win the [[SmackDown Tag Team Championship]].<ref name="SmackDown01082020">{{cite web|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2021/01/08/1-8-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-powells-review-of-daniel-bryan-vs-king-corbin-vs-sami-zayn-vs-shinsuke-nakamura-vs-rey-mysterio-in-a-gauntlet-match-for-a-shot-at-the-wwe-championship-at/|title=1/8 WWE Friday Night Smackdown results: Powell's review of Daniel Bryan vs. King Corbin vs. Sami Zayn vs. Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Rey Mysterio in a gauntlet match for a shot at the WWE Universal Championship at the Royal Rumble, Big E vs. Apollo Crews for the IC Championship, The Street Profits vs. Bobby Roode and Dolph Ziggler for the Smackdown Tag Titles|date=January 8, 2021|last=Powell|first=Jason|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|access-date=January 9, 2021|archive-date=January 24, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220124131918/https://prowrestling.net/site/2021/01/08/1-8-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-powells-review-of-daniel-bryan-vs-king-corbin-vs-sami-zayn-vs-shinsuke-nakamura-vs-rey-mysterio-in-a-gauntlet-match-for-a-shot-at-the-wwe-championship-at/|url-status=live}}</ref> They retained the titles until [[WrestleMania Backlash (2021)|WrestleMania Backlash]] , where they lost the titles to Rey and Dominik Mysterio.<ref name="040921SD">{{cite web|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2021/04/09/4-9-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-powells-review-of-the-wrestlemania-37-go-home-show-final-comments-from-roman-reigns-edge-and-daniel-bryan-andre-the-giant-battle-royal-robert-roode-and-d/|title=4/9 WWE Friday Night Smackdown results: Powell's review of the WrestleMania 37 go-home show, final comments from Roman Reigns, Edge, and Daniel Bryan, Andre the Giant Battle Royal, Robert Roode and Dolph Ziggler vs. Rey Mysterio and Dominik Mysterio vs. The Street Profits vs. Alpha Academy in a four-way for the Smackdown Tag Titles|publisher=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|first=Jason|last=Powell|date=April 9, 2021|access-date=April 10, 2021|archive-date=October 23, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211023170950/https://prowrestling.net/site/2021/04/09/4-9-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-powells-review-of-the-wrestlemania-37-go-home-show-final-comments-from-roman-reigns-edge-and-daniel-bryan-andre-the-giant-battle-royal-robert-roode-and-d/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2021/04/16/4-16-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-powells-review-of-the-wrestlemania-37-fallout-show-with-champions-roman-reigns-and-bianca-belair-robert-roode-and-dolph-ziggler-vs-the-street-profits-for-t/|title=4/16 WWE Friday Night Smackdown results: Powell's review of the WrestleMania 37 fallout show with champions Roman Reigns and Bianca Belair, Robert Roode and Dolph Ziggler vs. The Street Profits for the Smackdown Tag Titles, Rey Mysterio vs. Otis|first=Jason|last=Powell|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|date=April 16, 2021|access-date=April 22, 2022|archive-date=May 11, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210511155258/https://prowrestling.net/site/2021/04/16/4-16-wwe-friday-night-smackdown-results-powells-review-of-the-wrestlemania-37-fallout-show-with-champions-roman-reigns-and-bianca-belair-robert-roode-and-dolph-ziggler-vs-the-street-profits-for-t/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="WrestleManiaBacklash2021">{{cite web|last1=Powell|first1=Jason|title=WWE WrestleMania Backlash results: Powell's live review of Roman Reigns vs. Cesaro for the WWE Universal Championship, Bobby Lashley vs. Drew McIntyre vs. Braun Strowman for the WWE Championship, Rhea Ripley vs. Asuka vs. Charlotte Flair for the Raw Women's Championship, Bianca Belair vs. Bayley for the Smackdown Women's Championship|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2021/05/16/wwe-wrestlemania-backlash-results-powells-live-review-of-roman-reigns-vs-cesaro-for-the-wwe-universal-championship-bobby-lashley-vs-drew-mcintyre-vs-braun-strowman-for-the-wwe-championship/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|date=May 16, 2021|access-date=April 22, 2022|archive-date=May 16, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210516230328/https://prowrestling.net/site/2021/05/16/wwe-wrestlemania-backlash-results-powells-live-review-of-roman-reigns-vs-cesaro-for-the-wwe-universal-championship-bobby-lashley-vs-drew-mcintyre-vs-braun-strowman-for-the-wwe-championship/|url-status=live}}</ref> They were drafted to the [[Raw (WWE brand)|Raw brand]] in the [[2021 WWE Draft|2021 Draft]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/article/latest-wwe-draft-results-2021|title=See all the results from the 2021 Draft|access-date=October 6, 2021|archive-date=October 2, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211002011314/https://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/article/latest-wwe-draft-results-2021|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Raw10042021">{{cite web|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2021/10/04/10-4-wwe-raw-results-powells-live-review-of-the-wwe-draft-night-two-goldberg-returns-the-build-to-wwe-crown-jewel-continues/|title=10/4 WWE Raw Results: Powell's live review of the WWE Draft night two, Goldberg returns, the build to WWE Crown Jewel continues|date=October 4, 2021|last=Powell|first=Jason|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|access-date=October 5, 2021|archive-date=October 5, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211005061332/https://prowrestling.net/site/2021/10/04/10-4-wwe-raw-results-powells-live-review-of-the-wwe-draft-night-two-goldberg-returns-the-build-to-wwe-crown-jewel-continues/|url-status=live}}</ref> On the October 25 episode of ''Raw'', Ziggler and Roode defeated The Street Profits and Alpha Academy (Chad Gable and Otis) in a #1 contender's match for the [[Raw Tag Team Championship]], facing the champions, [[RK-Bro]] ([[Randy Orton]] and [[Matt Riddle|Riddle]]) for the titles later that night in a losing effort.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=October 25, 2021 |title=10/25 WWE Raw Results: Powell's live review of the "season premiere" with the new post draft roster, fallout from WWE Crown Jewel |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2021/10/25/10-25-wwe-raw-results-powells-live-review-of-the-season-premiere-with-the-new-post-draft-roster-fallout-from-wwe-crown-jewel/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211026010254/https://prowrestling.net/site/2021/10/25/10-25-wwe-raw-results-powells-live-review-of-the-season-premiere-with-the-new-post-draft-roster-fallout-from-wwe-crown-jewel/ |archive-date=October 26, 2021 |access-date=December 21, 2021 |website=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}}</ref> At [[Survivor Series (2021)|Survivor Series]] on November 21, Ziggler participated in a 25-man dual-branded battle royal to commemorate the 25th anniversary of [[Dwayne Johnson|The Rock's]] debut at the [[Survivor Series (1996)|1996 Survivor Series]], eliminating Mansoor before he was eliminated by [[AJ Styles]].<ref>{{Cite web|last=Powell|first=Jason|date=November 21, 2021|title=WWE Survivor Series results: Powell's review of Roman Reigns vs. Big E, Becky Lynch vs. Charlotte Flair, RKBro vs. The Usos, and Damian Priest vs. Shinsuke Nakamura in champion vs. champion matches, Team Raw vs. Team Smackdown in Survivor Series elimination matches|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2021/11/21/wwe-survivor-series-results-powells-review-of-roman-reigns-vs-big-e-becky-lynch-vs-charlotte-flair-rkbro-vs-the-usos-and-damian-priest-vs-shinsuke-nakamura-in-champion-vs-champion-matches/|url-status=live|access-date=December 21, 2021|website=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211122001815/https://prowrestling.net/site/2021/11/21/wwe-survivor-series-results-powells-review-of-roman-reigns-vs-big-e-becky-lynch-vs-charlotte-flair-rkbro-vs-the-usos-and-damian-priest-vs-shinsuke-nakamura-in-champion-vs-champion-matches/ |archive-date=November 22, 2021 }}</ref> Ziggler competed in the [[Royal Rumble (2022)|Royal Rumble]] on January 29, 2022, entering at No. 16 but was eliminated by [[Bad Bunny]] and [[Rey Mysterio]].<ref name="RR2022">{{cite web|last=Powell|first=Jason|title=WWE Royal Rumble results: Powell's live review of the Royal Rumble matches, Brock Lesnar vs. Bobby Lashley for the WWE Championship, Roman Reigns vs. Seth Rollins for the WWE Universal Championship, Becky Lynch vs Doudrop for the Smackdown Women's Championship|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2022/01/29/wwe-royal-rumble-results-powells-live-review-of-the-royal-rumble-matches-brock-lesnar-vs-bobby-lashley-for-the-wwe-championship-roman-reigns-vs-seth-rollins-for-the-wwe-universal-championship/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|date=January 29, 2022|access-date=January 29, 2022}}</ref> |
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==== NXT Champion (2022–2023) ==== |
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On the February 8 episode of [[NXT 2.0]], Ziggler made a surprise appearance during a segment with [[Bron Breakker]] and [[Santos Escobar]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Moore |first=John |date=February 8, 2022 |title=2/8 NXT 2.0 results: Moore's review of Mandy Rose vs. Kay Lee Ray for the NXT Women's Championship, The Creed Brothers vs. The Grizzled Young Veterans, and MSK vs. Malik Blade and Edris Enofe in Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic semifinal matches, the Bron Breakker and Santos Escobar summit |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2022/02/08/2-8-nxt-2-0-results-moores-review-of-mandy-rose-vs-kay-lee-ray-for-the-nxt-womens-championship-the-creed-brothers-vs-the-grizzled-young-veterans-and-msk-vs-malik-blade-and-edris-enofe-in-dus/ |access-date=July 15, 2022 |website=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}}</ref> At [[NXT Roadblock (2022)|NXT Roadblock]] on March 8, Ziggler defeated [[Tommaso Ciampa]] and defending champion Breakker in a [[triple threat match]] to win the [[NXT Championship]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2022/03/08/3-8-nxt-2-0-results-moores-review-of-the-roadblock-themed-show-featuring-bron-breakker-vs-dolph-ziggler-vs-tommaso-ciampa-for-the-nxt-title-fabian-aichner-and-marcel-barthel-vs-the-creed-brothe/|title=3/8 NXT 2.0 results: Moore's review of the Roadblock themed show featuring Bron Breakker vs. Dolph Ziggler vs. Tommaso Ciampa for the NXT Title, Fabian Aichner and Marcel Barthel vs. The Creed Brothers for the NXT Tag Titles, LA Knight vs. Grayson Waller in a Last Man Standing match|first=John|last=Moore|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|date=March 8, 2022|access-date=March 9, 2022}}</ref> The following week, he successfully defended his title against [[L. A. Knight]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2022/03/15/3-15-nxt-2-0-results-moores-review-of-nxt-champion-dolph-ziggler-on-miz-tv-cameron-grimes-vs-santos-escobar-in-a-qualifier-for-the-ladder-match-for-the-nxt-north-american-title-at-nxt-stand-del/|title=3/15 NXT 2.0 results: Moore's review of NXT Champion Dolph Ziggler on Miz TV, Cameron Grimes vs. Santos Escobar in a qualifier for the ladder match for the NXT North American Title at NXT Stand & Deliver, A-Kid vs. Kushida, Indi Hartwell vs. Persia Pirotta, Sarray vs. Tiffany Stratton|first=John|last=Moore|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|date=March 15, 2022|access-date=April 22, 2022}}</ref> At [[NXT Stand & Deliver (2022)|Stand & Deliver]] on April 2, he retained the title against Breakker due to interference from Roode.<ref name="NXTS&D22">{{cite web|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2022/04/02/nxt-stand-deliver-results-moores-live-review-of-dolph-ziggler-vs-bron-breakker-for-the-nxt-title-mandy-rose-vs-cora-jade-vs-io-shirai-vs-kay-lee-ray-for-the-nxt-womens-title-fabian-a/|title=NXT Stand & Deliver results: Moore's live review of Dolph Ziggler vs. Bron Breakker for the NXT Title, Mandy Rose vs. Cora Jade vs. Io Shirai vs. Kay Lee Ray for the NXT Women's Title, Fabian Aichner and Marcel Barthel vs. MSK vs. The Creed Brothers for the NXT Tag Titles, the NXT North American Title ladder match|first=John|last=Moore|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|date=April 2, 2022|access-date=April 2, 2022}}</ref> However, on the April 4 episode of ''Raw'', Ziggler lost his title to Breakker, ending his reign at 27 days.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2022/04/04/4-4-wwe-raw-results-powells-live-review-of-the-raw-after-wrestlemania-with-undisputed-wwe-universal-champion-roman-reigns-the-return-of-cody-rhodes-new-raw-womens-champion-bianca-belair-appears/|title=4/4 WWE Raw results: Powell's live review of the Raw After WrestleMania with Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns, the return of Cody Rhodes, new Raw Women's Champion Bianca Belair appears, the "debut" of Veer Mahaan|first=Jason|last=Powell|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|date=April 4, 2022|access-date=April 5, 2022}}</ref> |
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At the [[2023 WWE Draft]], he was undrafted. On the May 15 episode of ''Raw'', Ziggler competed in a battle royal to determine the #1 contender for the Intercontinental Championship at [[Night of Champions (2023)|Night of Champions]], eliminating [[JD McDonagh]], but would later get eliminated by Von Wagner. After getting eliminated, McDonagh would attack Ziggler, beginning a feud between the two.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2023-05-15|title=Raw results, May 15, 2023: Imperium help The Judgment Day score a victory over Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn|date=May 15, 2023|access-date=May 15, 2023}}</ref> On the May 29 episode of ''Raw'', Ziggler wrestled McDonagh, which ended in a double countout. McDonagh would once again attack Ziggler after the match.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2023-05-29|title=Raw results, May 29, 2023:Seth "Freakin" Rollins and AJ Styles join forces to conquer Finn Bálor & Damian Priest |date=May 15, 2023|access-date=May 15, 2023}}</ref> This would end up being Ziggler's final appearance for the company. |
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He was released on September 21, 2023, ending his 19-year tenure with the company.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Lambert |first1=Jeremy |title=Dolph Ziggler Released By WWE |url=https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/dolph-ziggler-released-wwe |access-date=September 21, 2023 |work=Fightful |date=September 21, 2023}}</ref> Nemeth's non-compete clause with the WWE expired on December 20, 2023. |
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=== Independent circuit (2023–present) === |
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[[File:Nic Nemeth in February 2024.jpg|thumb|250px|Nemeth before his match against [[Matt Cardona]] at [[Game Changer Wrestling|GCW]] The Coldest Winter 2 in February 2024.]] |
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On December 10, 2023, it was announced that Nemeth would be making his debut for [[World Wrestling Council]] (WWC) on January 20, 2024, against [[Ray González]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Haulotte |first=Kellie |date=December 11, 2023 |title=Nic Nemeth, Formerly WWE Superstar Dolph Ziggler, Soon To Return To The Ring |url=https://www.wrestlinginc.com/1467301/nic-nemeth-formerly-wwe-superstar-dolph-ziggler-soon-return-ring/ |access-date=December 18, 2023 |website=Wrestling Inc. |language=en-US}}</ref> On February 3, 2024, Nemeth made his debut for [[Game Changer Wrestling]] (GCW) at The Coldest Winter 2, defeating [[Matt Cardona]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Pine |first=Jon |date=February 4, 2024 |title=GCW The Coldest Winter 2: Matt Cardona vs. Nic Nemeth |url=https://www.postwrestling.com/2024/02/04/gcw-the-coldest-winter-2-matt-cardona-vs-nic-nemeth/ |access-date=February 18, 2024 |website=POST Wrestling {{!}} WWE AEW NXT NJPW Podcasts, News, Reviews |language=en-US}}</ref> |
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On March 29, he defeated Cardona once again, but this time for the SCX Championship.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sinha |first=Saptarshi |date=March 31, 2024 |title=BLP At SCX II Results (3/29/24): Matt Cardona vs. Nic Nemeth |url=https://www.ewrestlingnews.com/results/indie-results/blp-at-scx-ii-results-3-29-24-matt-cardona-vs-nic-nemeth |access-date=April 2, 2024 |website=eWrestlingNews.com |language=en-US}}</ref> The next day, he retained the championship against [[Último Dragón]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=April 1, 2024 |title=Squared Circle Expo IV "Parade of Champions" results: Vetter's review of Nic Nemeth vs. Ultimo Dragon, Matt Riddle vs. Jake Omen for the NJPW TV Title, EC3 vs. Carson Drake for the NWA Title |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2024/04/01/squared-circle-expo-iv-parade-of-champions-results-vetters-review-of-nic-nemeth-vs-ultimo-dragon-matt-riddle-vs-jake-omen-for-the-njpw-tv-title-ec3-vs-carson-drake-for-the-nwa-title/ |access-date=April 2, 2024 |website=Pro Wrestling Dot Net |language=en-US}}</ref> |
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=== New Japan Pro-Wrestling (2024–present) === |
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Nemeth made his debut for [[New Japan Pro-Wrestling]] (NJPW) at [[Wrestle Kingdom 18]] on January 4, 2024, appearing ringside as a spectator along with his brother Ryan. Nemeth confronted the new IWGP Global Champion [[David Finlay (wrestler)|David Finlay]],<ref>{{Cite news |last=Lambert |first=Jeremy |date=January 4, 2024 |title=David Finlay Wins IWGP Global Title, Brawls With Nic Nemeth At NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 18 |url=https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/david-finlay-wins-iwgp-global-title-brawls-nic-nemeth-njpw-wrestle-kingdom-18 |work=Fightful News |access-date=January 4, 2024}}</ref> defeating him for the title at [[The New Beginning in Sapporo (2024)|The New Beginning in Sapporo]].<ref name="Global Championship">{{cite web|url=https://www.f4wonline.com/news/new-japan/results/njpw-the-new-beginning-live-results-finlay-vs-nemeth-global-title-match|title=NJPW The New Beginning live results: Finlay vs. Nemeth Global title match|date=February 23, 2024 |publisher=Wrestling Observer Newslette|access-date=February 23, 2024}}</ref> Nemeth retained the title against Hiroshi Tanahashi on night 1 of [[Wrestling Dontaku 2024|Wrestling Dontaku]],<ref>{{Cite news |last=Fritts |first=Chick |date=May 3, 2024 |title=NJPW Wrestling Dontaku night one live results: Nemeth vs. Tanahashi title match |url=https://www.f4wonline.com/news/new-japan/results/njpw-wrestling-dontaku-night-one-live-results-nemeth-vs-tanahashi-title-match |work=Wrestling Observer |access-date=May 3, 2024}}</ref> but lost it the next night back to Finlay, ending his reign at 71 days.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Renner |first=Ethan |date=2024-05-04 |title=New champions crowned at NJPW Wrestling Dontaku |url=https://www.f4wonline.com/news/new-japan/new-champions-crowned-at-njpw-wrestling-dontaku-2024 |access-date=2024-05-04 |website=WON/F4W - WWE news, Pro Wrestling News, WWE Results, AEW News, AEW results |language=en}}</ref> |
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=== Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (2024–present) === |
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Nemeth made his debut for [[Total Nonstop Action Wrestling]] (TNA) at the [[Hard To Kill (2024)|Hard To Kill]] PPV on January 13, 2024, confronting the new [[TNA World Championship|TNA World Champion]] [[Moose (wrestler)|Moose]].<ref>{{Cite news |last=Willen |first=Jerome |date=January 14, 2024 |title=Former WWE Superstars at TNA Hard To Kill, other news from the PPV |url=https://www.wrestleview.com/featured-top-story/301604-former-wwe-superstars-at-tna-hard-to-kill-other-news-from-the-ppv/|work=Wrestleview |access-date=January 14, 2024}}</ref> Nemeth hit Moose with the Danger Zone (formerly known as the Zig Zag) before fleeing the ring and celebrating with the crowd.<ref>{{cite web|first=Thomas|last=Lowson|title=Nic Nemeth Debuts at TNA Hard to Kill, First Match Announced|url=https://www.sescoops.com/news/nic-nemeth-tna-wrestling-debut-hard-to-kill|publisher=SE Scoops|access-date=January 25, 2024|date=January 13, 2024}}</ref> The following week, Nemeth appeared for the first time on [[TNA Impact!]]. He was interrupted by [[Steve Maclin]], with the two eventually throwing punches and establishing Nemeth's first rivalry in TNA.<ref>{{cite web|first=John|last=Laslo|title=TNA IMPACT HITS & MISSES (1/18): Nic Nemeth (Dolph Ziggler) debut promo|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2024/01/22/tna-impact-hits-misses-1-18-nic-nemeth-dolph-ziggler-debut-promo-will-ospreay-vs-josh-alexander-scott-damore-addressing-crowd-young-kaz-vs-grizzled-young-vets/|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=January 25, 2024|date=January 22, 2024}}</ref> At [[Sacrifice (2024)|Sacrifice]], Nemeth went on to defeat Maclin.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Nemeth vs. Maclin, Knockouts World Title 3-Way, Alexander vs. Hammerstone 2 & More Set for Sacrifice – TNA Wrestling |url=https://tnawrestling.com/2024/02/29/nemeth-vs-maclin-knockouts-world-title-3-way-alexander-vs-hammerstone-2-more-set-for-sacrifice/ |access-date=April 7, 2024 |language=en-US}}</ref> On April 20 at [[Rebellion (2024)|Rebellion]], Nemeth unsuccessfully challenged Moose for the TNA World Championship.<ref name="Rebellion2024">{{cite web|title=TNA Rebellion results (4/20): Powell's review of Moose vs. Nic Nemeth for the TNA World Championship, Jordynne Grace vs. Steph De Lander for the Knockouts Title, Josh Alexander vs. Hammerstone|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2024/04/20/tna-rebellion-results-4-20-powells-review-of-moose-vs-nic-nemeth-for-the-tna-world-championship-jordynne-grace-vs-steph-de-lander-for-the-knockouts-title-josh-alexander-vs-hammerstone/|last=Powell|first=Jason|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|date=April 20, 2024|access-date=April 20, 2024}}</ref> |
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=== Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide (2024–present) === |
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On March 18, 2024, it was announced that Nemeth would make his debut for [[Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide]] (AAA) at [[Triplemanía XXXII|Triplemanía XXXII: Monterrey]], to face [[Alberto El Patron]] for the vacant [[AAA Mega Championship]]. At the event, Nemeth defeated El Patron to win the AAA Mega Championship for the first time in his career, marking his first world championship outside WWE in Mexican soil.<ref name="Mega Championship">{{cite web|title=Nic Nemeth Wins AAA Mega Title At AAA TripleMania XXXII|url=https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/nic-nemeth-wins-aaa-mega-title-aaa-triplemania-xxxii|first1=Jeremy|last1=Lambert|work=Fightful|date=April 27, 2024|access-date=April 27, 2024}}</ref> |
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==Professional wrestling style and persona== |
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[[File:WWE Raw IMG 2853 (11702531656).jpg|thumb|Ziggler performing a jumping DDT on [[Alberto Del Rio]]]] |
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''[[Sports Illustrated]]'' described Nemeth as "phenomenal in the ring, with the ability to carry an entertaining match with practically anyone on the WWE roster" and added that his "mic work is top-notch... and there is a genuine believability in his work".<ref>{{Cite magazine|url=https://www.si.com/wrestling/2019/06/19/wwe-njpw-news-juice-robinson-jon-moxley-g1-climax|title=Juice Robinson eager to get 'revenge' on Jon Moxley|magazine=Sports Illustrated|date=June 19, 2019 }}</ref> He is also noted for his "elite" ability to [[glossary of professional wrestling terms#sell|sell]] for his opponents.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2210529-breaking-down-dolph-zigglers-elite-ability-to-sell-his-opponents-offense|title=Breaking Down Dolph Ziggler's Elite Ability to Sell His Opponents' Offense|first=Ryan|last=Dilbert|date=September 26, 2014|website=Bleacher Report}}</ref> [[Jim Cornette]] praised Nemeth and stated, "I knew he was a good athlete, [but] I never dreamed he was going to be the second coming of [[Curt Hennig]]."<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.cagesideseats.com/wwe/2016/4/18/11448606/jim-cornette-wwe-dolph-ziggler|title=Jim Cornette thinks WWE is wasting Dolph Ziggler|first=Bill|last=Hanstock|date=April 18, 2016|website=Cageside Seats|access-date=January 1, 2020}}</ref> |
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Nemeth's most commonly utilized [[Finisher (wrestling)|finishing maneuver]]s are a [[professional wrestling throws#Reverse bulldog|jumping reverse bulldog]],<ref name="WV2">{{cite web|last=Tedesco|first=Mike|title=Superstars Results – 9/17/09|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/news2009/1253256185.php|publisher=Wrestleview|access-date=October 25, 2012|quote=Ziggler then hits his Zigzag (Reverse Bulldog) for the win!}}</ref> known as the ''Zig Zag'',<ref>{{cite web|last=Waldman|first=Jon|title=Smackdown: re-writing a good show|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2009/05/16/pf-9476311.html|work=SLAM! Wrestling|access-date=October 25, 2012|quote=Ziggler wins after what can best be described as a reverse bulldog|archive-date=January 15, 2013|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130115072320/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2009/05/16/pf-9476311.html|url-status=usurped}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Keller|first=Wade|title=KELLER'S WWE SMACKDOWN REPORT 8/14: Results, thoughts, observations, nitpicks, star ratings, quotebook|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/mitchellstake/article_34446.shtml|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=October 25, 2012|quote=... leading to Ziggler striking with his finisher, a jumping reverse bulldog for the win.}}</ref> as well as a [[Professional wrestling attacks#Superkick|superkick]].<ref name=":0">{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2012/11/19/20366676.html|title=Punk makes it through Survivor Series with some help from the NXT wave of talent|last=Plummer|first=Dave|work=SLAM! Wrestling|access-date=December 21, 2012|archive-date=January 10, 2013|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130110121655/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2012/11/19/20366676.html|url-status=usurped}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=WWE Smackdown Live Results – 7/26/16 (Live from Buffalo, new No. 1 Contender for the WWE Championship)|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/64969-wwe-smackdown-live-results-72616-live-buffalo-new-no-1-contender-wwe-championship/|website=WrestleView|access-date=August 20, 2016|date=July 26, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=8/9 WWE Smackdown LIVE – Parks's Complete Live TV Report|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/08/09/89-wwe-smackdown-live-parkss-complete-live-tv-report/|website=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=August 20, 2016|date=August 10, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=WWE NEWS: Smackdown TV Taping Report – Caldwell's Live results from Tuesday|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_85399.shtml#.V7fxK8T3anM|website=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=August 20, 2016}}</ref> In the early run of his Dolph Ziggler character, he also used a [[Rear naked choke#"Sleeper Hold" in professional wrestling|sleeper hold]] as a [[submission]] finisher.<ref name="WWEUS"/><ref name="Caldwell's WWE Raw Results 5"/><ref name="Passero"/> While still in developmental, he also utilized a jumping [[reverse STO]] named ''Blonde Ambition''.<ref name="Walsh"/><ref name="FCW-tag2"/> Due to his athleticism and intense showmanship, Nemeth has been referred to as "The Showstealer" and "The Showoff",<ref name="After the Bell"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2011-12-26/results|title=WWE Raw SuperShow results: Kane rises to hate|date=December 26, 2011|last=Murphy|first=Ryan|access-date=December 30, 2011|publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> while in his earlier career he was referred to as "The Natural".<ref name="slam"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/fcw/_2007/|title=September 15, 2007–Florida Championship Wrestling in New Port Richey, Florida at the Jewish Community Center|date=September 15, 2007|access-date=August 9, 2008|publisher=Online World of Wrestling}}</ref> Upon teaming with [[Vickie Guerrero]], he was nicknamed either "Blonde Ambition" or "Blonde Perfection".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/699169-dolph-ziggler-from-blonde-perfection-to-generic-black |title=Dolph Ziggler: From Blonde Perfection to Generic Black |date=May 18, 2011 |last=Stonebarger|first=Kevin |access-date=April 14, 2020 |publisher=[[Bleacher Report]]}}</ref> Consequently, his theme music was named "I Am Perfection" during this period of his career, while later on it was changed to "Here to Show the World."<ref name="After the Bell"/> |
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In the early stages of his career, Nemeth was introduced to the audiences as a sidekick with a [[caddie]] gimmick. This, however, lasted only a few weeks because [[Chavo Guerrero]] aborted his golfer gimmick after the death of his uncle [[Eddie Guerrero]].<ref name="slam"/><ref name="After the Bell">{{cite web|url=https://www.wrestlinginc.com/news/2020/01/dolph-ziggler-on-vince-mcmahon-reaction-when-he-pitched-665353/|title=Dolph Ziggler On Vince McMahon's Reaction When He Pitched Using His Real Name, Nixed Kurt Angle Idea|publisher=Wrestling Inc.|first=Jason|last=Ounpraseuth |date=January 4, 2020|access-date=April 14, 2020}}</ref> While there were initial plannings within the company to give him a new gimmick based on his successful career in [[amateur wrestling]] and pair him with [[Kurt Angle]], this idea never surfaced.<ref name="After the Bell"/> Instead, his first longer lasting gimmick became that of male [[cheerleader]] Nicky, where he was partnered with four other wrestlers as [[The Spirit Squad]]. To ensure their characters were believable, they trained with real cheerleaders and [[gymnast]]s.<ref name="Varsallone 2"/> With this gimmick, he saw moderate success, winning the [[World Tag Team Championship (WWE, 1971–2010)|World Tag Team Championship]] once. After the disbanding of the Spirit Squad he was again sent back to developmental, where he and fellow Spirit Squad member [[Mike Mondo]] tweaked the gimmick into a [[jock (stereotype)|jock]] and [[fraternity]] based new gimmick, now going by the name of "Frat Pack".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/ovw/_2007/|title=January 17, 2007–OVW TV Tapings in Louisville, Kentucky|date=January 17, 2007|access-date=August 9, 2008|publisher=Online World of Wrestling}}</ref><ref name="Online World of Wrestling"/> He would continue this gimmick alongside Brad Allen and [[Gavin Spears]], with whom he won the [[Florida Tag Team Championship|FCW Florida Tag Team Championship]] once each.<ref name="Walsh"/><ref name="FCW-tag2"/> In a 2020 interview, Nemeth voiced amusement as well as creative frustration towards his early gimmicks, stating that he tried to make them work, knowing they could only fail, just to break through in professional wrestling.<ref name="After the Bell"/> |
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By 2008, Nemeth was repackaged as Dolph Ziggler, a bleached-blonde and self-absorbed [[narcissist]]. Debuting as a heel, Ziggler repeatedly declared himself as "perfection" and would display an extremely arrogant attitude, while at the same time using dirty tactics. When he turned face in 2013, his character shifted towards a man out to prove himself and never giving up. In September 2017, Ziggler would begin a new short-lived gimmick where he would come out to the entrance themes and dress as other popular wrestlers and legends to irritate the crowd.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-smackdown-results/90870-wwe-smackdown-results-september-12-2017/|title=WWE Smackdown Results – 9/12/17 (McMahon returns, Title matches)|publisher=WrestleView|first=Adam|last=Martin|date=September 12, 2017|access-date=September 12, 2017}}</ref> After that, his gimmick tweaked towards a whiny heel who believed he was destined for greatness, constantly blaming his bad luck or others for his lack of opportunity and would always come up short, culminating in his feud with [[Kofi Kingston]] in 2019, where he would blame Kingston (and later [[Drew McIntyre]]) for stealing his chance to become WWE champion while stating "it should've been me".<ref name="wwe.com"/><ref name="WWE Champion Kofi Kingston def. Dol"/> |
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==Stand-up comedy== |
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Nemeth grew up as a fan of comedians such as [[Johnny Carson]], [[Dana Carvey]], [[Phil Hartman]], [[Jan Hooks]], [[Jon Lovitz]], [[Brian Regan (comedian)|Brian Regan]], [[Adam Sandler]], and [[George Wallace (American comedian)|George Wallace]].<ref name="auto">{{Cite web|url=https://www.wwe.com/amp/inside/dolph-ziggler-comedy-interview|title=Dolph Ziggler is funnier than you: Why your favorite Showoff might be your next favorite comedian | WWE|website=www.wwe.com}}</ref> He decided to start performing comedy around the year 2010. He performed [[stand-up comedy]] for the first time in a small [[Los Angeles]] venue in 2013, and began getting offers to perform at various comedy clubs nearby WWE events. At this point, he had been studying comedy almost a decade in preparation for a comedy career.<ref name="auto"/> He also began hosting a monthly [[improv comedy]] show called Flying Chuck alongside fellow professional wrestlers [[John Morrison (wrestler)|John Morrison]] and his brother [[Ryan Nemeth]].<ref>{{cite web|last1=Sawyer|first1=James|title=Johnny Mundo aka John Morrison Opens Up In Candid One Hour Shoot Interview|date=April 24, 2015 |url=http://insidepulse.com/2015/04/24/this-aint-no-make-believe-an-interview-with-johnny-mundo/|publisher=Inside Pulse|access-date=March 4, 2019}}</ref> A few years later, he started working as an opening act for his long-time friend [[Sarah Tiana]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.12news.com/article/news/local/valley/wwe-superstar-dolph-ziggler-stops-by-studio-12a-to-chat-about-royal-rumble/75-603338962|title=WWE Superstar Dolph Ziggler stops by Studio 12A to chat about Royal Rumble|website=KPNX|date=October 11, 2018 }}</ref> In July 2018, he appeared on [[Comedy Central]]'s ''[[Roast Battle]] III'' to face off against Tiana.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://wrrv.com/popular-wwe-wrestler-set-for-poughkeepsie-comedy-show/|title=Popular WWE Wrestler Set For Poughkeepsie Comedy Show|website=92.7/96.9 WRRV|date=December 11, 2018 }}</ref> |
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In 2018, Nemeth started seriously moonlighting as a stand-up comedian while still wrestling for WWE.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2018/11/08/dolph-ziggler-wwe-superstar-stand-up-comedian-interview/|title=WWE's Dolph Ziggler Has Second Career As Stand-Up Comic|date=November 8, 2018}}</ref> This led to him headlining shows close to the arenas for the 2018 [[SummerSlam (2018)|SummerSlam]] and [[Survivor Series (2018)|Survivor Series]] pay-per-views; he used the big WWE events to piggyback on for his first major shows, due to there being a lot of wrestling fans in the area.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://boston.cbslocal.com/2018/11/08/dolph-ziggler-wwe-superstar-stand-up-comedian-interview/|title=WWE's Dolph Ziggler Has Second Career As Stand-Up Comic|date=November 8, 2018}}</ref> Following the 2019 Royal Rumble event, he embarked on his first headlining tour from the end of January to the end of March. He took a break from WWE television to focus on the tour.<ref name="comedy"/> He later continued the tour, announcing two shows in Texas taking place in late May.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://411mania.com/wrestling/rusev-comments-seth-rollins-becky-lynch-dating-dolph-ziggler-new-comedy-dates/|title=411MANIA|website=WWE News: Rusev Comments on Seth Rollins/Becky Lynch Dating Reveal, Dolph Ziggler Sets New Comedy Dates}}</ref> |
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==In other media== |
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Ziggler appeared on the November 3, 2009, episode of ''[[Deal or No Deal (American game show)|Deal or No Deal]]'' with [[Maria Kanellis]] and [[Eve Torres]].<ref name="Caldwell">{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_36479.shtml|title=WWE News: WWE Week begins tonight on "Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader?" with The Miz, Big Show, Divas|date=November 2, 2009|last=Caldwell|first=James|access-date=November 5, 2009|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> He appeared on ''[[Lopez Tonight]]'' on August 9, 2010.<ref name="lopez">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/overtheropes/news/wwelopeztonight|title=WWE takes the mic and joins the party on 'Lopez Tonight'|date=August 2, 2010|last=Diamente|first=Mike|access-date=September 28, 2017|publisher=WWE}}</ref> Nemeth appeared in a 2011 episode of ''[[Silent Library (MTV series)|Silent Library]]'' alongside [[Chris Masters]], [[Trent Beretta|Trent Baretta]], [[JTG]], [[Caylen Croft]], and [[Brian Myers|Curt Hawkins]].<ref name="wrestleview.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1298386609|title=Raw note, WWE stars on MTV, cuts in developmental|date=February 22, 2011|last=Gerweck|first=Steve|access-date=May 8, 2011|publisher=WrestleView|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110226085213/http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1298386609|archive-date=February 26, 2011}}</ref> Nemeth made regular appearances on fellow WWE wrestler [[Matt Cardona|Zack Ryder]]'s [[YouTube]] web series, ''Z! True Long Island Story'', via his own segment named 'Ask Z Heel'. |
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On February 1, 2012, Nemeth debuted WWEFanNation's ''WWE Download'' and was the host of the YouTube series. The official ''WWE Download'' playlist on [[YouTube]]<ref name=Download>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL4967B2678A397D66|work=YouTube|title=WWE Download Playlist}}</ref> described the series as "Dolph Ziggler's sarcastic wit vs. your videos" and each episode consisted of Ziggler reviewing both viral and WWE videos. A new episode of ''WWE Download'' was uploaded every Monday until the show ended on January 28, 2013, after 53 episodes but returned for one time only on September 30, 2014. In August 2013, Nemeth was cast by [[Max Landis]] to appear in the 2015 film ''[[Me Him Her]]''.<ref name="sescoops.com">{{cite web|title=Dolph Ziggler Joins The Cast Of The Movie "Me Him Her"|url=http://www.sescoops.com/dolph-ziggler-to-co-star-in-movie-me-him-her/84988|work=SEScoops|access-date=August 15, 2013|date=August 15, 2013}}</ref> |
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In 2016, Nemeth would appear in a series of ads advertising [[KFC]].<ref>{{Cite web|date=August 21, 2016|title=KFC x WWE: Sando Slam|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u8J3V6wchSE|website=YouTube}}</ref> and 2017<ref>{{Cite web|last=Kirkpatrick|first=David|date=August 24, 2017|title=KFC throws WWE stars in the ring to fight for the title of 'The Colonel'|url=https://www.marketingdive.com/news/kfc-throws-wwe-stars-in-the-ring-to-fight-for-the-title-of-the-colonel/503371/|website=[[Industry Dive|Marketing Dive]]}}</ref> In the ads, he dressed as KFC founder [[Colonel Sanders]]. The first ad notably had Nemeth cutting a promo on The Miz, who was dressed as a chicken. This led to a [[dark match]] where Nemeth, as Colonel Sanders, defeated Miz in a [[squash match]]. |
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Nemeth began appearing on the Fox Business Network program ''Kennedy'' hosted by [[Kennedy (commentator)|Lisa Kennedy Montgomery]] in 2017. As of 2018, he has appeared on the show 6-8 times.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.thewrap.com/dolph-ziggler-wwe-fox-news-business-edge-christian/|title=Dolph Ziggler May Soon Be Leaving WWE - And Possibly for Fox News|date=December 1, 2017|work=TheWrap|access-date=June 17, 2018|language=en-US |quote=he's appeared roughly six to eight times this year as a guest}}</ref> |
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=== Video games === |
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{| class="wikitable sortable plainrowheaders" |
|||
! scope="col" | Year |
|||
! scope="col" | Title |
|||
! scope="col" class="unsortable" | Notes |
|||
! scope="col" class="unsortable" | {{Abbr|Ref.|Reference}} |
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|- |
|- |
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| 2009 |
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| colspan=3 align=center | '''[[World Tag Team Championship|(WWE) World Tag Team Championship]]''' |
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| ''[[WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2010]]'' |
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| [[Video game]] debut |
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|<ref>{{cite news |last1=Raymond |first1=Katie A. |title=Superstars talk 'SmackDown vs. Raw 2010' |url=https://www.wwe.com/inside/news/superstarstalksdvsraw |access-date=March 8, 2024 |work=WWE |date=October 29, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160914015403/https://www.wwe.com/inside/news/superstarstalksdvsraw |archive-date=September 14, 2016}}</ref> |
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|- |
|- |
||
| 2010 |
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| width = 30% align = center | Preceded by:<br/>'''[[Kane and The Big Show]]''' |
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| ''[[WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2011]]'' |
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| width = 40% align = center | First, with [[Spirit Squad]] |
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| |
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| width = 30% align = center | Followed by:<br/>'''Current''' |
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|<ref>{{Cite web |last=Freeman |first=Chris |date=October 28, 2010 |title=WWE Smackdown Vs Raw 2011: The Review |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/504574-wwe-smackdown-vs-raw-2011-the-review |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101101235734/https://bleacherreport.com/articles/504574-wwe-smackdown-vs-raw-2011-the-review |archive-date=November 1, 2010 |access-date=March 30, 2023 |website=[[Bleacher Report]]}}</ref> |
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{{end box}} |
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|- |
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|2011 |
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| ''[[WWE '12]]'' |
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| |
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|<ref>{{Cite web |title=WWE '12 Roster |date=September 2011 |url=https://www.ign.com/wikis/wwe-12/Roster |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120530193540/https://www.ign.com/wikis/wwe-12/Roster |archive-date=May 30, 2012 |access-date=March 30, 2023 |publisher=[[IGN]]}}</ref> |
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|- |
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|2012 |
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|''[[WWE '13]]'' |
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| |
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|<ref>{{Cite web |title=WWE '13 Roster |date=May 25, 2012 |url=https://www.ign.com/wikis/wwe-13/Roster |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141022131319/https://www.ign.com/wikis/wwe-13/Roster |archive-date=October 22, 2014 |access-date=March 30, 2023 |publisher=[[IGN]]}}</ref> |
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|- |
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| 2013 |
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| ''[[WWE 2K14]]'' |
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| |
|||
|<ref>{{cite web |date=September 19, 2013 |title='WWE 2K14' full roster revealed |url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/2k/wwe-2k14/wwe-2k14-full-roster-revealed |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170715221032/http://www.wwe.com/inside/2k/wwe-2k14/wwe-2k14-full-roster-revealed |archive-date=July 15, 2017 |access-date=January 30, 2017 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> |
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|- |
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| 2014 |
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| ''[[WWE 2K15]]'' |
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| |
|||
|<ref>{{cite news |last1=Artus |first1=Matthew |last2=Murphy |first2=Mike |last3=Heiko |first3=Link |title=WWE 2K15 roster revealed at SummerSlam Confidential Panel |url=https://www.wwe.com/inside/2k/wwe-2k15/wwe-2k15-roster-reveal-summerslam-confidential-panel |access-date=March 2, 2024 |work=WWE |date=August 15, 2014 |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20160330154733/http://www.wwe.com:80/inside/2k/wwe-2k15/wwe-2k15-roster-reveal-summerslam-confidential-panel |archive-date=March 30, 2016}}</ref> |
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|- |
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| 2015 |
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| ''[[WWE 2K16]]'' |
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| |
|||
|<ref>{{cite news |author1=WWE.com Staff |title=Superstars and Divas featured on WWE 2K16 roster list |url=https://www.wwe.com/inside/2k/wwe-2k16/wwe-2k16-roster-playable-characters-superstars-divas |access-date=March 2, 2024 |date=August 10, 2015 |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20230207153856/https://www.wwe.com/inside/2k/wwe-2k16/wwe-2k16-roster-playable-characters-superstars-divas |archive-date=February 7, 2023}}</ref> |
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|- |
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| 2016 |
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| ''[[WWE 2K17]]'' |
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| |
|||
|<ref>{{cite news |last1=Artus |first1=Matthew |title=Superstars to be featured on WWE 2K17 roster |url=https://www.wwe.com/section/wwe-2k17/article/wwe-2k17-roster-playable-characters-superstars |access-date=March 2, 2024 |work=WWE |date=June 27, 2016 |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20231203033110/https://www.wwe.com/section/wwe-2k17/article/wwe-2k17-roster-playable-characters-superstars |archive-date=December 3, 2023}}</ref> |
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|- |
|||
|2017 |
|||
|''[[WWE 2K18]]'' |
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| |
|||
|<ref>{{cite web |last=Artus |first=Matthew |date=September 27, 2017 |title=WWE 2K18 roster: Meet the Superstars joining the list of playable characters |url=http://www.wwe.com/section/wwe-2k18/article/wwe-2k18-roster-playable-character-list |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171207145945/https://www.wwe.com/section/wwe-2k18/article/wwe-2k18-roster-playable-character-list |archive-date=December 7, 2017 |access-date=November 4, 2017 |publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> |
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|- |
|||
| 2018 |
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| ''[[WWE 2K19]]'' |
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| |
|||
|<ref>{{cite news |last1=Elfring |first1=Mat |title=WWE 2K19 Roster Full List: 200+ Confirmed Wrestlers & DLC Superstars |url=https://www.gamespot.com/gallery/wwe-2k19-roster-full-list-200-confirmed-wrestlers-/2900-2163/ |access-date=March 2, 2024 |work=[[GameSpot]] |date=October 11, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190117210613/https://www.gamespot.com/gallery/wwe-2k19-roster-full-list-200-confirmed-wrestlers-/2900-2163/ |archive-date=January 17, 2019}}</ref> |
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|- |
|||
|2019 |
|||
|''[[WWE 2K20]]'' |
|||
| |
|||
|<ref>{{cite magazine |last1=Gartland |first1=Dan |title=Full 'WWE 2K20' Roster Revealed: See Every Wrestler Included in the Game |url=https://www.si.com/wrestling/2019/10/10/wwe-2k20-full-roster-list |access-date=February 29, 2024 |magazine=[[Sports Illustrated]] |date=October 10, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191221200441/https://www.si.com/wrestling/2019/10/10/wwe-2k20-full-roster-list |archive-date=December 21, 2019}}</ref> |
|||
|- |
|||
| 2020 |
|||
| ''[[WWE 2K Battlegrounds]]'' |
|||
| |
|||
| <ref>{{Cite web |last=Bankhurst |first=Adam |date=August 16, 2020 |title=WWE 2K Battleground's Full Roster Revealed, AJ Styles and Finn Balor Confirmed for Launch |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/wwe-2k-battlegrounds-full-roster-revealed-aj-styles-and-finn-balor-confirmed-for-launch |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220704131255/https://www.ign.com/articles/wwe-2k-battlegrounds-full-roster-revealed-aj-styles-and-finn-balor-confirmed-for-launch |archive-date=July 4, 2022 |access-date=March 30, 2023 |publisher=[[IGN]]}}</ref> |
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|- |
|||
|2022 |
|||
|''[[WWE 2K22]]'' |
|||
| |
|||
|<ref>{{cite news |author1=Fightful Staff |title=Updated List Of WWE 2K22 Roster Members And In-Game Ratings |url=https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/resources/updated-list-wwe-2k22-roster-members-and-game-ratings |access-date=February 29, 2024 |work=Fightful |date=February 28, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220519213842/https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/resources/updated-list-wwe-2k22-roster-members-and-game-ratings |archive-date=May 19, 2022}}</ref> |
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|- |
|||
|- |
|||
|2023 |
|||
|''[[WWE 2K23]]'' |
|||
| |
|||
|<ref>{{cite news |last1=Shutler |first1=Ali |title=Here's every wrestler available in 'WWE 2K23' at launch |url=https://www.nme.com/news/gaming-news/heres-every-wrestler-available-in-wwe-2k23-at-launch-3398443 |access-date=March 8, 2024 |work=[[NME]] |date=February 14, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230607161156/https://www.nme.com/news/gaming-news/heres-every-wrestler-available-in-wwe-2k23-at-launch-3398443 |archive-date=June 7, 2023}}</ref> |
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|- |
|||
|} |
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==Personal life== |
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Nemeth has two brothers. His younger brother [[Ryan Nemeth|Ryan]] is also a professional wrestler that he teams with in [[Total Nonstop Action Wrestling|TNA]]. Ryan previously worked with both WWE in [[NXT Wrestling|NXT]] under the ring name Briley Pierce and in [[All Elite Wrestling|AEW]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1285953509 |title=Younger brother of WWE star wins deal with OVW |date=October 2, 2010 |last=Martin |first=Adam |access-date=October 2, 2010 |publisher=WrestleView |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101005005143/http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1285953509 |archive-date=October 5, 2010 }}</ref> His other brother, Donald,<ref>{{cite tweet |number=686274845768724480 |date=January 10, 2016 |user=HotYoungBriley |author=Ryan Nemeth |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160501190144/https://twitter.com/HotYoungBriley/status/686274845768724480 |archive-date=May 1, 2016 |title=Meet Donny Nemeth, one of the stars featured in my new book .. My younger brother was a very talented amateur wrestler}}</ref> was sentenced to 15 years in prison after pleading guilty to involuntary manslaughter, kidnapping, and robbery for his role in a botched robbery attempt that led to the murder of a former [[U.S. Marines|Marine]] in January 2016.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.cleveland.com/metro/index.ssf/2016/04/brother_of_wwe_wrestler_dolph.html |website=Cleveland.com |title=Brother of WWE wrestler Dolph Ziggler is suspect in Cleveland deadly shooting, records show |first=Ryllie |last=Danylko |date=April 28, 2016 |quote=Police issued a warrant Tuesday for the arrest of 29-year-old Donald Nemeth, who is reportedly the brother of the professional wrestler whose real name is Nick Nemeth. Public records show the two men lived at the same West Side Cleveland address in the past. Ryan Nemeth, also a professional wrestler, posted a tweet on Jan. 10 that refers to both Ziggler and Donald Nemeth as his brothers.}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| url=https://www.cleveland.com/metro/index.ssf/2017/08/brother_of_wwe_superstar_boile| title=Brother of WWE superstar, boilermaker get prison in botched drug robbery turned deadly| date=August 28, 2017| website=Cleveland.com| author=Cory Shaffer}}{{Dead link|date=May 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> |
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Nemeth is good friends with his former [[The Spirit Squad|Spirit Squad]] teammates, particularly [[Mike Mondo|Michael Brendli]], with whom he lived in Florida until 2008.<ref name="kenai">{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2009/10/22/11495066-ca.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120722020229/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2009/10/22/11495066-ca.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 22, 2012|title=Dolph Ziggler chases perfection|date=October 22, 2009|last=Andrews|first=Kenai|access-date=November 3, 2009|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canoe.ca|Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref> He previously dated comedian [[Amy Schumer]], who split up with him because she considered him "too athletic" in bed.<ref>{{Cite web | url=http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/08/23/amy-schumer-wwe-dolph-ziggler-sex-too-athletic_n_1825039.html | title=Amy Schumer: 'The Sex Was Too Athletic'| website=[[HuffPost]]| date=August 23, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web | url=https://boston.cbslocal.com/2014/03/25/toucher-and-rich-wwe-dolph-ziggler-hectic-schedule-amy-schumer-stand-up-comedy-wrestlemania/ |title = Dolph Ziggler Talks Life in WWE, Stand up Comedy, and Performs Some Light Rock on T&R|date = March 25, 2014}}</ref> |
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Nicholas also maintains a close friendship with another professional wrestler, [[Ryback]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Upton |first=Felix |date=2023-09-13 |title=Ryback Comes Clean About Giving Dolph Ziggler A Concussion |url=https://www.ringsidenews.com/2023/09/13/ryback-comes-clean-about-giving-dolph-ziggler-a-concussion/ |access-date=2024-06-10 |website=Ringside News |language=en-US}}</ref>{{better citation|date=June 2024}}<ref>{{Cite web |last=Upton |first=Felix |date=2023-06-18 |title=Ryback Thanks Dolph Ziggler For Being Such A Good Friend After Goldberg Recommendation |url=https://www.ringsidenews.com/2023/06/18/ryback-thanks-dolph-ziggler-for-being-such-a-good-friend-after-goldberg-recommendation/ |access-date=2024-06-10 |website=Ringside News |language=en-US}}</ref>{{better citation|date=June 2024}} |
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Nemeth is fluent in [[American Sign Language]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwekids.com/kidstv/|title=Kids TV: DOLPH ZIGGLER teaches YOU American Sign Language|access-date=June 29, 2011|publisher=[[WWE]] Kids|quote=Ziggler: One of my many talents, other than wrestling of course, is being fluent in American Sign Language}}</ref> |
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Nemeth is an avid fan of his hometown [[Cleveland Browns]].<ref name="Sweeten-Shults"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.phoenixnewtimes.com/arts/wwes-dolph-ziggler-on-comedy-living-in-phoenix-and-ex-girlfriend-amy-schumers-movie-7772820|title=WWE Wrestler Dolph Ziggler on Living in Phoenix, His Ex-Girlfriend Amy Schumer's Movie – Phoenix New Times|author=Benjamin Leatherman|work=Phoenix New Times|date=October 26, 2015}}</ref> |
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==Filmography== |
|||
{| class="wikitable" |
|||
|- style="background:#ccc; text-align:center;" |
|||
! colspan="4" style="background: LightSteelBlue;" | Film |
|||
|- style="background:#ccc; text-align:center;" |
|||
! Year |
|||
! Title |
|||
! Role |
|||
! Notes |
|||
|- |
|||
|2015 |
|||
|''[[Me Him Her]]'' |
|||
|{{N/A}} |
|||
|Film debut<ref name="sescoops.com"/><br />Uncredited |
|||
|- |
|||
|2015 |
|||
|''[[Buddy Hutchins]]'' |
|||
| |
|||
| |
|||
|- |
|||
|2016 |
|||
|''[[Countdown (2016 film)|Countdown]]'' |
|||
|Ray Thompson |
|||
|Direct-to-video<ref>{{cite web|last1=Paglino|first1=Nick|title=Artwork Revealed for New Dolph Ziggler & Kane Movie, Kane Reaches WWE TV Milestone, Stephanie McMahon on Good Morning America|url=http://www.wrestlezone.com/news/669183-artwork-revealed-for-new-dolph-ziggler-kane-movie-kane-reaches-wwe-tv-milestone-stephanie-mcmahon-on-good-morning-america|website=Wrestle Zone|access-date=April 26, 2016|date=February 2016}}</ref> |
|||
|- |
|||
|2017 |
|||
|''[[The Jetsons & WWE: Robo-WrestleMania!]]'' |
|||
|Dolph Ziggler Bot |
|||
|Voice |
|||
|- |
|||
|2020 |
|||
|''The Speed of Time'' |
|||
|Orville |
|||
|Credited as Nic Nemeth |
|||
|- |
|||
|2024 |
|||
|''[[Drugstore June]]'' |
|||
| |
|||
| |
|||
|} |
|||
{| class="wikitable" |
|||
|- style="background:#ccc; text-align:center;" |
|||
! colspan="4" style="background: LightSteelBlue;" | Television |
|||
|- style="background:#ccc; text-align:center;" |
|||
! Year |
|||
! Title |
|||
! Role |
|||
! Notes |
|||
|- |
|||
|2009 |
|||
|''[[Deal or No Deal (U.S. game show)|Deal or No Deal]]'' |
|||
|rowspan=1|Guest Banker |
|||
|Special edition of "WWE Week"<ref name="Caldwell"/> |
|||
|- |
|||
|2010 |
|||
|''[[Lopez Tonight]]'' |
|||
|rowspan=4|Himself |
|||
|Episode 121<ref name="lopez"/> |
|||
|- |
|||
|2011 |
|||
|''[[Silent Library (MTV series)|Silent Library]]'' |
|||
|Season 4, episode 62 "WWE Edition"<ref name="wrestleview.com"/> |
|||
|- |
|||
|2014–2017 |
|||
|''[[Total Divas]]'' |
|||
|Guest (seasons 2–3 & 7)<br />Recurring (seasons 4–6): 20 episodes |
|||
|- |
|||
|2017 |
|||
|''[[@midnight with Chris Hardwick]]'' |
|||
|Season 4, June 22, 2017<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cc.com/shows/-midnight/guests/dolph-ziggler/3zy7uz/extended----hashtagwars----summeramovie---uncensored|title=Dolph Ziggler – Extended – #HashtagWars – #SummerAMovie – Uncensored – @midnight with Chris Hardwick Video Clip – Comedy Central|website=Comedy Central|access-date=June 24, 2017|archive-date=October 20, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171020140528/http://www.cc.com/shows/-midnight/guests/dolph-ziggler/3zy7uz/extended----hashtagwars----summeramovie---uncensored|url-status=dead}}</ref> |
|||
|- |
|||
|2017 |
|||
|''[[Adam Ruins Everything]]'' |
|||
| The Great Placeboni |
|||
|Season 4, episode 13 "Adam Ruins Spa Day"<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/section/overtheropes/article/dolph-ziggler-adam-ruins-everything|title=Ziggler heads to "Adam Ruins Everything" tonight|access-date=March 1, 2018}}</ref> |
|||
|- |
|||
|2018 |
|||
|''[[Wild 'n Out]]''<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.wwe.com/overtheropes/article/dolph-ziggler-wild-n-out-mtv|title=Dolph Ziggler to show off improv skills on MTV's "Wild 'n Out" tonight}}</ref> |
|||
|Guest |
|||
| |
|||
|- |
|||
|2018 |
|||
|''[[Jeff Ross Presents Roast Battle]]'' |
|||
|Guest<ref>{{cite web|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2018/07/30/wwe-intercontinental-champion-dolph-zigglers-appearance-on-roast-battle/|title=WWE Intercontinental Champion Dolph Ziggler's appearance on "Roast Battle" - Pro Wrestling Dot Net|date=July 30, 2018}}</ref> |
|||
| |
|||
|- |
|||
|2018, 2022 |
|||
|''[[Miz & Mrs.]]'' |
|||
|Himself |
|||
| 4 episodes |
|||
|- |
|||
|2018 |
|||
|''[[The Challenge (TV series)|The Challenge]]'' |
|||
|Himself |
|||
| Reunion Host |
|||
|} |
|||
{| class="wikitable" |
|||
|- style="background:#ccc; text-align:center;" |
|||
! colspan="4" style="background: LightSteelBlue;" | Web Series |
|||
|- style="background:#ccc; text-align:center;" |
|||
! Year |
|||
! Title |
|||
! Role |
|||
! Notes |
|||
|- |
|||
|2011–2013 |
|||
|''Z! True Long Island Story'' |
|||
|rowspan=1|Himself |
|||
|'Ask the Heel' segments<ref>{{cite web|title=WWE VIDEO: Ryder's YouTube show returns, then ends again with Ryder teasing character change|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_70141.shtml|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=July 28, 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=VIDEO: Zack Ryder's latest re-start after Ambulance Ride on Raw|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_70813.shtml|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=July 28, 2013}}</ref> |
|||
|- |
|||
|2012–2014 |
|||
|''WWE Download'' |
|||
|rowspan=1|Host |
|||
|<ref name="Download"/> |
|||
|- |
|||
|2013–2015 |
|||
|''The JBL and Cole Show'' |
|||
|rowspan=1|Himself |
|||
|Guest (Season 1), Recurring (Seasons 2–5) |
|||
|- |
|||
|2018 |
|||
|''Well Done'' |
|||
|rowspan=1|Himself |
|||
|1 episode |
|||
|} |
|||
{| class="wikitable" |
|||
|- style="background:#ccc; text-align:center;" |
|||
! colspan="4" style="background: LightSteelBlue;" | WWE Network Originals |
|||
|- style="background:#ccc; text-align:center;" |
|||
! Year |
|||
! Title |
|||
! Role |
|||
! Notes |
|||
|- |
|||
|2015 |
|||
|''[[Unfiltered with Renee Young]]'' |
|||
|rowspan=1|Himself |
|||
|Interview show with [[Renee Young]] |
|||
|- |
|||
|2015 |
|||
|''[[Table for 3]]'' |
|||
|rowspan=1|Himself |
|||
|Three WWE Superstars share stories over dinner |
|||
|- |
|||
|2015-2016 |
|||
|''[[Swerved]]'' |
|||
|rowspan=1|Himself |
|||
|Hidden camera prank show |
|||
|- |
|||
|2016 |
|||
|''[[WWE Ride Along]]'' |
|||
|rowspan=1|Himself |
|||
|"Shipping Down From Boston" |
|||
|} |
|||
==Championships and accomplishments== |
|||
[[file:DZ WWE WHC.png|right|thumb|175px|In WWE, Ziggler is a two-time [[World Heavyweight Championship (WWE, 2002–2013)|World Heavyweight Champion]]...]] |
|||
[[File:Dolph Ziggler IC Champion 2014.jpg|thumb|right|175px|...a six-time [[WWE Intercontinental Championship|Intercontinental Champion]]...]] |
|||
[[file:Dolph Ziggler 2011 United States Champion.jpg|right|thumb|175px|...and a two time [[WWE United States Championship|United States Champion]]]] |
|||
* '''[[Florida Championship Wrestling]]''' |
|||
** [[FCW Florida Tag Team Championship]] ([[FCW Florida Tag Team Championship#Title history|2 times]]) – with [[Brad Allen]] (1)<ref name="Walsh"/> and [[Tye Dillinger|Gavin Spears]] (1)<ref name="FCW-tag2"/> |
|||
*'''[[Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide]]''' |
|||
**[[AAA Mega Championship]] ([[List of AAA Mega Champions|1 time, current]])<ref name="Mega Championship"/> |
|||
*'''[[New Japan Pro-Wrestling]]''' |
|||
** [[IWGP Global Heavyweight Championship]] ([[IWGP Global Heavyweight Championship#Title history|1 time]])<ref name="Global Championship"/> |
|||
* '''''[[Pro Wrestling Illustrated]]''''' |
|||
** Ranked No. 9 of the top 500 singles wrestlers in the ''[[Pro Wrestling Illustrated#PWI 500|PWI 500]]'' in 2013<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.profightdb.com/pwi-500/2013.html|title=Pro Wrestling Illustrated (PWI) 500 for 2013|access-date=August 22, 2013|work=[[Pro Wrestling Illustrated]]|publisher=The Internet Wrestling Database}}</ref> |
|||
* '''''[[Rolling Stone]]''''' |
|||
** Wrestler of the Year (2014)<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/culture-sports/wwe-wrestler-of-the-year-dolph-ziggler-198347/|title=WWE Wrestler of the Year: Dolph Ziggler|magazine=[[Rolling Stone]]|first=Kenny|last=Herzog|date=December 17, 2014|access-date=December 22, 2020}}</ref> |
|||
** Worst Storyline (2015)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.rollingstone.com/sports/features/wwe-wrestler-s-of-the-year-the-new-day-20151214|title=WWE Wrestler(s) of the Year|access-date=December 14, 2015|publisher=Rolling Stone|date=December 14, 2015}}</ref> – with [[Rusev (wrestler)|Rusev]], [[Summer Rae]] and [[Lana (wrestling)|Lana]] |
|||
* '''Squared Circle Expo''' |
|||
** SCX Championship (1 time, current)<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/blp-scx-ii-squeakquel-results-329-matt-cardona-vs-nic-nemeth-elijah-skye-blue-more|title=BLP at SCX II: The Squeakquel Results (3/29): Matt Cardona vs. Nic Nemeth, Elijah, Skye Blue, More|last=Tessier|first=Colin|date=March 30, 2024|publisher=Fightful|accessdate=June 18, 2024}}</ref> |
|||
* '''''[[WrestleCrap]]''''' |
|||
** [[WrestleCrap#Gooker Award|Gooker Award (2015)]] – feud with Rusev, Summer Rae and Lana<ref>{{cite web|author=Art0Donnell|title=Induction: The Rusev-Lana-Dolph-Summer Rae Love Trapezoid - The 2015 Gooker Award Winner|url=http://wrestlecrap.com/inductions/rusev-lana-dolph-summer-love-trapezoid-the-2015-gooker-award-winner/|website=WrestleCrap|date=February 11, 2016|access-date=February 16, 2019}}</ref> |
|||
* '''''[[Wrestling Observer Newsletter]]''''' |
|||
** [[List of Wrestling Observer Newsletter awards#Most Improved|Most Improved]] (2011)<ref name="WON11">{{cite journal|last=Meltzer|first=Dave|author-link=Dave Meltzer|date=January 30, 2012|title=Jan 30 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Gigantic year-end awards issue, best and worst in all categories plus UFC on FX 1, death of Savannah Jack, ratings, tons and tons of news| journal=[[Dave Meltzer#Wrestling Observer Newsletter|Wrestling Observer Newsletter]]|location=Campbell, CA|issn=1083-9593}}</ref> |
|||
** [[List of Wrestling Observer Newsletter awards#Most Underrated|Most Underrated]] (2011)<ref name="WON11"/> |
|||
* '''[[WWE|World Wrestling Entertainment/WWE]]''' |
|||
** [[World Heavyweight Championship (WWE, 2002–2013)|World Heavyweight Championship]] ([[List of World Heavyweight Champions (WWE)|2 times]])<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/classics/titlehistory/worldheavyweight/201012192|title=Dolph's first World Heavyweight Championship Reign|access-date=February 18, 2011|publisher=[[WWE]]|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120516003447/http://www.wwe.com/classics/titlehistory/worldheavyweight/201012192|archive-date=May 16, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/classics/titlehistory/worldheavyweight/20140408-dolph-ziggler|title=Dolph's second World Heavyweight Championship Reign|access-date=April 8, 2013|publisher=[[WWE]]|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130412053609/http://www.wwe.com/classics/titlehistory/worldheavyweight/20140408-dolph-ziggler|archive-date=April 12, 2013}}</ref> |
|||
** [[NXT Championship]] ([[List of NXT Champions|1 time]])<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/classics/titlehistory/nxt-championship|title=NXT Championship|work=World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE)|access-date=March 9, 2022}}</ref> |
|||
** [[WWE Intercontinental Championship]] ([[List of WWE Intercontinental Champions|6 times]])<ref name="IC1">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/intercontinental/15294126 |title=Dolph Ziggler's First Intercontinental Championship Reign |date=August 6, 2010 |access-date=August 16, 2010 |publisher=[[WWE]] |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100819051349/http://www.wwe.com/inside/titlehistory/intercontinental/15294126 |archive-date=August 19, 2010 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Dolph Ziggler's Second Intercontinental Championship Reign |url=http://www.wwe.com/classics/titlehistory/intercontinental/20140817-dolph-ziggler |access-date=August 18, 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140819090020/http://www.wwe.com/classics/titlehistory/intercontinental/20140817-dolph-ziggler |archive-date=August 19, 2014 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Dolph Ziggler's Third Intercontinental Championship Reign|url=http://www.wwe.com/classics/titlehistory/intercontinental/20140922-dolph-ziggler|access-date=September 22, 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141016021722/http://www.wwe.com/classics/titlehistory/intercontinental/20140922-dolph-ziggler|archive-date=October 16, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Dolph Ziggler's Fifth Intercontinental Championship Reign |url=http://www.wwe.com/classics/titlehistory/intercontinental/20141214-dolph-ziggler |access-date=December 15, 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141226021446/http://www.wwe.com/classics/titlehistory/intercontinental/20141214-dolph-ziggler |archive-date=December 26, 2014 }}</ref> |
|||
** [[WWE United States Championship]] ([[List of WWE United States Champions|2 times]])<ref name="WWEUS">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/classics/titlehistory/unitedstates/25021559|title=Dolph Ziggler's First United States Championship|date=June 19, 2011|access-date=June 20, 2011|publisher=[[WWE]]|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120603010051/http://www.wwe.com/classics/titlehistory/unitedstates/25021559|archive-date=June 3, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/classics/titlehistory/unitedstates/|title=WWE United States Championship|access-date=May 25, 2020}}</ref> |
|||
** [[World Tag Team Championship (WWE)|WWE Raw Tag Team Championship]] ([[List of World Tag Team Champions (WWE)|2 times]]) – with [[Drew McIntyre]] (1) and [[Robert Roode]] (1)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.wwe.com/titlehistory/raw-tag-team-championship|title=Raw Tag Team Championship|work=WWE|access-date=January 5, 2019}}</ref> |
|||
** [[WWE Tag Team Championship|WWE SmackDown Tag Team Championship]] ([[List of WWE Tag Team Champions|1 time]]) – with [[Bobby Roode|Robert Roode]]<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.wwe.com/titlehistory/smackdown-tag-team-championship|title=WWE SmackDown Tag Team Championship|work=WWE|access-date=January 9, 2021}}</ref> |
|||
** [[World Tag Team Championship (WWE, 1971–2010)|World Tag Team Championship]] ([[List of World Tag Team Champions (WWE, 1971–2010)|1 time]]) – with [[Johnny Jeter|Johnny]], [[Kenny Dykstra|Kenny]], [[Mike Mondo|Mikey]], and [[Nick Mitchell|Mitch]]{{Efn|Ziggler, as Nicky, defended the championship with either [[Kenny Dykstra|Kenny]], [[Johnny Jeter|Johnny]], [[Nick Mitchell|Mitch]] or [[Mike Mondo|Mikey]] under the [[The Fabulous Freebirds#Freebird Rule|Freebird Rule]].}}<ref name="WWE-tag"/> |
|||
** [[Money in the Bank ladder match|Money in the Bank]] ([[Money in the Bank (2012)|2012]] – World Heavyweight Championship contract)<ref name="MITB" /> |
|||
** [[Triple Crown (professional wrestling)#List of WWE Men's Triple Crown winners|22nd Triple Crown Champion]] |
|||
** [[Slammy Award]] (2 times) |
|||
*** Best Twitter Handle or Social Champion ([[Slammy Award#2014 Slammy Awards|2014]]) – @HEELZiggler<ref name="WWE">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2014-12-08/wwe-slammy-winners-photos-2014|title=WWE Slammy winners photos 2014|access-date=December 8, 2014|publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref> |
|||
*** Match of the Year (2014) – {{small|Team [[John Cena|Cena]] vs. [[The Authority (professional wrestling)|Team Authority]] at [[Survivor Series (2014)|Survivor Series]]}}<ref name="WWE" /> |
|||
{{clear}} |
|||
== ''Betting Fights'' record == |
|||
{{See also|Lucha libre#Luchas de Apuestas|l1=Luchas de Apuestas}} |
|||
{|class="wikitable sortable" width=100% style="text-align: center" |
|||
|- |
|||
!style="background: #e3e3e3;" width=20% scope="col"|Winner (wager) |
|||
!style="background: #e3e3e3;" width=20% scope="col"|Loser (wager) |
|||
!style="background: #e3e3e3;" width=20% scope="col"|Location |
|||
!style="background: #e3e3e3;" width=20% scope="col"|Event |
|||
!style="background: #e3e3e3;" width=15% scope="col"|Date |
|||
!class="unsortable" style="background: #e3e3e3;" width=5% scope="col"|Notes |
|||
|- |
|||
| Dolph Ziggler (career) |
|||
| [[The Miz]] ([[WWE Intercontinental Championship|title]]) |
|||
| [[Sacramento, California]] |
|||
| [[No Mercy (2016)|No Mercy]] |
|||
| {{dts|2016|10|09}} |
|||
| <ref>{{cite web|last1=Melok|first1=Bobby|title=Dolph Ziggler def. Intercontinental Champion The Miz (Title vs. Career Match)|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/nomercy/2016/the-miz-dolph-ziggler-results|work=WWE|access-date=October 9, 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161013163108/http://www.wwe.com/shows/nomercy/2016/the-miz-dolph-ziggler-results|archive-date=October 13, 2016}}</ref> |
|||
|} |
|||
==Notes== |
|||
{{notelist}} |
|||
==References== |
|||
{{reflist}} |
|||
==External links== |
|||
{{Commons category}} |
|||
* {{IMDb name|name = Nic Nemeth}} |
|||
* {{Twitter|NicTNemeth}} |
|||
* {{wwe superstar|name = Dolph Ziggler}} |
|||
* {{Professional wrestling profiles}} |
|||
{{S-start}} |
|||
== External links == |
|||
{{Succession box |
|||
* [http://www.wwe.com/superstars/raw/nicky/ WWE Profile] |
|||
| title = Mr. [[Money in the Bank ladder match|Money in the Bank]] |
|||
* [http://www.ovwrestling.com/superstars/nemeth/profile.htm Profile at ovwrestling.com] |
|||
| years = 2012 (WHC) |
|||
*[http://www.obsessedwithwrestling.com/profiles/n/nick-nemeth.html Obsessed with Wrestling profile] |
|||
| with = [[John Cena]] (WWEC) |
|||
| before = [[Bryan Danielson|Daniel Bryan]] (WHC)<br>[[Alberto Del Rio]] (WWEC) |
|||
| after = [[Damien Sandow]] (WHC)<br>[[Randy Orton]] (WWEC) |
|||
}} |
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{{S-end}} |
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{{Navboxes |
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| list1 = |
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{{Impact Wrestling personnel}} |
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{{Grand Slam-Triple Crown Champions}} |
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{{AAA Mega Championship}} |
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{{IWGP Global Heavyweight Championship}} |
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{{World Heavyweight Championship (WWE)}} |
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{{NXT Championship}} |
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{{WWE Intercontinental Championship}} |
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{{WWE United States Championship}} |
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{{World Tag Team Championship (WWE, 2024–present)}} |
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{{WWE SmackDown Tag Team Championship}} |
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{{World Tag Team Championship (WWE)}} |
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{{Spirit Squad}} |
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{{FCW Florida Tag Team Championship}} |
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{{Money in the Bank winners}} |
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}} |
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{{Authority control}} |
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{{DEFAULTSORT:Ziggler, Dolph}} |
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[[Category:American professional wrestlers|Nemeth, Nick]] |
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[[Category: |
[[Category:1980 births]] |
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[[Category: |
[[Category:AAA Mega Champions]] |
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[[Category:American male comedians]] |
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[[Category:American male professional wrestlers]] |
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[[Category:American male sport wrestlers]] |
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[[Category:American people of Hungarian descent]] |
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[[Category:Kent State Golden Flashes wrestlers]] |
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[[Category:Kent State University alumni]] |
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[[Category:Living people]] |
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[[Category:Male actors from Cleveland]] |
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[[Category:NWA/WCW/WWE United States Heavyweight Champions]] |
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[[Category:NXT Champions]] |
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[[Category:Professional wrestlers from Ohio]] |
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[[Category:Sportspeople from Cleveland]] |
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[[Category:St. Edward High School (Lakewood, Ohio) alumni]] |
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[[Category:World Heavyweight Champions (WWE)]] |
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[[Category:WWF/WWE Intercontinental Champions]] |
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[[Category:21st-century male professional wrestlers]] |
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[[Category:FCW Florida Tag Team Champions]] |
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[[Category:Money in the Bank winners]] |
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[[Category:World Tag Team Champions (WWE, 1971–2010)]] |
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[[Category:WWE Tag Team Champions]] |
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[[Category:World Tag Team Champions (WWE)]] |
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[[Category:IWGP Global Heavyweight Champions]] |
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[[Category:Comedians from Cleveland]] |
Revision as of 21:04, 27 June 2024
Dolph Ziggler | |
---|---|
![]() Nemeth in 2024 | |
Birth name | Nicholas Theodore Nemeth |
Born | Cleveland, Ohio, U.S. | July 27, 1980
Alma mater | Kent State University |
Relatives | Ryan Nemeth (brother) |
Professional wrestling career | |
Ring name(s) | Dolph Ziggler Nic Nemeth Nick Nemeth Nicky Colonel Sanders |
Billed height | 6 ft 0 in (183 cm)[1] |
Billed weight | 218 lb (99 kg)[1] |
Billed from | Hollywood, Florida[1] |
Trained by | Florida Championship Wrestling Lance Storm[2] Ohio Valley Wrestling Steve Keirn Tom Prichard |
Debut | 2004 |
Nicholas Theodore Nemeth (born July 27, 1980) is an American professional wrestler and stand-up comedian. He is currently signed to Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA), where he performs under his real name, stylized as Nic Nemeth. He also makes appearances on the independent circuit and for Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide (AAA), in the latter of which he is the current AAA Mega Champion in his first reign. He is best known for his tenure in WWE from 2004 to 2023, where he performed under the ring name Dolph Ziggler.
After a career in amateur wrestling, where he established several school records for Kent State University, Nemeth signed a developmental contract with WWE in 2004 and was sent to Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVW), where he wrestled under his real name. He was promoted to WWE's Raw brand shortly afterwards in 2005, playing the caddie sidekick to Kerwin White. He was sent back to OVW shortly afterwards, being given the name Nicky and joining the cheerleading-themed Spirit Squad, who debuted on RAW in January 2006 and won the World Tag Team Championship once before returning to develoment.
After working in OVW and Florida Championship Wrestling, he returned to the main roster in September 2008, Nemeth was repackaged as Dolph Ziggler. Since then, he has held the World Heavyweight Championship twice, the NXT Championship once, the Intercontinental Championship six times, the United States Championship twice, the Raw Tag Team Championship twice, and the SmackDown Tag Team Championship once. His other accomplishments include becoming the sole survivor of two Survivor Series elimination matches and the 2012 Money in the Bank winner as well as headlining multiple WWE pay-per-view events. Nemeth was released from WWE in September 2023, ending his 19-year run with the company.
After WWE, Nemeth would debut in the independent circuit using his real name. In January 2024, he would make his debut in New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) appearing in the crowd alongside his younger brother, Ryan at Wrestle Kingdom 18, and made his TNA debut at 2024's Hard To Kill. One month later, he won the IWGP Global Heavyweight Championship, his first major non-WWE championship, in his NJPW debut match. On April 27, 2024, at Triplemanía XXXII, he won the vacant AAA Mega Championship.
Early life
Nicholas Theodore Nemeth was born in Cleveland, Ohio, on July 27, 1980.[3] He has been a fan of professional wrestling since he was five years old, when he attended a wrestling event at the Richfield Coliseum, and he decided to become a professional wrestler at age 12. He later revealed on Colt Cabana's Art of Wrestling Podcast that he chose his WWE name "Dolph" because that was his great-grandfather's name, and his friend suggested the surname "Ziggler". Nemeth attended St. Edward High School in Lakewood, Ohio, where he was an amateur wrestler and holds the school record for most pins in a career with 82.[3] At St. Edward, he was teammates with Gray Maynard and Andy Hrovat.[4]
During his time at St. Edward, the wrestling team won the National Championships on two occasions.[5] He was a collegiate wrestler at Kent State University, eventually setting what was then the record for most career wins in the team's history.[3][6] His record was passed in 2006; as of 2010, he stands second all-time in career victories at Kent State.[6] He had 121 career wins between 2000 and 2003.[6][7] He majored in political science with a pre-law minor.[8] Prior to his WWE tryout, he had been accepted to the law school at Arizona State University, where he was due to start his first semester.[9] He was a three-time All-Mid-American Conference champion, winning the 165 lb (75 kg) tournament in 2000, 2002, and 2003; as of 2010, he is the last wrestler from Kent State University to have won three wrestling conference championships.[5]
Professional wrestling career
World Wrestling Entertainment / WWE (2004–2023)
Ohio Valley Wrestling (2004–2006)
Nemeth signed a contract with World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) in 2004.[7] He was assigned to its developmental territory Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVW), debuting on November 3, 2004, under the ring name "Nick Nemeth". After briefly teaming with Steve Lewington, Nemeth went on to feud with Paul Burchill. In August 2005, he unsuccessfully challenged Ken Doane for the OVW Television Championship. In September 2005, he unsuccessfully challenged Johnny Jeter for the OVW Heavyweight Championship. In October 2005, he began wrestling on main roster house shows. After joining WWE's main roster as a member of the Spirit Squad in January 2006, Nemeth continued to wrestle sporadically for OVW until April 2006.[10][3]
Alliance with Kerwin White; Spirit Squad (2005–2006)
Nemeth made his main roster television debut on the September 25, 2005, episode of Sunday Night Heat.[11] He was made the enforcer and sidekick for Chavo Guerrero, who was using a golfer in-ring persona and going by the ring name of "Kerwin White".[3] As such, Nemeth became White's caddie.[3] His wrestling debut came on an episode of Sunday Night Heat, teaming up with White in a tag team match against Shelton Benjamin and Matt Striker.[12][13] After the death of Eddie Guerrero, Chavo Guerrero dropped the "Kerwin White" character, and Nemeth no longer played the role of his caddie and tag partner. After a few months of wrestling in dark matches and at house shows, he was sent back to OVW.[3]
![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/c/c6/Nick_Nemeth%2C_Michael_Brendli%2C_and_Ken_Doane_during_a_tag_team_match.jpg/220px-Nick_Nemeth%2C_Michael_Brendli%2C_and_Ken_Doane_during_a_tag_team_match.jpg)
Nemeth became a part of the Spirit Squad faction, a group of five wrestlers who used the in-ring personas of male cheerleaders, and adopted the name Nicky in OVW during late 2005.[3] The Spirit Squad members trained with real cheerleaders and gymnasts to ensure their characters were believable.[14] On January 23, 2006, they had their WWE television debut as a group, appearing on Raw and helping Jonathan Coachman win a Royal Rumble qualifying match against Jerry "The King" Lawler by performing cheers for Coachman and distracting Lawler.[15] They later became a part of the ongoing scripted feud between WWE chairman Vince McMahon and Shawn Michaels. The heel McMahon brought in the Spirit Squad to attack Michaels on numerous occasions, including placing them in multiple handicap matches.[16][17]
They also wrestled in the tag team division, and on April 3, on Raw, won the World Tag Team Championship when Kenny and Mikey, with outside help from the other three Spirit Squad members, defeated Big Show and Kane.[18][19] After winning the championship, all five members of the Spirit Squad were recognized as the champions, allowing any combination of them to defend the championship under the Freebird Rule.[3]
In May, McMahon signed another Handicap match, with the Spirit Squad facing Michaels. The match never started, however; instead the Spirit Squad attacked Michaels, and, as part of the storyline, shattered his knee with a steel chair.[20] McMahon brought Triple H to the ring to attack Michaels with a sledgehammer; however, after Triple H felt that the Spirit Squad had disrespected him, he attacked the group.[20] This led to Triple H and Michaels reforming D-Generation X (DX) and they began a feud with the Spirit Squad.[21][22] DX played various sophomoric jokes on the Spirit Squad and the McMahons, as well as defeating the Spirit Squad in handicap tag team matches at Vengeance and a clean sweep in an elimination handicap match at Saturday Night's Main Event XXXIII.[22][23][24][25]
At the same time as their feud with DX and their alignment with McMahon, the Spirit Squad also wrestled other teams in Raw's tag division over their World Tag Team Championship, successfully defending the championship against the teams of Jim Duggan and Eugene, Charlie Haas and Viscera, and Snitsky and Val Venis.[23] They then entered a lengthy feud with The Highlanders, whom they eventually defeated to retain the championship at the Unforgiven pay-per-view on September 17.[26][27] The Spirit Squad as a whole later began a losing streak with separate members losing singles matches to Ric Flair on consecutive episodes of Raw, until Kenny managed to defeat him on the October 23 episode.[28][29][30][31][32] It was then announced that Flair and a WWE legend, selected by interactive voting, would wrestle the team for the World Tag Team Championship at Cyber Sunday.[32] The fans chose Roddy Piper, and he and Flair defeated Kenny and Mikey to win the championship at the event on November 5.[33]
The group disbanded on the November 27 episode of Raw, when they were defeated in a five-on-three handicap match by DX and Flair. In a backstage segment later that night, DX placed all members into a crate stamped "OVW, Louisville, Kentucky", a reference to the developmental territory from which the Spirit Squad had come.[34]
Return to developmental (2007–2008)
Nemeth returned to OVW on January 17, 2007, at the television tapings, again using his Nick Nemeth ring name, along with Mike Mondo, formerly Mikey in the Spirit Squad, as the "Frat Pack". The pair teamed with Mike Kruel in a match against Seth Skyfire, Shawn Spears, and Cody Runnels.[35][unreliable source?] The team disbanded in the early parts of 2007.[36] Nemeth then competed in several dark matches before the OVW television tapings, competing against several wrestlers including Chris Cage, Bradley Jay and Jake Hager, before he began teaming with Mondo again in August.[37][38][39][40]
At the end of August 2007, Nemeth and Mike Mondo were moved to the Florida Championship Wrestling (FCW) developmental territory and in his debut there, Nemeth gained the nickname "The Natural" and defeated Hade Vansen.[3][41] In November 2007, Nemeth gained Big Rob as his manager, but their alliance was short-lived.[citation needed] At the start of 2008, he tweaked his name to "Nic Nemeth" and began teaming with Brad Allen, with the pair gaining Taryn Terrell as their valet.[7] Nemeth and Allen started a frat boy type ring character with Terrell as a sorority girl. On March 22, Nemeth and Allen won the FCW Florida Tag Team Championship by defeating defending champions Eddie Colón and Eric Pérez, but lost the championship to Colón and Pérez on April 15.[7][42] Throughout April and May 2008, Nemeth wrestled in several dark matches prior to Raw, losing to Kofi Kingston and Ron Killings on several occasions.[citation needed] Soon after, he returned to the name "Nic Nemeth", and began teaming with Gavin Spears.[citation needed] The pair defeated Colón and Pérez to win the FCW Florida Tag Team Championship on August 16, but lost it to Heath Miller and Joe Hennig less than a month later.[43]
Repackaging as Dolph Ziggler (2008–2010)
![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/da/Dolph_Ziggler_Milwaukee_090908.jpg/170px-Dolph_Ziggler_Milwaukee_090908.jpg)
On September 15, 2008, Nemeth re-debuted on Raw (as a heel), introducing himself in a backstage segment under the name "Dolph Ziggler".[44] On October 10, Nemeth was suspended for 30 days for a violation of WWE's Wellness Program policy.[45] He returned to Raw on November 17 in a backstage segment with Rey Mysterio and Shawn Michaels.[46] In his first match on Raw under the Ziggler name, he lost to Batista on the December 1, 2008, episode.[47] The following week he got his first victory as Ziggler, by countout, against R-Truth.[48] The next week on Raw, he picked up his first televised pinfall victory, when he defeated Charlie Haas.[49] Ziggler would compete in the Royal Rumble match at the eponymous event on January 25, 2009, in which he was eliminated by Kane after 21 seconds.
On April 15, 2009, Ziggler was drafted to the SmackDown brand as part of the 2009 Supplemental Draft.[50] He made his debut on the April 17 episode of SmackDown, defeating United States Champion, Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP) in a non-title match, and, as a result, the following week he demanded a match for the championship.[51][52] On the May 1 episode of SmackDown, however, he failed to win the championship, after he was pinned by MVP.[53] Ziggler then started a rivalry with The Great Khali, losing to him by disqualification after attacking Khali with a steel chair.[54] As a result, Khali began coming out to the ring during and after Ziggler's matches, in attempt to gain revenge and to stop Ziggler from cheating.[55][56] Over the next few weeks, Ziggler would defeat Khali by countout and disqualification after making it look like Khali had struck him with a steel chair.[57][58] At The Bash pay-per-view on June 28, Ziggler defeated Khali in a No Disqualification match by pinfall, after Kane interfered and attacked Khali.[59]
Ziggler then entered an on-screen relationship with WWE Diva Maria and she became his valet.[3] He simultaneously started a scripted rivalry with Intercontinental Champion Rey Mysterio, who defeated Ziggler at Night of Champions on July 26 and SummerSlam on August 23 to retain the championship.[60] In September, Mysterio lost the Intercontinental Championship to John Morrison, and Ziggler entered a feud with Morrison after defeating him by countout in a non-title match, but lost to him at the Hell in a Cell pay-per-view on October 4.[61] On the episode of SmackDown following Hell in a Cell, Ziggler ended his on-screen relationship with Maria after she accidentally cost him a match against Morrison for the Intercontinental Championship. At Breaking Point on September 13, Ziggler made an appearance during a promo by Pat Patterson, in which Ziggler attacked Patterson until Morrison made the save. He again failed to win the Intercontinental title from Morrison twice, wrestling him to a double countout on the November 13 episode of SmackDown and losing a two-out-of-three falls match the following week to end the feud. On the February 26, 2010, episode of SmackDown, Ziggler defeated John Morrison and R-Truth in a triple threat qualifying match to compete in the Money in the Bank ladder match at WrestleMania XXVI on March 28, but was ultimately unsuccessful.[62][63]
Alliance with Vickie Guerrero (2010–2012)
![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/64/Dolph_Ziggler_2010_Tribute_to_the_Troops.jpg/170px-Dolph_Ziggler_2010_Tribute_to_the_Troops.jpg)
In June 2010, he began a romantic storyline with Vickie Guerrero, who began accompanying him to the ring.[64] Ziggler won the WWE Intercontinental Championship from Kofi Kingston on July 28 (aired August 6) at SmackDown.[65][66] In his first title defense at SummerSlam on August 15, he retained the championship against Kingston when the match ended in a no contest due to interference from The Nexus.[67] Ziggler was able to make a successful title defense against Kingston at the Night of Champions pay-per-view on September 19, and against Kaval at Survivor Series on November 21.[68][69] During this time, Ziggler was chosen as a "Pro" for the fourth season of NXT, with Jacob Novak as his Rookie, but later was changed to Byron Saxton when Ziggler won a battle royal.[70][71][72]
![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/68/Dolph-Ziggler-US-Champ-2011.jpg/200px-Dolph-Ziggler-US-Champ-2011.jpg)
Ziggler successfully retained the Intercontinental Championship at TLC: Tables, Ladders and Chairs on December 19 in a three-way ladder match against Kingston and Jack Swagger,[73] but lost the title to Kingston at SmackDown on January 4, 2011, ending his reign at 160 days. That same night, Ziggler won a four-way match against Cody Rhodes, Drew McIntyre and Big Show to become the number one contender to the World Heavyweight Championship.[74] At the Royal Rumble on January 30, Ziggler was unsuccessful in his title match against Edge.[75] On February 4, Ziggler's storyline girlfriend Vickie Guerrero, who was the acting General Manager of SmackDown, banned the spear – Edge's finishing move – and decided that if Edge used it, Ziggler would be awarded the championship.[76] Ziggler was again defeated by Edge in a rematch on the February 11 episode of SmackDown, but because Edge used the spear,[77] Guerrero declared Ziggler the new World Heavyweight Champion on the February 14 episode of Raw.[78] That same night, Ziggler lost the title to Edge[79] and, following the storyline, Theodore Long fired him.[80]
The next month, Ziggler was introduced as the newest member of the Raw roster with Guerrero.[81] Ziggler, Guerrero, and LayCool then feuded with Morrison, Trish Stratus, and Jersey Shore guest star Snooki, culminating in a mixed tag team match at WrestleMania XXVII on April 3, which Ziggler and his team lost.[82][83]
![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/d7/Dolph_Ziggler_and_Vickie_Guerrero.jpg/220px-Dolph_Ziggler_and_Vickie_Guerrero.jpg)
At Capitol Punishment, Ziggler defeated Kingston via a sleeper hold submission to earn his first WWE United States Championship.[84][85][86] The next night on Raw, Kingston invoked his rematch clause in a two out of three falls match and won via disqualification, allowing Ziggler to retain. After Jack Swagger suggested to Vickie Guerrero that she should manage him in addition to Ziggler, a jealous Ziggler teased tension with Swagger.[87][88] This, coupled with Ziggler's concurrent feud with Alex Riley, led Ziggler to defend and retain his United States Championship in a fatal four-way match against Swagger, Riley, and John Morrison at Night of Champions on September 18.[89] On the following episode of Raw SuperShow, Ziggler lost a non-title match to Zack Ryder when guest star Hugh Jackman helped Ryder by punching Ziggler in the face.[90] Although Ziggler later claimed to have a broken jaw due to Jackman's punch, it was reported that the supposed injury was fake.[91] Later that night, Guerrero officially began managing Swagger, and Swagger began interfering in Ziggler's matches to help him win.[92] Ziggler and Swagger unsuccessfully challenged Air Boom for the WWE Tag Team Championship at Hell in a Cell on October 2 and at Vengeance on October 23, where Ziggler also successfully defended the United States Championship against Ryder.[93][94] He went on to successfully defend the championship against Morrison at Survivor Series on November 20.[95] At TLC: Tables, Ladders and Chairs on December 18, Ziggler lost the United States Championship to Ryder, ending his reign at 182 days.[96]
On the December 26 episode of Raw SuperShow, Ziggler defeated WWE Champion CM Punk in a gauntlet match for a championship opportunity following interference from John Laurinaitis.[97] The following Raw SuperShow, Ziggler defeated Punk by countout after Laurinaitis interfered again; as a result, Ziggler did not win the championship.[98] At the Royal Rumble on January 29, 2012, Ziggler failed to capture the WWE Championship from CM Punk.[99] At the Elimination Chamber on February 19, Ziggler failed again to capture the WWE Championship after being eliminated second by Chris Jericho.[100] Nemeth noted to Arda Ocal in an interview for The Score Television Network that the Elimination Chamber left him with multiple minor injuries and it is a match he least looked forward to working.[101]
On the February 27 Raw SuperShow, Ziggler and Swagger unsuccessfully challenged Primo & Epico for the WWE Tag Team Championship in a Triple Threat tag team match, also involving Kofi Kingston and R-Truth.[102] On the March 19 Raw SuperShow, Ziggler and Swagger were announced as the newest members of Team Johnny for the 12-man tag team match at WrestleMania XXVIII and on the April 2 Raw SuperShow, Ziggler and Swagger unsuccessfully challenged Santino Marella for the United States Championship in a triple threat match.[103] After the match, Ziggler began a feud with Brodus Clay, who attacked Ziggler with a headbutt after he and Swagger tried to attack Marella.[103] On the following episode of Raw SuperShow, Ziggler and Swagger were defeated by Clay and Marella in a tag team match.[104] In the following weeks, Ziggler and Swagger lost to Clay and Hornswoggle in singles and tag matches.[105][106] At Extreme Rules on April 29, Ziggler was again defeated by Clay.[107] Ziggler and Swagger unsuccessfully challenged Kofi Kingston and R-Truth for WWE Tag Team Championship, first at Over the Limit on May 20 and second on the May 28 episode of Raw SuperShow, resulting in Ziggler showing signs of wanting to break away from Guerrero and Swagger.[108][109]
On the June 11 episode of Raw SuperShow, Ziggler defeated The Great Khali, Swagger and Christian in a fatal four-way elimination match to become the number one contender to the World Heavyweight Championship,[110] but at No Way Out on June 17, Ziggler lost the title match to champion Sheamus.[111] On the following Raw SuperShow, Guerrero, finally tired of the bickering between Ziggler and Swagger, arranged for a match between them; Ziggler won the match and Guerrero's affections, ending their partnership.[112] Ziggler received another shot at the World Heavyweight Championship on the June 29 SmackDown, but was again defeated by Sheamus in a triple threat match, also involving Alberto Del Rio.[113]
Money in the Bank; World Heavyweight Champion (2012–2013)
![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/1e/Ziggler_MITB9.jpg/170px-Ziggler_MITB9.jpg)
On the July 3 SmackDown, Ziggler defeated Alex Riley to qualify for a spot in the World Heavyweight Championship Money in the Bank ladder match.[114] On July 13, Ziggler, Zack Ryder and Justin Roberts were involved in a car accident in San Diego while driving from Comic-Con; none of them suffered severe injuries.[115] Two days later at the Money in the Bank pay-per-view, Ziggler won the Money in the Bank ladder match to guarantee him the opportunity to challenge for the World Heavyweight Championship at a time of his choosing within the next year.[116] Later that night, Ziggler attempted to cash in the briefcase on Sheamus after Alberto Del Rio attacked him after their match, but Del Rio stopped Ziggler from cashing in.[116] On the following episode of SmackDown, Ziggler again attempted to cash in the briefcase on Sheamus following a tag team match with Del Rio, but was laid out by Rey Mysterio and Sheamus before he could do so.[117] During this time, Ziggler began a feud with Chris Jericho after claiming he had lost his touch, which resulted in Jericho attacking him on two occasions,[118][119] and defeating him in a singles match at SummerSlam on August 19.[120] The night after SummerSlam, Ziggler defeated Jericho in a rematch; as a result Ziggler retained his Money in the Bank contract and Jericho's WWE contract was terminated.[121] Following this, Ziggler began feuding with Randy Orton on SmackDown four days later, after Orton hit him with an RKO when Ziggler tried to cash his Money in the Bank contract on a vulnerable Sheamus.[122] The following week on SmackDown, Ziggler faced Orton in a match that was won by Orton,[123] Ziggler defeated him in a rematch on Raw by pinning him while holding his tights.[124] Ziggler faced Orton again at Night of Champions on September 16 where he lost again, ending the feud.[125] On November 18 at Survivor Series, Ziggler captained the traditional 5-on-5 elimination tag team match opposite Mick Foley and won the match by last pinning Orton, making him the sole survivor of the match.[126]
Ziggler then began feuding with John Cena after he sided with Vickie Guerrero to help defame Cena and AJ Lee by alleging they had a romantic relationship. On December 16 at TLC: Tables, Ladders and Chairs, Ziggler retained his Money in the Bank briefcase in a ladder match after AJ interfered and turned on Cena.[127] The following night on Raw, while trying to diffuse an argument between Vickie and AJ, AJ unexpectedly kissed Ziggler, leaving him confused. Ziggler then attempted to cash in his Money in the Bank briefcase on Big Show after Show was assaulted by Sheamus, but he was attacked by Cena before the match could start. Later, Ziggler teamed with AJ to face Cena and Vickie Guerrero, however, the match ended in a disqualification after the debuting Big E Langston attacked Cena, also starting an on-screen relationship between Dolph and AJ.[128] Ziggler ended 2012 having wrestled the second most TV/PPV matches that year with 90; however, he had the most TV/PPV losses with 57.[129] Ziggler ended his feud with Cena after losing to him on the January 7, 2013, episode of Raw, in a singles match and in steel cage match the following week, despite outside interference from AJ and Langston in both matches.[130][131] On the January 21 episode of Raw, Ziggler won a Beat the Clock Challenge to earn the right to choose what number he can enter in the Royal Rumble match, first or second.[132] Six days later at the Royal Rumble, Ziggler entered at number one, eliminating Chris Jericho and The Godfather and lasted nearly fifty minutes before being eliminated by Sheamus. During the match, Ziggler resumed his feud with the returning Jericho.[133] The following night on Raw, Ziggler and Jericho were placed in a "Strange Bedfellows" match against WWE Tag Team Champions Team Hell No (Daniel Bryan and Kane), but they lost when Kane hit a chokeslam on Ziggler and pinned him after Jericho framed him for pushing Kane.[134] On the February 18 episode of Raw, Ziggler was defeated by World Heavyweight Champion Alberto Del Rio by submission in a non-title match, and afterwards Langston attacked Del Rio and then Ziggler made a failed attempt to cash in his Money in the Bank briefcase after Del Rio's ring announcer Ricardo Rodriguez ran off with it.[135] After defeating WWE Tag Team Champions Daniel Bryan and Kane in singles matches due to interference from Langston,[136][137] Ziggler and Langston were given a shot at their titles.[138] The title match took place on April 7 at WrestleMania 29, where Ziggler and Langston unsuccessfully challenged Bryan and Kane for the WWE Tag Team Championship.[139]
![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/24/Dolph_Ziggler_with_AJ_Lee_%26_Big_E_Langston.jpg/220px-Dolph_Ziggler_with_AJ_Lee_%26_Big_E_Langston.jpg)
The following night on Raw, Ziggler cashed in his Money in the Bank contract on an injured Alberto Del Rio to win his second World Heavyweight Championship.[140] After gaining the World Heavyweight Championship, Ziggler began feuding with Del Rio and Jack Swagger over the title.[141][142][143] Ziggler was originally booked to face Del Rio and Swagger in a three-way ladder match at Extreme Rules on May 19;[144] however, Ziggler suffered a legitimate concussion at a SmackDown taping, thus removing their match from the pay-per-view and resulting in Ziggler being absent from television for a month.[145][146][147][148] On June 16 at Payback, Ziggler faced Del Rio in his first title defense of the World Heavyweight Championship and during the match, a double turn took place; Ziggler turned face by displaying a never-say-die attitude while Del Rio turned heel by repeatedly and ruthlessly targeting his head to take advantage of his concussion, win the match, and end Ziggler's reign at 69 days.[149][150][151] On July 14 at Money in the Bank, AJ cost Ziggler his title rematch against Alberto Del Rio, after she prematurely snuck into the ring and hit Del Rio with her own title, prompting a disqualification.[152]
On the following Raw, Ziggler ended his relationship with AJ due to her actions the previous night and AJ exacted revenge by costing Ziggler a non-title match against Del Rio, then she attacked Ziggler and unleashed Langston on him.[153] On the July 29, 2013, episode of Raw, Ziggler defeated Big E Langston via disqualification after AJ Lee attacked Ziggler.[154] In a rematch on the following week, Ziggler was defeated by Langston after a distraction by AJ and Kaitlyn.[155] This led to the host of SummerSlam, The Miz creating a mixed tag team match at SummerSlam on August 18, where Ziggler and Kaitlyn defeated Big E and AJ.[156]
Feud with The Authority (2013–2015)
![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/27/Dolph_ziggler_2013.jpg/170px-Dolph_ziggler_2013.jpg)
Ziggler was later unsuccessful in capturing the United States Championship, when he lost to Dean Ambrose at Night of Champions on September 15[157] and on the October 16 episode of Main Event, ending their feud.[158] After that rivalry was over, Ziggler lost several matches during the late-2013 calendar year when he also failed to win the Intercontinental Championship from Curtis Axel on the November 11 episode of Raw.[159] In December, Ziggler lost two number one contender matches for the Intercontinental Championship, first to Damien Sandow and later to Fandango.[160]
At the Royal Rumble on January 26, 2014, Ziggler entered the Royal Rumble match, but was eliminated by Roman Reigns.[161] On April 6 at WrestleMania XXX, Ziggler competed in the 31-man Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal, but was eliminated by Alberto Del Rio.[162] On June 29 at Money in the Bank, Ziggler competed in the Money in the Bank ladder match for a WWE World Heavyweight Championship contract, but the match was won by Seth Rollins.[163] Ziggler later competed in a Battle Royal for the vacant Intercontinental Championship on July 20 at Battleground; however, he was abruptly eliminated from behind by The Miz.[164] After Ziggler defeated Miz in a non-title match the following night on Raw, he received a rematch at SummerSlam on August 17, where he defeated Miz to win the championship for a second time.[165] The next night on Raw, Ziggler successfully retained his title against Miz, after he was counted out.[166] At Night of Champions on September 21, Ziggler dropped the title to Miz, only for Ziggler to win it back the following night on Raw.[167][168] Ziggler then retained the championship against Cesaro on September 26 episode of SmackDown,[169] in a triple threat match against Cesaro and Miz the next week on Raw[170] and at Hell in a Cell on October 26 against Cesaro in a 2-out-of-3 falls match.
Dolph Ziggler, the 2011 winner... has been the victim of as many stop-and-start pushes of anyone in history. The crowds always get behind him for the start, no matter how many false teases there are, and then a few weeks later, the company always takes him back down.
— —Dave Meltzer on Ziggler placing fourth for the 2014 Wrestling Observer Newsletter awards for Most Underrated.[171]
On the October 28, 2014, episode of Raw, Ziggler and John Cena shook hands together backstage, which The Authority interpreted as a deal to plot against them. As a result, Ziggler was put in a match against Kane, which Ziggler won. Ziggler then joined Team Cena at Survivor Series.[172] On the November 10 episode of Raw, Ziggler was brutally attacked by the returning Luke Harper.[173] The following week, Harper was awarded a title match against Ziggler, which Harper won with assistance from The Authority, ending Ziggler's reign at 56 days.[174] At Survivor Series on November 23, Ziggler emerged as the sole survivor for a second time. Ziggler contributed to Rusev being counted out, then after all his teammates were eliminated, he pinned Kane and Luke Harper. Triple H twice prevented Ziggler from pinning final opponent Seth Rollins, but the debuting Sting provided an assist to help Ziggler win the match, thus ousting the Authority from power.[175] At TLC on December 14, Ziggler defeated Harper in a ladder match to win his fourth Intercontinental Championship.[176] On the December 16 episode of SmackDown, Ziggler finally defeated Seth Rollins in a singles match after failing numerous times before. Three days later, Rolling Stone named Ziggler as the 2014 WWE Wrestler of the Year.[177] On the first Raw of 2015 (dated January 5), the recently reinstated Authority forced Ziggler to defend his Intercontinental Championship against Bad News Barrett and he initially won. After Barrett then attacked and injured Ziggler's shoulder, Kane declared the match as two-out-of-three falls, Barrett proceeded to defeat Ziggler for the title after Kane distracted him. Later that night, Ziggler alongside Ryback and Erick Rowan were fired by the Authority.[178]
On the January 19 episode of Raw, Sting provided another assist, as John Cena won Ziggler, Ryback and Rowan's jobs back.[179] Ziggler returned to television on the next SmackDown and qualified for the Royal Rumble match by beating Barrett in a non-title match.[180] In the Royal Rumble match on January 25, Ziggler entered as the last entrant, eliminating Bad News Barrett and Cesaro but was quickly eliminated by Big Show and Kane.[181] At Fastlane on February 22, Ziggler competed together with Rowan and Ryback in a six-man tag team match against Rollins, Big Show and Kane, which they lost.[182] On the March 5 episode of SmackDown, Ziggler was announced as a participant in the 7-man ladder match for the Intercontinental Championship at WrestleMania 31 on March 29, which was won by Daniel Bryan.[183]
Storyline with Lana and Rusev (2015–2016)
Between March and June, Ziggler feuded with Sheamus, facing him in a Kiss Me Arse match at Extreme Rules and at Payback,[184][185] while also participated in the Elimination Chamber match for the vacated Intercontinental Championship at Elimination Chamber and the Money in the Bank ladder match at Money in the Bank, which ws won by Sheamus.[186][187]
They've 50/50ed the roster to death to the point where no one is over. Dolph Ziggler's character is dead. He used to get a great pop coming out, but now the fans are conditioned to know that he's gone as far as he'll ever go, so they sit on their hands when his music hits now.
— —Mike Tedesco, writing for WrestleView.com in 2015, describing Ziggler's slump into irrelevance[188]
Ziggler became involved in an on-screen love affair with Lana, the former manager of Rusev, when she kissed him at Raw on May 25, with Lana serving as Ziggler's valet during his matches.[189][190] In June, after Ziggler and Lana confirmed their storyline relationship, Summer Rae allied with Rusev to even the odds.[191][192] After an attack by Rusev, Ziggler suffered a bruised trachea in storyline,[193][194] which was to give him some time off to film a new WWE Studios movie, titled 6:42.[195] While Ziggler and Rusev match at SummerSlam ended in a double countout due to interference from Lana and Rae,[196][197] Ziggler won the rematch at Night of Champions,[198][199][200] but the storyline was cancelled after TMZ reported the real–life engagement of Rusev and Lana.[201][202]
![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/8f/Ziggler_in_April_2016.jpg/220px-Ziggler_in_April_2016.jpg)
On the October 22 episode of SmackDown, Ziggler started a feud with the debuting Tyler Breeze, who aligned with Summer Rae and attacked Ziggler.[203] Ziggler entered a tournament for the vacant WWE World Heavyweight Championship, defeating The Miz in the first round match[204] before being eliminated by Dean Ambrose.[205] Ziggler and Breeze continued their feud,[206] which culminated in a match between the two at Survivor Series on November 22, which Ziggler lost.[207] Ziggler would then enter a feud with Kevin Owens with the pair trading victories throughout the rest of December and beginning of 2016. Ziggler entered the Royal Rumble on January 24 as the 28th entrant, lasting 7 minutes, but was eliminated by the eventual winner, Triple H.[208] The next night on Raw, Ziggler faced Kevin Owens in a losing effort, but defeated him the following two weeks in a row.[209][210] On the February 15 Raw, Ziggler was involved in a fatal five-way match for the Intercontinental Championship, where Owens regained the title after pinning Tyler Breeze.[211] At Fastlane on February 21, Ziggler challenged Owens to a match for the Intercontinental Championship, which he lost.[212] In the following weeks, Ziggler began to re-ignite his feud with The Authority, and on the March 14 episode of Raw, he confronted Triple H and Stephanie McMahon.[213] This resulted in Ziggler being granted a match against Triple H where if he won, he could pick his match at WrestleMania (excluding the WWE World Heavyweight Championship match); however, Ziggler lost.[213] At WrestleMania 32 on April 3, Ziggler competed against Kevin Owens, Sami Zayn, The Miz, Stardust, Sin Cara and Zack Ryder in a ladder match for the Intercontinental Championship, which Ryder won.[214][215]
After WrestleMania 32, Ziggler went to a double countout with Baron Corbin on the April 4 episode of Raw, leading to Corbin hitting an End of Days outside of the ring to Ziggler, igniting a feud in the process.[216] At the Payback pre-show on May 1, Ziggler faced Baron Corbin in a winning effort.[217] The two then had a no disqualification match at Extreme Rules on May 22 where Corbin won after hitting a low blow on Ziggler.[218] Following Extreme Rules, on the May 23 episode of Raw, Ziggler had a confrontation backstage with Corbin and challenged him to a technical wrestling match the next week.[219] In that match, Ziggler intentionally got himself disqualified when he kicked Corbin in the groin immediately after the match began.[220] This led to a rubber match at Money in the Bank on June 19, which Corbin won to end their feud.[221]
Championship reigns (2016–2018)
On July 19 at the 2016 WWE draft, Ziggler was drafted to SmackDown.[222] On the July 26 episode of SmackDown, Ziggler won a six-pack challenge against AJ Styles, Apollo Crews, Baron Corbin, Bray Wyatt, and John Cena to become the number one contender for the WWE World Championship.[223] On the August 2 edition of SmackDown, Ziggler defended his contendership against Bray Wyatt. Ziggler won the match, but was attacked afterwards by Wyatt and Erick Rowan, who also laid out Dean Ambrose when he attempted to save Ziggler.[224] On August 21 at SummerSlam, Ziggler was defeated by Ambrose.[225] Next, Ziggler started a feud over The Miz's Intercontinental Championship, failing to capture the title at Backlash on September 11 after Maryse sprayed something at Ziggler whilst Miz distracted the referee.[226] After failing to win the Intercontinental title in the following weeks,[227] Ziggler would defeat The Miz at No Mercy on October 9 to win the title in a match where he would have to retire if he lost.[228] However, he lost the title 37 days later against The Miz on the 900th episode of SmackDown.[229] The feud culminated in a Ladder match at the TLC: Tables, Ladders, & Chairs event on December 4 for the championship in what was advertised as their final match, where Ziggler was defeated.[230]
On the December 13 edition of SmackDown, Ziggler pinned Dean Ambrose in a fatal four-way elimination match also involving The Miz and Luke Harper, to become the number one contender to AJ Styles' WWE Championship.[231] The following week, Baron Corbin confronted Ziggler, and the two had a match with Ziggler's number one contender's spot on the line. The match ended in a double count-out and Daniel Bryan made the December 27 episode's WWE Championship match a triple-threat between Styles, Ziggler, and Corbin.[232] In that match, Styles retained the WWE Championship after pinning Ziggler.[233]
On the January 3, 2017, episode of SmackDown, after he lost to Baron Corbin, Kalisto came to the save of Ziggler during a post match assault by Corbin, he superkicked Kalisto, turning heel for the first time since 2013.[234] At Elimination Chamber on February 12, Ziggler lost to Apollo Crews and Kalisto in two-on-one handicap match. Following the match, Ziggler attacked the victors, stomping on Crews' ankle after placing it in a chair.[235] This led to a chairs match on the February 28 SmackDown, where Ziggler was victorious.[236] On April 2 on the WrestleMania 33 kickoff show, Ziggler was part of the André the Giant Memorial Battle Royal, managing to eliminate R-Truth, Rhyno and Tian Bing, from which he was eliminated by the eventual winner Mojo Rawley.[237] He lost to Shinsuke Nakamura at Backlash on May 21.[238]
After some time away from TV, Ziggler returned on the August 22 edition of SmackDown Live to declare that he would undergo a gimmick change on the following week's edition.[239] He later started mocking, week after week, the entrances of current and former wrestlers such as John Cena, Naomi, Shawn Michaels and Randy Savage. Ziggler believed that fans only cared about elaborated entrances, and not about the in-ring performances, where he claimed he was the best. This led to a feud with Bobby Roode, being defeated by him at Hell in a Cell on October 8, but at Clash of Champions on December 17, he defeated Baron Corbin and Roode in a triple threat match to win his second United States Championship.[240] On the following episode of SmackDown on December 19, Ziggler held a celebration that was a retrospective of his WWE career; he said that the fans did not deserve him and placed the title belt in the ring before leaving.[241] A week later, general manager Daniel Bryan vacated the title.[242]
Ziggler returned at the Royal Rumble on January 28, 2018, as the surprise #30 entrant in the men's Royal Rumble match. After eliminating Goldust, however, Ziggler was eliminated by Finn Bálor.[243] He would be involved at Fastlane on March 11 in a six pack challenge for the WWE Championship, where the champion AJ Styles retained. Next month, Ziggler took part in the André the Giant Memorial Battle Royal at WrestleMania 34 on April 8, but did not win the trophy.
Alliance with Drew McIntyre (2018–2019)
![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/b9/Dolph_Ziggler_March_2018.jpg/220px-Dolph_Ziggler_March_2018.jpg)
On April 16, Ziggler was moved to Raw as part of the Superstar Shake-up, and that night, he allied himself with the returning Drew McIntyre to attack Titus Worldwide (Titus O'Neil and Apollo Crews),[244] whom they defeated the following week.[245] On the June 18 episode of Raw, Ziggler answered Seth Rollins' open challenge for the Intercontinental Championship and defeated Rollins to capture the title for a sixth time.[246] After weeks of McIntyre assisting Ziggler in all situations,[247] including Extreme Rules on July 15 where Ziggler defeated Rollins 5–4 in sudden death overtime of a 30-Minute Iron Man match,[248] Dean Ambrose returned on the August 13 episode of Raw to even the odds for Rollins.[249] At SummerSlam on August 19, Ziggler lost the championship to Rollins, who had Ambrose in his corner.[250]
On the September 3 episode of Raw, Ziggler and McIntyre temporarily formed a stable with Braun Strowman known as "The Dogs of War" to combat the newly reunited The Shield (Roman Reigns, Seth Rollins and Dean Ambrose). Later that night, they won the Raw Tag Team Championship by defeating The B-Team (Bo Dallas and Curtis Axel).[251] They then successfully defended their titles at Hell in a Cell on September 16 against Rollins and Ambrose.[252] At the Super Show-Down event on October 6, Ziggler teamed with McIntyre and Strowman in a losing effort to The Shield in a six-man tag team match.[253] Over the next two weeks, the respective groups faced each other again on Raw, with The Dogs of War winning the first match,[254] but losing the latter after Ziggler got pinned by Ambrose.[255] During both matches, tensions arose between Ziggler, McIntyre and Strowman, who felt he was carrying the group. After losing the last match, Strowman turned on Ziggler and attacked him, before being attacked by McIntyre.[255]
Ziggler and McIntyre lost the Raw Tag Team Championship to Rollins and Ambrose on the October 22 episode of Raw after interference from Braun Strowman.[256] On the December 3 episode of Raw, the alliance between Ziggler and McIntyre ended when McIntyre claimed that Ziggler was "a means to an end to get him into a prominent position" and ended their association. The two later faced each other in a match which Ziggler won after interference from Finn Bálor.[257] After the three men had traded wins among each other and interfered in each other's matches over the next few weeks,[258][259][260] McIntyre defeated Ziggler in a cage match on the December 31 episode of Raw.[261]
After this, Ziggler was off television until his appearance at the Royal Rumble match at the titular event on January 27, 2019, as participant number 28, eliminating McIntyre and lasting until the final three, before being eliminated by Braun Strowman.[262] He would then disappear again from WWE television without notice due to a stand-up comedy tour that started following the Royal Rumble.[263][264][265]
The Dirty Dawgs (2019–2022)
After a four-month hiatus, Ziggler returned on the May 21 episode of SmackDown Live, attacking WWE Champion Kofi Kingston.[266] Ziggler failed to win the title from Kingston at Super ShowDown on June 7 and Stomping Grounds on June 23 in a steel cage match, ending their long-time feud.[267][268] At Extreme Rules on July 14, he lost to Kevin Owens in only 17 seconds[269] and failed to win the WWE Championship from Kingston in a triple threat match also including Samoa Joe at Smackville on July 27.[270] On the July 23 episode of SmackDown Live, Ziggler interrupted Miz TV featuring Shawn Michaels and attacked Michaels and The Miz.[271] This led to a match against Goldberg at SummerSlam on August 11, being defeated in a short match.[272]
On the August 26 episode of Raw, Ziggler teamed with Robert Roode to win a tag-team turmoil match, earning a Raw Tag Team Championship match at Clash of Champions.[273] At the event on September 15, Ziggler and Roode won the titles from Seth Rollins and Braun Strowman.[274] On the October 14 episode of Raw, Ziggler and Roode lost the titles to The Viking Raiders (Erik and Ivar), ending their reign at 29 days, and they were drafted to the SmackDown brand as part of the 2019 WWE Draft.[275] At Survivor Series on November 24, Ziggler and Roode won a 10-team Interbrand Tag Team Battle Royal.[276] In the following weeks, they aligned themselves with King Corbin during his feud against Roman Reigns.[277] On January 26, 2020, at the Royal Rumble, Ziggler entered the Royal Rumble match at number 19, but was eliminated by Reigns.[278] At Super ShowDown on February 27, Ziggler lost to Mansoor.[279] At Elimination Chamber on March 8, Ziggler and Roode competed in the namesake match for the SmackDown Tag Team Championship, where the champions The Miz and John Morrison retained.[280] In March, due to the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, Roode was forced to stay in his native Canada, putting the team on hiatus.
At the same time, Ziggler entered a feud with Otis over the affections of Mandy Rose, using underhanded tactics to secure a Valentine's Day date and short-term relationship, but was soon exposed.[281] On the second night of WrestleMania 36 on April 5, Ziggler lost to Otis.[282] After a few more assaults and promos, the feud ended when Otis defeated Ziggler in a Money in the Bank qualifying match.[283] On the June 22 episode of Raw, it was announced that Ziggler and Roode were traded to the Raw brand for A.J. Styles.[284] On that night, Ziggler issued a challenge to WWE Champion Drew McIntyre, which McIntyre accepted for The Horror Show at Extreme Rules.[285] At the event on July 19, Ziggler failed to win the title.[286][287]
As part of the 2020 Draft in October, both Ziggler and Roode were drafted back to the SmackDown brand.[288] On the January 8, 2021, episode of SmackDown, Ziggler and Roode defeated The Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford) to win the SmackDown Tag Team Championship.[289] They retained the titles until WrestleMania Backlash , where they lost the titles to Rey and Dominik Mysterio.[290][291][292] They were drafted to the Raw brand in the 2021 Draft.[293][294] On the October 25 episode of Raw, Ziggler and Roode defeated The Street Profits and Alpha Academy (Chad Gable and Otis) in a #1 contender's match for the Raw Tag Team Championship, facing the champions, RK-Bro (Randy Orton and Riddle) for the titles later that night in a losing effort.[295] At Survivor Series on November 21, Ziggler participated in a 25-man dual-branded battle royal to commemorate the 25th anniversary of The Rock's debut at the 1996 Survivor Series, eliminating Mansoor before he was eliminated by AJ Styles.[296] Ziggler competed in the Royal Rumble on January 29, 2022, entering at No. 16 but was eliminated by Bad Bunny and Rey Mysterio.[297]
NXT Champion (2022–2023)
On the February 8 episode of NXT 2.0, Ziggler made a surprise appearance during a segment with Bron Breakker and Santos Escobar.[298] At NXT Roadblock on March 8, Ziggler defeated Tommaso Ciampa and defending champion Breakker in a triple threat match to win the NXT Championship.[299] The following week, he successfully defended his title against L. A. Knight.[300] At Stand & Deliver on April 2, he retained the title against Breakker due to interference from Roode.[301] However, on the April 4 episode of Raw, Ziggler lost his title to Breakker, ending his reign at 27 days.[302]
At the 2023 WWE Draft, he was undrafted. On the May 15 episode of Raw, Ziggler competed in a battle royal to determine the #1 contender for the Intercontinental Championship at Night of Champions, eliminating JD McDonagh, but would later get eliminated by Von Wagner. After getting eliminated, McDonagh would attack Ziggler, beginning a feud between the two.[303] On the May 29 episode of Raw, Ziggler wrestled McDonagh, which ended in a double countout. McDonagh would once again attack Ziggler after the match.[304] This would end up being Ziggler's final appearance for the company.
He was released on September 21, 2023, ending his 19-year tenure with the company.[305] Nemeth's non-compete clause with the WWE expired on December 20, 2023.
Independent circuit (2023–present)
![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/f6/Nic_Nemeth_in_February_2024.jpg/250px-Nic_Nemeth_in_February_2024.jpg)
On December 10, 2023, it was announced that Nemeth would be making his debut for World Wrestling Council (WWC) on January 20, 2024, against Ray González.[306] On February 3, 2024, Nemeth made his debut for Game Changer Wrestling (GCW) at The Coldest Winter 2, defeating Matt Cardona.[307]
On March 29, he defeated Cardona once again, but this time for the SCX Championship.[308] The next day, he retained the championship against Último Dragón.[309]
New Japan Pro-Wrestling (2024–present)
Nemeth made his debut for New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) at Wrestle Kingdom 18 on January 4, 2024, appearing ringside as a spectator along with his brother Ryan. Nemeth confronted the new IWGP Global Champion David Finlay,[310] defeating him for the title at The New Beginning in Sapporo.[311] Nemeth retained the title against Hiroshi Tanahashi on night 1 of Wrestling Dontaku,[312] but lost it the next night back to Finlay, ending his reign at 71 days.[313]
Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (2024–present)
Nemeth made his debut for Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA) at the Hard To Kill PPV on January 13, 2024, confronting the new TNA World Champion Moose.[314] Nemeth hit Moose with the Danger Zone (formerly known as the Zig Zag) before fleeing the ring and celebrating with the crowd.[315] The following week, Nemeth appeared for the first time on TNA Impact!. He was interrupted by Steve Maclin, with the two eventually throwing punches and establishing Nemeth's first rivalry in TNA.[316] At Sacrifice, Nemeth went on to defeat Maclin.[317] On April 20 at Rebellion, Nemeth unsuccessfully challenged Moose for the TNA World Championship.[318]
Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide (2024–present)
On March 18, 2024, it was announced that Nemeth would make his debut for Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide (AAA) at Triplemanía XXXII: Monterrey, to face Alberto El Patron for the vacant AAA Mega Championship. At the event, Nemeth defeated El Patron to win the AAA Mega Championship for the first time in his career, marking his first world championship outside WWE in Mexican soil.[319]
Professional wrestling style and persona
![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/38/WWE_Raw_IMG_2853_%2811702531656%29.jpg/220px-WWE_Raw_IMG_2853_%2811702531656%29.jpg)
Sports Illustrated described Nemeth as "phenomenal in the ring, with the ability to carry an entertaining match with practically anyone on the WWE roster" and added that his "mic work is top-notch... and there is a genuine believability in his work".[320] He is also noted for his "elite" ability to sell for his opponents.[321] Jim Cornette praised Nemeth and stated, "I knew he was a good athlete, [but] I never dreamed he was going to be the second coming of Curt Hennig."[322]
Nemeth's most commonly utilized finishing maneuvers are a jumping reverse bulldog,[323] known as the Zig Zag,[324][325] as well as a superkick.[326][327][328][329] In the early run of his Dolph Ziggler character, he also used a sleeper hold as a submission finisher.[84][85][86] While still in developmental, he also utilized a jumping reverse STO named Blonde Ambition.[7][43] Due to his athleticism and intense showmanship, Nemeth has been referred to as "The Showstealer" and "The Showoff",[330][331] while in his earlier career he was referred to as "The Natural".[3][332] Upon teaming with Vickie Guerrero, he was nicknamed either "Blonde Ambition" or "Blonde Perfection".[333] Consequently, his theme music was named "I Am Perfection" during this period of his career, while later on it was changed to "Here to Show the World."[330]
In the early stages of his career, Nemeth was introduced to the audiences as a sidekick with a caddie gimmick. This, however, lasted only a few weeks because Chavo Guerrero aborted his golfer gimmick after the death of his uncle Eddie Guerrero.[3][330] While there were initial plannings within the company to give him a new gimmick based on his successful career in amateur wrestling and pair him with Kurt Angle, this idea never surfaced.[330] Instead, his first longer lasting gimmick became that of male cheerleader Nicky, where he was partnered with four other wrestlers as The Spirit Squad. To ensure their characters were believable, they trained with real cheerleaders and gymnasts.[14] With this gimmick, he saw moderate success, winning the World Tag Team Championship once. After the disbanding of the Spirit Squad he was again sent back to developmental, where he and fellow Spirit Squad member Mike Mondo tweaked the gimmick into a jock and fraternity based new gimmick, now going by the name of "Frat Pack".[334][36] He would continue this gimmick alongside Brad Allen and Gavin Spears, with whom he won the FCW Florida Tag Team Championship once each.[7][43] In a 2020 interview, Nemeth voiced amusement as well as creative frustration towards his early gimmicks, stating that he tried to make them work, knowing they could only fail, just to break through in professional wrestling.[330]
By 2008, Nemeth was repackaged as Dolph Ziggler, a bleached-blonde and self-absorbed narcissist. Debuting as a heel, Ziggler repeatedly declared himself as "perfection" and would display an extremely arrogant attitude, while at the same time using dirty tactics. When he turned face in 2013, his character shifted towards a man out to prove himself and never giving up. In September 2017, Ziggler would begin a new short-lived gimmick where he would come out to the entrance themes and dress as other popular wrestlers and legends to irritate the crowd.[335] After that, his gimmick tweaked towards a whiny heel who believed he was destined for greatness, constantly blaming his bad luck or others for his lack of opportunity and would always come up short, culminating in his feud with Kofi Kingston in 2019, where he would blame Kingston (and later Drew McIntyre) for stealing his chance to become WWE champion while stating "it should've been me".[267][268]
Stand-up comedy
Nemeth grew up as a fan of comedians such as Johnny Carson, Dana Carvey, Phil Hartman, Jan Hooks, Jon Lovitz, Brian Regan, Adam Sandler, and George Wallace.[336] He decided to start performing comedy around the year 2010. He performed stand-up comedy for the first time in a small Los Angeles venue in 2013, and began getting offers to perform at various comedy clubs nearby WWE events. At this point, he had been studying comedy almost a decade in preparation for a comedy career.[336] He also began hosting a monthly improv comedy show called Flying Chuck alongside fellow professional wrestlers John Morrison and his brother Ryan Nemeth.[337] A few years later, he started working as an opening act for his long-time friend Sarah Tiana.[338] In July 2018, he appeared on Comedy Central's Roast Battle III to face off against Tiana.[339]
In 2018, Nemeth started seriously moonlighting as a stand-up comedian while still wrestling for WWE.[340] This led to him headlining shows close to the arenas for the 2018 SummerSlam and Survivor Series pay-per-views; he used the big WWE events to piggyback on for his first major shows, due to there being a lot of wrestling fans in the area.[341] Following the 2019 Royal Rumble event, he embarked on his first headlining tour from the end of January to the end of March. He took a break from WWE television to focus on the tour.[263] He later continued the tour, announcing two shows in Texas taking place in late May.[342]
In other media
Ziggler appeared on the November 3, 2009, episode of Deal or No Deal with Maria Kanellis and Eve Torres.[343] He appeared on Lopez Tonight on August 9, 2010.[344] Nemeth appeared in a 2011 episode of Silent Library alongside Chris Masters, Trent Baretta, JTG, Caylen Croft, and Curt Hawkins.[345] Nemeth made regular appearances on fellow WWE wrestler Zack Ryder's YouTube web series, Z! True Long Island Story, via his own segment named 'Ask Z Heel'.
On February 1, 2012, Nemeth debuted WWEFanNation's WWE Download and was the host of the YouTube series. The official WWE Download playlist on YouTube[346] described the series as "Dolph Ziggler's sarcastic wit vs. your videos" and each episode consisted of Ziggler reviewing both viral and WWE videos. A new episode of WWE Download was uploaded every Monday until the show ended on January 28, 2013, after 53 episodes but returned for one time only on September 30, 2014. In August 2013, Nemeth was cast by Max Landis to appear in the 2015 film Me Him Her.[347]
In 2016, Nemeth would appear in a series of ads advertising KFC.[348] and 2017[349] In the ads, he dressed as KFC founder Colonel Sanders. The first ad notably had Nemeth cutting a promo on The Miz, who was dressed as a chicken. This led to a dark match where Nemeth, as Colonel Sanders, defeated Miz in a squash match.
Nemeth began appearing on the Fox Business Network program Kennedy hosted by Lisa Kennedy Montgomery in 2017. As of 2018, he has appeared on the show 6-8 times.[350]
Video games
Year | Title | Notes | Ref. |
---|---|---|---|
2009 | WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2010 | Video game debut | [351] |
2010 | WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2011 | [352] | |
2011 | WWE '12 | [353] | |
2012 | WWE '13 | [354] | |
2013 | WWE 2K14 | [355] | |
2014 | WWE 2K15 | [356] | |
2015 | WWE 2K16 | [357] | |
2016 | WWE 2K17 | [358] | |
2017 | WWE 2K18 | [359] | |
2018 | WWE 2K19 | [360] | |
2019 | WWE 2K20 | [361] | |
2020 | WWE 2K Battlegrounds | [362] | |
2022 | WWE 2K22 | [363] | |
2023 | WWE 2K23 | [364] |
Personal life
Nemeth has two brothers. His younger brother Ryan is also a professional wrestler that he teams with in TNA. Ryan previously worked with both WWE in NXT under the ring name Briley Pierce and in AEW.[365] His other brother, Donald,[366] was sentenced to 15 years in prison after pleading guilty to involuntary manslaughter, kidnapping, and robbery for his role in a botched robbery attempt that led to the murder of a former Marine in January 2016.[367][368]
Nemeth is good friends with his former Spirit Squad teammates, particularly Michael Brendli, with whom he lived in Florida until 2008.[369] He previously dated comedian Amy Schumer, who split up with him because she considered him "too athletic" in bed.[370][371]
Nicholas also maintains a close friendship with another professional wrestler, Ryback.[372][better source needed][373][better source needed]
Nemeth is fluent in American Sign Language.[374]
Nemeth is an avid fan of his hometown Cleveland Browns.[8][375]
Filmography
Film | |||
---|---|---|---|
Year | Title | Role | Notes |
2015 | Me Him Her | — | Film debut[347] Uncredited |
2015 | Buddy Hutchins | ||
2016 | Countdown | Ray Thompson | Direct-to-video[376] |
2017 | The Jetsons & WWE: Robo-WrestleMania! | Dolph Ziggler Bot | Voice |
2020 | The Speed of Time | Orville | Credited as Nic Nemeth |
2024 | Drugstore June |
Television | |||
---|---|---|---|
Year | Title | Role | Notes |
2009 | Deal or No Deal | Guest Banker | Special edition of "WWE Week"[343] |
2010 | Lopez Tonight | Himself | Episode 121[344] |
2011 | Silent Library | Season 4, episode 62 "WWE Edition"[345] | |
2014–2017 | Total Divas | Guest (seasons 2–3 & 7) Recurring (seasons 4–6): 20 episodes | |
2017 | @midnight with Chris Hardwick | Season 4, June 22, 2017[377] | |
2017 | Adam Ruins Everything | The Great Placeboni | Season 4, episode 13 "Adam Ruins Spa Day"[378] |
2018 | Wild 'n Out[379] | Guest | |
2018 | Jeff Ross Presents Roast Battle | Guest[380] | |
2018, 2022 | Miz & Mrs. | Himself | 4 episodes |
2018 | The Challenge | Himself | Reunion Host |
Web Series | |||
---|---|---|---|
Year | Title | Role | Notes |
2011–2013 | Z! True Long Island Story | Himself | 'Ask the Heel' segments[381][382] |
2012–2014 | WWE Download | Host | [346] |
2013–2015 | The JBL and Cole Show | Himself | Guest (Season 1), Recurring (Seasons 2–5) |
2018 | Well Done | Himself | 1 episode |
WWE Network Originals | |||
---|---|---|---|
Year | Title | Role | Notes |
2015 | Unfiltered with Renee Young | Himself | Interview show with Renee Young |
2015 | Table for 3 | Himself | Three WWE Superstars share stories over dinner |
2015-2016 | Swerved | Himself | Hidden camera prank show |
2016 | WWE Ride Along | Himself | "Shipping Down From Boston" |
Championships and accomplishments
![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/4e/DZ_WWE_WHC.png/175px-DZ_WWE_WHC.png)
![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/8f/Dolph_Ziggler_IC_Champion_2014.jpg/175px-Dolph_Ziggler_IC_Champion_2014.jpg)
![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/a0/Dolph_Ziggler_2011_United_States_Champion.jpg/175px-Dolph_Ziggler_2011_United_States_Champion.jpg)
- Florida Championship Wrestling
- FCW Florida Tag Team Championship (2 times) – with Brad Allen (1)[7] and Gavin Spears (1)[43]
- Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide
- New Japan Pro-Wrestling
- Pro Wrestling Illustrated
- Rolling Stone
- Wrestler of the Year (2014)[384]
- Worst Storyline (2015)[385] – with Rusev, Summer Rae and Lana
- Squared Circle Expo
- SCX Championship (1 time, current)[386]
- WrestleCrap
- Gooker Award (2015) – feud with Rusev, Summer Rae and Lana[387]
- Wrestling Observer Newsletter
- Most Improved (2011)[388]
- Most Underrated (2011)[388]
- World Wrestling Entertainment/WWE
- World Heavyweight Championship (2 times)[389][390]
- NXT Championship (1 time)[391]
- WWE Intercontinental Championship (6 times)[66][392][393][394]
- WWE United States Championship (2 times)[84][395]
- WWE Raw Tag Team Championship (2 times) – with Drew McIntyre (1) and Robert Roode (1)[396]
- WWE SmackDown Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Robert Roode[397]
- World Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Johnny, Kenny, Mikey, and Mitch[a][18]
- Money in the Bank (2012 – World Heavyweight Championship contract)[116]
- 22nd Triple Crown Champion
- Slammy Award (2 times)
- Best Twitter Handle or Social Champion (2014) – @HEELZiggler[398]
- Match of the Year (2014) – Team Cena vs. Team Authority at Survivor Series[398]
Betting Fights record
Winner (wager) | Loser (wager) | Location | Event | Date | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Dolph Ziggler (career) | The Miz (title) | Sacramento, California | No Mercy | October 9, 2016 | [399] |
Notes
References
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- ^ Storm, Lance. "Q and A". Storm Wrestling. Archived from the original on April 19, 2011. Retrieved May 4, 2011.
- ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m Milner, John M. (December 19, 2006). "Nick Nemeth". Slam! Sports. Canadian Online Explorer. Archived from the original on February 28, 2020. Retrieved January 7, 2012.
- ^ "St. Ed's Wrestling State Placers" (PDF). St. Edward High School. Archived from the original (PDF) on October 7, 2011. Retrieved December 26, 2011.
- ^ a b Herron, Gary (May 26, 2010). "WWE's Dolph Ziggler once planned on law career". Rio Rancho Observer. Archived from the original on February 1, 2013. Retrieved May 29, 2010.
- ^ a b c 2009–2010 Kent State University Wrestling Media Guide. Kent State University. 2009. p. 26.
- ^ a b c d e f g Walsh, David (October 7, 2008). "Dolph Ziggler among WWE superstars scheduled for Sunday show". The Herald-Dispatch. Archived from the original on January 3, 2013. Retrieved January 6, 2010.
- ^ a b Sweeten-Shults, Lana (January 15, 2011). "Excitement lured Ziggler; Wrestler, teammates ready to put on show at Yeager". Times Record News. Archived from the original on September 6, 2013. Retrieved January 15, 2011.
- ^ Powers, Kevin (September 24, 2012). "The 20 most impressive physiques in WWE history". WWE. Archived from the original on March 25, 2022. Retrieved March 26, 2022.
- ^ Kreikenbohm, Philip. "Dolph Ziggler Matches Per Promotion & Year". CAGEMATCH – The Internet Wrestling Database. Archived from the original on February 23, 2023. Retrieved February 23, 2023.
- ^ Maes, Jeremy (September 26, 2005). "9/25 WWE Sunday Night Heat review: A Final Farewell to Sunday Night Heat". Pro Wrestling Torch. Archived from the original on November 25, 1999. Retrieved February 23, 2023.
- ^ "Dolph Ziggler WWE Matches". The Internet Wrestling Database. Archived from the original on February 23, 2023. Retrieved February 23, 2023.
- ^ O'Neil, Graeme (October 23, 2005). "WWE Sunday Night Heat TV report". Wrestling Observer. Archived from the original on December 23, 2005. Retrieved February 23, 2023.
- ^ a b Varsallone, Jim (September 2010). "WWE superstar Dolph Ziggler prepares for TV life on Syfy". The Miami Herald. p. 2. Archived from the original on May 8, 2011. Retrieved May 8, 2011.
- ^ "Ready to Rumble". WWE. January 23, 2006. Archived from the original on November 3, 2012. Retrieved December 26, 2007.
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External links
- Nic Nemeth at IMDb
- Dolph Ziggler on X
- Dolph Ziggler on WWE.com
- Dolph Ziggler's profile at Cagematch.net , Wrestlingdata.com , Internet Wrestling Database