Tables, Ladders, and Chairs Matches
A Tables, Ladders and Chairs match, often lovingly referred to as ‘TLC’, is a type of professional wrestling match which came from the World Wrestling Entertainment, but is not seen in other wrestling arenas.
A TLC match is a variation on a ladder match, with an emphasis on the use of outside objects. TLC matches usually consist of three or more tag teams competing against each other, although it can also be played one-on-one.
The aim of the game is to acquire the item (usually championship belts) which begins the match suspended above the wrestling ring. Competitors are encouraged to use tables and chairs as well as ladders to obtain the item, although they are inevitably used to inflict pain upon opponents.
The ladders become ket elements of the match, being used by competitors to strike opponents, as a launching pad for acrobatic moves and to facilitate large falls. Ladder and TLC matches are often used to conclude storylines and it is common to have symbolic briefcases (containing future contracts) or championship belts elevated above the ring.
Ladder and TLC matches are often used in feuds which involve a dispute over possession of an item (such as a title belt or a contract). They are almost always fought under “no disqualification” rules.
WWE adapted matches to create the TLC match for a tag-team match between Edge and Christian and the Hardy Boyz in 1999. The match was clearly a success, as all four wrestlers received a standing ovation at the end. It sent both of these tag teams to the top of their game, and similar matches emerged thereafter.
TLC matches are known for their dangerous stunts, injuries, and length. TLC matches began to wing up when Edge and Christian broke up and Jeff Hardy was released. The matches incorporated more weapons, creating more concussions and neck injuries for WWE wrestlers, which led eventually to a return to matt-based matches.
Although tables remain in wrestling, the Dudley Boyz (now known as Team 3D) are the only tag team who choose to use it, and so table matches are seldom played. The use of chaits was reduced as they were a key source of interference and disqualification in wrestling matches, with ladders still being used occasionally.
Ladder and Tables, Ladders and Chairs matches are some of the most exciting wrestling matches you can watch, with big moves, a lack of refereeing and important prizes at steak.
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