Number 23 - Stinger: The Killer Bee (Stinger)

Stinger's strategy was not to destroy the opposition with a damaging weapon, but to overpower, outdrive, push, ram, lift, and shove it around the arena, into the walls, rails, and hazards. It was really fast, well controlled, and rugged. It sported flamethrowers, a "spinner killer", and a flamethrowing minibot from time to time. It debuted on the Battlebots scene in 2015's season 1, knocking out the deadly full body spinner Captain Shrederator in the qualifying round. This performance put Stinger in the round of 16 as the 5th seed, where it faced 12th seed and wildcard Warhead. Stinger broke Warhead's disc and completely dominated the legend for another win. In the quarterfinals, Stinger faced Bronco, and after one of the greatest battles in Battlebots history, Bronco proved to be too much for even Stinger. After the tournament, Stinger participated in a three team exhibition rumble against Bulldog and Splatter (which would become the legendary Whiplash), dominated, and took home the victory. In season 2, Stinger returned and knocked out Nightmare in 44 seconds to earn the 5th seed in the round of 32. It faced 28th seed Megetento, and in one of the worst decisions in Battlebots history, Stinger was defeated. After the season, Stinger fought in a "Legends Rumble" against Lock Jaw and Ghost Raptor. Lock Jaw won, but Stinger did better than Ghost Raptor did. Stinger did not return since. Its record stands at 4-3 (.571) with two knockouts. For its wins over some pretty big names and for the quality of its losses, Stinger is number 23 in my top 50 Battlebots of all time.