Rarely do I get excited about "new" WWE action figures on the market, but the moment I saw that this particular two-pack hit toy shelves in Canada, I knew that I had to own it. Let's take a closer look at the Mr. T vs. Rowdy Roddy Piper Elite Collection two-pack:
Now, this MAY be one of the best two-packs I've ever seen, and we can start with how perfectly it captures their classic "boxing match" at WrestleMania II. Not only do both competitors come with realistic entrance robes, but they also have accurate ring-gear (well, it says "W" instead of "WWF" on the logos, but cut Mattel some slack here!
Let's also talk about how both figures come with actual BOXING GLOVES! This in itself is true innovation and I can only think of a handful of action figures that have ever had this type of garnish (off the top of my head, I seem to remember a Big Show "special edition" years back, there was the G.I. Joe "Cobra Trainer" figure that we affectionately referred to as The Masked Boxer, and of course the Rocky figures created by Jakks Pacific. So it's definitely a rarity.
In addition, both figures come with interchangeable hands. But let's be honest - why would you have hamburger when you can have filet mignon? The gloves are amazing and a true difference-maker... especially if you're going to pose T and Piper in your collection. You can even have Piper deliver a loaded boxing glove low blow if you're so inclined.
But perhaps the best part of this figure set are the head scans of both men. Mr. T only recently became a part of the Mattel "family" but it's amazing how they got his scowling, mohawked head just.... perfect. And in terms of Piper? This may be the best face scan of Hot Rod yet, displaying the crazed anger he was known for throughout his legendary career.
This is a fun, unique set... and it's hard to have anything negative to say about it.