#4. Kofi Kingston Boomdrops His Way to a Second US Title Reign at Extreme Rules 2011
After a successful stint on SmackDown, Kofi Kingston was drafted back to RAW in the 2011 draft. By then, the Dreadlocked Dynamo had become a mainstay in the midcard and added a couple of Intercontinental Championship reigns to his list of accomplishments. However, Kingston wasn’t finished as he began his run on the red brand with a bang.
During a backstage segment at Extreme Rules 2011, SmackDown General Manager Theodore Long informed Sheamus, then United States Champion, that he would defend his belt against Kingston in a Tables match. The dynamic high flyer made the most of this golden opportunity as he left the show with the US Title.
Although the victory itself was commendable, the match is fondly remembered for its closing moments. Both Kingston and Sheamus had executed their finishers. The Celtic Warrior rolled out of the ring to lean on a table. Unfortunately, Kingston was waiting for him on the top rope.
The Dreadlocked Dynamo Boomdropped Sheamus through the table to win his second US Title. It was a creative finish, and the spot was executed to perfection. It was the beginning of another title run for Kingston, who held the championship with pride.
#3. Kingston Takes Out Randy Orton at Madison Square Garden
In late 2009, Kofi Kingston began a major feud with the Apex Predator, Randy Orton. This was Kingston’s ticket to Superstardom, but a botched ending and irate Orton derailed his momentum. Nonetheless, their program had plenty of great moments that put the spotlight on the Dreadlocked Dynamo.
Kingston was on top of his game during this feud. He defaced Orton’s car and stunned CM Punk and Orton to win the Men’s Traditional 5 on 5 Survivor Series match. However, the highlight of the program came inside Madison Square Garden on November 16, 2009. In true “Legend Killer” style, the Viper was setting Hall of Famer Roddy Piper up for the Punt Kick.
Fortunately for the late legend, Kingston made the save. Tired of Orton’s bullying and antics, the Dreadlocked Dynamo unleashed his fury on the Apex Predator. A massive fight broke out, and the chaos spilled into the crowd. Kingston got the last laugh as he put Orton through the table with a massive Boomdrop.
Madison Square Garden went ballistic for Kingston. In many ways, it felt like a star was born. Fans could feel Kingston’s emotion and character. They had already seen his athleticism, but the brawl with Orton showed everyone a different side. The Ghanaian wasn’t going to back down; he was going to bring the fight to Orton.
