For years, the WWE 2K video game series has allowed fans to step into the squared circle and execute their favorite moves. While high-flying and powerhouse wrestlers dominate many playstyles, submission specialists hold a unique place in the game. These superstars have mastered the art of making their opponents tap out, utilizing devastating submission maneuvers to secure victory. Let’s explore the best submission specialists in WWE 2K history, ranking them based on their in-game stats, move effectiveness, and historical impact.
1. Bret “The Hitman” Hart
Bret Hart is widely regarded as one of the greatest technical wrestlers of all time, and his presence in the WWE 2K series is just as impactful. His signature move, the Sharpshooter, is one of the most feared submission maneuvers in the game. With high technical stats and excellent reversals, Hart is a must-pick for players who prefer a methodical and submission-based approach.
2. Kurt Angle
Kurt Angle is another submission master, thanks to his Olympic wrestling background. His Ankle Lock submission is incredibly effective in WWE 2K, often forcing opponents to tap out quickly, especially when targeting weakened legs. Angle’s grappling ability, stamina, and countering proficiency make him one of the best submission-based wrestlers in the game.
3. Daniel Bryan (Bryan Danielson)
Daniel Bryan is one of the most well-rounded submission wrestlers in WWE history. His Yes Lock (LeBell Lock) is a versatile submission move that can be executed in multiple situations. In WWE 2K, Bryan’s technical abilities allow him to chain multiple submissions and wear down opponents efficiently. His in-game ratings are consistently high, making him a favorite among technical wrestling fans.
4. Chris Benoit (Prior to Removal)
Although Chris Benoit has been removed from recent WWE 2K games due to controversy, his presence in older editions was undeniable. His Crippler Crossface was one of the most devastating submission maneuvers in the game. He was a top-tier submission specialist in older WWE titles like SmackDown vs. Raw 2006 and WWE 2K series before his removal.
WWE 2K Undertaker (image via Getty)5. The Undertaker
While The Undertaker is more known for his striking and power moves, his Hell’s Gate submission move is one of the most visually brutal submissions in WWE 2K history. This move drains an opponent’s stamina quickly, often leading to a guaranteed submission if locked in long enough. His supernatural aura and in-game resilience make him a dominant force.
6. Ric Flair
The legendary “Nature Boy” Ric Flair is one of the pioneers of submission wrestling, with his famous Figure-Four Leg Lock. In the WWE 2K series, Flair’s submission ability is highly rated, and the Figure-Four is among the most efficient leg-targeting submissions in the game. When paired with his high durability and charisma, Flair remains an excellent choice for submission-based gameplay.
WWE 2K Samoa Joe (image via Getty)7. Samoa Joe
Samoa Joe is one of the most dangerous submission specialists in modern WWE 2K games. His Coquina Clutch is a devastating rear-naked choke that forces opponents to tap out rapidly. Joe’s high submission offense rating, combined with his agility and striking ability, makes him a powerhouse in the submission game.
8. Ken Shamrock
Ken Shamrock, also known as “The World’s Most Dangerous Man,” brought MMA-style submissions into WWE. His Ankle Lock is one of the strongest submissions in WWE 2K history. Shamrock’s speed and grappling proficiency allow him to dominate opponents with precise submissions and ground-based control.
9. Ronda Rousey
As the first female UFC champion to transition into WWE, Ronda Rousey is a submission specialist in the WWE 2K series. Her Armbar submission is one of the most effective in the women’s division. With high submission stats and excellent reversals, Rousey is a top-tier submission wrestler in recent WWE 2K games.
WWE 2K Ronda Rousey (image via Getty)10. Shayna Baszler
Another dominant force in women’s wrestling, Shayna Baszler utilizes MMA-inspired submission techniques. Her Kirifuda Clutch is one of the most powerful submissions in WWE 2K, capable of quickly wearing down opponents. With high technical and grappling stats, Baszler is one of the best choices for submission-based gameplay.
Honorable Mentions
- William Regal – Known for his Regal Stretch, a painful variation of the STF.
- CM Punk – His Anaconda Vise was a deadly submission move in older WWE 2K games.
- Asuka – The Asuka Lock remains one of the most dominant submission moves in recent games.
- Dean Malenko – A submission wizard with the Texas Cloverleaf.