Retro

In this WWE SummerSlam 2013 review, we’ve got two huge main events with Brock Lesnar vs. CM Punk, and Daniel Bryan vs. John Cena.

Let’s dive in.

• Show: WWE SummerSlam 2013
• Date: August 18, 2013
• Location: Staples Center in Los Angeles, CA

– The Miz is the official host of SummerSlam, and he hypes up the two big main events with CM Punk vs. Brock Lesnar, and John Cena vs. Daniel Bryan with Triple H as the special guest referee. HERE COMES FANDANGO. Summer Rae is also with him. The crowd does a little Fandangoing, and then Miz welcomes us to SummerSlam.

– We get a video package of Bryan and Punk’s journeys to their respective matches.

– JoJo is out to sing the national anthem. I picked quite a week to go back and review this show since Bryan and Punk seem to be on their way to AEW, and JoJo and Bray Wyatt are both out of WWE. Just wild.

Kane vs. Bray Wyatt – Ring of Fire Match

Speaking of Wyatt, yes, here he is in a Ring of Fire Match. I don’t remember this match in the slightest, so this should be fun. Of course, Luke Harper and Erick Rowan are out with Wyatt, and they spend the first part of the match trying to put out the fire. Eventually, they smartly lace the ring steps near the apron and climb in over the fire. They destroy Kane as the crowd chants for The Undertaker, then Wyatt gets up and hits Sister Abigail on Kane to get the win.

• Blake’s Rating: This was a short match that’s interesting for the spectacle of fire around the ring, but that’s about it. Luckily, it didn’t overstay its welcome, and the right guy won. **

– After the match, Harper and Rowan grab the steps and do the conchairto style attack on Kane before carrying him to the back. – The SummerSlam kickoff panel consists of Josh Matthews, Shawn Michaels, Booker T, and Vickie Guerrero. What a group.  – We see a SummerSlam kickoff interview with Paul Heyman. He’s talking about David vs. Goliath in comparison to Punk vs. Lesnar. Heyman is just the best. He then reveals it’ll be a No DQ Match.

Damien Sandow vs. Cody Rhodes

I loved Sandow’s character. Reminder he was the current Money in the Bank holder at this point, but that didn’t exactly turn out all that well for him. Sandow in complete control early on. Cody goes for the Cross Rhodes, but Sandow counters that and continues to keep the advantage. The momentum swings when Cody grabs Sandow from the top and hits a modified brainbuster. Missile dropkick from Cody, but a drop toe hold off the second rope gives Sandow a boost. But then Cody hits the disaster kick and Sandow kicks out at two and a half. Cody with the Cross Rhodes and that’s enough to get the pin for the victory.

• Blake’s Rating: Did you expect the MITB winner to actually win a match?! And the first guy to lose his MITB cash-in at that? In all seriousness, a solid back and forth match between two good workers. **1/2

– We get a video package of Christian in WWE and him questioning his future in wrestling. The setup is that this is one more match for him and perhaps his last shot at gold.

Christian vs. (c) Alberto Del Rio – World Heavyweight Championship

Christian defeated Rob Van Dam and Randy Orton in a triple threat match on SmackDown to earn the title shot. Del Rio’s eye looks BRUTAL, and Cole notes it came at the hands of Christian. So there’s some added motivation. Christian gets caught in the corner, so naturally, Del Rio kicks the shit out of him. One glaring difference between then and now is while there are some camera cuts, there aren’t 73 of them for a single move. Del Rio continues to work over Christian for a bit until Del Rio misses the knees to the head and goes flying through the ropes. Christian, noted high flyer, then leaps off the top onto Del Rio on the outside. Del Rio’s nose is bleeding, so he’s really taken a beating in this feud. It would be no match for Matt Hardy and Sammy Guevara many years later. Del Rio plays up the heel role and then hits the backstabber on Christian for a near fall. Lots of back and forth, including Christian hitting a hurricanrana off the top for two. Stiff kick to Christian’s head gives Del Rio another near fall. Spear from Christian, but Del Rio goes straight to the submission, and Christian is eventually forced to tap.

• Blake’s Rating: These two had great chemistry and put together a hard-hitting match with several moments where the crowd thought Christian might win. ***1/2

– Del Rio in the ring with Renee Young, and boy does the crowd hate them some Del Rio. He talks about being a true role model for Latinos. I wasn’t always the biggest fan of Del Rio, but he was impressive both with the match and this promo.

– Miz with Maria Menounos, who wrestled in the SummerSlam kickoff special. HERE COMES FANDANGO AGAIN. Summer Rae too. Miz then dances with Maria.

Natalya (w/The Funkadactyls) vs. Brie Bella (w/Nikki Bella and Eva Marie)

The Funkadactyls. What a gimmick. Of course, those two were Naomi and Cameron. Cole lets us know that Total Divas is the highest-rated show on E! Listen, I didn’t watch it, but the show was a hit. Slapping contest early in the match, then we get shenanigans from Nikki and Eva. The crowd is riveted, so they start chanting for JBL, Cole, and Lawler. Ah yes, the crowd taking over matches era. That was fun. The crowd also wants tables. Natalya hits a stunner and goes for the Sharpshooter, but Brie reverses it and throws her into the corner. We’ve got a BROUHAHA on the outside between the other four women, and after a little back and forth, Natalya locks in the Sharpshooter again to earn the win.

• Blake’s Rating: It wasn’t exactly a masterpiece, but this was fine for what it was. **

– Ryback is in catering, and the man is PISSED at the food. Even the soup is cold! The catering worker tells him it’s supposed to be cold, so Ryback bullies him and says THE BIG GUY DOESN’T LIKE COLD SOUP. Ryback pours the soup down his shirt and then on his head in a segment that likely made Vince McMahon very proud.

– We get a terrific video package hyping the story behind Punk vs. Lesnar and Heyman turning on Punk at Money in the Bank.

Brock Lesnar (w/Paul Heyman) vs. CM Punk – No DQ Match

Cult of Personality is still the GOAT. It’s been a while since I watched this match, but I remember absolutely loving it. My guess is that probably won’t change. What I always enjoy is when match with a bitter feud starts with an actual fight instead of wrestling holds. It makes no sense otherwise. Great sequence early with Brock beating down Punk, only for Punk to fight back and hit a tope suicida on Brock on the outside. The story is Punk doing everything he can to keep Lesnar down, which includes flying off the top rope, the announce table, etc. Punk makes a mistake going after Heyman, and Brock beats his ass for it by destroying him with the announce table.

More great psychology with Punk going after Brock’s legs, but Brock’s power is too much. Each time Punk looks to gain the advantage, Brock’s strength overwhelms him. However, when in doubt, bite a man’s head. That’s what Punk does, and it turns the tide. Punk hits the roundhouse kick to send Brock down, then hits the elbow off the top for a near fall. Punk tries to finish things off, but Brock reverses into the Kimura Lock, only for Punk to counter that into his own submission. The crowd is JACKED. Punk holds the triangle but Brock won’t tap. Instead, he picks Punk up into the corner and hits a brutal powerbomb for two.

Brock takes Punk to Suplex City (before Suplex City was a thing) and gets a dastardly look in his eye. Brock grabs a chair, but Punk flies off the top into the chair. Punk hauls off on him, and Brock goes to return the favor, but Punk hits a low blow. And now it’s Punk up top, where he comes off with the chair onto Brock’s face. That damn Brock kicks out at two and a half though. Heyman hops on the apron as Brock gets Punk up for the F5, but Punk grabs Heyman’s tie for leverage. That leads to bickering with Brock and Heyman, which allows Punk to reverse into the GTS for a dramatic pin attempt before Heyman breaks it up at two and a half.

Lesnar goes for the F5, but Punk counters into a DDT for another near fall. Anaconda Vice as Heyman comes in with a chair. Punk punches Heyman and puts the vice on him. Lesnar absolutely WALLOPS Punk with multiple chairshots and hits the F5 on the chair to get the pin for the win.

• Blake’s Rating: Yeah, this was as good as I remember it being. The hatred between Brock and Punk was on display from the start, and they continued to up it throughout the match. They had the crowd in the palm of their hand, with Punk doing everything he could to slay the beast. He took risks and tried to outsmart Brock at every turn, but it simply wasn’t to be. These two put on a classic, and it’s one of the greatest matches in SummerSlam history. ****3/4

– We get highlights of the Doritos Jacked Bold Fan getting splashed by Mark Henry. He and his friends are sitting in front of the announce table for the next match.

Dolph Ziggler and Kaitlyn vs. Big E Langston and AJ Lee

Now, this is a fun foursome. The Big E/Ziggler/AJ trio was entertaining. What really stands out going back and watching this era is how fantastic AJ was in her role. Just an absolute star with her facial expressions and mannerisms. I thought Kaitlyn was also very underrated. The Doritos guy seems to be enjoying the action, so good for him. Kaitlyn breaks up a pin, which leads to a staredown between her and Big E. The action picks up with Kaitlyn spearing AJ on the outside, while Big E goes for the Big Ending. However, Ziggler counters with the Zig Zag for the victory.

• Blake’s Rating: Short match that simply served as a buffer between the two main events. But it was good action, and again, an entertaining group of talent. **1/2

– Miz is backstage, and he finally clocks Fandango after he comes dancing in to interrupt him. – The kickoff panel makes their picks for the main event.

– Another great video package recapping the build to John Cena vs. Daniel Bryan, including Vince McMahon and Brad Maddox running down Bryan’s talents. I forgot about all the hilarious Bryan makeover stuff. We also see the events leading to Triple H being named the special guest referee.

Daniel Bryan vs. (c) John Cena – WWE Title (Special Guest Referee: Triple H)

I really should’ve gotten one of those The Beard Is Here shirts. The story early is Cena trying to showcase his own technical skill, but Bryan counters and sends Cena to the outside. The “you can’t wrestle” begin for Cena, so he proceeds to suplex Bryan off the steel steps to the floor. They continue the theme of Cena proving he can actually wrestle, with a variety of reversals and counters, much to the crowd’s displeasure.

Cena goes for the AA, but Bryan reverses and gains the momentum with the announcers playing up Cena’s elbow issues. Bryan adds insult to injury by locking the STF on Cena, though Cena gets out before Bryan goes for the Yes Lock. Cena fights out, but Bryan goes back to the submission. Cena eventually gets out and hits the AA on Bryan, and he kicks out at two. Bryan regains control and hits the headbutt off the top for a near fall.

These two are going at it, and just like with Brock/Punk, the crowd is eating it up with a spoon. Cena counters Bryan’s hurricanrana attempt off the top with a ridiculous feat of strength, then locks in the STF. However, Bryan finds a way to counter to the Yes Lock, but Cena fights out. Bryan hits a flurry of clotheslines to Cena in the corner, which leads to Cena countering the third with a vicious clothesline of his own.

Both men down after flying forearm attempts. Now they’re slapping the shit out of each other. This is great. Cena gets a little cocky calling for the AA, which allows Bryan to hit a roundhouse kick and take his head off with the running knee to win the title.

• Blake’s Rating: In all honesty, this is even better than I remember it being the first several times I watched it. And on this particular rewatch, I think I may give it the slight nod over Brock/Punk. It’s not easy to pull off a babyface vs. babyface match (though, you could certainly argue Cena was a tweener), but they did it to near perfection. It’s likely Cena’s second-best match ever behind the one with Punk at Money in the Bank 2011, as he brought it from start to finish. Meanwhile, since I’m reviewing this in 2021, the argument for Bryan being a top-five wrestler in history could very well be a legitimate one. And for him to beat Cena clean was HUGE. Something else I liked was that Triple H was a complete non-factor in the match itself, which diverted any suspicion of him getting involved. Until, of course, he does. ****3/4 

– Bryan celebrates his victory, and I can recall thinking that “you know, Triple H is still in the ring during the Bryan/Cena handshake, so something is up.” Triple H also shakes Cena’s hand before leaving and goes a little over the top celebrating Bryan’s win. What’s also interesting when you watch this back is how many people are leaving. Maybe it was the right call given what’s next. Triple H is all into the celebration, then Randy Orton’s music hits as he comes down with the Money in the Bank briefcase. Orton teases that he’s leaving before slowly turning back to the ring. Triple H hits Bryan with the Pedigree, and Orton cashes in to win the title. This was heel work at its finest, but what a kick in the balls after Bryan’s big moment.

BLAKE’S TAKE ON WWE SUMMERSLAM 2013

• Best Match: Daniel Bryan vs. John Cena
• Show MVPs: Lesnar, Punk, Bryan, and Cena (they all deserve it)
• Overall Rating: 9.0/10
• Thoughts: There was nothing truly terrible on this show, and when you consider that I ranked two matches at ****3/4, that’s more than enough to put it in the conversation for one of the best SummerSlam shows in WWE history. Even the undercard was entertaining, especially the Christian vs. Del Rio match. At the time, the main event post-match angle was deflating after such a huge moment for Bryan, but they’d eventually (key word: eventually) get it right at WrestleMania XXX.

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Vince McMahon decided to counter the first-ever pay-per-view by Jim Crockett Promotions with the first-ever Royal Rumble on free TV. And as we’ll see from the Bunkhouse Stampede 1988 review, Vince could have put Hacksaw Jim Duggan and Boris Zhukov in a 60-minute Iron Man Match and still won the battle on this night.

Bunkhouse Stampede was a devastating blow to JCP that would begin a significant turning point for the company.

Let’s hesitantly jump into Blake’s Bunkhouse Stampede 1988 review.

• Date: January 24, 1988
• Location: Nassau Coliseum in Uniondale, New York

ANNOUNCE BOOTH: Bob Caudle and Jim Ross promote tonight’s show, while Tony Schiavone is your ring announcer.

Bobby Eaton (w/Jim Cornette) vs. (c) Nikita Koloff – NWA TV Title

Koloff and Terry Taylor had the match of the night at Starrcade 1987. This looks like another intriguing matchup. Well never mind. This has been going on for 10 minutes, and it has been nothing but rest holds. Finally it goes to the outside and picks up some energy. The crowd tries to stay into it by shouting “Cornette sucks” over and over.

This match goes 20 minutes and ends in a time-limit draw. Fire everyone in charge of putting this show together. This was absolutely awful and one of the most boring 20-minute matches in wrestling history. And these were two good workers. It sets quite the tone for the show, and makes you feel like this thing could be special. It was…..for all the wrong reasons.

Midnight Express beat down Koloff after the match. Might as well beat up the fans as well after that one.

• Rating: 1/2*

Larry Zybszko (w/Baby Doll) vs. (c) Barry Windham – Western States Heritage Title

What the hell is the Western States Heritage title? This is a bad sign already for Bunkhouse Stampede 1988. And if we remember the debacle of a match that Windham put on with Steve Williams at Starrcade, I don’t have much hope for this contest. Jim Ross tells Windham to poke Baby Doll in the chest after she does it to him. That wouldn’t fly in the PG era.

The bulk of the match is Zbyszko stalling after every single offensive move from Windham. And then we get everyone’s favorite for nearly 10 minutes: MORE REST HOLDS. After more garbage, we get a ref bump and then Zybszko uses Baby Doll’s heel to knock out Windham and win the title at 19:16.

We’re now 2 for 2 on boring matches that go 20 minutes.

• Rating: *1/2

Road Warrior Hawk (w/Paul Ellering) vs. (c) Ric Flair (w/JJ Dillon) – NWA World Heavyweight Title

The network joins this match in progress. Of course it does since Flair is the only thing that is consistently good in this company right now. And the other problem with this match is that you know Hawk has zero chance of winning. Good back and forth early on and that continues for quite a while, with neither man gaining a huge advantage until Flair starts working on Hawk’s knee.

That continues for a bit until Hawk turns the tide. And in case the one in the previous match wasn’t enough, we get ANOTHER REF BUMP. Also since Flair is breathing, he’s bleeding. Hawk goes right at the cut and ref is still nowhere to be found. A nice superplex off the top from Hawk and we’ve still got no ref. Since that’s the case, JJ Dillon figures he might as well hit Hawk with a chair. NO SELL. Flair then whacks Hawk right on the dome and gets the wi……NO. Hawk kicks out. The people are going bonkers now.

Flair then hits Hawk over the back with the chair and we get the DQ finish at 21:39. Surprisingly good match, but in typical JCP fashion, a finish that left a lot to be desired.

• Rating: ***1/4

MORE STALLING: As if the match stalling wasn’t enough, we get the cage being put up and then get an entire roster rundown of LITERALLY EVERY SINGLE PERSON IN THE COMPANY THAT HAS HELPED PUT THIS SHOW TOGETHER. This is incredible.

Dusty Rhodes vs. Tully Blanchard vs. Ivan Koloff vs. The Warlord vs. Arn Anderson vs. Lex Luger vs. The Barbarian vs. Road Warrior Animal – Bunkhouse Stampede Finals

Where to even begin with this? The rules are simple: You lose by escaping the cage. Yes, you lose, not win, by escaping the cage. So you get eliminated by being thrown through the door or over the top of the cage. Animal tries to throw Tully over the top of the cage and man is that weird to type. The rules of this match are atrocious. People start climbing the cage and WHY WOULD YOU EVEN DO THIS? Dusty and Koloff are voluntarily climbing up just to fight at the top, where there is a much better chance of being eliminated. That makes total sense.

Everyone is bleeding for some reason (well not everyone but I have no idea what’s going so we’ll just say everyone) and this match is out of hand. The bad part is that I like a lot of these dudes in the ring, but all could have been used much better.

Anyways, Dusty takes off his belt and starts whipping everyone in sight. This match has been going on for a while and no one has been eliminated. I wonder why. Luger somehow has Arn’s boot and starts hitting people with it. Meanwhile, Dusty gets tied to the ropes with his own belt. Pure madness.

Update: Someone finally gets eliminated after 20 minutes of this debacle. It’s Koloff, which should have been obvious. Everyone is just standing around wondering what to do next. So Animal decides to eliminate Warlord but also eliminates himself in the process. Arn and Tully attempt to send Luger through the door but he fights them off. These three eventually all get eliminated after they all through the door.

So we’re left with Dusty and Barbarian. Bet you can’t guess how this will go. Barbarian controls the match for a while and then Dustymania runs wild. And once again, we get the brilliant spot of both men voluntarily climbing the cage. That of course leads to Barbarian essentially throwing himself over the top after Dusty hits the elbow to win his third straight Stampede title at 26:21.

The concept is just so poor that it makes this match incredibly difficult to watch. There’s no flow, and it’s the complete opposite of what it should be.

• Rating: DUD

Blake’s Bunkhouse Stampede 1988 Awards

• Best Match: Road Warrior Hawk vs. Ric Flair
• Bunkhouse Stampede 1988 MVP: Ric Flair
• Overall Bunkhouse Stampede 1988 Rating: 2.5/10
• Thoughts: This was where everything had to change for JCP. And for good reason after this terrible show. The Bunkhouse Stampede match was such a train wreck, and you also had two wildly boring matches in Koloff/Eaton and Zbyszko/Windham. To make matters worse, the show was held in a WWF hotbed, and JCP printed the wrong start time on the event tickets. It was an utter disaster on all levels and once again hammered home the fact that no one was touching Vince McMahon.

For more of my show reviews, visit the Pro Wrestling Reviews section!

In this WWF Backlash 1999 review, The Rock and Steve Austin square off in a No Holds Barred Match for the WWF title, Triple H takes on X-Pac, and much more.

• Show: WWF Backlash 1999
• Date: April 25, 1999
• Location: Providence Civic Center in Providence, RI

RINGSIDE: Jim Ross and Jerry Lawler discuss Shane McMahon announcing on Sunday Night Heat that The Rock vs. Steve Austin will be a No Holds Barred Match.

The Brood vs. The Acolytes and Midian – Six-Man Tag Team Match

You know business has picked up when JR starts saying “Christian was about to be sacrificed.” The Attitude Era was different. It’s wild to think Edge and Christian are still doing their thing 23 years later (as of this writing). As we know, this was right when they were coming into their own, and their talents certainly stand out in this match.

A nice “Midian Sucks” chant makes its way throughout the arena, and he does a great job engaging the crowd while he’s on the apron. Edge finds himself on the receiving end of a beatdown for a large part of the match. Eventually, chaos ensues with everyone in the ring, and Christian gets a near fall on Bradshaw after a swinging DDT.

From there, Bradshaw absolutely destroys Christian with a powerbomb. However, Gangrel makes the save, and then it’s another near fall for the good guys. Action all over the place, and here comes Viscera, who squashes Christian. Bradshaw hits the Clothesline from Hell and that’ll do it for the win. Again, Edge and Christian were clearly on their way to stardom, and this was a solid opener. (**1/2)

VIDEO: Recap of the build to Al Snow vs. Hardcore Holly for the Hardcore title, including the famous brawl in the Mississippi River.

Al Snow vs. (c) Hardcore Holly – Hardcore Title

I always loved the chemistry between these two. In my opinion, they sort of defined the hardcore division era in the company. Snow is busted wide open a few minutes into the match, so business picks up in a hurry. One of the highlights is Snow doing a moonsault off the barrier for a two count.

For those keeping score on weapons used, there’s a jug of water, a hockey stick, a table (which gets the biggest pop), a cooking sheet, a kitchen sink, a water hose, a broom, and more. Like most hardcore matches, they fight all over the place, which leads to the action heading backstage. They work their way to the parking lot and set off multiple car alarms.

Holly throws Snow into a dumpster and leaps onto him for the near fall. Poor Mike Chioda trying to navigate his way through the trash. They’re in the television truck fighting, and Snow throws Holly on top of a car and drops an elbow for another near fall. More creative near falls with weapons, and they fight back to the ring.

That’s where the table comes back into play, with Holly hitting a superplex on Snow through the table. Holly gets a near fall, then it’s Snow grabbing Head and using it for the win. This was presented like an epic where they pulled out almost every hardcore trick in the book. But it was a bit long for my liking, and any time you take the action out of the arena, the lack of crowd reaction also comes into play. (**)

BACKSTAGE: The Undertaker is having a talk with the Ministry about the future arrival of the higher power.

Goldust (w/The Blue Meanie) vs. (c) The Godfather – Intercontinental Title

Lawler’s reaction to the ho’s is always interesting. And if you really want to know how different things were in this era, the camera focuses on the boobs of every ho as they walk up the steps. Meanie gets involved early in the match to help out Goldust, but all the fans want is their ho’s.

Godfather uses the powder and throws it in Goldust’s eyes, which of course leads to Goldust beating down Meanie since he can’t see who it is. Goldust kicks Meanie in the balls for good measure. More shenanigans ensue, and Godfather hits the Death Valley Driver to retain the title. This was an experience. (*)

BACKSTAGE: Michael Cole is by a urinal with Snow. There’s a sentence you don’t type every day. Snow talks to Head.

The New Age Outlaws vs. (c) Jeff Jarrett and Owen Hart (w/Debra) – WWF Tag Team Titles

Debra struts out wearing….something. It’s not much, but it’s something. Road Dogg wants to see the puppies, but Jarrett blocks it. On a more serious note, it’s truly sad to think that this is Owen’s final WWF PPV match. The heels control the action early on as the crowd chants “Show the Puppies.”

A long stretch of Jarrett and Owen working over Dogg until Gunn gets the hot tag. They use some teamwork to take advantage, and here comes Debra and her puppies. That allows Owen to turn the tide, but it’s Billy who hits the Fameasser on Owen to win the titles. Solid match between two good teams. After the match, Gunn shows his ass to the crowd. Joy. (***, Recommended)

BACKSTAGE: Cole with Shane McMahon. Shane gives his word that he’ll count the pin if Austin gets one on Rock, and he wants Vince to stay out of the way.

BACKSTAGE: Kevin Kelly with Vince and Stephanie McMahon. Vince doesn’t want Shane to make a big mistake.

The Big Show vs. Mankind – Boiler Room Brawl

I typically enjoyed the Boiler Room Brawl concept, but to be honest, I don’t remember much from this one. They brawl (pun intended) and bounce each other of things like refrigerators and other household items. Mankind takes a beating, but that’s nothing new.

Show gets some glass smashed over his head, then Mankind gets put through a table with broken glass. In what shouldn’t be a surprise, both are bleeding profusely. And now it’s a faceful of steam for Show, and that’s never ideal. Mankind throws a row of pipes on Show, then escapes out the door – bloody hand and all – for the victory.

As soon as he exits, Big Bossman and Test destroy Mankind, with Show deciding to chase after Bossman. Test gets Mr. Socko to finish things off. Your mileage will vary on this one, but it was a good brawl for those who enjoy that type of match. (***, Recommended)

BACKSTAGE: Cole with Triple H and Chyna. They send a message to X-Pac. Then we transition to Show getting stitched up, and his hand is busted up pretty bad as well. Mankind is also walking around looking at all the objects they destroyed in the match.

X-Pac vs. Triple H (w/Chyna)

Obviously, the story is that Triple H and X-Pac are no longer friends, and this is the war to settle the score. The worst part about this is the generic-sounding music that Triple H’s used for his entrance on this show. I know some people like it, but I don’t. Give me “My Time” every day of the week.  The action spills outside early, and the chemistry is never in doubt when these two are in the ring. They work well off of each other.

X-Pac plays up a neck injury, and Chioda tries to stop the match. But that damn Triple H starts hauling off on him, then Chyna gets in a shot of her own. However, X-Pac keeps fighting back, and JR does a fantastic job of telling the story of X-Pac’s neck issues. Triple H keeps the pressure on the neck, and as usual, he does it in a cerebral fashion. Chyna also gets in some more cheap shots.

If there’s one nitpick, it’s that the Triple H offense portion of the match is very, very long. It does make sense for the story of X-Pac’s injury, but it’s not particularly entertaining. X-Pac does eventually get some offense going, and then we get a ref bump. X-Pac hits his finisher, but there’s no referee, and that allows Chyna to kick X-Pac’s ass.

THAT’S GOTTA BE KANE! He’s here, and he chokeslams Triple H before doing the same to Chyna. X-Pac regroups, and it’s Bronco Buster time to both Triple H and Chyna. But Triple H comes right back and hits the Pedigree for the victory. A decent match that could have been much better had it not been as lackluster and repetitive in the middle. (**3/4)

Ken Shamrock vs. The Undertaker (w/Paul Bearer)

My take: Taker’s Ministry theme music was one of the most underrated themes of all time. Shamrock is looking for payback for his sister, Ryan Shamrock, who found herself on the wrong side of Taker and the Ministry. Taker starts off as the aggressor, but Shamrock goes to the submissions to change the style.

Shamrock really takes control and goes after Taker’s leg for a good while. And Shamrock goes to the armbar to attempt to dissect another body part. The crowd isn’t into the ground game, but let’s be honest, most of them just came to see puppies. They even said it themselves a few matches ago.

It’s Taker who goes the body part route by going after Shamrock’s back. Once again, the fans aren’t thrilled by this, but I get why they chose this type of match. It’s Taker trying to prove he can beat Shamrock at his own game. Taker seemingly gets a pin late in the match as Shamrock doesn’t even attempt to bring his arm up before the three, so Taker just pulls it up for him. That’s not ideal.

Shamrock reverses a Tombstone attempt and locks in the Ankle Lock, but Bradshaw runs down for the distraction. Shamrock counters again, but it’s Taker who counters and he finally hits the Tombstone for the win. Well, the psychology in this match was great. But just like the previous match, at nearly 20 minutes, it dragged on way too long for my liking. (**1/2)

The Rock vs. Steve Austin – No Holds Barred Match for the WWF Championship (Special Guest Referee: Shane McMahon)

For my money, I prefer this match over the WrestleMania XV one between these two men. They brawl everywhere, and I loved the spot where each man gets thrown onto one side of the chain fence set. What I also enjoy about this is there was no way it should be a technical wrestling bout. It needed to be a fight, and that’s what it was.

As if you needed any other example of Rock’s unique charisma, this was another display of that. This includes the famous spot where he puts on the headset and calls Austin a piece of trash. He also plays cameraman on top of the announce table before we see Austin giving him the double middle finger, which is followed by a Stunner. So awesome.

It’s simply one of those matches that’s exactly what it needs to be. An enjoyable match from start to finish, and the crowd was all-in on both Austin and Rock at this point.

This is just one of those matches that played out like it needed to for the story. Shane refuses to count the three for Austin to attempt to screw him over, and it’s Vince who wallops Shane with the belt. Austin hits a Stunner and uses a belt shot to retain the title. I greatly enjoyed this match, as it was an entertaining Attitude Era main event given the star power and crowd reaction. (****, Highly Recommended)

IN THE PARKING LOT: The police are protecting Steph in the limo. Here comes the Ministry to try to go after her, so the police send the car away. And what do you know, the window rolls down, and it’s Taker driving the limo and Vince has no idea. Prediction: I think he did, folks.

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BLAKE’S TAKE ON WWF BACKLASH 1999

Recommended Matches: Steve Austin vs. The Rock (****), The Big Show vs. Mankind (***), The New Age Outlaws vs. Jeff Jarrett and Owen Hart (***)

Overall Rating: 6.5/10

Thoughts: A solid PPV effort from the top company in pro wrestling. Everyone’s enjoyment will differ on the two long, non-main event matches, but I’m of the opinion they didn’t need to be as long as they were. That probably drops my overall rating a bit, though others could love those two and consider this one of the better PPVs of this era. Either way, the main event was a lot of fun, and that’s what sold the show to most fans anyways.

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For more of my show reviews, visit the Pro Wrestling Reviews section!

The WCW Nitro 9/4/95 review features the start of the Nitro era with both a surprising debut and lots of Pastamania.

Here’s the review!

• Show: WCW Monday Nitro
• Date: September 4, 1995
• Location: The Mall of America in Minneapolis, MN

– Eric Bischoff and Steve ‘Mongo’ McMichael are our commentators for this monumental event. Then Bobby Heenan arrives and kisses up to Mongo. Heenan truly is one of a kind.

Jushin Thunder Liger vs. Flyin’ Brian Pillman

Liger will forever be the answer to the trivia question as to the first wrestler to enter the ring on Nitro. Liger and Pillman had a lot of great battles over the years, so the match choice makes sense. And considering Bischoff wanted to feature cruiserweights and high-flying action to contrast RAW, it’s clear he wanted to set the tone with this match.

Lots of bickering between Heenan and Mongo in this one to no one’s surprise. As expected, good back and forth match with several near falls that would’ve gotten a bigger pop from a normal crowd. Pillman countered Liger’s offense and hooked the leg for the pin.

• Blake’s Rating: ***

– Hulk Hogan is signing autographs at the food stand in the mall. PASTAMANIA is running wild, brother! Bischoff is all smiles as Hogan talks about eating so many Hulkaroos and having a lot of PASTAMANIACS. Hogan says the word “pastamania” about 47 times in hyping the main event with Big Bubba Rogers.

Ric Flair vs. Sting

It is wild to think Flair was 46 at this point in his career. Mongo with a little WWE foreshadowing: “This place is like Thunderdome, folks.” Personally, I think it needs more LED screens and Kevin Dunn camera cuts. Before the match even starts, we get the most noteworthy moment of the debut Nitro, as LEX LUGER has jumped ship! Give Bischoff credit for playing it up like a pro and making it seem real. Heenan and Mongo were also good.

When you look back, it really was smart to have Luger’s appearance early in the show to create a buzz. What’s also creating a buzz is Service Merchandise in the background. What a store. Another competitive match that gets a better reaction with a normal crowd. Arn Anderson made his way out and he eventually caused the DQ before he and Flair exchanged blows to continue their dissension.

• Blake’s Rating: **1/2

– After the match, Scott Norton debuts in WCW and he’s PISSED as goes face to face with Mongo. Randy Savage makes the save and they tease an impromptu match.

– Sabu is also coming to WCW!

– Mean Gene Okerlund is thrilled to announce that someone has won a Harley Davidson.

– VK Wallstreet is yet another star coming to WCW! You can’t say they didn’t introduce new stars on the first Nitro.

Big Bubba Rogers vs. Hulk Hogan (w/Jimmy Hart)

Bischoff is still playing up Luger causing chaos in the locker room. Another nice move. Meanwhile, we’re getting that Savage vs. Norton match next week. Heenan and Mongo really do have great chemistry right off the bat. Nothing like Hogan and Hart, the babyfaces, using underhanded tactics behind Pee Wee Anderson’s back. Heroic stuff! Big Bubba did his best, but Hogan hit the Big Boot and Leg Drop to get the win.

• Blake’s Rating: **

– Here comes the Dungeon of Doom! Kevin Sullivan, Kamala, The Shark, Meng, and Brutus Beefcake’s character of the month (The Zodiac) hit the ring to attack Pastamania. Luger makes the save, and they tease a Hogan vs. Luger showdown. 

– After the break, Mean Gene is in the ring to get the info on Luger and Hogan. Luger wants Hogan’s title and he’s tired of playing with kids. BRING ON THE BIG BOYS. Hogan gives him a title match for next week’s Nitro.

Blake’s WCW Nitro 9/4/95 Awards

• Best Match: Liger vs. Pillman
• Best Angle: Luger’s debut
• Nitro MVP: Bischoff, Heenan, Mongo
• Overall Nitro Rating: 6.0/10
• Thoughts: This was a fine start to the Nitro era, with Luger’s debut taking center stage. Bischoff was great pushing new characters, while also adding realism to Luger jumping ship. Wrestling fans had a hook, and WCW played it up nicely throughout the show.

For more of my show reviews, visit the Pro Wrestling Reviews section!

The WWF continues to ride its biggest star into 1990, but change is in the air in this Royal Rumble 1990 review.

Before that happens though, the company embarked on the third edition of the Rumble, which certainly had one of the greatest assortments of talent you’ll ever see in a single match.

Let’s jump in.

Date: January 21, 1990

Location: Amway Arena in Orlando, FL

VIDEO: Vince McMahon runs through the entire list of Royal Rumble participants. Vince saying ‘Hakuuuuuuuuuu’ is always good for a laugh.

ON THE STAGE: Tony Schiavone and Jesse Ventura welcome us. It’s always strange seeing Tony in the WWF, but it’s never strange to see Jesse wearing a Mickey Mouse shirt and ears.

The Fabulous Rougeaus (w/Jimmy Hart) vs. The Bushwhackers

The bell rings and we get several minutes of both teams taunting before the match actually starts. Rougeaus quickly go for a double team but Luke breaks that up. Butch immediately starts BITING RAYMOND’S ASS and then he proceeds to BITING THE REFEREE’S ASS. Only in 1990, folks. Jacques manages to get a little bit of offense before Luke starts biting him in the head. Luke clotheslines Raymond on the apron and the bad guys retreat again to the outside to huddle with Hart.

Underhanded tactics from Raymond as Jacques distracts the referee and Butch. Jacques then delivers some damage to Luke with everyone else distracts once again. Luke tries to get the headbutt to the penis on Raymond but that doesn’t work. More teamwork from the Rougeaus and Luke tries the bite again. Jacques tries a big splash but Luke gets the knees up and we get the hot tag to Butch. All four men in and it’s DOUBLE NOGGIN KNOCKER TIME on the Rougeaus.

Luke and Butch go for the battering ram but Hart holds Luke’s feet as the referee just stares at him. Great officiating, Danny Davis! They go after Hart and the Rougeaus hit a double dropkick for a two count. Raymond locks in the crab as Luke trips Jacques. Double battering ram on both Rougeaus and Butch earns the pin at 13:35. Pretty entertaining match, and the crowd was hot.

• Rating: **1/4

BACKSTAGE: Gene Okerlund is with Ted DiBiase and Virgil. Gene calls him out for drawing No. 30 in last year’s Rumble, and DiBiase goes off. DiBiase then gets pissed as Gene asks him what number he drew this year. He hands over the piece of paper and Gene reveals that it’s No. 1. DiBiase says it doesn’t matter and he’ll still win the thing.

IN THE RING: We get what will undoubtedly be the best segment of the evening, as The Genius reads off another masterpiece.

The Genius vs. Brutus ‘The Barber’ Beefcake

Genius does his stretches in the corner and we legitimately get one of the worst camera angles ever as it pretty much just zooms in on his crotch. Luckily he decides to escape to the outside and do some cartwheels. These two prance around for a bit to mock each other before Genius gets the upper hand after a rake to the eyes. Beefcake hits the atomic drop and Genius sells it like a champ. Beefcake back on offense as we get the test of strength before he stomps on Genius’ fingers. Genius then gets racked on the top rope before scurrying outside.

Genius gets in a little offense but Beefcake kicks out of a pin attempt. Genius goes for a roll up but only gets a two again. Top rope move fails for Genius as Beefcake reverses and hits a slam. Beefcake then locks in the sleeper hold momentarily but Genius gets out. Beefcake then slings Genius towards the ropes but the ref is in the way and gets nailed. Beefcake locks in the sleeper but the ref is still down. Beefcake runs to the outside and grabs the scissors before the cutting begins on Genius’ hair. Here comes Mr. Perfect to break it up and the bell rings for what appears to be a double DQ at 11:07.  Perfect grabs a chair and destroys Beefcake with it before a host of refs come in to break it up. The match was just there to set up the eventual WrestleMania match between Perfect and Beefcake.

• Rating: *

BACKSTAGE: Sean Mooney with The Heenan Family. Rude refuses to reveal his number and then Mooney stirs the pot by asking what would happen if they all had to face each other. Haku starts shouting, then Andre starts shouting. Heenan pulls them away for a team meeting.

Greg Valentine (w/Jimmy Hart) vs. Ronnie Garvin – Submission Match

Valentine is pissed that Garvin is wearing a brace on his leg. That causes Valentine and Hart to retreat to the aisle but Garvin attacks from behind. Back inside and Garvin immediately goes for pin as he stares at the referee and wonders why he isn’t counting. Way to sell the match stipulation there, Ron. Valentine regains control as he throws the chops in the corner. Garvin brings some hops of his own and Valentine retreats to the outside to get some advice from Hart.

Back inside and Valentine works on the leg before TRYING TO PIN GARVIN. He legitimately lays on Garvin for nearly 10 seconds. Hell let’s just throw out the stipulation at this point. Now they’re punching each other silly which leads to Garvin delivering a headbutt. Garvin goes for the piledriver but Valentine reverses it, and Garvin nearly tries to counter it into a sunset flip pin. But then Hammer drops down on him and flexes AS HE ASKS THE REF TO COUNT THE PIN. The ref just stares at him, and that leads to Garvin reversing it into a ANOTHER MOTHER FUCKING PIN. Holy shit. Even Hart doesn’t know what to think as he yells through the megaphone that this is a submission match. Jesse says he has a feeling the match could go a long time, and I completely agree if these two keep trying to win a SUBMISSION MATCH by pinfall.

Corner chops from Valentine and he starts adjusting the leg brace. However, Garvin takes control and ROLLS HIM UP FOR A PIN. Just stop the damn match and call it a double DQ via utter stupidity. Valentine chops Garvin again and then drops the knee. I kid you not, he then looks at the ref and appears to be wanting him to count while his knee is laying over Valentine’s throat. Valentine then goes over and hooks in the Figure Four but Garvin starts smiling and making faces. Schiavone explains that Garvin has something around his knee that’s preventing any pain. Valentine gets up and that leads to Garvin going for a SMALL PACKAGE. Pin attempt No. 879 in a submission match.

Valentine picks Garvin up over his head and locks in some weird submission hold before throwing him down. Valentine drops the elbow and goes for the Figure Four but Garvin kicks him away. Then they just grab each other and Garvin starts chopping. Garvin locks in his own submission as Schiavone points out that it’s his first submission attempt of the match. Valentine gets to the ropes and rolls outside. Now they’re both outside chopping away. Garvin goes for the piledriver on the floor but Valentine backdrops him. In the ring again and Garvin gets locked in the ropes in the corner. Perhaps Valentine will try to pin him. The ref has to get Garvin out of the ropes before both Garvin and Valentine run into each other.

Both men down and Hart takes the brace off Garvin’s leg. Valentine hits a horrible backbreaker and then locks in the Figure Four for a solid hour before Garvin reverses. But Valentine holds onto the ropes to get a little more damage in before the break. Valentine goes for the Figure Four again and I will give you one guess as to what happens next. If you guessed that Garvin would reverse it into a small package for another pin, YOU ARE CORRECT. Valentine goes up top and Garvin throws him off. Garvin takes the brace off Valentine’s leg and that leads to Valentine trying to earn the pin with a school boy. Fire both men on the spot. Valentine gets locked in the ropes and Garvin throws Hart in. He then clocks Valentine and uses the sharpshooter for the win at 16:55. I realize this was a hot feud and had a stipulation that wasn’t used all that often, but the 2.3 billion pin attempts just ruined it for me.

• Rating: **

BACKSTAGE: Mean Gene with Mr. Perfect. Gene mentions that the only way to win this interview is by submission, so Perfect immediately goes for a pinfall. I kid. Perfect explains his actions from earlier and reveals that he drew No. 30 in the Rumble.

IN THE RING: Brother Love in the ring as Schiavone asks Jesse how many donuts he thinks had this morning. Lots of talking here that leads to a Sherri/Savage and Dusty/Sapphire brouhaha before Dusty attacks Brother Love and Sapphire gives him a huge slap.

BACKSTAGE: Mooney with Hacksaw Jim Duggan. He hypes the match with the Big Boss Man.

The Big Boss Man (w/Slick) vs. Hacksaw Jim Duggan

You’ve gotta love a good hoss match. They go at each other right away as Hacksaw sends Boss Man reeling to the outside. Boss Man grabs Hacksaw’s legs and brings him out before throwing him into the post. But Hacksaw isn’t selling a steel post, and instead, moves out of the way as Boss Man runs into the steel steps. Back in the ring and a splash in the corner from Boss Man. Hacksaw tries to regain control but Boss Man hits an ENZIGURI. Jesse points out how remarkable it is for a guy of Boss Man’s size to hit that move. It’s true.

Boss Man in control now and he throws the leg over Duggan’s head on the ropes. Hacksaw gets a little offense but Boss Man with the axe handle to get a two count. PINS COUNT IN THIS MATCH. Slick gets a choke in on Hacksaw as Boss Man distracts the ref. Chin lock from Boss Man but Hacksaw gets out and tries to capitalize. But Boss Man won’t have that as he hits a knee to go back on offense. Another near fall as Boss Man then goes for the bear hug. Now they go back and forth with Hacksaw eventually clotheslining Boss Man over the top.

Hacksaw regains control and then Boss Man hits a big clothesline. Boss Man heads up top but misses a splash. Hacksaw goes for a shoulder block but they run into each other and both hit the mat. Slick jumps on the apron to hold Hacksaw but he moves and Boss Man nails Slick. That leads to Slick giving him the nightstick which Boss Man uses to give Hacksaw the DQ win at 6:13. Hacksaw hits Boss Man with the 2×4 after the match and then hits Slick in the ass. This was fine.

• Rating: **

BACKSTAGE: We get 10 solid minutes of various wrestlers talking about how they’re gonna win the Rumble. This was a good reminder that Savage’s crown during this time period was absolutely incredible.

The 1990 Royal Rumble Match

Let’s rock. Ted DiBiase is No. 1, and here comes Koko B. Ware at No. 2. DiBiase opens up a can of whoop ass until Koko hulks up for some offense. But that doesn’t work as DiBiase throws him over the top for a quick elimination. Marty Jannetty in at No. 3 and he gets a little work in before DiBiase goes back on offense. DiBiase up top but Jannetty nails him coming off. DiBiase thrown into the ropes and Jannetty goes to clothesline him over, but DiBiase ducks and there’s another elimination.

Business picks up as Jake Roberts is No. 4. DiBiase loses it and goes outside to bodyslam him. Roberts rams DiBiase into the post before they head back inside. Clothesline from Roberts and then he goes for the DDT, but DiBiase reverses. Here comes Randy Savage at No. 5 and it looks like he stole the Dynamic Dudes’ gear from WCW. Savage and DiBiase double team Roberts for a bit until Roddy Piper comes rumbling in at No. 6. He goes nuts and so does the crowd. Piper helps Roberts out of the ropes and they decimate Savage and DiBiase.

Savage nearly eliminates Piper, and then Piper returns the favor but both men stay in. The Warlord is No. 7 and he goes right after Roberts. Warlord and Piper start going at it as Savage and DiBiase try to get Roberts out. Piper back over and it’s DOUBLE NOGGIN KNOCKER TIME on Savage and Roberts. Here comes Bret Hart at No. 8 and this is an incredible assortment of talent in the ring right now. And yes, I’m counting hoss legend Warlord in that mix. Bret ducks a double team move from Savage and DiBiase before he and Piper hit the double team close line on Warlord.

Roberts nearly eliminates DiBiase as Bad News Brown comes in at No. 9. He goes right after Bret and there’s chaos everywhere. Roberts calls for the DDT on DiBiase but Savage comes over and clotheslines Roberts over the top to send him packing. Piper tries to eliminate DiBiase but Savage makes the save. Dusty Rhodes is No. 10 and he delivers an immediate elbow to Savage. That quickly leads to Dusty eliminating Savage as the crowd loses their damn minds. Next up is Andre the Giant at No. 11 as a young Shane McMahon looks on in his referee suit at ringside. Andre quickly eliminates Warlord which leads to Bobby Heenan and Mr. Fuji getting into it.

Andre starts attacking Dusty and Piper in the corner as DiBiase and Bad News work on Bret. The Red Rooster is No. 12 and I’m willing to bet he won’t be your winner. We get Bad News going for a clothesline to send Piper out, but Piper ducks it and eliminates him. That leads to Bad News getting angry and hopping up on the apron to pull Piper over the top to eliminate him. They brawl up the aisle way and into the back. Ax is No. 13 as Andre easily eliminates Rooster. Ax and Dusty tie up Andre in the ropes while Bret is attempting to throw DiBiase over.

Haku in at No. 14 to save Andre. Eventually we get Haku and Andre working on Ax. And here comes Smash at No. 15 as he and Ax brawl with Haku and Andre. Bret nearly eliminates DiBiase but Haku with another save. Akeem is No. 16 and what a ridiculous amount of talent in the ring at this point. Ax and Smash get Andre near the ropes and then hit the double clothesline to eliminate him as the crowd goes apeshit. Jimmy Snuka into the mix at No. 17 and he quickly eliminates Akeem. Poor, Akeem. Dino Bravo in at No. 18 and Ax and Smash try to send DiBiase out. Earthquake joins the mix at No. 19 and he quickly eliminates Dusty.

Ax tries to go on offense but Earthquake heaves him over the top for another elimination. Jim Neidhart comes running out at No. 20 and goes after Earthquake. We then get everyone in the ring aside from Bravo trying to pick up Earthquake in the corner, and before Bravo can make the save, they manage to dump Earthquake onto the floor. Bravo gets pissed before getting his ass kicked by Snuka. And business officially picks up as The Ultimate Warrior flies in at No. 21. The crowd loses their shit as Warrior eliminates Bravo. Warrior and Neidhart chop DiBiase like crazy before Rick Martel enters at No. 22.

Haku manages to eliminate Smash as Neidhart nearly sends Martel packing. Six men in the ring right now as Tito Santana makes his way in at No. 23. THE STRIKE FORCE IS EXPLODING. Santana and Martel go at it while people are still trying to get DiBiase outta there. Honky Tonk Man is No. 24 and Warrior goes right after him. Neidhart gets eliminated and then Warrior clotheslines DiBiase over which obviously gets a huge pop from the crowd. Hulk Hogan is here at No. 25, and folks, the people are going insane. He eliminates Snuka right away and then hits the big boot to eliminate Haku.

Martel and Santana go at it, but Warrior comes over and eliminates Santana as Martel holds on. Shawn Michaels arrives at No. 26 as Hogan shakes, rattles, and rolls Honky out of this match. Warrior goes over and quickly eliminates Michaels before going over and doing the same to Martel. WARRIOR AND HOGAN ARE ALL ALONE. They go face to face and then we get the CRISS CROSS, which is easily one of the most ridiculous sequences in the history of wrestling. The hell are these guys doing just running in opposite directions? That leads to a double clothesline as The Barbarian comes in at No. 27 to take advantage.

Barbarian goes to work on both, and ironically, hits a big boot on Hogan. Then from out of nowhere, Rick Rude comes flying into the ring at No. 28 before the countdown even starts to go after Warrior. Barbarian and Rude try to dump Warrior out, and that leads to the big sequence where Hogan runs over and hits Barbarian and Rude, with the extra momentum causing Warrior to be eliminated. Warrior ain’t having that shit, as he gets back in and attacks Barbarian and Rude before running down the aisle into the back. Jesse is trying to figure out why Warrior attacked those two and not Hogan since he’s the one that actually eliminated him.

Hercules is No. 29 and he and Hogan start working on the bad guys. BACKSCRATCH OF DOOM from Hogan on Barbarian as everyone fights a bit before Mr. Perfect runs in at No. 30. He goes after Hogan as Hercules eliminates Barbarian. So, your final four is Hogan, Hercules, Rude, and Perfect. Rude eliminates Hercules, and we’re back to the same formula for the third straight year as it’s a good guy trying to conquer two heels. Rude and Perfect attack Hogan for a bit until Hogan ducks a double team move. That leads to Perfect winding up on the apron holding on the ropes, and Hogan  slings Rude in that direction, with Rude going over the top since the ropes were held down. Rude is pissed, but it’s Hogan and Perfect left. Not sure how this one is gonna unfold.

Perfect hits the Perfect Plex and Hogan does not sell it for a single second. MAYBE THAT PLEX ISN’T SO PERFECT, BROTHER. Hogan then runs wild and eliminates Perfect in the corner to win it at 58:46. There’s a lot to digest here. For starters, it’s well-known that Perfect was originally supposed to win the match, but Hogan reportedly had it changed. However, when you see the reaction to the Hogan/Warrior showdown, it was clear what the money match was for WrestleMania VI. That was an iconic moment that undoubtedly had Vince creaming his pants at the potential of the feud between those two. I’m a huge Perfect fan, but Hogan winning made more sense for where the company was headed at the biggest show of the year. This is still one of the better Royal Rumble matches due to the insane amount of star power and the beginning of the Hogan/Warrior feud.

• Rating: ****

SHOW SUMMARY

The undercard was a lot of nothing, even if Garvin/Valentine was pure entertainment because of the gazillion pin attempts. But the Rumble match itself more than delivered while setting up one of the biggest WWF matches ever.

In this WWF In Your House 9: International Incident review, Shawn Michaels teams up with Ahmed Johnson and Sycho Sid to take on Owen Hart, The British Bulldog, and Vader, Steve Austin goes one-on-one with Marc Mero, and much more.

Let’s jump in.

• Show: WWF In Your House 9: International Incident
• Date: July 21, 1996
• Location: General Motors Place in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Blake’s Match Rating Guide : I’m using a new match rating system, which focuses on three simple categories and ignores the need to rate every single match since different matches have different goals. This makes it easier to suggest the most noteworthy matches rather than compare every match on the card:

• Recommended: 3 1/2 to 4 stars
• Must-See: 4 to 4 1/2 stars
• Legendary: 4 3/4 to 5 stars

VIDEO: Footage of Jose Lothario going after Jim Cornette on the Free For All show earlier on, which leads to Vader coming in. But then Shawn Michaels makes the save for Lothario.

BACKSTAGE: In an inset promo, Skip and Zip proclaim that they didn’t need Cloudy (their manager) and that they’re just fine on their own.

The Smoking Gunns (w/Sunny) vs. The Bodydonnas

The crowd is way more into Sunny than anything else, which is obvious early in the match as a “buns of steel” chant breaks out. Vince McMahon informs us that Jake Roberts won’t be at the show due to injury, so Henry Godwinn is gonna take his place against Mankind. Skip and Zip are in control when Sunny fakes a fall to the outside. Skip checks on her, and she slaps the taste out of his mouth. The Gunns gain the advantage, and they botch a double team attempt where Billy tries to leapfrog Bart to drop the leg on the back of Skip’s neck. Instead, Billy goes up and comes right back down when Bart doesn’t duck. Billy starts yelling at Bart, and I’m gonna assume that was a shoot, brother. Something else about the Gunns: How did these guys wrestle in tight jeans and cowboy boots? Had to be brutal. It’s all Gunns for a good stretch until Skip hits what is essentially a nutbreaker to Billy. Hot tag to Zip, and referee Harvey Whippleman gets occupied with Sunny on the outside. Double team action from the Bodydonnas leads to Zip scoring the pin on Bart. Blake’s Take: Not a lot to this one with Sunny being the focus more than the actual in-ring action.

BACKSTAGE: Mr. Perfect with Camp Cornette. What a promo from Cornette, who claims Lothario pulled a switchblade on him. Cornette guarantees a win or he promises he’ll refund the money of everyone in attendance and watching on television. Owen Hart and British Bulldog also add some taunting while Vader menaces in the background.

Mankind vs. Henry O. Godwinn (w/Hillbilly Jim)

HOG getting the generic entrance music dub on Peacock. Godwinn calls the hogs, but Mankind attacks him from behind and bites his face. However, Godwinn runs wild and sends Mankind reeling to the outside. They go back and forth as Lawler runs down the state of Arkansas and Bill Clinton. Mankind with an elbow drop, and he pulls his own hair out of his head. Vicious running knee from Mankind to Godwinn in the corner. Now it’s Mankind on the outside pulling up the mat to expose the concrete floor. Mankind with the neckbreaker to Godwinn on the floor. Back inside, and Godwinn gains some momentum with a few punches. He ducks Mankind’s running splash and hits a huge clothesline. Mankind throws Godwinn to the outside, but Godwinn throws him from the apron onto the concrete. Of course Mick Foley is taking that bump. Mankind pops up like it’s nothing, and they head back in the ring where he counters the Slop Drop and locks on the Mandible Claw for the victory.

Blake’s Take: Nice little sprint. They really pushed Mankind’s deranged behavior, and his uniqueness was on full display.

BACKSTAGE: Brian Pillman is running the WWF Superstar Line with Skip and Zip. Meanwhile, Raymond Rougeau is managing the lines with the Gunns and Sunny. Pillman gets a joke in about the Bodydonnas wanting to double team Sunny. Well then.

Stone Cold Steve Austin vs. “The Wildman” Marc Mero (w/Sable)

We’re fresh off of Austin winning the 1996 King of the Ring, where he defeated Mero in the quarterfinals. Austin also got busted wide open in that match. These two bring it to start with, and Mero works over Austin’s arm and wrist. Austin takes it to the match with a headlock. More counter moves from each man, with Mero hitting a series of punches to send Austin outside calling for a timeout. We see Marlena on the superstar hotline as Austin goes after Sable. Mero jumps off the apron with a double axe handle on Austin, then gets a near fall in the ring. Austin pops Mero to send him out of the ring, and the crowd is cheering. Austin catapults Mero into the ring post, and once again, the crowd is fine with it. JR notes that Austin is relentless, and you can really see the seeds of the Rattlesnake brewing.

Austin hits the flying elbow drop for a near fall, then locks on a modified Camel Clutch. This thing is all Austin until Mero racks him in the corner on an attempted bulldog. Austin goes for the piledriver, but Mero reverses and both men fly over the ropes. Marlena makes her way out as Mero dives onto Austin. Her butler hands something to Lawler, then Mero does a MOONSAULT off the apron onto Austin. That was wild…..man. Mero flips over for a splash and gets a near fall. The crowd bit on that one. Austin counters in the corner and racks Mero. He goes for the Stunner, but Mero blocks it for another near fall. Austin clips Mero’s knee and then hits the Stunner for the win.

IN THE RING: After the match, Marlena heads to the back as Sable checks on Mero.

Blake’s Take: The crowd was only in it for Austin and Mero’s wild moves, but it’s always interesting to see Austin’s ascent. This was another step towards that. I’d recommend it for that reason. (Recommended)

IN THE CROWD: It’s Bob Backlund! He’s campaigning in the crowd.

VIDEO: The Smoking Gunns are gonna defend the WWF Tag Team titles against Shawn Michaels and Ahmed Johnson on Raw.

Goldust (w/Marlena) vs. The Undertaker (w/Paul Bearer)

Quite a battle of the entrances between these two. Goldust tries to use referee Jimmy Korderas as a shield in a funny start to the match. Then he rubs himself, so Taker pops him. Goldust stalls some more on the outside before pulling Taker’s leg. That was a mistake as Taker chokeslams him on the steel steps. Taker throws Goldust off the steps again for good measure and then goes to hit him, but Marlena shields her man. Taker thinks better of hitting her, and Lawler goes off on the fans wanting him to do it. Goldust is getting a beating, so he tries to rip off the top turnbuckle. He does it successfully, but Taker stays on offense and hits a leg drop for two. Goldust turns up the intensity and throws Taker into the corner, but Taker regains the momentum with some vicious right hands. Taker goes OLD SCHOOL and Marlena is not impressed. Goldust regroups and clotheslines Taker over the top. Goldust goes to work on the outside, but Taker with a stunner of his own to Goldust to bounce him off the rope. However, Goldust goes to the exposed turnbuckle and the ring steps on the outside to send Taker down. Back inside, Goldust with the scoop slam, and he goes to work on Taker’s lower back. Taker fights back with a big boot to the jaw. He goes for a scoop slam but turns it into an inside cradle for two. JR is stunned by Taker’s using an inside cradle. Taker hits the Tombstone and before he can get the pin, Mankind breaks through the canvas from under the ring and drags Taker down with him.

IN THE RING: Mankind climbs back up and the lights start to flicker. Taker’s music plays as Bearer tries to summon him. Mankind is confused as he looks down with smoke coming from under the ring. Commentary plays it up by wondering if it’s the last they’ve seen of Taker. Of course not. That’s because Taker breaks through the canvas in the opposite corner, and these two fight up the aisle to the back.

Blake’s Take: Two legendary characters, and they played up their mannerisms. More about the angle than the match, but it’s fun for the personalities involved.

VIDEO: Summerslam is coming up next month.

RINGSIDE: Vince, JR, and Lawler hype the upcoming six-man tag team match.

BACKSTAGE: Mankind and Taker fight into a boiler room. Perhaps they should have a match in there!

VIDEO: We recap the shenanigans that led to the six-man tag, including Gorilla Monsoon announcing the indefinite suspension of The Ultimate Warrior to remove him from Michaels’ and Ahmed’s team. Yes, he was fired. Cornette’s reaction when Sid was revealed as the replacement was fantastic.

BACKSTAGE: Doc Hendrix with Shawn, Ahmed, and Sid. They’re gonna kick some ass.

Shawn Michaels, Ahmed Johnson, and Sycho Sid (w/Jose Lothario) vs. Owen Hart, British Bulldog, and Vader (w/Jim Cornette)

During Michaels’ entrance, the crowd wants him so bad one of the rails in the aisle breaks and fans flock him. Lawler brings up Sid already turning on Michaels once, so he’s betting on it again. Vader taunts Shawn before the match, and Ahmed tags him in to get things started. Vader uses his power in the early going, but Michaels speeds it up and hits a flying cross body to send Vader over the top. Michaels then flies over with a cross body to the outside. He goes for another move off the top, but Vader moves and Michaels goes throat-first into the rail. Vader takes control until Michaels makes the tag to Sid, who runs wild on Owen, Bulldog, and Vader to send them outside the ring.

Sid tags in Ahmed, and he goes to work on Owen with multiple suplexes. Ahmed misses a jumping elbow and that allows Owen to tag in Bulldog. Ahmed hits the Pearl River Plunge on Bulldog but Vader breaks up the count. Ahmed pummels Vader in the corner with some haymakers, but Vader turns the tide with a splash in the opposite corner. Vader goes for another splash, but Ahmed catches him for a slam and near fall. Owen into the mix and he hits an enziguri on Ahmed. However, Ahmed regains momentum and press slams Owen before tagging in Sid. He hits the big boot to Owen and works on him in the corner.

Owen manages to tag Bulldog, and he somehow picks up Sid for a delayed vertical suplex. Vader drops the elbow on Sid, but Bulldog only gets a two. Sid eventually tags in Michaels, who gets a two count on Bulldog. After an Irish whip, Bulldog moves and Michaels’ shoulder hits the ring post. Michaels reverses an Irish whip and throws Bulldog into Vader. Owen back in, and he and Michaels exchange pinfall counters in a great sequence. They turn it up a notch with more near falls until Owen tags in Bulldog. He also gets multiple near falls on Michaels until the latter moves out of the way of an elbow. But it’s Owen with a cheap shot using the cast on his arm that reverses the momentum.

The referee gets distracted with Vader and Sid, which allows Owen to use more underhanded tactics on Michaels on the outside. Vader with a standing bearhug on Michaels as an idiot fan jumps onto the apron and tries to stand on the ropes. Both Ahmed and Bulldog nearly wallop him but he escapes to cheers from the crowd. Bulldog wanted to destroy that dude. Vader adds in a choke for good measure, but Michaels fights out before Vader splashes him. Ahmed comes in and hits a huge clothesline on Vader. Michaels tries for the tag but Bulldog cuts him off and adds more damage. Bulldog misses a splash in the corner and Michaels goes for the tag again, but there’s Owen to thwart it.

Both men down but Owen makes the tag to Bulldog, who hits the power slam. Sid breaks up the count with a leg drop. Bulldog tags Vader, but Michaels makes the tag to Ahmed…..and of course the referee doesn’t see it. The heels work over Michaels while Lothario and the babyfaces plead their case. Owen and Bulldog go for a double team move, but Michaels ducks and finally gets the hot tag to Sid. He chokeslams Vader, then does the same to Owen and Bulldog. Double clothesline to Vader, and Sid and Ahmed launch Michaels off the top onto Vader. The action breaks down and Cornette throws the racket in, but Michaels grabs it and hammers Vader with it for the near fall. Michaels goes for the Sweet Chin Music, but Cornette grabs his foot in the corner and Vader splashes Michaels before hitting the Vader Bomb for the win.

IN THE RING: Ahmed and Sid attack, with Sid power bombing Bulldog and Owen. He tries to do the same to Vader but Bulldog pulls him out. Then Michaels soars off the top onto Vader and the exchange blows. The babyfaces stand tall and hug it out.

Blake’s Take: Not gonna lie, this main event totally exceeded expectations. It’s the first time I’ve watched it in many years, and the heel team was tremendous in their teamwork and approach. It was obvious Michaels would work the majority of the match for the babyfaces, and he sold like a champ. Vader getting the pin was the perfect finish to set up the Summerslam main event. One of the better six-man tags I’ve can recall in WWE. (Must-See)

BACKSTAGE: Hendrix welcomes Gorilla Monsoon, who announces Mankind vs. Taker in a Boiler Room Brawl at Summerslam. Cornette says he guaranteed a Camp Cornette win and brings up Vader pinning Michaels. Cornette thinks Vader deserves a title shot.

BLAKE’S TAKE ON WWF IN YOUR HOUSE 9: INTERNATIONAL INCIDENT

Overall Rating: 6.0/10

Thoughts: This is pretty much a one-match show, but there’s enough storyline advancement to make it interesting elsewhere. You had the setup for the first-ever Boiler Room Brawl, Austin’s ascent, and lots of story tidbits in the main event. It’s fun to go back and see all these characters at various points in their career and how they’d evolve entering the Attitude Era. The six-man tag should make your watchlist. It’s really good.

For more of my show reviews, visit the Reviews section!

In this WWF Saturday Night’s Main Event 10/13/90 review, The Ultimate Warrior teams with The Legion of Doom to take on Demolition, Hulk Hogan and Tugboat continue their feud with Earthquake and Dino Bravo, and much more.

Let’s jump in.

• Show: Saturday Night’s Main Event
• Date: October 13, 1990
• Location: Toledo Sports Arena in Toledo, OH

RINGSIDE: Vince McMahon welcomes us to a special Oktoberfest edition of Saturday Night’s Main Event. Roddy Piper joins in with a special outfit for the occasion. They hype the card, which features a Dusty Rhodes vs. Randy Savage rematch, Hulk Hogan and Tugboat vs. Rhythm and Blues, and The Ultimate Warrior and Legion of Doom vs. Demolition.

BACKSTAGE: Ax, Smash, and Crush take aim at Warrior and LOD. Demolition was just the the best. Then we get a promo from Hawk and Animal, who use some Oktoberfest taunts. Warrior pops into the picture yelling something.

Demolition vs. The Ultimate Warrior and Legion of Doom

As a young wrestling fan, this was about the greatest six-man tag the WWF could book in this era. Of course, it was also a sight to see Demolition and LOD in the ring together. Before the bell rings, the camera cuts to the crowd and there’s DUSTIN RHODES. Smash goes right at Animal to start the match, but Animal hits a power slam for two. He tags in Warrior, and the champion runs wild with kids to the midsection of Ax. Warrior with a boot and a series of shoulder blocks and clotheslines. Then he slams Smash, Crush, and Ax before missing a splash. Smash throws Warrior to the outside, and that allows Crush to pummel him with the referee focused elsewhere.

More teamwork in the corner from Demolition until Animal has enough. However, Smash knocks him to the outside. Ax and Smash go for the double team but Hawk stops them. Warrior makes the hot tag to Hawk and goes off on Smash with a flying clothesline. Hawk sends Crush and Ax outside the ring, and Warrior gets the tag and clotheslines Ax and Smash. We’ve got a BROUHAHA with everyone fighting, but it’s Warrior who hits the splash on Smash to score the win.

Blake’s Take: Quite a sprint from these six. Again, the visuals are everything with this unique pairing. This was short and enjoyable with a hot crowd. (Recommended)

AT THE BAVARIAN INN: Mean Gene Okerlund is at the Oktoberfest celebration, and so is The Genius, The Orient Express and Mr. Fuji, Akeem and Slick, Hacksaw Jim Duggan, The Hart Foundation, and The Bushwhackers. Tell me you wouldn’t want to hang out and drink a few beers with that group. Lord Alfred Hayes isn’t impressed by the beer.

“Macho King” Randy Savage (w/Sensational Sherri) vs. Dusty Rhodes

Dusty gives Dustin a big hug in the front row. Meanwhile, Savage shreds a fan’s Ultimate Warrior sign. Dusty takes it to Savage in the early going, and he gets a quick near fall. Sherri hops up on the apron, which allows Savage to hit a running knee to Dusty’s back. Sherri with a choke on Dusty behind the referee’s back. And here comes Ted DiBiase and Virgil entering from opposite sides of the crowd to corner Dustin. They hand out money to fans to make them leave their seats, and they try to do the same with Dustin. He rips up the money and gets in Virgil’s face. They decide to sit by Dustin, with DiBiase pulling him back when he leans over the rail. Dusty heads out and tries to go after DiBiase, but the referee gets in the middle.

Back from commercial and Savage is working over Dusty as Dustin attempts to rally the crowd. Sherri chokes Dusty once again with the referee’s back turned, then Savage leaps over to rack Dusty’s throat on the top rope. Dusty eventually swings the momentum, but DiBiase just laughs in Dustin’s face. Just as Dusty is mounting another comeback, Dustin leans over the rail again and DiBiase pulls him back. Dustin wallops DiBiase and goes after Virgil, but DiBiase decks him from behind. Dusty isn’t seeing any of this with the action on the opposite side of the ring. DiBiase hammers Dustin with a chair, and Dusty finally slides out to make the save. However, Savage jumps from the top with an elbow drop to Dusty’s back, which leads to Savage notching the contour victory.

RINGSIDE: Dustin is busted wide open, and Dusty covers Dustin as DiBiase and Virgil beat him down. Dusty is upset as he’s holding Dustin’s bloody head.

Blake’s Take: I loved this angle. It’s the perfect way to get Dustin over while pushing the hatred between Dusty and DiBiase. And of course Dustin was gonna bleed from the forehead in his first big spot on WWF television. The match was a backdrop to the Dusty/DiBiase storyline, but that’s perfectly fine on this type of show. (Recommended)

BACKSTAGE: Sean Mooney with Hulk Hogan and Tugboat. Hogan isn’t gonna celebrate Oktoberfest until they get revenge on Earthquake and Dino Bravo. He makes a lot of German jokes, while Tugboat turns his references to war. The themed promos on these Saturday Night’s Main Event episodes were ridiculous but great.

IN THE KITCHEN: Gene with Luke and Butch. They’re cutting the cheese. Get it?!

Rhythm and Blues (w/Jimmy Hart) vs. Hulk Hogan and Tugboat

It really is wild to think that Hogan vs. Tugboat was penciled in as a possible WrestleMania VII main event. Hogan and Honky Tonk Man starts things off, but black-haired Greg Valentine tags in. That doesn’t matter as Hogan runs wild on both men with an assist from Tugboat on the apron. Tugboat works on Valentine’s arm, and Hogan hits a double axe handle from the middle rope. They take turns on Valentine’s arm, but the Hammer fights back to tag in Honky. Tugboat gets him in a bearhug until Valentine breaks it up. Some shenanigans from the heels while the referee holds back Hogan.

Blatant choke from Honky on Tugboat with the crowd trying to put on the rally. Vince continually refereeing to him as the Tugster is just the best. Double elbow drop attempt doesn’t work as Tugboat moves out of the way, and he makes the hot tag to Hogan. He runs wild as Jimmy Hart heads to the back. Hogan with the big boot, and just as he goes for the leg drop, Tugboat grabs him to alert him to the fact that Earthquake and Bravo are coming down the aisle. Officials are trying to hold them back and that’s the tease for a commercial. Back to action and Earthquake and Bravo are outta there. Hart gets involved again, and Honky blasts Tugboat with the guitar for the DQ.

IN THE RING: Hogan hauls off on the heels, but Earthquake and Bravo are back. It’s a 4-on-1 on Hogan with Tugboat down on the outside. Earthquake slams Hogan and then he hits the big splash. Earthquake goes for another splash but Tugboat hits him with a guitar, and he sends the others retreating.

Blake’s Take: Another match to build to an angle, and it’s one that’ll set up a big Survivor Series match. They continue to keep Earthquake strong to build more momentum for the feud with Hogan.

IN THE KITCHEN: The Genius is judging Duggan and The Hart Foundation vs. Fuji and The Orient Express in a SAUSAGE STUFFING contest. Fuji cheats and they argue as Gene says they won’t be able to determine a WEINER. What a line.

Haku (w/Bobby Heenan) vs. (c) “Texas Tornado” Kerry Von Erich – Intercontinental Title

Tornado captured the title from Mr. Perfect in convincing fashion at Summerslam. He starts fast in this one to send Haku outside to strategize with Heenan. Haku gains control with the headlock. Tornado tries to battle out, but Haku counters to go back to the headlock. Heenan is grabbing something out of his jacket but stops when he realizes the camera is watching him. Shoulder blocks and a headbutt from Haku, and then Tornado uses the claw as the referee calls for the rope break. Tornado hits his finisher to retain the title.

Blake’s Take: A nice title defense for the new champion. You could put Haku against anyone and make it work.

BACKSTAGE: Mooney with Hogan and Tugboat again. Hogan is onto boat references now while favoring his ribs from the Earthquake splash. Tugboat says he’s been HANGING AND BANGING with Hogan and he’s learned a lot. Hogan says they’re gonna have a war at sea and their goal is to sink Earthquake and Bravo.

Koko B. Ware vs. Sgt. Slaughter (w/General Annan)

Vince is absolutely disgusted by Adnan waving an Iraqi flag in the United States. Piper is also pissed as he notes that Adnan has photos with Saddam Hussein. Koko hits a flurry of offense to get the crowd going, but he misses a splash in the corner to allow Slaughter to go to work. Slaughter hits a back body drop and gets a two count. Piper says that Koko is fighting for America, which would obviously be a theme for opponents during this Slaughter run. Slaughter with the backbreaker but Koko kicks out again. Koko with the spinning neckbreaker and back-to-back dropkicks. Just as the crowd is buying that Koko has a shot, Slaughter reverses the momentum and grinds his knuckles on Koko’s head for the submission win.

RINGSIDE: The crowd boos Slaughter and Adnan as they wave the flag again. Then they start to cheer as they see Nikolai Volkoff on the stage waving the American flag. Vince loves it!

Blake’s Take: Vince was at his most enthusiastic in any America vs. the world situation, so this added to the presentation of what was essentially a squash match.

AT THE BAVARIAN INN: Neidhart and Slick are having a dance-off. Gene throws it to Alfred for the tenth time, and Alfred is drunk as a skunk. Neidhart bumps into Bret, who is holding a beer and that sends him into the Orient Express table. Fuji stands up and declares a FOOD FIGHT. That’s what they do in yet another Vince trope. The man enjoys his food fights, patriotism, and fart jokes.

BACKSTAGE: Mooney with Warrior. Mooney brings up Sherri’s challenge for a title match with Savage on the Brother Love Show. Warrior accepts the challenge.

BACKSTAGE: Piper with Savage and Sherri. Piper questions whether Sherri is in over her head, but she says Savage is gonna take the belt and Warrior will be no more. Savage echoes that thought as Piper slaps Sherri on the ass on the way out. It was a different era.

RINGSIDE: Vince and Piper recap the action and throw it to Gene and Alfred. The food fight is still going as Alfred scolds Gene. So, Gene does what any reasonable man would do and throws a cake in his face.

BLAKE’S TAKE ON SATURDAY NIGHT’S MAIN EVENT 10/13/90

Overall Rating: 7.5/10

Thoughts: These are so fun to revisit. Again, the themed shows make every one of them feel unique. They’re obviously cheesy at times, but you can appreciate them going all-in on these things. Good storyline advancement with Warrior/Savage, Hogan/Tugboat vs. Earthquake/Bravo, and Dusty/DiBiase, and the opener featured so many great characters.

For more of my show reviews, visit the Reviews section!

The Main Event II review includes one of the most memorable moments in pro wrestling history.

The seeds were planted months ago in the breakup of the Mega Powers, but now it’s time for shit to get real.

Grab the popcorn and prepare for an iconic moment in Blake’s The Main Event II review.

Date: February 3, 1989

Location: Bradley Center in Milwaukee, WI

VIDEO: We open up with all the events that have led up to our mega main event of Hulk Hogan and Randy Savage vs. Big Boss Man and Akeem.

BACKSTAGE: Gene Okerlund with Slick and the Twin Towers. These two dudes looked strong at the Royal Rumble and they’re ready for this huge affair.

Big Boss Man and Akeem (w/Slick) vs. Hulk Hogan and Randy Savage (w/Elizabeth)

While all the focus is on Hogan/Savage, let’s not forget just how damn awesome Boss Man and Akeem were at this time. Them throwing out Hogan at the Rumble was a massive deal, as no one thought that would ever happen. And both were solid workers overall. They weren’t gonna put on technical masterpieces, but they were a great brawling team. This period shows you how good both were.

Anyways, onto the match. Hogan and Boss Man start things off and Hogan rails on everyone, including Slick. Hogan and Savage start hugging in the ring and THE CROWD LOVES THESE TWO BEST FRIENDS. Then Hogan destroys Boss Man’s head on the turnbuckle much to the crowd’s delight. Akeem into the match and Hogan and Savage exchange closed fists on him.

We get Savage in and he throws the double axe handle off the top. The power of the Towers takes over and Boss Man starts beating Hogan’s ass, and even delivers a vicious piledriver. Hogan finds momentum and backdrops Boss Man over the top rope and then runs him into the post on the outside. Slick tries to interfere but Savage kicks him out of the way.

Spinebuster from Boss Man almost ends the match, but Hogan kicks out at two and a half. Hogan gets worked over but hot tag to Savage and the champ is in complete control. Cross body off the top but Boss Man saves Akeem from the three count. More Slick shenanigans allows the Towers to regain the advantage. Savage gets tossed to the outside and Elizabeth checks on him. THEN COMES THE BIG SPOT. Akeem throws Savage outside right onto Elizabeth. She really took a hell of a bump there.

Now we’ve got Hogan nearly in tears while tending to Elizabeth. Savage seems concerned by this, but then Akeem brings him back in for the Towers to double team him. Hogan is nowhere to be found as he’s still tending to Elizabeth. Savage finally regains control but sees Hogan carrying Elizabeth to the back. That allows Boss Man and Akeem to take over once again.

We get the backstage shots of Hogan crying while pushing Elizabeth on the gurney. Hogan’s acting gets worse every time I see this. HE WANTS TO KNOW IF ELIZABETH IS BREATHING. But damn were people eating this whole thing up. We go back to the ring to see Savage getting obliterated and Elizabeth wakes up backstage. She tells Hogan to get his crying ass back to the ring to help Savage. Well, she didn’t say it in that tone, but she should have.

Back in the ring and Savage finally gets ahead of the big dudes by dropping Akeem to the outside. Both Boss Man and Akeem are on the outside and then Savage goes over to tag in Hogan. BUT SAVAGE SLAPS HIM SILLY INSTEAD. Then Savage hits the aisle to head to the back while Hogan of course fights off both men. Savage acts as though he’s coming back to get in the match, but GRABS HIS TITLE BELT AND HITS THE ROAD. Fantastic. Absolutely fantastic.

Akeem splashes Hogan, but fuck that, it’s hulk up time. Big Boot to Akeem for the win at 22:00. Because of course Hogan was gonna beat them both by himself. Afterwards, Boss Man uses the nightstick and goes to handcuff Hogan. Fuck that. Hogan with the double noggin knocker on Boss Man and Slick, and he handcuffs them together.

Hogan heads to the back to find Elizabeth and Savage is yelling about how he’s gotta be No. 1. He yells at Elizabeth about what Hogan did, and here comes the red and yellow. THE MEGA POWERS ARE EXPLODING. They go face to face and Elizabeth tries to stop them. Savage tells Hogan he can’t beat him and he’s jealous that he’s the WWF champion. HE’S RIGHT! Then he says Hogan has lust for Elizabeth. HE’S RIGHT! Savage appears to leave while Hogan pleads with Elizabeth. BOOM. Savage destroys Hogan with the title belt and beats the holy hell out of him. Savage then slings Elizabeth across the room and goes to nail Hogan again. Then that dummy Brutus Beefcake comes in and gets his ass kicked.

Not exactly sure how you rate this match overall, but the angle itself is one of the best angles in wrestling history.

• Rating: *** for the match, ***** for the angle

Hercules vs. Ted DiBiase (w/Virgil)

Good luck following that last one. This continued the storyline of Herc not wanting to be DiBiase’s slave. Herc is pissed early and he throws DiBiase and Virgil all over the place. Herc continues the beating until DiBiase disposes of him and throws him outside.

Brawling on the outside leads to DiBiase with all the momentum in the ring. Then we get a solid back and forth between the two until Virgil wraps Herc’s chain around the turnbuckle. DiBiase throws Herc into it, but it gets reversed and DiBiase gets thrown into it. But he kicks out at two and then Herc goes for the backbreaker. Virgil distracts the ref, which allows DiBiase to use the tights and get the rollup at 7:12.

• Rating: *1/2

BACKSTAGE: Okerlund tries to speak to Hogan but the latter incoherently mumbles and shakes uncontrollably. It was a very Zeus-like moment. FORESHADOWING. Hogan then goes barreling through the hallway throwing shit everywhere. He slings around Jim Neidhart, Shawn Michaels, and Bret Hart along the way. Glad Shawn and Bret were able to recover.

SHOW SUMMARY

This is a must-see spectacle for the angle that would define WrestleMania V. Savage was simply awesome, and while the Towers were an afterthought thanks to the angle, they were still very enjoyable. Short and most definitely sweet show, even if the payoff wasn’t quite what it should have been.

For more of my show reviews, visit the Reviews section!

In this WWF Summerslam 1995 review, Diesel defends the WWF title against King Mabel in the main event, Shawn Michaels and Razor Ramon square off in a Ladder Match rematch, and much more.

Let’s jump in!

• Show: WWF Summerslam 1995
• Date: August 27, 1995
• Location: Civic Arena in Pittsburgh, PA

– Todd Pettingill hypes up the main event between Diesel and King Mabel. And then we get hype for Bret Hart vs. ISSAC YANKEM. Incredible. Plus, it’s the Undertaker vs. Kama, and Shawn Michaels vs. Razor Ramon in a Ladder Match. Well, at least one of those sounds good.

– Vince McMahon and Jerry Lawler welcome us and Dean Douglas is in his classroom. He’s going to be conducting SUMMER SCHOOL on SummerSlam. What a concept.

The 1-2-3 Kid vs. Hakushi

Barry Horowitz had just pinned Hakushi on the Action Zone, so he’s clearly on a roll. Lawler tries to explain the tattoos on Hakushi, and I think there was one time where he said it was Hakushi’s grocery list. Good counter sequences early on, and Vince is so excited he calls it SUMMERSLIME. Hakushi hits an awesome springboard move to the outside and this is why I enjoyed Hakushi’s work in this era. Vince’s commentary trope of “1-2-HE GOT ‘EM….NO HE DIDN’T” never gets old. Kid goes up for a high-flying move and hits it. Then the action moves backside, and Kid goes for a spin kick but Hakushi catches him into a side slam for the win. Solid opener between two workhorses.

• Blake’s Rating: ***

– Doc Hendrix with King Mabel. He calls Diesel “Big Daddy Fool” and does the King mannerisms.

Hunter Hearst Helmsley vs. Bob Holly

These two certainly changed character directions pretty quickly. Probably a good thing they did, huh? Some stiff shots from these two, as Holly hits a BRUTAL elbow to Helmsley’s face. Vince is making every car joke he can because of course he is. Helmsley uses an Irish whip on Holly and it was quite a ricochet. Vince tells us the British Bulldog has arrived at the arena, and they play up him interfering in the main event. Then we get the footage of Bulldog walking in. Helmsley with a hip toss to Holly over the top, and we’ve got more car jokes from Lawler. Helmsley and Holly go back and forth, but just as Holly gains the momentum, Helmsley hooks the arms and hits the Pedigree for the victory.

• Blake’s Rating: **

– We see highlights from a tug-o-war contest between WWF superstars and Pittsburgh firefighters. The WWF got the win.

The Blu Brothers (w/Uncle Zebekiah) vs. The Smoking Gunns

Vince is already confused as to which one is Jacob and which one is Eli, so we’re off to a good start. Billy Gunn hasn’t aged in about 40 years, though he has more hair in this match. All Blu Brothers to begin the match until Bart gets the hot tag and starts slamming everyone. Jacob or Eli (even I’m confused now) hits a big boot, but it’s the Gunns regaining control and hitting their finisher for the win. The crowd loved them some Gunns.

• Blake’s Rating: **

– Pettingill narrates a video package of Horowitz’s losing streak and how he got the better of Skip on multiple occasions.

Skip (w/Sunny) vs. Barry Horowitz

Horowitz’s entrance music is something. So is his wrestling gear. Horowitz runs wild right off the bat, but eventually, Skip gains the advantage. However, Horowitz suplexes Skip to the outside, then Sunny tries to stop the match by throwing in the towel. Earl Hebner won’t have any of that. Sunny grabs Horowitz’s foot to give the momentum back to Skip. The fans start a big “Barry” chant to which my dog, named Barrie, approves of. Vince also makes a pitch for Siskel and Ebert to have a one-on-one match in the WWF. This match is still going, and having not remembered it, I figured it would be rather short. Double dropkick sends both men to the mat, then Horowitz hits a dropkick to rack Skip on the top. Skip back in control and he hits the flying headbutt but pulls up Horowitz before Hebner can count three. Sunny gets involved again and racks Horowitz, with Skip hitting a suplex off the top. Hakushi comes down the aisle and leaps over both men in the ring, and Horowitz uses the distraction for the small package on Skip for the win. This was long.

• Blake’s Rating: **

– Back to Dean Douglas in his classroom. His word of the day is vivify and he shows highlights of the match we just saw and gives it an ‘F’ grade. This show gets an ‘F’ grade thus far as well, so they have that in common.

– Pettingill is with Michaels. He says he has everything to lose and nothing to gain from his match with Razor.

Bertha Faye (w/Harvey Whippleman) vs. Alundra Blayze

Lots of weight jokes from both Vince and Lawler to start things off, which should come as no surprise. Bertha uses her power to take control as Alundra tries to fight back. Alundra finally gets some offense going, but Whippleman distracts referee Tim White. Alundra delivers a flurry of offense, but Bertha moves out of the way of a third dropkick off the top. Bertha then slams Alundra for the surprising victory. It looked like Alundra got her arm up but we’ve got a new champion.

• Blake’s Rating: **

– Jim Ross interviews Bertha and Whippleman. They taunt Alundra.

– Video package for Taker’s feud with Kama.

Kama (w/Ted DiBiase) vs. The Undertaker (w/Paul Bearer) – Casket Match

Kama doesn’t even get an entrance, so that’s not ideal for his chances at winning this match. I liked the Kama character. He was a true badass. The coffin cam was a nice touch from a presentation standpoint, and Kama sold it like a champ. They go back and forth, and DiBiase makes the save for Kama. Vince lets us know Alundra is on the superstar line which was an interesting experiment in the wrestling business. Both men wind up in the casket and fight their way out. Taker chokeslams Kama, then hits the Tombstone and rolls him in for the win. The crowd went wild for this, but that’s about the best thing you can say about it.

• Blake’s Rating: **

– Video package hyping the ongoing feud with Bret and Lawler, with Lawler bringing in Issac Yankem as his mercenary.

– Pettingill with Bret. He’s gonna beat up a dentist.

Issac Yankem vs. Bret Hart

Yankem’s entrance music is Right to Censor levels of annoying. Just brutal. This is certainly a choice for Bret’s Summerslam opponent, but it made sense in the context of the storyline. Plus, it’s the WWF in 1995, so it’s not like there were a lot of great options. They go back and forth to kick things off, and Bret pretty much controls a good portion of the match. Yankem uses his power to regain momentum, and be continues to work on Bret. But Bret reverses things with a dive to the outside and he gets a few near falls on Yankem. Lawler gets involved, with Yankem throwing Bret into the steel steps. However, Yankem decides to go up top for some reason, and Bret capitalizes. He wraps the camera cables around Yankem’s feet in another smart Bret move. Then he gets his hands on Lawler, but Yankem comes off the top with a shot to Bret’s back. Lawler interferes again, and they basically hang Bret in the ropes. The ref calls for the DQ, and Bret sells the beating. Bret carried this match, but the finish did them no favors.

• Blake’s Rating: **1/2

– Doc Hendrix with Razor Ramon. He hypes the Ladder Match.

Razor Ramon vs. (c) Shawn Michaels – Ladder Match for Intercontinental Title

This is the WrestleMania X rematch, and it’s gonna be hard for these two to top that. It was obviously noticeable in other matches, but when these two squared off, their incredible charisma was even more prominent. Just terrific chemistry in terms of playing off each other’s expressions. A full sprint early on with lots of action. Vince reminds us Sid will meet the winner on an upcoming edition of Raw. Turns out I’ve actually already reviewed that show (read it here). The ladder comes into play, and it wouldn’t be a WWF show in this era unless Shawn showed his ass. Pretty sure that also happened on the aforementioned Raw episode. Razor tries to pull him off the ladder by his trunks, so it’s free ass for everyone in the crowd. Razor focuses on Shawn’s leg for most of the match, including tipping the ladder over on it before giving an innocent shrug. Razor was awesome.

One of the big spots in Michaels hitting a suplex on Razor off the ladder. Vince and Doc are pushing “Pitbull” as Shawn’s nickname. Not sure that one quite stuck. Moonsault from Shawn gets the crowd rocking, but he misses a splash off the top of the ladder. Great back and forth, then they rack themselves after falling off the ladder. Razor brings in a second ladder, so business has officially picked up. Razor then hits the Razor’s Edge, and boy, the crowd is losing it. What a fun atmosphere. They set up both ladders next to each other, and Shawn knocks Razor off before diving for the belt. He misses and lands on one of the ladders. Ouch. Once again, the crowd is on the edge of its seat. Shawn sends Razor outside, and he manages to climb the ladder to try to grab the belt. He can’t quite do it the first time, so he has to climb again and successfully pulls it down for the win. After the match, Razor grabs the belt away from him before handing it back. They hug and Shawn celebrates. It may not be as good as the WrestleMania match, but on the rewatch, it’s close.

• Blake’s Rating: ****1/4

– Back to school with Douglas. He explains the definition of “bad,” and here comes a frustrated Razor, who hauls off on him. Douglas rakes his fingers on the chalkboard. He should be fired for that.

– Pettingill with Diesel. He yells about getting medieval on Mabel.

King Mabel (w/Mo) vs. (c) Diesel – WWF Title

A pretty infamous main event here. I haven’t watched it in a good while, so let’s see if it’s as brutal as most remember it being. Spoiler alert: It is. Perhaps it wouldn’t be that offensive on its own, but the fact that it has to follow Shawn/Razor makes it way more lackluster by comparison. There’s very little reaction from the crowd even when Mabel goes for a pin or submission. I doubt anyone truly thought Mabel would win the title, which also hurts the match. Mo gets in on the action after the referee is knocked to the outside. But here comes Lex Luger. Diesel clotheslines him over the top for some reason? Mabel and Mo double team Diesel outside the ring, and the crowd is indifferent. Luger runs off Mo, then Mabel hits a belly-to-belly suplex for a near fall. The crowd did pop for that one. Diesel hits a clothesline off the top to retain the title. Again, far from the worst match ever, but for a main event on one of the biggest shows of the year, it certainly did nothing for Diesel.

• Blake’s Rating: **

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BLAKE’S TAKE ON WWF SUMMERSLAM 1995

This was a one-match show, though the undercard wasn’t as bad as you’d think given the wacky characters. Shawn vs. Razor is spectacular, and it’s worth your time if you haven’t seen it in a while. As for Diesel, his title reign continues, but a win against Mabel only added to the creative frustration.

For more of my show reviews, visit the Pro Wrestling Reviews section!

In this WrestleMania VI review, coming off the reaction to the interchange between Hulk Hogan and The Ultimate Warrior at the Royal Rumble, the WrestleMania main event was obvious.

So, the Ultimate Challenge was set.

Let’s jump in.

Date: April 1, 1990

Location: SkyDome in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

ON THE STAGE: Gorilla Monsoon and Jesse Ventura welcome us.

IN THE RING: Robert Goulet sings O Canada as the crowd goes wild.

Koko B. Ware vs. Rick Martel

Yes, this is the show with the glorious cart entrances, and they never disappoint. Martel attacks off the bat but Koko hits a flurry of offense to knock him outside the ring. Koko flips Martel back in the ring, but Martel immediately turns the tables and throws Koko out to the floor. Suplex from Martel for a two count as goes back to kicking Koko. Martel hits the double axe handle off the top and then goes with the backbreaker. Martel then attempts the Boston Crab but can’t get it locked in.

Martel starts throwing Koko’s head off the turnbuckle, but that doesn’t work as Koko takes advantage. Koko hits a couple of flying headbutts for a near fall, but Martel ducks Koko’s high flying move. Martel then quickly locks in the Boston Crab to grab the win at 3:51. Not much to this one.

• Rating: *

BACKSTAGE: Mean Gene Okerlund with Andre the Giant, Haku, and Bobby Heenan. They run down Demolition ahead of the big title match.

BACKSTAGE: Sean Mooney with Ax and Smash. Ax talks about cutting down redwoods, and Smash says he’d like to put Andre and Haku in a truck and run them off a cliff. That’s one way to win a match.

Demolition vs. (c) The Colossal Connection (w/Bobby Heenan) – WWF Tag Team Titles

Demolition’s entrance music is simply one of a kind. Andre and Haku attack from behind to start the match but Smash gains control with punches on Haku. Quick tag to Ax, and he starts chopping away. Andre comes in and nails Ax, but Smash is back in with a chin lock on Haku. Another tag as Ax and Haku go back and forth. Smash tags in again but he gets a thumb to the eye from Haku. Both men try a backslide attempt simultaneously, and just as Smash gets the upper hand, Andre breaks it up.

Ax back in but Haku ducks a clothesline and hits the karate chop to the throat. More chops from Haku and then he hits a backbreaker for a two count. Heenan then gets in a cheap shot as the ref is distracted by Haku, and Andre gets some work in  as well. Double team from Andre and Haku but Ax gets under the ropes on the pin attempt. Thumb to the eye from Haku and then Andre hits a big chop.

Andre starts choking Ax in the corner with the tag rope as the ref gets distracted with Smash. Haku then hits the shoulder breaker for a two count. Irish whip from Haku, but Ax hits him with the boot before using the clothesline. Hot tag to Smash, who hits an elbow to Haku and then delivers a big back body drop. Andre decides to get involved which leads to Ax and Smash double teaming both guys.

The ref gets distracted with Ax, and Haku goes for a super kick on Smash. But he ducks, and Haku hits Andre with the kick which causes him to get tied up in the ropes. Ax and Smash hit the Demolition Decapitation on Haku to win the titles at 9:30. After the match, Heenan goes nuts and gets in Andre’s face and slaps his hand. Andre grabs Heenan and smacks him before hitting a big right. Andre then attacks Haku and steals the cart from Heenan and Haku. That leads to Andre riding the cart to the back. The match wasn’t great, but the crowd popped huge for the title change, and the Andre stuff was excellent.

• Rating: **

BACKSTAGE: Mean Gene with Earthquake and Jimmy Hart. They hype the match with Hercules.

Hercules vs. Earthquake (w/Jimmy Hart)

Earthquake tries to sneak attack Hercules but misses the splash in the corner. Earthquake regroups outside and then gets back in so he can shake the ring. Test of strength goes in Earthquake’s favor, and then he throws Hercules around a bit. Earthquake spears Hercules in the corner, but Hercules tries to gain some offense with shoulder tackles. Hercules finally gets one that knocks Earthquake to one knee but then thinks he can back drop him. That doesn’t work, and Earthquake hits the elbow drop and splash for the win at 4:52. Earthquake then hits another splash after the bell for good measure. SQUASH.

• Rating: 1/2*

VIDEO: Rona Barrett interviews Miss Elizabeth. Rona wants to know where Elizabeth has been. Elizabeth says she doesn’t want to disappoint her fans and teases her return as a manager.

BACKSTAGE: Mooney with Brutus Beefcake. He hypes the match with Mr. Perfect.

Mr. Perfect (w/The Genius) vs. Brutus ‘The Barber’ Beefcake

So the setup here is that Perfect still has his undefeated streak going. They fight in the corner right away and Beefcake hits a ton of punches before knocking Perfect over the top. Perfect sends Beefcake for the Irish whip but gets kicked in the face for his efforts. Beefcake hits the atomic drop to send Perfect to the floor again. Back inside and Perfect goes to work as Beefcake gets thrown into the turnbuckle.

Beefcake quickly regains some momentum and throws Perfect for another Irish whip before hitting a big clothesline. Mary Tyler Moore is in the crowd cheering on Beefcake, and here comes Genius on the apron to offer a distraction. He drops the scroll in the ring as the ref tries to get him back to the outside, and Perfect clocks Beefcake with it when he turns around. Neck snap from Perfect for a two count. More offense from Perfect and then he adds some chops.

Perfect with several slaps to the face until Beefcake sling shots him in the corner, which causes Perfect’s head to hit the post. Beefcake then covers him for the pin at 7:48. After the match, Beefcake put the sleeper on Genius and cuts his hair. Perfect sold everything great as usual here, but him losing his first match in this fashion just felt like a creative misstep.

• Rating: **

VIDEO: We see the events leading to the rivalry between Roddy Piper and Bad News Brown.

BACKSTAGE: Mean Gene with Piper, who has half his body and face painted black. He cuts a wacky promo about his split personality.

Bad News Brown vs. Roddy Piper

They go after each other and roll around the mat before Piper hits a splash for a two count. Bad News hits some punches and a headbutt, then Piper gets pissed after getting his head thrown into the turnbuckle a few times. Bad News works on the shoulder but Piper gets out and they exchange punches. Bad News goes for the choke and gets a two count. Bodyslam and an elbow drop for another near fall on Piper, who proceeds to poke Bad News in the eye. Piper throws wild punches in the corner but gets the eye rake.

Bad News goes over and exposes the turnbuckle and goes to sling Piper into the corner, but it gets reversed. Piper pulls a glove from his tights and clocks Bad News with it. He hits several times before hitting Bad News off the top. Huge right from Piper sends Bad News to the floor. Bad News goes to hit Piper in the corner, but he ducks and hits the post. Piper grabs a chair and swings and misses, but that doesn’t matter since the ref calls for the double countout at 6:48. They brawl up the aisle afterwards as referees try to pull them apart. Not much to this one after a solid build to the match.

• Rating: *

BACKSTAGE: Steve Allen is in the shower playing the piano, and here comes Nikolai Volkoff and Boris Zhukov to prepare for the Russian national anthem. He plays a bunch of different non-anthem songs in what really was a funny segment.

The Hart Foundation vs. The Bolsheviks

Bret and Neidhart attack from behind to start the match, and that quickly leads to the double team on Zhukov and the pin at 19 seconds. It did what it needed to do.

• Rating: NR

VIDEO: Vince McMahon hypes the WrestleMania VII extravaganza at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Something tells me they may have to change locations due to poor ticket sales, but I could be wrong.

BACKSTAGE: Mean Gene with Tito Santana. Tito basically says he’s gonna kick Barbarian’s ass.

The Barbarian (w/Bobby Heenan) vs. Tito Santana

Tito gets some offense right off the bat and Barbarian heads outside to strategize with Heenan. Back inside and Barbarian delivers some chops before Tito hits a flying cross body for two. Hip toss from Barbarian helps him regain the advantage, but then he goes for the drop headbutt and Tito gets out of the way. Tito runs and jumps onto Barbarian, who catches him. Tito hits repeated punches and eventually falls on Barbarian for another two count.

Jesse makes burrito jokes as Tito runs off the ropes, but his face gets introduced to the huge boot of Barbarian. Shoulder-breaker from Barbarian but he misses the flying elbow off the top. Punches from Tito and then a couple dropkicks sends Barbarian to the mat. Double axe handle off the top and then Tito hits the flying forearm, but Heenan puts Barbarian’s foot on the ropes at two. Tito gets pissed and Barbarian runs him into the top rope. Flying clothesline off the top after that and Barbarian gets the pin at 4:33. Another short match to help get a monster over.

• Rating: *

VIDEO: We get a hype video for the upcoming mixed tag team match.

BACKSTAGE: Sean Mooney with Dusty Rhodes and Sapphire. Dusty says he and Sapphire have what Savage and Sherri are missing, and it’s the crown jewel.

Randy Savage and Sensational Sherri vs. Dusty Rhodes and Sapphire – Mixed Tag Team Match

Gorilla reminds us this is the first mixed tag match in the company’s history. Jesse then gets flustered about the ring announcer saying that Dusty and Sapphire are a combined 465 pounds because he knows Sapphire is a good 250 pounds. This was a different era to say the least. Dusty grabs the mic before the match and says he’s got the crown jewel, and here comes Miss Elizabeth riding on the cart. Savage goes nuts as the crowd loses their minds. Dusty hits an elbow on Savage as the match starts, and Sherri hits him from behind. Sapphire grabs Sherri’s hair but Savage breaks it up quickly.

Savage goes up top but Dusty catches him and throws him into Sherri. Dusty tags in Sapphire and then goes and retrieves Sherri from outside. Sapphire then throws Sherri into Savage, which sends him to the outside. Sapphire starts using some unique offense, and by unique I mean using her hips to send Sherri flying across the ring. Airplane spin from Sapphire gets a one count, and now Sherri goes on offense. Sapphire counters and falls on Sherri for a two count.

Dusty back in and he holds Savage, which allows Sapphire to give him a slap to the face. Sherri comes over for the save, and Dusty shoves her into the corner. That allows Savage to come from behind and attack Dusty. The action heads outside, and Sherri gets a slap in on Dusty. Savage hits the double axe handle off the top on Dusty, and Sherri keeps going to work on him. Another double axe handle to the outside. Savage goes for a third but Sapphire stands in front of Dusty. Savage does not give a damn and slings Sapphire to the ground by her hair. Elizabeth checks on Sapphire before Savage returns to the ring.

Suplex from Savage on Dusty and you know it’s not a three count because of Earl Hebner’s trademark move before the three. Sherri distracts Hebner and Savage comes off the top with the scepter and nails Dusty. Sherri hits the splash off the top on Dusty, who kicks out quickly. Dusty then runs wild and we get DOUBLE NOGGIN KNOCKER TIME on Savage and Sherri. Elbows from Dusty on Savage, but Sherri runs over and jumps on his back. Dusty tags in Sapphire who hits a rough neck breaker for a two. Sherri and Sapphire grab each other by the hair and Sapphire slings her out. Elizabeth throws Sherri back in and chaos ensues. Elizabeth then throws Sherri over the back of Sapphire who gets the pin at 7:52. Far from a technical masterpiece but the crowd loved it.

• Rating: **

VIDEO: Vince McMahon hypes WrestleMania VII at the LA Coliseum. Well, about that…

BACKSTAGE: Mean Gene with Heenan. He’s pissed about Andre and says he’s supposed to take orders from him. Heenan says he’s starting a new family.

BACKSTAGE: Gorilla and Jesse with Rona Barrett. She says she saw a film with Jesse in it, and Gorilla asks if it’s X-rated. Incredible.

BACKSTAGE: Sean Mooney with Savage and Sherri. They’re angry and losing their minds. The craziness of these two was just awesome.

BACKSTAGE: Mean Gene with Demolition. Gene asks about the Hart Foundation getting a title shot. They don’t care and just wanna celebrate.

ON THE STAGE: Gorilla and Jesse recap the action thus far and hype the main event.

BACKSTAGE: Mean Gene with Hulk Hogan. He’s ready for the ultimate challenge. Hogan says he can save Warrior. Hogan says it doesn’t matter if you win or lose, but what kind of winner or loser you are. Profound!

BACKSTAGE: Sean Mooney with The Ultimate Warrior. He tells Mooney he doesn’t deserve to breathe the same air as him and Hogan. Warrior tells HO KOGAN that he’s ready to accept the challenge. Warrior says he’s gonna bring the Warriors and Hulkamaniacs together as one.

The Orient Express (w/Mr. Fuji) vs. The Rockers

Tanaka and Jannetty exchange rights early before Jannetty and Michaels hit various double team moves. Jannetty tries to get in some offense but Mr. Fuji goes to his bag of shenanigans and hits him with the cane while the referee was preoccupied elsewhere. Sato then shoves Jannetty face-first into the post. Double teaming on Jannetty, and Sato delivers some nice chops. Double super kicks as Michaels gets a tag and then he hits the bodyslam to Tanaka.

Sato back in, but he gets a neck breaker from Michaels. More shenanigans from Tanaka, and that allows Sato to hit the stomach breaker. Flying counter from Tanaka, and Sato hits the knee of the top for a two count on Michaels. Tanaka back into the match and he works on Michaels until the latter counters with a big clothesline. Michaels dives over and makes the hot tag to Jannety as he takes both Sato and Sanaka down. Then he gives the world another DOUBLE NOGGIN KNOCKER and goes for the pin on Tanaka, with Jannetty moving out of the way as Sato drops an elbow on Tanaka.

Double dropkick to send Sato out of the ring and then it’s a double backdrop on Tanaka. Both Jannetty and Michaels go up top but Fuji hops up and hits Jannetty on the leg as the ref gets distracted with Michaels. Jannetty picks up the chain and goes after Fuji, but Sato sneaks around and throws powder in Jannetty’s eyes. That leads to the awesome spot of Jannetty running into the steel railing and falling over it into the front row, which causes him to get counted out at 7:38. Good stuff from these two, but the finish was pretty lackluster.

• Rating: **1/2

BACKSTAGE: Steve Allen with Rhythm and Blues. Honky Tonk Man says Allen must be excited to hear the new rune. Allen responds by saying that he hasn’t been this excited since he found out Pee Wee Herman was straight. Well then. Honky promises a big show and Greg Valentine says they’re on the way to the Hall of Fame.

Dino Bravo (w/Earthquake and Jimmy Hart) vs. Hacksaw Jim Duggan

Hacksaw gets booed out of the building for waving the American flag, so he responds by trying to get a USA chant started. Hilarious. Hacksaw with a clothesline and some lefts and rights before delivering the back body drop. He clotheslines Bravo to the outside. Hacksaw with an atomic drop and then he hits Bravo with some punches in the corner. Bravo moves out of the way and Hacksaw runs into the turnbuckle. Bravo with some punches and then he starts choking out Hacksaw. The ref gets distracted with Bravo, which allows Earthquake to get a cheap shot in.

Bravo goes back on offense but Hacksaw hulks up momentarily before Bravo drops him with a kick to the face. Bravo with the Irish whip into the corner, but Hacksaw charges back at him. Hacksaw then goes after Earthquake as Hart throws the 2×4 in the ring. Bravo goes to grab it but Hacksaw takes it from him and nails him with it as the ref is occupied with Earthquake. The ref turns around and Hacksaw gets the pin at 4:15. After the match, Earthquake kicks Hacksaw’s ass and drops a few elbows before hitting multiple splashes.

• Rating: 1/2*

VIDEO: We get a video recapping the feud between Ted DiBiase and Jake Roberts.

BACKSTAGE: Gene with Jake. Yes, this is THAT promo from Jake. He talks about making DiBiase beg for his own money and then uses the classic line: “A victim of your own greed, wallowing in the muck of avarice.” If only wrestling promos were still like this. Just tremendous work here.

Ted DiBiase (w/Virgil) vs. Jake ‘The Snake’ Roberts – Million Dollar Title

They exchange shoves and hard rights to quickly confirm that we’ve got a BROUHAHA on our hands. Jake with a big knee to DiBiase’s face before the latter counters out of a DDT attempt. Hip toss from Jake and then he goes for another DDT but DiBiase slides out of the ring. Jake goes to work with the hammerlock as he drives a knee into DiBiase’s ribs. DiBiase eventually tries to counter out of the hammerlock, but Jake drops down and slings DiBiase through the ropes to the outside.

Jake follows him out and throws him back in the ring. That allows DiBiase to take advantage momentarily, but Jake hits him with a knee. Jake goes for a running bulldog but DiBiase with his own counter that sends Jake to the mat. DiBiase works on Jake and then uses the front face lock as the Toronto crowd starts the wave. At least they’re not chanting “CM Punk.” Of course, it’s also not ideal that they’re focused on the wave during what’s supposed to be a heated feud between two of the company’s top stars.

DiBiase rams Jake’s arm into the ring post as Jesse jokes about the crowd being on their feet for DiBiase. The boos start as DiBiase hits a piledriver, but he taunts for a second before getting a pin attempt for two. Jake reverses into his own pin attempt for a near fall as DiBiase quickly goes back on the attack. DiBiase then locks in the Million Dollar Dream and holds it on for a bit before Jake gets his foot on the ropes. DiBiase drags Jake to the middle of the ring but only gets a two count.

DiBiase up top and he jumps off, but Jake catches him with a right to the midsection. Jake with a few clotheslines and then a back body drop. Jake hits the short-arm clothesline as Jesse questions why he’s not immediately going for the DDT. Virgil pulls the rope down and Jake goes outside and bodyslams him. DiBiase comes from behind and locks on the Million Dollar Dream. Jake tries to counter and both men run into the ring post. They’re both down, but Virgil grabs DiBiase and rolls him back in the ring as Jake gets counted out at 11:50. After the match, Jake hits a double clothesline on DiBiase and Virgil as money goes flying everywhere. Jake then hands out money to the crowd, including Mary Tyler Moore pocketing a crisp $100 bill. Jake also shoves some money in DiBiase’s mouth before unleashing Damien, but Virgil gets DiBiase out of the ring. The rest holds didn’t do much for the crowd and it seemed like this one never hit that next gear. It was still fine, though.

• Rating: **1/2

BACKSTAGE: Sean Mooney with Akeem and Slick. Mooney talks about the split with the Big Boss Man due to his unwillingness to take money from DiBiase. FORESHADOWING. Slick taunts Boss Man and Akeem does the same.

BACKSTAGE: Gene with Boss Man. He says DiBiase is scum and that he doesn’t take money from anybody. Boss Man also says he’s proud to be an American. So we’ve had Hacksaw trying to start a USA chant and Boss Man talking about his American pride. Did Vince realize this show was in Canada?

Akeem (w/Slick) vs. Big Boss Man

Man was Jive Soul Bro an absolute classic. Before the match even starts, DiBiase comes out from under the ring and attacks Boss Man from behind. DiBiase destroys him before ramming him into the steel post. DiBiase throws Boss Man in the ring to start the match. Akeem with a big clothesline in the corner for a two count. Akeem with more offense until Boss Man tries to pick him up for slam, but Boss Man just sort of drops him and hits a boot to the face.

Boss Man with multiple Irish Whips on Akeem before hitting a clothesline. Akeem tries to regain the advantage but Boss Man hits the side slam for the victory at . After the match, Boss Man clocks Slick. Poor Akeem just got squashed at WrestleMania.

• Rating: 1/2*

RINGSIDE: Mooney asks the crowd if they want to hear Honky and Valentine perform their song. A small boy basically shits on them and says they suck. But a small girl disagrees and wants to hear it. Mooney then interviews Mary Tyler Moore, who doesn’t have a clue who Honky or Valentine are as Mooney keeps asking questions about them.

IN THE RING: Honky and Valentine make their way to the ring in the pink Cadillac, which is driven by future yoga master Diamond Dallas Page. Honky grabs a mic and says they’re ready to debut their new song. They sing Honky Love for about an hour until Honky spots two men trying to sell programs. Honky quickly recognizes that it’s the Bushwhackers, and that leads to Honky and company running away. Luke and Butch grab the guitars and strum away before breaking them.

IN THE RING: Howard Finkel announces the SkyDome attendance record of 67,678. Fink was so great.

Rick Rude (w/Bobby Heenan) vs. Jimmy Snuka

Steve Allen is joining commentary for this one. He’s a natural as he starts throwing around insults, including calling Snuka ugly. Rude charges at Snuka from behind and sends Snuka for an Irish whip. Rude goes for a dropkick but Snuka grabs the ropes. Snuka does a little taunting and then delivers the back body drop. Snuka with a headbutt before hitting a dropkick to send Rude over the top. Back inside where Rude counters and hits a suplex before doing his usual shimmy.

Another back body drop from Rude and Allen makes a joke about Snuka wearing his wife’s underwear. Rude with a tackle and Snuka responds with a flying cross body. Snuka goes up top and he leaps over Rude before going back on offense. Snuka with a bodyslam, and he follows it up with a diving headbutt attempt but Rude moves out of the way. Rude capitalizes and hits the Rude Awakening for the win at 3:59. Short match, with Rude being awesome as usual.

• Rating: *

VIDEO: We look at the events leading up to the main event.

(c) The Ultimate Warrior vs. (c) Hulk Hogan – WWF Title and Intercontinental Title

People can talk about workmate all they want, but the insane popularity of these two made this a must-see spectacle. We get the stare down and then Warrior shoves Hogan. And Hogan returns the favor by giving Warrior a shove. They lock up and Warrior throws Hogan into the corner. Another lock up and Hogan throws Warrior into the corner. The crowd is eating this up with a spoon. And Warrior gets ready for the GRECO ROMAN KNUCKLE LOCK. They engage in the test of strength with Warrior eventually getting the upper hand to send Hogan to the mat But Hogan makes his way back up and overpowers Warrior to send him to the mat.

Warrior fights his way out of the hold but Hogan sends him to the mat and drops and elbow for a one count. Warrior tries to shoulder block Hogan but it doesn’t work and HERE COMES THE CRISS CROSS. The dumbest sequence in wrestling history but I mark out for it every single time. Hogan with the scoop slam but Warrior pops right back up and taunts him. Another criss cross and Warrior hits his own slam before clotheslining Hogan to the floor. Hogan starts selling his right knee after coming down hard on it. Warrior doesn’t give a shit as he goes outside and starts kicking Hogan. The ref checks on him but Warrior shoves him away and throws Hogan back in the ring.

Warrior starts kicking Hogan’s knee in true heel fashion, so Hogan responds with an eye rake. Warrior with an eye rake, then Hogan with another eye rake. Jesse is loving these two playing dirty. Hogan gets pissed and starts hitting big rights before clotheslining Warrior in the corner. Hogan with eight punches and then a bodyslam. Hogan drops back-to-back elbows but Warrior kicks out at two. Hogan goes for a headlock and transitions it into a small package for another near fall. Hogan goes back to work with punches in the corner before hitting a clothesline for yet another two count.

Hogan with a backbreaker on Warrior and he gets a two count. Hogan goes back to the headlock for a bit and delivers a knee to Warrior’s back. Hogan picks him up for a suplex but Warrior kicks out again. Back to the headlock until Warrior breaks out of it and we get a double clothesline to send both men to the mat. Warrior is the first to sit up and Hogan joins him. Warrior starts shaking the ropes as Hogan hits him in the back. Warrior takes control with multiple clotheslines and then he Irish whips Hogan a few times into the corner. Warrior follows that up with a suplex, but Hogan kicks out at two.

Warrior goes to the standing bearhug for a few minutes, which leads to the ref dropping the arm. But Hogan holds his arm up the third time and fights out of the hold. Warrior then goes for a shoulder charge on Hogan but hits the ref instead. Warrior heads up top and hits a flying double axe handle. Warrior tries to keep the offense going but Hogan counters and throws him face-first to the mat. Hogan then covers Warrior for an obvious pin but the ref is still down. Warrior gets up and hits back suplex for another obvious pin with the ref still on the mat. The ref crawls over as the Warrior goes for the pin, but Hogan kicks out at two. Hogan then does the school boy on Warrior for a near fall. The crowd is going nuts.

Hogan with a clothesline to send Warrior outside the ring. They battle on the floor with Hogan using a headbutt on Warrior. But Warrior answers by throwing Hogan into the post. Back in the ring and Warrior hits a clothesline. Warrior picks Hogan up for the gorilla press slam and then hits the splash, but Hogan kicks out once again. Hulk up time as Warrior delivers several hard rights. Hogan with the punches and the big boot. Hogan goes for the leg drop but Warrior moves out of the way before hitting the splash to win the titles at 22:51. After the match, Hogan gets in the ring and raises Warrior’s hand as he hands him the titles. Again, there will be those that will hate on this match because of how they feel about the two participants. However, this more than delivered. The finishing sequence was awesome, and this was simply a fun main event.

• Rating: ****

SHOW SUMMARY

You won’t find many technical masterpieces on this show, but the cast of characters was one of the best of any event in wrestling history. As was usually the case during this era, lots of the matches on the card were used to push storylines, and there was nothing wrong with that. The Hogan vs. Warrior main event exceeded expectations, and Andre’s turning on Heenan and riding off into the sunset was quite a visual. Fun show.

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The WrestleMania V review features a show that was memorable for a lot of reasons. One of those reasons immediately came to my attention when starting up the show on the WWE Network.

Three hours and 40 minutes. That’s how long the show is. But the good news is that this was in the days where there was more action and less fluff. But still, a nearly four-hour show is still intimidating. Someone tell that to the WWE in 2020.

Let’s get to Blake’s WrestleMania V review.

Date: April 2, 1989

Location: Trump Plaza in Atlantic City, NJ

King Haku (w/Bobby Heenan) vs. Hercules

Two of my favorite badasses duking it out. We’re off to a good start. Haku with a Pearl Harbor job to start the match. Herc sends Haku to the outside after that and he goes to work. Herc then goes outside to chase after Heenan but Haku clotheslines him. We get our first Donald Trump sighting of the evening.

Haku in control in the ring as he locks in the bear hug. Herc uses his power to break out but this man Haku isn’t impressed and starts choking him out on the ropes. Gorilla doesn’t like this. Herc responds with a cross body for a near fall. A powerslam from Herc gets another two count.

Then we get Herc coming off the top rope, but Haku catches him with a superkick. That was unexpected.

And in a rather anti-climatic finish, Herc uses the back suplex and bridges it for the pin at 6:57. This got the job done.

• Rating: **

The Twin Towers (w/Slick) vs. The Rockers

In case you haven’t been reading reviews of the previous shows leading up to this one, just know that the Towers were putting on some great performances. Rockers use their speed to take advantage early and Akeem and Big Boss Man are dumbfounded. But shenanigans from the Towers allow them to start beating the hell out of Jannetty.

Akeem and Boss Man continue to alternate tags as they squash Jannetty like a jobber. Trump has a huge smile on his face during this beatdown. Trump has always struck as me as the kind of guy that would cheer the heels and boo the faces. Miscalculation causes Akeem to barrel into Boss Man and Jannetty makes the hot tag to Michaels.

Double flying shoulder block from the Rockers send Akeem down for the two count. AKEEM THEN DESTROYS MICHAELS. Boss Man then goes up top and Michaels moves out of the way. Jesse continues to point out the illegal double teams from the Rockers. Double dropkick off the top from the Rockers now and chaos has ensued.

Michaels comes off the top but Boss Man catches and turns it into a slam. Great spot. Then Akeem hits the Air Africa for the win at 8:02. Great stuff here. The Towers were hot and everyone loved the Rockers.

• Rating: ***

BACKSTAGE: Tony Schiavone now works for the WWF and he’s here to talk with Ted DiBiase and Virgil.

Ted DiBiase (w/Virgil) vs. Brutus Beefcake

Man did DiBiase deserve better than this. But this was Beefcake in 1989, so the people loved him. Beefcake goes to work after DiBiase shoves the Million Dollar belt in his face prior to the match. DiBiase retreats, comes back in, and gets beat on before getting thrown back outside. DiBiase wisely calls for a timeout.

More offense from Beefcake back inside and Virgil gets involved to turn the tide. Jesse: “If you can’t win fair, cheat.” Truth. The crowd sucks for this one, but this is Trump Plaza and the match isn’t great thus far. A little more back and forth before Beefcake reverses and hits a suplex. Double clothesline and both men are down.

Back up and DiBiase locks on the Million Dollar Dream. Beefcake hits the ropes to force the break. Beefcake gets the offense and then slaps on the sleeper before Virgil gets involved again. Virgil slams Beefcake into the apron on the outside while DiBiase distracts the ref. That naturally leads to DiBiase going out and taking it to Beefcake. And they both get counted out at 10:01. Well then.

The match really didn’t go anywhere, and like a lot of the stuff on this card, would have benefited from a better crowd.

• Rating: **

The Fabulous Rougeaus (w/Jimmy Hart) vs. The Bushwhackers

This Rougeaus’ theme song has to be top 10 all-time. Well maybe not, but damn it’s good. Luke and Butch take Hart’s jacket before the match and then send Jacques and Raymond into him. Total domination from the Bushwhackers in the early going as the Rougeaus regroup on the outside.

Rougeaus in control now as Raymond obliterates Luke into the corner. Abdominal stretch from Jacques and then Raymond delivers the side kick for good measure. Battering ram from the Bushwhackers while the Rougeaus are gloating gives them the win at 9:10. Nothing to see here and the wrong team won.

• Rating: 1/2*

Mr. Perfect vs. The Blue Blazer

SIGN ME UP. Perfect debuts the new neon green gear that we’d all grow to love. Good wrestling action to start, which you’d expect from these two. Perfect with some slaps and then Blazer gets the crowd going with a dropkick to send Perfect over the top.

Back in the ring, Blazer delivers some chops and then counters a few moves from Perfect. Blazer goes for the big move up top but Perfect brings the knees up. Now Perfect goes at the back. But Blazer gets out and hits the powerslam, then hits a belly-to-belly for a near fall.

Crucifix gets another near fall and Perfect has had enough. He hits the Perfect Plex for the victory at 5:38. This was good but too short to be anything special.

• Rating: **

VIDEO: We get the classic video of Mr. Fuji participating in the pre-WrestleMania 5K race. Fuji somehow finishes the race in less than 20 minutes in his awesome suit. Incredible.

IN THE RING: Run DMC does their thing.

Powers of Pain and Mr. Fuji vs. (c) Demolition – Handicap Match for the WWF Tag Team Titles

While this is a highly anticipated match due to the double turn at Survivor Series ’88, you knew this wasn’t gonna be a wrestling classic. Let these dudes brawl for 10 minutes and let that be that.

The crowd is completely silent while Ax and Smash begin the beating. Warlord and Barbarian get an advantage and that leads to Fuji making his first appearance in the match. He beats the tar out of Ax and then tags back out. Flying shoulder block from Barbarian before he lets Warlord get some work in. More tagging and the crowd is zapped.

Fuji goes up top and nearly breaks his leg after Ax moves out of the way. Ax tries to make the tag but just misses. After more battling, Ax finally makes the mild tag to Smash who starts unloading. Powers regain control but Fuji ruins it by accidentally throwing the salt into the eyes of Warlord. Then Ax and Smash hit the Decapitation Device to retain the titles at 8:20.

This was all power from start to finish. Once again, the crowd gave it nothing and it really hurt the match.

• Rating: *1/2

Dino Bravo (w/Frenchy Martin) vs. Ronnie Garvin

Before the match, the Fink introduces Jimmy Snuka. He does some posing and then leaves the ring. Like a total buffoon, Garvin turns his back on Bravo in order to figure out where he wants to throw his towel into the crowd. This leads to Bravo immediately jumping him and taking control.

Shoulder blocks from Bravo and he tries to cover Garvin with the boot on the chest. That doesn’t work and here comes Garvin. The rolling cradle gets a two count, and then Garvin locks in the sleeper. Garvin then goes for a piledriver but Bravo reverses. Another near fall before Bravo hits the side slam to win at 3:06. Squash.

• Rating: 1/2*

The Brain Busters (w/Bobby Heenan) vs. Strike Force

Strike Force is back. This is yet another good tag matchup, showing how truly loaded this division was at the time. Good guys jump out quick. Technical sports from Martel and he goes for the crab on Arn, but Arn gets the tag to Tully.

Double figure fours in the ring now from Strike Force as the crowd is finally going bananas. Miscommunication sees Santana strike Martel with force. Martel isn’t too happy about it. And this of course leads to the outstanding moment where Santana goes for the tag but Martel struts around on the ring apron, thus officially breaking up Strike Force.

Martels hits the road to leave Santana out there in a 2-on-1 situation. Good effort from Santana for a bit but the piledriver spike wins it for Arn and Tully at 9:17.

• Rating: **1/2

BACKSTAGE: Martel says he’s sick and tired of carrying Santana and calls him a loser. Magnificent.

IN THE RING: It’s time for Piper’s Pit. Brother Love comes out first to fool everyone, as he’s got the kilt on. Then we get the guest appearance of Morton Downey Jr., and that leads to the eventual appearance of Piper to give the crowd a big boost. Long segment, but Piper’s return is great.

VIDEO: We get a preview for No Holds Barred. Simply cannot wait to review that movie.

OUTSIDE THE RING: Sean Mooney interviews Trump. He says Hillary Clinton can’t beat him, or something like that.

ANNOUNCE BOOTH: Jesse cuts an awesome promo on Hulk Hogan taking his spot in Hollywood.

Andre the Giant (w/Bobby Heenan) vs. Jake ‘The Snake’ Roberts – Special Guest Referee: Big John Studd

It feels like this feud has been going on forever, and the entire thing is based around Andre hating snakes. So here we go. Andre removes the turnbuckle pad prior to the match without anyone noticing, and then throws Jake into it immediately. And then Andre looks to crush Jake’s head.

Andre smashes Jake into the corner and uses his mammoth body to keep him there. Andre continues smashing him and goes over to get instructions from Heenan. Jake begins to fight back as he goes at Andre’s midsection, and you will not believe this, but Andre gets hooked in the ropes. You know what happens next. After Jake controls for a while, Andre takes over once again.

They fight back and forth a bit before Andre sends Jake outside. He does it another time before Studd gets in Andre’s face. Andre then sends Studd into the corner while Jake is grabbing the snake. DiBiase arrives and takes the snake from Jake while Andre chokes out Studd in the ring. All hell has broken loose. Then Jake gets back inside and throws the snake in there. Studd then DQ’s Andre at 9:44.

A bit of a mess. They worked hard, but it was more about the storyline advancement than the match.

• Rating: *1/2

BACKSTAGE: Schiavone with Sensational Sherri. She says she’s gonna take the title back from Rockin Robin. Then she disses Elizabeth. FORESHADOWING.

Greg Valentine and Honky Tonk Man (w/Jimmy Hart) vs. The Hart Foundation

What a fall for Honky. Goes from being IC champ to working in a jobber tag team. Quick start to the match for the Hart Foundation, but eventually we work towards the mandatory “Bret gets worked over before making the hot tag” sequence.

Here comes the tag and Neidhart is cleaning house. Near fall on Valentine but Honky saves the day. Bret back in and he hits the flying elbow off the top. Another near fall as Valentine saves the day this time around.

The megaphone makes an appearance as Bret catches it and hammers Honky with it for the victory at 7:40. Decent match.

• Rating: **1/2

Rick Rude (w/Bobby Heenan) vs. (c) The Ultimate Warrior – IC Title

Rude calls out the sweat hogs before the match and also has the IC belt on his tights. This man was a treasure. Warrior all over him early as he slings Rude around like a rag doll. Bear hug from the Warrior and Trump is leaning back unimpressed in the crowd. Clearly a Rude fan.

Dropkick off the top from Rude as Jesse is going ballistic calling for the upset. But Warrior kicks out before a one count. Now the Warrior is back to the bear hug. Rude works his way out and delivers an awesome piledriver but only gets the two count. More offense from Rude but he’s favoring the back.

Clothesline from Rude but another two count. Neckbreaker from Rude for another near fall. Warrior with some slams now and a clothesline of his own. Warrior misses the splash in the corner as Rude moves out of the way. Rude goes for the Rude Awakening but Warrior powers out and delivers yet another clothesline.

Rude rolls to the outside and Warrior goes after him. Back inside and another clothesline sends Rude over the top. Warrior goes for the suplex with Rude on the apron, but Heenan pulls Warrior’s feet down and holds them while Rude gets the pin to win the title at 9:36.

They’d have a better match down the road, but this was a lot of fun and keeps the feud going with a new champ crowned.

• Rating: ***

Bad News Brown vs. Hacksaw Jim Duggan

Time for a slobberknocker. Duggan knocks Bad News out of the ring and he goes to leave ringside before thinking better of it. They beat the hell out of each other until we work towards the quick double DQ at 3:49.

• Rating: 1/2*

BACKSTAGE: Red Rooster is ready for Heenan. What a gimmick.

Bobby Heenan (w/The Brooklyn Brawler) vs. The Red Rooster

Heenan rocking the Andre singlet. He immediately runs and hides in the corner as Rooster throws him into the turnbuckle. Heenan then goes for the Rooster but gets rammed into the post. Rooster quickly covers for the win at :31. Brawler attacks afterwards.

Well, this did its job of bringing down the crowd before the main event.

• Rating: DUD

BACKSTAGE: Okerlund interviews Elizabeth. She says she’ll be in a neutral corner and is clearly upset about this turn of events.

Hulk Hogan vs. (c) Randy Savage – WWF Title

Jesse rightfully complains about Savage entering the ring first since he’s the champion. Savage goes to the stalling early as Hogan has all the momentum. Put this match somewhere other than Trump Plaza and the atmosphere would have been electric. But like every other match, they’re just kind of there.

More stalling from Savage frustrates Hogan, which I’m all for. Savage then pulls Elizabeth in front of him when Hogan is about to go for a punch. Brilliant, and Jesse agrees. Hogan tries to pull off some wrestling moves but Macho counters with a back suplex. Hogan back in control with punches, but Savage gets him down and gets a two count.

Armbar from Savage causes the crowd to chant for Hogan. Jesse is furious when Hogan eventually uses the tights to send Savage to the floor. Elbow drops from Hogan inside and Jesse continues to point out the illegal tactics being used. He’s on fire here because of how much he hates Hogan. And Hogan is cut open at this point.

Rollup from Savage gets the crowd back on their feet as he almost gets a three count. Hogan takes back over and Savage is reeling. Hogan slams Savage over the top rope and Jesse brilliantly points out that he should stay outside and get counted out. Wonderful plan. Elizabeth checks on Savage but he’s having none of that. Hogan follows to the outside and blocks Savage’s move before throwing him into the apron. Then Hogan goes to ram Savage into the post but Elizabeth blocks the path. Savage makes him pay by sending Hogan into the post after Elizabeth moves out of the way.

Savage back outside to intimidate Elizabeth after decking Hogan. Hebner orders Elizabeth to leave the ringside area. Hogan gets drove into the barricade and Savage is in complete control. Back in the ring where Savage is decimating him. Incredible amount of offense by Savage and he hits the flying elbow off the top, but Hogan with the no sell as he kicks out violently at two.

Hulk up time and you all know what’s next. Hogan hits the boot and the leg drop to win the title at 17:54. Really good match. And while Hogan is easy to hate on, this was good work from him. But it still feels like they left a lot of money on the table by not taking this feud further. They just broke up a few months before, and Savage winning due to shenanigans could have pushed this feud all through the summer. But nonetheless, the execution was good and this was highly enjoyable.

• Rating: ***3/4

SHOW SUMMARY

This was a marathon of a show. However, it didn’t really drag all that match due to the spacing out of certain matches. Hogan winning was inevitable, but you had solid stuff elsewhere. I probably liked this show more than most, and the length is really what makes it a struggle at times. It’s still a fun viewing for the WWF and IC title matches. The Rockers/Towers match is sneaky good as well.

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For more of my show reviews, visit the Pro Wrestling Reviews section!

In this WWF Summerslam 1990 review, The Ultimate Warrior defends the WWF title against Rick Rude, Hulk Hogan seeks revenge on Earthquake, and much more.

Let’s jump in!

• Show: Summerslam 1990
• Date: August 27, 1990
• Location: The Spectrum in Philadelphia, PA

ON THE STAGE: Vince McMahon and Roddy Piper hype the matches, and boy does the crowd love them some Hot Rod.

The Rockers vs. Power and Glory (w/Slick)

Hercules jumps Shawn Michaels with the chain before the match even begins, and they’re playing up a knee injury for Michaels with Hercules and Paul Roma taking advantage of the outmatched Marty Jannetty. However, Jannetty fights back and momentarily gains control with multiple hip tosses. Meanwhile, Jannetty has a roll-up on Roma, but Slick distracts the referee to prevent the count as Hercules breaks it up.

Michaels finally climbs on the apron, and Hercules isn’t having any of that. He pops him in the knee again and Michaels is back down on the outside. Another attempt from Michaels, with Roma knocking him down yet again. Vince notes that there was an earlier report on Michaels’ injured knee. Roma and Hercules on the attack, but Jannetty with a powerslam and diving elbow drop on Roma. Hercules breaks up the count though with the referee occupied with Slick.

Underhanded tactics from Hercules puts Power and Glory back on the offensive, while Michaels is still holding his knee in pain. Hercules with the suplex off the top, and Roma hits the splash from another to score the win.

IN THE RING: Hercules and Roma bring Michaels in and kick the shit out of both babyfaces. There’s a portion of the crowd that’s into Power and Glory, so maybe they’re the babyfaces to some people. The stretcher comes out for Michaels and he’s selling it like his knee has been destroyed.

Blake’s Take: If you didn’t know the timeline, you’d think this was the precursor for Michaels’ eventual heel turn on Jannetty. Vince sold it as such, but then again, that was Vince’s commentary at times – over the top lines that didn’t always connect point A to point B. Nonetheless, a solid showcase for Power and Glory (who had the crowd behind them at a couple points), though the bigger story was Michaels’ knee issue preventing him from ever entering the match.

BACKSTAGE: Sean Mooney with Mr. Perfect and Bobby Heenan. Perfect accepted the challenge from “Texas Tornado” Kerry Von Erich on short notice, but he’s fine with that because he’s perfect. Heenan knows a lot about Tornado and says he’s got his head in the clouds and makes more weather jokes.

BACKSTAGE: Mean Gene Okerlund with Tornado. He continues the weather theme and says he’s gonna destroy everything in his path, including Perfect.

“Texas Tornado” Kerry Von Erich vs. (c) Mr. Perfect (w/Bobby Heenan) – Intercontinental Title

A young Mike Chioda is the referee for this showdown. I’m not sure Perfect will be able to top his match with Tito Santana on the 7/28/90 edition of Saturday Night’s Main Event, but let’s see how it plays out. Tornado with a furious series of offense in the early going to send Perfect flying to the outside. Tornado works over Perfect’s arm, but Perfect responds with a clothesline to the head. Perfect applies the sleeper and delivers multiple right hands in the corner. Tornado sling shots Perfect and hits the Tornado Punch to win the title.

Blake’s Take: The crowd popped for the Tornado victory, and Perfect was pretty great both in selling the punch and with his stunned reaction after the match. I liked that the “Perfect taking the match on short notice” story played into how the match unfolded. Tornado caught him off guard, and that was that. A nice moment for Von Erich.

BACKSTAGE: Gene had planned to talk with Sapphire, but she’s not available. Heenan walks in screaming about Tornado breaking the rules. Perfect is pissed and they’re both yelling like maniacs.

IN THE RING: Howard Finkel introduces Sensational Sherri, then does the introduction for Sapphire. But she’s nowhere to be found. They play Dusty Rhodes’ music again but still no Sapphire. Fink notes that if Sapphire doesn’t arrive in 30 seconds, she’ll forfeit the match. Sherri grabs the mic and counts down as Fink rewards Sherri the match. There’s a reason for this, which would play out soon enough.

BACKSTAGE: Gene with Dusty. He has no idea where Sapphire is and only that she disappeared 10 minutes after they got to the building. He’s worried, but here comes Hacksaw Jim Duggan. “Hey Hacksaw, have you seen Sweet Sapphire, baby?” And Hacksaw says, “No, no I haven’t Dust, but we’re all still looking for her.” I’m not sure why I crack up at this every time, but I do. HO! Gene pushes the anonymous gifts that Sapphire has been receiving. Dusty runs down the list of lavish gifts, which includes a brand new Cadillac.

Blake’s Take: Someone has a lot of money to be giving away those kinds of gifts. Who could it be….

The Warlord (w/Slick) vs. Tito Santana

Again, Tito is coming off a match of the year candidate with Perfect on Saturday Night’s Main Event. Now he’s gotta take down Warlord, who shows off his strength by throwing Tito as the match begins. Three straight dropkicks from Tito sends Warlord reeling. Vince is talking about Warlord’s “hard, big guns” and then proceeds to inform us that Warlord is “big all over.” Piper has no choice but to ask “is that right?” Classic Vince.

Tito goes for a pin on Warlord, but the big man kicks out by throwing Tito through the ropes. Warlord then rams Tito into the ring post with Slick distracting the referee. Warlord works on Tito’s back much to the approval of the Slickster. Tito eventually reverses momentum with a clothesline, but Warlord powers out of the pin yet again. Flying forearm from Tito, but Warlord gets a foot on the ropes at two and a half. Warlord hits the running powerslam and that’ll do it.

Blake’s Take: Tito legitimately is one of the best pure babyfaces I’ve seen in professional wrestling. This was nothing more than a way to push the strength of Warlord, but Tito’s performance was still a highlight.

VIDEO: Survivor Series is coming on November 22.

BACKSTAGE: Mooney with Demolition. They play up their strength in numbers and that any combination could face The Hart Foundation or The Legion of Doom. Demolition make their way to the ring, and it’s Smash and Crush doing the work again for Demolition.

BACKSTAGE: Gene with The Hart Foundation. Bret Hart admits he thought it would be Ax and Smash, and Jim Neidhart is ready to kick some ass.

The Hart Foundation vs. (c) Demolition – 2 Out Of 3 Falls Match for the Tag Team Titles

Bret and Smash start things off, but Neidhart quickly gets involved as Bret gets a roll-up for two. Vince keeps pushing that it’s nearly impossible to tell the Demolition members apart. Double team action from the Hart Foundation, and Bret takes it to the mat to work on Smash’s arm. But Smash uses his power to slam Bret and tag in Crush. He hits a slam of his own but misses a splash. Bret tries to regain momentum, but Crush catches him on an irish whip for another slam.

Bret with a desperation roll-up attempt for two, and both men make the tag. Shoulder tackle from Neidhart, then Crush uses the knee to the back to put Demolition back in control. Neidhart manages to tag Bret, and he runs wild on Smash and Crush. Bret with the ball buster to Smash, and he shoves Smash into Crush to send him outside. Bret with the near fall on Smash and he tries it again after a move off the top, but Crush breaks up the count. Neidhart is selling his injuries on the outside, and that allows Demolition to hit their finisher on Bret to win the first fall. Demolition leads 1-0.

Smash and Crush double team Bret with the ref occupied with an angry Neidhart. They work over Bret for a bit as the crowd gets behind him. Crush doesn’t care and knocks Bret down before tagging in Smash. Bret with a hard clothesline to Smash, who gets an assist from Crush’s leg to try to prevent the hot tag. It doesn’t work after the referee breaks it up, and HERE COMES THE ANVIL. He power slams Smash for a near fall, and the crowd is pissed. Bret and Neidhart hit their own finisher, but instead of jumping on Bret to break the count, Crush figures he’ll jump on the referee and throw him towards the corner. Well that was dumb as it gives the second fall to the Hart Foundation via DQ. Tied at 1-1.

With Demolition throwing Bret outside, here comes Ax running down the aisle with the referee distracted yet again. Ax slides under the ring, so you know what the champs are up to. Bret sunset flips into the ring for a near fall on Smash. Shoulder block from Neidhart, then he picks Bret up off the top and slams him into Smash. However, Crush breaks up the count at two. And here comes the ol’ switcheroo, with Smash sliding under the ring and Ax taking his place. The referee is clueless though as literally everyone else in the building knows it’s Ax. Vince is once again saying it’s impossible to tell Ax and Smash apart, which is absolutely hilarious.

Ax and Crush with some offense, then the action breaks down with the referee getting occupied with Crush and Neidhart. That allows Ax and Smash to double team Bret, and they switch places with Ax going back under the ring. There’s a HUGE pop for the Legion of Doom as they aren’t gonna stand for this chaos. This flusters Ax and Smash, and Neidhart hits a flying shoulder tackle on Crush to allow Bret to get the pin to win the titles. Another big pop from the crowd for the finish.

Blake’s Take: Yes, the Ax and Smash switch was silly since they look nothing alike. Just don’t tell that to Vince McMahon since he was all in on selling them as twins. But it was pro wrestling in 1990, so absurd storylines like this were nothing new. The match itself is a good old school tag match with Demolition’s power vs. The Hart Foundation’s determination. The crowd reaction to both LOD’s appearance and the title change was something else. (Recommended)

VIDEO: WrestleMania VII is coming to the LA Coliseum! Or is it?!

BACKSTAGE: Gene with Hawk and Animal as it’s the intermission interview portion of the show. They want a match with Demolition, which certainly had dream match potential for many fans. The Hart Foundation joins and they’re not gonna hide behind the belts.

BACKSTAGE: Mooney is listening to Demolition yelling about LOD in their locker room.

BACKSTAGE: Gene with Sherri. She mocks Sapphire for not showing up, then says she heard rumors that are too good to be true.

BACKSTAGE: Gene is back after the five-minute intermission to hype the other matches on the card, including footage of camera sneaking into Bad News Brown’s locker room to get a glimpse of the sewer rats. There’s also footage of Jake Roberts’ snake Damien taking a shower. Now it’s an interview with Big Boss Man. He’s gonna uphold the law as the special referee in that match.

BACKSTAGE: Mooney with Duggan and Nikolai Volkoff. They love America and they’re teaming for the first time, and they take aim at The Orient Express.

BACKSTAGE: Gene with Earthquake, Dino Bravo, and Jimmy Hart. Earthquake taunts the Hulkamaniacs and does the same to Typhoon after he squashed him. Bravo is gonna take out Boss Man. These guys mean business. Pretty great stuff from Earthquake here.

BACKSTAGE: Mooney with Jake. He’s not afraid of rats and makes it clear that Damien will eat rats.

Bad News Brown vs. Jake Roberts – Special Guest Referee: Big Boss Man

Quite the group of personalities in this match when you add Piper to the mix on commentary. Brown gets in Boss Man’s face, but he escapes a DDT attempt from Jake. Then Brown hits Jake in the midsection with a chair, but Boss Man doesn’t do a thing. I mean, he’s seen worse as a corrections officer I suppose. Brown takes control for a bit, then goes for the Ghetto Blaster but Jakes moves out of the way. Jake with the trademark left-handed jabs, but Brown counters the DDT once again. In another repeat, Brown grabs the chair and hits Jake with it. Boss Man decides to disqualify him since I guess two chair shots is too many.

IN THE RING: After the match, Brown tries to leg drop Damien, but Boss Man makes the save. Brown cheap shots Boss Man from behind, and Jake releases Damien from the bag to send Brown reeling.

Blake’s Take: This was a nothing of a match, but pro wrestling was very simple during this era. Give the fans what they came to see. They wanted to see Damien get a piece of Brown, and that’s what they got. Not much more to it than that.

VIDEO: WrestleMania VII is STILL headed to the L.A. Coliseum, but only if you buy tickets! You must buy tickets!

BACKSTAGE: Gene with Demolition. They call the Hart Foundation a bunch of cheaters, and they’re coming for Legion of Doom. It’s a shame the two teams never had an actual program since it was a dream feud for a lot of fans during this time period.

IN THE RING: Brother Love is in the City of Love, and he taunts random people and welcomes Sgt. Slaughter. He thinks America has become weak and presents Love with a medal. Slaughter then declares war on Nikolai Volkoff, who he calls “commie maggot scum.” Harsh. Then he says good things about Saddam Hussein, and the crowd doesn’t care for it.

BACKSTAGE: Mooney with The Orient Express and Mr. Fuji. They make fun of Duggan’s cross-eye, then threaten to give him another one. Sato even makes the facial expression by crossing his eyes. Mooney says they have breaking news, and he throws it to Gene, who has found Sapphire. However, she slams the door behind her before he can get a word. Gene says she’s safe and that Dusty and fans should be relived. Are you sure about that, Gene?!

The Orient Express (w/Mr. Fuji) vs. Hacksaw Jim Duggan and Nikolai Volkoff

Before the match, Duggan and Volkoff sing God Bless America in a duet. Yes, they did that. Duggan also thanks the troops in the Middle East. Sato and Tanaka try to jump them from the start, but Duggan and Volkoff gain the advantage. Fuji with a cheap shot with the cane to Volkoff while the referee’s back is turned. Hot tag to Duggan, and he hits a double clothesline before throwing a series of punches. Duggan and Volkoff with he double team, and Duggan hits the running clothesline for the victory.

Blake’s Take: Once again, it’s all about simplicity. The crowd popped huge for the finish, even if it was a basic 80s tag match. Give them what they want, and they’ll love you for it.

BACKSTAGE: Gene with Dusty, who is knocking on the locker room door to try to get Sapphire to come out. Dusty is worried and says he needs her ringside.

BACKSTAGE: Mooney with Randy Savage. He says the rumors must be true about Sapphire. What rumors?! Savage was such an awesome promo.

ON THE STAGE: Ted DiBiase says everybody has a price for the Million Dollar Man. He says his money can buy anybody and anything, and what do you know, here comes Sapphire wearing fancy clothes to join DiBiase and Virgil. She’s also got a bag full of money. Dusty is angry and goes after DiBiase, but Savage jumps him from behind.

Dusty Rhodes vs. “Macho King” Randy Savage (w/Sensational Sherri)

Savage chokes out Dusty, then Sherri gets her a few shots in. Dusty gains the momentum with some big punches, and a dropkick sends Savage to the outside. Savage uses Sherri as a shield, which allows her to hand Savage a weapon while the referee is occupied with Dusty. Sherri hops in the ring, and Dusty goes after her. The referee tries to hold back Sherri, and Savage hits Dusty with the loaded purse for the win.

Blake’s Take: Not exactly the classic some would expect from these two since it was more about the angle with Sapphire than the match.

IN THE PARKING LOT: Mooney tries to get answers from DiBiase, and he reiterates that there’s nothing his money can’t buy. Meanwhile, Dusty gives chase as the limo takes off.

BACKSTAGE: Gene with Hogan and Boss Man. Hogan thanks the Hulkamaniacs for their letters and says he’s dedicating the match to THE TUGSTER. He means Tugboat. Boss Man is gonna help Hogan deliver justice. Hogan is gonna chop down trees like Thomas Jefferson. History buff Vince is loving it.

Earthquake (w/Jimmy Hart and Dino Bravo) vs. Hulk Hogan (w/ Big Boss Man)

Hogan spits on Earthquake before the match in true babyface fashion. It was the Hulkster, so many fans were fine with even if it wasn’t the most heroic action. Earthquake’s strength forces Hogan to retreat, and he gets a pep talk from Boss Man. Back inside, Hogan goes for the bodyslam but Earthquake blocks it and starts working over the back. Hogan with a boot to the face in the corner, then he wallops Hart and Bravo. Big punch to finally knock down Earthquake, and the heels retreat. Hogan and Boss Man go after them on the outside, with Boss Man hammering Earthquake. DQs are optional in this match!

All four men in the ring, and it’s a double big boot to Bravo, then another to Earthquake. The referee, who is in no way doing his job, gets distracted by Boss Man while Hogan tries to bite Earthquake’s face off. Bravo hits Hogan from behind, and Vince begs for the referee to turn around. He’s not gonna do anything! Has Vince been watching the last few minutes of this match? Bravo and Earthquake slam Hogan, and Earthquake drops the elbow on Hogan for a two count. Earthquake heads up top and hits a flying axe handle to Hogan’s back, then locks on the Boston Crab. Hogan reaches the ropes and rolls outside, but Bravo slams him while the referee is occupied with Earthquake and Boss Man.

Earthquake misses an elbow drop, and here comes the Hulkster. It’s funny hearing Piper root on Hogan given the history between the two. Hogan with an eye rake and he goes for another slam, but Earthquake falls on him for a near fall. Earthquake goes to the standing bearhug and focuses on Hogan’s injured ribs. The referee grabs Hogan’s arm to drop it, but Hogan gets a boost and rips the refs shirt. Then he does it again. A TRUE BABYFACE! Hogan breaks loose, but Earthquake stops the momentum by catching Hogan for a slam.

Earthquake with the Earthquake Splash, then he gets up so he can hit another one. However, Hogan kicks out at two and it’s hulk up time. Hogan with the big boot, but Earthquake doesn’t go down. So, Hogan picks him up for the bodyslam and leg drop. Hogan goes for the pin, but Bravo hits the apron to distract the half-shirted referee. Hart hits Hogan from behind, so he throws Hart onto Earthquake. Boss Man throws out Bravo, and Hogan and Earthquake fight to the outside. Hart tries to hit Earthquake with the megaphone, but Hogan ducks. Hogan picks up Earthquake and slams him on a ringside table, and the referee counts out Earthquake to give Hogan the win.

IN THE RING: Earthquake quickly pops up and picks up Hogan for the choke. Boss Man with multiple chair shots to Earthquake’s back, but it doesn’t bother him. Earthquake and Bravo decide to retreat with Hogan and Boss Man standing tall. Hogan does one of his longest posing routines ever afterward.

Blake’s Take: This was the Hogan formula. He overcame the obstacles and got the victory over his nemesis, although this was less decisive than many others. They at least kept Earthquake strong with both the countout loss and post match no-sell of Boss Man’s chair shots. Think what you want about Hogan, but there was no denying the incredible crowd reactions to his every move in this era.

BACKSTAGE: Mooney with Rick Rude and Bobby Heenan. Rude says Warrior won’t be able to run inside the steel cage. He’s gonna become champ and have a statue beside Rocky Balboa. Heenan reiterates his message with more Rocky puns.

BACKSTAGE: Gene with Dusty. He’s pissed and says he’s in a storm with Sapphire. Dusty is coming after DiBiase.

RINGSIDE: Lord Alfred Hayes is standing near the ring as they construct the cage. The setup crew is apparently going for a record time. Alfred notes the purpose is to keep Warrior and Rude inside the cage.

BACKSTAGE: Gene with Hogan. He says they’re building Earthquake-proof buildings all over the world. Hogan calls Earthquake a “big fat dude” because that’s what heroes do! He says Hulkamania is gonna last forever, and he’s gonna get chase sharks in Venice Beach. Well that’s interesting.

RINGSIDE: Vince and Piper banter about Hogan and Earthquake, then it’s onto a preview of the main event. Piper picks Rude because of his experience.

BACKSTAGE: Mooney with Earthquake, Bravo, and Hart. Earthquake says the war with Hogan and Boss Man has just begun. Bravo goes off on Hogan too.

BACKSTAGE: Gene with Ultimate Warrior. He makes a ding dong joke about Rude and Heenan as compared to the Liberty Bell. Warrior adds even more historical references after that.

Rick Rude (w/Bobby Heenan) vs. (c) The Ultimate Warrior – Steel Cage Match for the WWF Title

The dubbed over entrance music for Rude is pretty brutal. Before the match, Rude wants the fat, out of shape, Pennsylvania piss ants to keep the noise down. Rude was so great. Warrior climbs the cage to meet Rude at the top to start the match. Warrior with an axe handle off the top rope, then he throws Rude’s face-first into the cage. Piper says if he were Rude, he’d tie Warrior’s armbands to the cage. I completely agree and have thought the same thing for years. Warrior keeps the momentum going by bouncing Rude around, but Rude ducks a body press to send Warrior into the cage. Rude starts climbing, but Warrior grabs his leg. Rude comes off the top with a punch to Warrior, and Rude is busted open.

Rude stays in control, and just as Warrior tries to reverse momentum, Rude pokes him in the eye. Rude goes for the Rude Awakening, but Warrior doesn’t allow him to drop to complete the move. Warrior goes for the splash, and Rude gets his knees up. Rude hits the Rude Awakening, but he decides to climb instead of exit the cage. Rude flies from the top of the cage with another punch to Warrior. And now Rude goes up yet again and flies from the top, but Warrior hits a blow to the midsection. Warrior tries to escape, and there’s Heenan to slam the door in his face. Rude goes for the pin but Warrior kicks out at two. Double shoulder block and both men are down.

Rude tries to climb out, but Warrior hands onto his foot as Heenan tries to pull Rude. Warrior then grabs Rude by the tights to expose his bare ass. Warrior brings Heenan in and wallops him before delivering an atomic drop. Warrior hulks up and hits three clotheslines, and he picks up Rude for the press slam. Warrior climbs over and drops to the outside to retain the title.

Blake’s Take: Rude was always Warrior’s best opponent, so this was entertaining for what it was. I liked their Summerslam 1989 match better, and that one also wasn’t upstaged by Hogan’s return match. The crowd was more into Hogan/Earthquake, but they popped for Warrior and the heel antics from Rude and Heenan. It’s not a classic, yet it’s enjoyable enough for a main event in this era.

BLAKE’S TAKE ON WWF SUMMERSLAM 1990

Recommended Matches: The Hart Foundation vs. Demolition (and Hogan/Earthquake and Warrior/Rude for the entertainment value)

Overall Rating: 6.0/10

Thoughts: What’s really highlighted with this show is the awesome cast of characters. There were so many fantastic ones that it’s impossible not to enjoy watching them do their thing. Some of the match finishes were head-scratchers, but there was solid storyline advancement across the board. An easy watch for the nostalgia.

For more of my show reviews, visit the Pro Wrestling Reviews section!

The Great American Bash 1989 review features a hell of a show, as it has been universally loved by wrestling fans throughout history.

And given some of the matchups on the card, it’s easy to understand why this one could deliver in a big way.

Let’s jump into Blake’s Great American Bash 1989 review.

Date: July 23, 1989

Location: Baltimore Arena in Baltimore, MD

Bill Irwin vs. Brian Pillman vs. Eddie Gilbert vs. Kevin Sullivan vs. Mike Rotunda vs. Ranger Ross vs. Rick Steiner vs. Dan Spivey vs. Sid Vicious vs. Ron Simmons vs. Scott Hall vs. Scott Steiner vs. Steve Williams vs. Terry Gordy – Two-Ring King of the Hill Battle Royale

All the participants come to the ring wearing crowns, so there’s that. Ranger Ross and Ron Simmons get eliminated from the first ring, which means they go to the second ring. Simmons gets tossed out of the second ring, so apparently he’s now officially eliminated from the match.

It’s nearly impossible to keep up with what’s going on here and technical difficulties speed this thing ahead where only Sid and Pillman are in the first ring. Pillman eventually gets thrown to the second ring and Sid will await the second ring winner. We work to Spivey, Rotunda, and Williams as the only three left in the second ring.

Williams gets rid of Rotunda, and then Rotunda trips Williams. That allows Spivey to send Williams out and we’re down to the two partners. Teddy Long hops in the ring and says he won’t allow his guys to fight each other. So they’re gonna split the money and that’s that. I’m sure this was entertaining in person, but the technical difficulties make it hard to follow.

• Rating: 1/2*

BACKSTAGE: Gordon Solie with Teddy. He has the check and says the Skyscrapers will take on all comers.

Brian Pillman vs. Wild Bill Irwin

Irwin gets a few near falls off the bat. Head scissors from Pillman to send Irwin outside. Sliding dropkick to Irwin and now Pillman is arm dragging to the arm bar. Some back and forth as we go back to Pillman locking in the arm bar. JR informs us that Pillman eats no red meat, and you simply can’t get that in-depth commentary anywhere else.

Irwin yells “you wanna fly, fly out of here” as he slings Pillman through the ropes. Awesome. Irwin just being a total asshole. Near fall and then Irwin locks in the chin lock. Pillman temporarily takes control but Irwin hits a massive clothesline. Irwin throws Pillman onto the announce table and nearly hits KLONDIKE BILL. Pillman back in and he works to a splash for a two count.

All the momentum with Pillman as he goes up top but misses after Irwin moves. Irwin with more offense before picking Pillman up and launching him into the second ring. But Pillman gets on the top in the other ring and soars over to hit the flying cross body for the win at 10:18. Good stuff here.

• Rating: ***

BACKSTAGE: Solie with Paul E Dangerously. He’s not concerned with winning but only concerned with kicking Jim Cornette’s ass.

The Dynamic Dudes vs. The Skyscrapers (w/Teddy Long)

Johnny and Shane throw a frisbee with a kid from the audience before the match. PEOPLE POWER. It’s still strange to think of John Laurinaitis as a sex symbol, but here we are. As if the pre-match couldn’t get any better, a fan casually taps Spivey on the arm, which leads to Spivey shoving and nearly decapitating him. Probably a fireable offense in 2018.

And holy hell we have more pre-match entertainment, as JR takes jabs at the WWF and says the NWA doesn’t have “snakes and bodybuilders” and instead has great athletes. MORE PRE-MATCH FUN as the crowd chants “peanut head” at Teddy Long. My guess is things are all downhill from here, because the pre-match has been quite entertaining.

Spivey on offense early before the Dudes double team with the monkey flip. Spivey then gives a boot to the face. Sloppy sequence after that as the Dudes go for another double team and everyone’s off their mark. Sid gets tagged in and the crowd loves it. He chops the chest of Johnny and the crowd is cheering Sid like crazy.

Spivey back in and he’s going to work on Shane. Crowd now chanting “we want Sid.” Reminder that the Dudes are the babyfaces. Spivey hits a power bomb and then kicks Shane outside where Teddy starts kicking him. Back inside and Spivey gets a two count after a suplex. Crowd goes wild as Sid tags in. Sid then poses and their eating it up with a spoon. Sid toys with Shane and the crowd boos as Spivey gets the tag.

Backbreaker from Spivey but then he misses a headbutt off the top. Shane crawls over and here comes Johnny. He goes on offense and hits a clothesline off the top. Sid breaks it up and chaos ensues. Sid and Spivey accidentally clothesline each other as the Dudes double dropkick Sid. Double hip toss to Spivey, but eventually Spivey regains control with help from Sid and the Skyscrapers win it at 9:14. Not a great match, but it was at least amusing to see the crowd love on Sid.

• Rating: **

BACKSTAGE: Solie with Cornette, who hypes the match with Paul E.

Paul E. Dangerously vs. Jim Cornette – Manager’s Tuxedo Match

Another funny pre-match note here, as a fan in the crowd has a “NWA is #1, WWF stinks” sign, which of course has the WWF blurred out on the network. The rules are this match are simple: To win, you must strip your opponent of his tuxedo. Considering the participants, that’s quite the objective. Cornette immediately throws the jacket off Paul E, and then Paul E throws powder in Cornette’s eyes. AND NOW PAUL E IS BEATING CORNETTE’S LEG WITH A TELEPHONE. Just fantastic.

It’s all Paul E now as eventually he chokes Cornette with his neck tie. Cornette turns the tide and goes to the choke. Cornette then goes for a groin kick and Paul E spits in his face. We go outside and Paul E working the injured knee. JR on Paul E: “What he causes, Preparation H wouldn’t cure.” Gotta love JR. Back inside and Paul E is slapping the hell out of Cornette, but then misses an elbow drop.

Punches from Paul E, and Cornette is hulking up. Caudle says “let’s see some clothes start coming off here” and I can’t ever say I’ve had that same thought involving these two. Cornette strips Paul E of his shirt. Now Paul E goes for the powder again but Cornette kicks it right back at him. That leads to Cornette ripping the pants off and getting the victory at 6:22. This was what it was and the crowd was hot.

• Rating: *1/2

BACKSTAGE: Solie with Gary Hart. He hypes Great Muta’s upcoming TV title match against Sting.

The Varsity Club vs. The Steiner Brothers (w/Missy Hyatt) – Texas Tornado Tag Team Match

These two teams hate each other and they’re kicking ass as soon as the bell rings. Sullivan and Rick work to the outside and Sullivan hits him with a chair, but Rick isn’t fazed. Rick uses the chair but Sullivan blocks it. Now these two have a table and are beating each other silly. And now they have the ring steps. Meanwhile on the inside, Rotunda and Scott are going at it.

Simultaneous near falls for the Steiners before Sullivan sends Rick back outside. All four men inside and it’s TOTAL NONSTOP ACTION here. Eventually Rotunda gets sent outside and Sullivan picks Rick up. That leads to Scott coming off the top and hitting the flying cross body to allow both Steiners to land on top of Sullivan for the 1-2-3 at 4:22. Awesome action for a short match.

• Rating: ***

BACKSTAGE: Solie with Sting and Eddie Gilbert. Stinger is ready for the match.

The Great Muta (w/Gary Hart) vs. Sting (w/Eddie Gilbert) – NWA World TV Title

They are really pushing Muta’s undefeated streak here. An awesome start as Sting flies from the first ring into the second ring to deliver a cross body on Muta. Sting then goes after Hart on the outside before coming back in and getting a karate chop off the top from Muta. Irish whip and Muta with the elbow to Sting in the corner. Muta then hits the backbreaker and goes up for the moonsault, but Sting moves. Muta lands on his feet and then sends Sting outside before hitting a cross body over the top.

Sting back on the apron where he hits the clothesline. Then he goes up top for a clothesline and gets a two count. Back outside temporarily and they come back in where Sting delivers a bodyslam. Muta regains control and locks in the headlock. Another Irish whip but Sting reverses for a military slam. Then Muta reverses another move and goes back on offense and applies the chin lock. Muta then goes to the abdominal stretch and tries to get a pinball out of him.

Sting now rallying and hitting punches but Muta stops that pretty quickly. Muta tries to go back to the elbow in the corner but Sting moves and hits a flurry of offense before dropkicking Muta outside. Back in and Muta goes for the mist, but Sting moves and REF BUMP TIME as it goes right in Nick Patrick’s face. Moonsault from Muta and Tommy Young slides in but only a two count. Sting then hits a back suplex for the three count at 8:40 with Muta’s shoulder clearly up.

Patrick slides back in and apparently he saw it, but Young counted the three. Muta and Hart runs off with the title and the audience has not a damn clue what just happened. Confusing finish for those in the audience, but the replay clearly shows what they were going for. This would lead to the title being vacant. Fun match as expected between these two.

• Rating: ***1/2

BACKSTAGE: Solie with Lex Luger. Luger means what he says and says what he means. He wants the No DQ stipulation dropped or he may not go forth with the match against Ricky Steamboat.

Ricky Steamboat vs. (c) Lex Luger – NWA US Title Match

Steamboat’s entrance is amusing as usual. Luger gets on the mic and says he’s not defending the title unless the No DQ clause is waived. He walks out but Steamboat waves the stipulation and here we go. Luger with the advantage but Steamboat reverses into an inside cradle for a two count. Then another two count and STEAMBOAT IS CHOPPING. Backdrop to Luger and the champ retreats outside. Steamboat follows and THIS SON OF A GUN IS CHOPPING SOME MORE. Steamboat then with an atomic drop before throwing Luger in.

The challenger hops on the apron but Luger kicks his face in. Luger goes outside but he gets chopped like crazy. Both back in and Luger uses his power to take control. He works on Steamboat’s back and then hits the military press off the Irish whip. Back to work on the back before getting a few two counts. Steamboat then sneaks behind for a school boy and nearly gets a three count. Luger is pissed and destroys Steamboat. Lots of Luger fans in the crowd. Steamboat starts chopping again and Luger gets pissed and regains control before giving Tommy Young a nice shove. Flying cross body from Steamboat for another near fall.

Luger hits the inverted atomic drop as Luger taunts the same fan he’s been taunting all match long. He turns around and Steamboat hits the neck breaker. Luger gets up and goes for a clothesline but Steamboat drops and sends him over the top rope. Luger on the apron and Steamboat delivers some offense. Steamboat tries to bring Luger back inside but Luger falls on him for a near fall. Luger goes up top but Steamboat chops and sends him flying onto the mat. Chop and a dropkick from Steamboat. He goes up and nails the flying chop to the head for a two count. This is excellent.

Steamboat runs at Luger and who launches him into the other ring. Luger goes outside and grabs a chair. Young tries to take it away but Luger gets him out of the way, which is enough to allow Steamboat to catapult Luger into the corner with the chair bonking him in the head. Steamboat picks up the chair and barely nudges Young, who goes flying. GUESS WHAT’S NEXT BOYS AND GIRLS? Young calls for the DQ on Steamboat at 10:26. Steamboat keeps beating Luger with the chair and then heaves Young out of the ring. Steamboat just going wild here on Luger, and he proceeeds to chase Luger to the back with the crowd going insane. I absolutely loved this match, even if the finish wasn’t clean. Just brilliant work from both men.

• Rating: ****1/2

BACKSTAGE: The Fabulous Freebirds and the Samoan Swat Team run down the Road Warriors, Midnight Express, and Dr. Death Steve Williams ahead of the War Games match.

BACKSTAGE: The Midnights, Williams, and the Road Warriors do the same thing.

The Fabulous Freebirds and Samoan Swat Team (w/Paul E Dangerously) vs. The Midnight Express, The Road Warriors, and Dr. Death Steve Williams (w/Jim Cornette) – War Games Match

Garvin and Eaton start things off. They go back and forth until Garvin throws Eaton into the cage. Eaton gets up and reverses a corner spot and hits a kick while hanging on the top of the cage. That offense doesn’t last long as Garvin goes back on the attack. Eaton hits a backbreaker and slam before locking in the Boston crab. Here comes Gordy who immediately tosses Eaton into the cage and the Freebirds go to work.

Williams is next in and he hits a double clothesline on Garvin and Gordy. Williams and Gordy fight to the other ring and Williams presses him back and forth while ramming the top of the cage. Garvin still unloading on Eaton at this point. Samu joins the mix and he beats the hell out of Williams. Samu and Garvin use the double team on Eaton, and Williams eventually gets the same treatment from Gordy and Samu.

Here comes Animal, who starts kicking ass left and right. The good guys in complete control now while Hayes and Fatu strategize outside. Fatu makes his way in and he and Samu double heatbutt Animal. Hawk is furious on the outside as the Samoans continue to destroy Animal. Lane is next to enter and he goes wild. Chaos all over the ring with the good dudes controlling the offense.

Hayes is last to come in for his team and he hits DDT’s on pretty much everyone before he taunts Hawk. And now it’s How time as he soars off the top and takes out the Samoans immediately. Then Hawk clotheslines Hayes and he and Williams double clothesline Gordy. Hawk picks up Garvin and sends him face first into the corner. Meanwhile, Eaton with a DDT to both Hayes and Samu. Hawk still decapitating fools.

We work to Hawk hammering Garvin with a top rope clothesline, and then he hits the neck breaker. Hawk picks Garvin up and uses the hangman neck breaker to make Garvin submit at 22:18. After the match, the good guys exit but the bad guys lock Animal inside and beat on him until Hawk gets the door loose. Lots of action and good heat. I don’t love the War Games concept, but this was at least fun from start to finish.

• Rating: ***3/4

BACKSTAGE: Solie with Ric Flair. Solie wants to know why he’s returning with such a serious injury. Flair says he knows what he’s getting into. He’s 120% and ready to rock and roll.

Terry Funk (w/Gary Hart) vs. (c) Ric Flair – NWA World Heavyweight Title

Flair goes at Funk in the aisle to get us going and the crowd is going apeshit. Flair bites at Funk before going back into the ring. Funk starts trying to break the rail and then chases after a camera man before going face to face with a fan. Flair jumps outside and rams Funk’s head on the table. Funk stumbles around and throws a chair in the ring. Then he retreats into the crowd temporarily before getting on the apron and back in. My goodness Funk is just awesome here.

Flair with chops that send Funk back outside, and Flair goes out with him. Funk reverses and shoves Flair into the ring post. Now Funk is back on the apron as he kicks at Flair’s head. Funk pulls Flair on the apron and slaps the taste out of his mouth before suplexing back inside for a two count. And then Funk hits a punch before Flair rolls back to the outside. Funk with chops on the back of the neck until Flair goes for a suplex and both men take a nasty spill. That didn’t look good.

Chops back and forth and then it’s eye rakes for both gentlemen. Back on the inside and Funk goes for the piledriver, but Flair flips him over the top to the fancy blue mats. Flair takes control in the ring and gets a near fall after a knee to the back of the head. Flair then picks Funk up and hits the piledriver. Then he nails another piledriver, which sends Funk out into the aisle. Back into the ring and Flair slapping Funk silly. More offense from the champ and he gets another two count.

Flair holds Funk’s leg up and locks in the Figure Four but Hart hits the apron. Tommy Young gets distracted with that and Funk uses the branding iron to smack Flair in the face. FLAIR IS BUSTED WIDE OPEN. Funk with more offense and goes for the pin, but Flair gets the foot on the rope at two. Funk is pissed, so he goes out and removes one of the mats. He starts choking Flair with hand tape as Young comes over and tries to pull Funk off. That doesn’t work as Funk pulls Flair out for the piledriver, but Flair reverses and hits the back body drop.

Funk takes things in the ring and delivers three straight neck breakers. Somehow Flair is back up and he pops Funk with the branding iron. Flair throws Funk into the post on outside and there’s blood all over the place. Shocker considering the participants. Flair with punches inside and Funk is on SPAGHETTI LEGS. Flair goes for a knee to the corner but Funk moves and goes for the spinning toe hold. We get a double reversal with each man reversing. That leads to Flair getting another counter into the pin to retain at 17:23. As soon as the match is over, Muta hits the ring and sprays the mist into Flair’s eyes.

Funk and Muta destroy Flair BUT HERE COMES STING. He goes at Muta and brawls with Funk. Flair back up and he charges at Muta. WE’VE GOT A BROUHAHA ON OUR HANDS. Flair and Sting toss Muta and Funk much to the crowd’s delight. Then after a little pausing, Funk throws a chair in that hits Flair. He charges at Funk in the aisle and Sting does the same to Muta before causing them to retreat up the ramp.

But these guys aren’t done with each other, as JR announces the TV title has been held up and the brawling keeps going for a while. Once that stops, Flair says he’s not done with Funk while covered in blood and green mist. Great match, and the post-match stuff was superb and made it clear how much these guys hated each other.

• Rating: ****1/4

SHOW SUMMARY

Some people consider this the best pay-per-view of all-time, and while I wouldn’t go that far, it’s pretty great stuff. I personally liked Luger/Steamboat the best in terms of the match itself, but it’s nearly impossible to top the combo of the Flair/Funk match and the incredible brawling afterwards with Sting and Muta included. Today’s promotions could learn a lot from this show when it comes to selling hatred between good and evil.

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For more of my show reviews, visit the Pro Wrestling Reviews section!

The Great American Bash 1988 review features the summer spectacular for Jim Crockett Promotions. We’ve got a highly-anticipated main event in Ric Flair vs. Lex Luger and several undercard matches that seem to have to potential.

But will JCP get in its own way?

Let’s jump right into Blake’s Great American Bash 1988 review.

Date: July 10, 1988

Location: Baltimore Arena in Baltimore, MD

Sting and Nikita Koloff vs. (c) Arn Anderson and Tully Blanchard (w/JJ Dillon) – NWA World Tag Team Titles

Hell of a matchup to start the show and a hell of a brawl to start the match. While it may seem odd for Sting to go from main event star at Clash of the Champions I to opener, this is far from a step down. Sting with a small package less than a minute into the match and you can already tell this crowd is gonna be insane. STING THEN LEGITIMATELY FLIES OVER THE TOP ROPE ONTO ARN ON THE OUTSIDE. HOLY HELL. That may have been one of the loudest pops I’ve ever heard.

Koloff immediately slows things down with an armbar, but then goes damn insane with clotheslines on both Arn and Tully that sends the crowd into a frenzy. We have Sting back in as the good dudes control the match. Now we have Sting dropkicking Arn and Tully. Match slows back down but the story is the same. No one is stopping Sting and Koloff. Like there’s zero point in this match where Arn and Tully have control. Maybe a move here and there but that’s it.

Dillon has had enough of that and gets involves by pulling Koloff to the outside. Then the Russian charges at Dillon but gets speared into the ring post by Arn. This eventually leads to a big DDT from Arn but Koloff kicks out. After more control from Arn, IT’S HOT TAG TO STING TIME. He’s full steam ahead and we get to splash mountain.

And then in what was a recurring finish during this era, Sting locks on the Scorpion Death Lock but Tully doesn’t tap out before the time limit expires at 20:00. Good match, not a good finish.

• Rating: ***1/2

The Midnight Express (w/Jim Cornette) vs. (c) The Fantastics – NWA US Tag Team Titles

We saw how awesome their Clash I match was (I gave it **** and honestly think that may have been too low). Let’s see if this can top it. Cornette is put in a straight jacket and locked in a cage above the ring. The process of getting him in there drags out for about 10 minutes.

Fulton all over Eaton in the early going. Match continues to favor the champs, but it’s lacking a flow and heat. That wasn’t a problem at Clash I. You also have to keep in mind that the crowd was absolutely exhausted after the previous tag match. Not a great spot to be in.

Now we have Eaton and Lane in control by working on Rogers. He fights back to get a near fall and then Eaton prevents the hot tag to Fulton. Double team by the Express but Rogers gets the mild tag. Surprisingly zero heat for this. And then Lane powerslams Fulton on the outside. That hurt. And it’s time for the ref bump as Tommy Young goes down. This allows Lane to bring a chain in and Eaton uses it on Fulton to get the pin at 16:23 and win back the titles. Cornette gets whipped after the match.

Another wonky finish and the match wasn’t their best. But when your best is really, really good, this is still more than fine.

• Rating: ***

Kevin Sullivan, Mike Rotundo, Al Perez, Ivan Koloff, and The Russian Assassin vs. The Road Warriors, Dr. Death Steve Williams, Ronnie Garvin, and Jimmy Garvin  – Tower of Doom Match

Here’s the deal: Good luck trying to figure out the rules. All I know is that we have three cages stacked on top of each other, with the smallest one at the top, and the objective is for all five team members to eventually make it out of the bottom cage, which Precious is occupying. Also, every two minutes Tommy Young blows a horn and trap doors are open. Let’s agree to throw all logic out in the window for this portion of the review.

So we start with Ronnie Garvin and Ivan Koloff climbing ladders to the top. They are fighting in the cage while Williams and Rotundo wait right outside the top cage. This is already giving the DOOMSDAY CAGE MATCH in 1996 a run for its money. Who am I kidding? It’s not even close to that monstrosity. Yet.

Let’s try to figure out our first big development of the match. So after the first horn blows and Williams and Rotundo come in, Ronnie manages to escape through the trap door to the next cage. But no one else does. Therefore, now we have Koloff and Rotundo beating the piss out of Williams while Garvin is down there chillin’ and watching his friend get destroyed. How does that make any sense?

I’m not even trying to figure out what’s going on here anymore. We’ve got Hawk whipping that ass in the top cage while Williams/Animal vs. Koloff/Perez are happening in the second cage. We then get a camera shot of a kid in a mask (I do love masks!) and he looks like he just found out Santa wasn’t real. He’s confused as can be. Me too, kid. Me too.

Give the crowd credit though. They are reacting well. Thus far we have Garvin and Animal escaping for the good guys and Perez escaping for the bad guys. Bless Jim Ross for over the top selling this thing. We’re down to Jimmy vs. Sullivan. We all knew was happening with Precious at stake. Sullivan gets to Precious and Jimmy fights him off. Sullivan then pushes Jimmy out of the cage to give Jimmy’s team the win at 19:55. But this was all done to allow him to be locked in the cage alone with Precious.

And now Jimmy and Hawk climb all the way back to the top and come back down through all the cages as Sullivan chokes Precious. My goodness. Hawk is the first one down and he demolishes Sullivan while Jimmy takes her out of the cage. The crowd went wild for this.

How do you rate something like this? The heat was there, but the rules were obviously beyond stupid. Still, it’s better than the DOOMSDAY CAGE MATCH. Just throwing out a star here like in Super Mario Galaxy.

• Rating: *

Dusty Rhodes vs. (c) Barry Windham (w/JJ Dillon) – US Heavyweight Title Match

Here’s Dusty trying to get back his title. Vicious press slam and DDT from Dusty to get things started. Now he’s up on the top rope and hits a flying cross body. Dusty flying is not something I thought I’d ever type. Windham starts heading for the locker room but for some reason changes his mind. Why not? You retain the title in a countout. Smart wrestling in my opinion.

Dusty back in complete control after elbows to Windham and Dillon. Match now on the outside and Dusty delivers a back drop to Windham on the concrete floor. This was before mats were invented. Don’t forget that. This has been a squash so far. Windham finally gets some sort of offense with THE CLAW.  We’re now going on three minutes or so with the claw, with the only thing in between being Dusty dancing to try and get out of it. We are now over five minutes with this one move.

Finally we get a break and ref bump number two on the night is here. Dusty hits the big elbow and goes for the pin. Guess what we don’t have? A referee. And here comes Ronnie Garvin into the ring. HE CLEANS DUSTY’S CLOCK. What the hell, what the hell, what the hell! JR didn’t say that, but if this was 10 years later, that would be the call. Shocking turn and Windham claws him for the pin to retain at 15:55.

Remember what I said about Garvin not helping anyone in the Tower of Doom? Could it be that this was planned? I’ll give them the benefit of the doubt and say that it was. That’s great booking. No one saw Garvin turning, so the finish was well done and the crowd was buzzing afterwards. The match itself was not great, but kudos to all parties involved for the finish.

• Rating: **1/2

IN THE BACK: Garvin is rolling around in a suitcase of money, so the story is that Dillon and Gary Hart paid him off. Beautiful work.

Lex Luger vs. (c) Ric Flair (w/JJ Dillon) – NWA World Heavyweight Title

Luger with good offense to start this thing off and Flair is bumping like a mad man. Impressive press slam from Luger as well. I think that guy lifts weights. Funny spot with Flair calling for Tommy Young, and then Young goes out and pushes him. Flair chases him back into the ring and Luger blocks the path to Young. Small stuff like this is why Flair is the GOAT.

Now we’ve got Luger with the Bear Hug to apply pressure to Flair. Considering how hot the parking lot attack was on Luger in the build to this show, you’d think he’d be a bit more aggressive and really sell the hatred between these two. Anyways, Luger gets a near fall and then we get more battling back and forth. Flair goes up top and then gets the mini-Flairs racked after Luger pushes him onto the ropes. But Flair gets the momentum back and starts going at Luger’s knee. And now the Figure Four is locked in.

Flair using the ropes for leverage as any good heel would. Luger manages to break out and Flair goes back at the knee. Luger tries to mount offense but the knee is out of commission. This just doesn’t feel like it’s going anywhere. Flair takes control and Luger no sells the shit out of it and comes back with a vicious clothesline. Backslide gets a near fall, then we get a terrible spot with both trying to go over the top. Luger seemingly voluntarily throws himself over with Flair.

Dillon takes a cheapshot at Luger by throwing him into the ring post. He’s busted wide open. Meanwhile, the wrestling commissioner is calling for the referee. Luger puts Flair in the Torture Rack to win at 23:13, BUT SCREWJOB FINISH AGAIN BOYS AND GIRLS. Young awards the match to Flair after the SUPERVISING INSPECTOR OF THE STATE OF MARYLAND STOPS THE MATCH DUE TO LUGER’S FOREHEAD BLEEDING.

Think about the build to this match. Luger was busted open in the parking lot brouhaha and really bled like a stuck pig. In this match, the cut was nowhere near that impressive. And it left the crowd extremely unhappy after having the wool pulled over their eyes yet again. This was a mega match for the promotion, and once again, JCP makes a complete mockery of it with a pathetic finish. Why should anyone pay for a ticket to this? It made Luger look terrible and the promotion look even worse. Match was fine, but it gets knocked for the brutal finish.

• Rating:  **1/2

Blake’s Great American Bash 1988 Awards

• Best Match: Sting and Nikita Koloff vs. Arn Anderson and Tully Blanchard
• Show MVP: Ric Flair
• Overall Great American Bash 1988 Rating: 4.5/10
• Thoughts: The state of JCP can be wrapped up with one of the final moments of the pay per view. No, not the unbelievably stupid finish in the biggest match in the company at the time. It was the final scene where JR and Schiavone were discussing the ending, and a random fan in the background gives the middle finger to the camera for about five seconds before the camera cuts away. He wasn’t the only one that wanted to do that. Why should anyone pay money for this event when you know you’re getting screwy finishes by the dozen? This company had the superior wrestlers, but it didn’t have the superior minds. This show was proof of that despite several decent matches. Luckily, all of this would start to change by the time we reach our next big event involving these guys.

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For more of my show reviews, visit the Pro Wrestling Reviews section!

We witnessed a rather disappointing summer spectacular from Jim Crockett Promotions, and the Summerslam 1988 review features yet another opportunity for Vince McMahon to deliver a body blow to his competition.

This is a show I’ve actually watched in the past few years, but for some reason don’t remember much about the thing.

It’s time to feel the heat. Let’s get right to Blake’s Summerslam 1988 review.

• Date: August 29, 1988
• Location: Madison Square Garden in New York City, NY

ANNOUNCE BOOTH: Gorilla Monsoon and……Superstar Billy Graham are your announcers for the evening. Be prepared for lots of Superstar commentary notes. He was not good. Not good at all.

The Fabulous Rougeaus vs. The British Bulldogs

My goodness did I love the Rougeaus. Typical weasel team that brought hilarious spots to the table. Superstar Billy Graham saying “Gorilla Monsoon” counter: 8. And we’ve only just begun. Make it 9 now.

The Bulldogs have the control, and we’ve got a hot crowd. It’s MSG, so of course we do. It’s also worth noting that Dynamite and Jacques hated each other after a backstage incident prior to this, so this could be fun. Jacques regains control after pulling Davey Boy’s leg and bringing him down while running the ropes. Now we’ve got all Rougeaus in this one. Davey Boy really getting worked over, but Dynamite gets the hot tag and now things change.

We get a near fall but Jacques throws the foot on the ropes. Davey Boy with the powerslam but now we have the Rougeaus back in control after more underhanded tactics. Abdominal stretch is now the name of the game as the Rougeaus take turns with the restholds. More great work as Raymond gets a cheap shot in with the ref’s back turned.

After more Rougeaus in control, we get another hot tag to Davey Boy. Dynamite then hits the headbutt and the bell rings. Time limit draw at 11:19. Yes apparently the time limit on this match was 11:19. Is this WWF or JCP? Decent match, and we get a chase to the back afterwards.

• Rating: ***

VIDEO: Recent events from Outlaw Ron Bass beating the shit out of Brutus Beefcake. Thank goodness. So now Honky Tonk Man doesn’t have a challenger for his IC Title later, but Gorilla says someone will challenge him. You knew this would….ahem…..ultimately happen.

Bad News Brown vs. Ken Patera

Because life could not go on unless we saw Bad News Brown vs. Ken Patera duke it out. Superstar’s “Gorilla Monsoon” counter: 49. It should be noted that Patera has smoother thighs than Beyonce here.

No reason to waste much time with this match. Brown wasn’t losing to Patera and his thighs. Brown with the Ghetto Blaster for the win at 6:35. This was not a good match and went five minutes too long.

• Rating: DUD

BACKSTAGE: Gene Okerlund with Hulk Hogan, Randy Savage and Elizabeth. The Mega Powers are ready.

Rick Rude (w/Bobby Heenan) vs. Junkyard Dog

Rude before the match uses the term “inner city sweat hogs.” Rude was a national treasure. JYD rushes Rude out of the ring immediately and this is 50 times better than Brown/Patera already.

And Rude is back in control. Rest hold time and then JYD gets the look and decides to pounce. It doesn’t last long and Rude goes up top and exposes the trunks under the trunks. It’s the face of Cheryl Roberts, which was of course Jake’s wife. That causes Jake to run out and blast him, causing the DQ at 3:55. Still not sure why they didn’t do Rude/Jake here instead.

• Rating: DUD

BACKSTAGE: Honky doesn’t give a damn who his opponent is for the IC title. He might change his tune on that one. See what I did there?

The Bolsheviks (w/Slick) vs. The Powers of Pain (w/The Baron)

As if the WWF tag division needed another strong team, here we have Barbarian and Warlord straight outta JCP (where they’d been booked to face the Road Warriors in a scaffold match at Great American Bash before jumping ship). And the MSG crowd LOVED these dudes. How could you not? Two big hosses that were absolute badasses. Sign me up.

Well it’s clear that the Powers of Pain aren’t selling shit here, and they shouldn’t. Total squash mode as the Powers get the victory at 4:43 to prepare themselves for an inevitable showdown with Demolition.

• Rating: *

IN THE RING: Brother Love segment with Hacksaw Jim Duggan. I’ve seen it multiple times and there’s no way I’m watching it again. Good luck to those brave souls that do.

The Ultimate Warrior vs. (c) The Honky Tonk Man – Intercontinental Title

More often than not, you know when a star is officially born. This was one of those cases. The roof absolutely comes off of MSG when the Warrior’s music hits, and at that point you knew.

And then of course Warrior completely squashes Honky and scores the pin at :30 to win the title. After Honky ruled the IC scene for over a year with shit matches, this had to happen. And the people absolutely loved it. Perfect booking. Obviously a squash, but it gets two stars for the overall importance of it.

• Rating: **

Don Muraco vs. Dino Bravo (w/Frenchy Martin)

Wonderful. A WrestleMania IV rematch. That match wasn’t a dud or anything. Update: Yes it was. These two could have been a great tag team as the Juice Masters. Have them bring out blenders and everything. Bobby Heenan could have promoted this like a champ. Speaking of the Brain, he’s on commentary here much to the delight of every eardrum ever. Superstar’s “Gorilla Monsoon” counter: 376.

This match is bad and Bravo hits the sideslam for the win at 1:16 to get revenge from the WrestleMania tournament match I guess. Six matches thus far and only two have gone over a single star. Great pacing.

• Rating: DUD

BACKSTAGE: Jesse Ventura is your referee for tonight’s main event and Sean Mooney questions him. What an awesome duo these two were.

The Hart Foundation vs. (c) Demolition (w/Mr. Fuji and Jimmy Hart) – WWF Tag Team Titles

Something tells me our streak of duds is over. The story is that the Hart Foundation are good guys now after sending Jimmy packing. Unfortunately, Jimmy still owned the team’s contract, so he could appear at ringside for this one. So naturally he’s gonna get involved in the match. It was impossible not to cheer Demolition at this point though. Total beasts.

Hart showcases his wrestling ability early, delivering a good sequence of moves to both Ax and Smash. And then the game changes when Smash rifles Hart shoulder-first into the post. That leads to a lot of offense from Demolition before the hot tag to Neidhart. But the ref didn’t see it. IS TEDDY LONG REFEREEING THIS MATCH?

Finally Neidhart gets the legal tag and he slams everyone in sight. Well not the referee or Bret or any of the people in the crowd. Mostly just Ax and Smash.

Cool slingshot spot over the top with Neidhart taking out Smash. Near fall on the powerslam. Bret gets another near fall on Smash and the crowd is reacting to every count. Neidhart heads over to attack Fuji on the apron, which distracts the ref and allows Jimmy Hart to throw the megaphone to Ax. I’ll give you two guesses what he does with it.

Ax bonks Bret and Smash scores the pin to retain at 8:11. Liked this as much as I liked the opener.

• Rating: ***

BACKSTAGE: Honky is pissed. That’s about it.

Big Boss Man (w/Slick) vs. Koko B. Ware

Welcome to another squash. Actually not a terrible back and forth match overall, as Boss Man was obviously very talented.

The crowd goes bananas when Koko almost gets a near fall midway through the match. But Boss Man hit the sideslam right after that to get the victory at 5:55. It was much better than a dud since the crowd was into it, even if it was short.

• Rating: *1/2

BACKSTAGE: Ultimate Warrior promo alert. He’s overly excited after winning the IC title. Muraco is also here just hanging out in nothing but a towel. Cool.

Hercules vs. Jake ‘The Snake’ Roberts

Hey this has potential. Herc tries to attack Jake from behind to start the match, but that doesn’t go well. However, Herc does eventually lock in the chinlock to take control of the match midway through. I’ll give Superstar credit here: he’s really doing a good job of selling Herc as a dangerous threat. The “Gorilla Monsoon” counter may be up to 809, but at least Superstar is making progress.

A very slow-paced match. If they wanted to bring the crowd down before the main event, it worked. Jake finally hits the DDT and pins Herc for the win at 10:08. Little heat until the finish. Not their best work.

• Rating: *1/2

VIDEO: Main event hype time. The build was obviously pretty good stuff.

Andre the Giant and Ted DiBiase (w/Bobby Heenan and Virgil) vs. Hulk Hogan and Randy Savage (w/Elizabeth) – Special Guest Referee: Jesse Ventura

Sidebar to what this could have been: It’s common knowledge that Vince was doing serious negotiating to try and bring Ric Flair into the WWF at this point. He reportedly even went as far as offering him a title match against Savage here in the main event slot. But Flair decided to stay with JCP. That match would have been glorious.

Jesse already showing his authority by changing the tag ropes to different corners. Then we get him almost belting Hogan, which I’m sure he would have loved to do.

Andre and Savage get us started before DiBiase tags in quickly. Then Savage tags in Hogan. Of course Hogan gets the most of this exchange, but after a few minutes finds himself being worked on by Andre and DiBiase. And DiBiase locks on the sleeper hold while Gorilla and Superstar knock Jesse’s refereeing skills. Hogan finally makes the tag to Savage, and he’s going haywire on DiBiase.

But Savage’s luck runs out and DiBiase delivers a hard clothesline before tagging in Andre. And now we come full circle with Hogan getting the tag and going at DiBiase. Hogan drops Andre and crowd can’t believe it. Then we have Savage catching a boot from Andre off the top rope. Andre then clears the ring as he and DiBiase momentarily stand tall.

Elizabeth gets on the apron and she removes her skirt. SHE’S GOT LEGS AND SHE KNOWS HOW TO USE THEM. Even Elizabeth has to drop her head and laugh at the absurdity of this whole thing. Hogan and Savage then do their super awesome handshake on the outside and completely take over the match. Hogan makes sure he gets the pin on DiBiase at 14:48. Fun match from start to finish.

• Rating: ***

Blake’s SummerSlam 1988 Awards

• Best Match: Mega Powers vs. Mega Bucks
• SummerSlam MVP: Miss Elizabeth
• Overall SummerSlam 1988 Rating: 6.5/10
• Thoughts: You never forget your first. That was the case with this installment of Summerslam, even if it was far from great. It was more about storyline advancement rather than awesome matches. Nothing wrong with that. All of the tag matches on the show were entertaining, with the main event actually delivering a solid payoff. Little did we know what the future would hold for the Mega Powers.

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For more of my show reviews, visit the Pro Wrestling Reviews section!

In this WrestleMania I review, the most recognizable show in wrestling gets its official start as Hulk Hogan teams with Mr. T in the main event, Cyndi Lauper has fun, and much more.

Let’s jump in!

• Show: WWF WrestleMania I
• Date: March 31, 1985
• Location: Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York

VIDEO: The opening intro video hits all the nostalgia notes. Love it.

RINGSIDE: Gorilla Monsoon and Jesse Ventura throw it to Howard Finkel, who uses the magic line “Welcome to WrestleMania.” Mean Gene Okerlund sings the National Anthem like only Mean Gene can.

BACKSTAGE: Lord Alfred Hayes is here. He’s also awesome. He throws it to Gene with Tito Santana. Tito says The Executioner won’t stop him. Areba! The Executioner (played by Buddy Rose) sends his own message to Tito.

Tito Santana vs. The Executioner

It’s impossible to talk about this match without talking about the greatness of Gorilla and Jesse. It quickly brings you back to their awesome chemistry. Tito controls the match early, and while Executioner gets some offense going, this was basically a showcase for Tito’s talents. He even throws Executioner to the outside near the ringside table. Tito uses the Figure Four to earn the win. (*1/2)

• Winner: Tito Santana via submission

BACKSTAGE: Alfred throws it to pre-recorded interviews with SD Jones and King Kong Bundy. Gene doesn’t look thrilled that SD is looking at the wrong camera.

King Kong Bundy (w/Jimmy Hart) vs. SD Jones

You should never jump into Bundy and expect good things to happen. That’s what SD does, and Bundy does what he should have done and that’s ram him into the corner, hit the avalanche, and then the splash for the squash victory. It serves its purpose of pushing Bundy as a monster. (SQUASH)

• Winner: King Kong Bundy via pinfall at 0:09

BACKSTAGE: Gene with Matt Borne (aka the future Doink) and Ricky Steamboat. The latter is jacked.

Matt Borne vs. Ricky Steamboat

Steamboat just looks like an absolute stud in this match. Of course, he was, but it’s still worth pointing out. He had the look, the in-ring work, all of it. A true legend. Gorilla’s technical terms for parts of the body is also legendary, and there’s a lot of that in this one. A competitive match, with Steamboat hitting an awesome flying cross body for the victory. (**)

• Winner: Ricky Steamboat via pinfall

BACKSTAGE: Gene with David Sammartino, who has Bruno Sammartino by his side. Brutus Beefcake and Johnny Valiant offer their response, and Valiant wants a piece of Bruno.

Brutus Beefcake (w/Johnny Valiant) vs. David Sammartino (w/Bruno Sammartino)

If you want to know how huge Bruno was, go back and listen to the ovation he gets when Fink introduces him in David’s corner. Also, if you want to see some legendary stalling techniques, you can watch the pre-match with Beefcake and Valiant. I love Gorilla and Jesse playing up how much a loss would set back either man’s career by six months to a year. It’s the little things that make a big difference when it comes to adding stakes to a non-title match. The picture-in-picture of each manager is another nice touch.

A back and forth match with Sammartino using amateur wrestling moves throughout to work over Beefcake’s leg. Beefcake’s underhanded tactics allow him to get back in the match, and the crowd is really behind Sammartino. A simple back suplex gets one of the biggest pops of the match, which shows that wrestling doesn’t have to be all that complicated. Valiant slams Sammartino on the exposed floor, which leads to Bruno running wild. The referee throws out the match. (*1/2)

• Winner: Double DQ 

BACKSTAGE: Gene with Greg Valentine and Jimmy Hart. They hype the Intercontinental title, then The Junkyard Dog runs down Valentine.

The Junkyard Dog vs. (c) Greg Valentine (w/Jimmy Hart) – WWF Intercontinental Title

The crowd loves them some JYD, and he got a superstar entrance. One of the themes of this one is Valentine using his methodical approach to make it a grind for JYD. That was Valentine’s style, which I appreciate even more in this era of wrestling. Hart, of course, gets involved in the match, with JYD causing Valentine to hit his own manager. Shortly after, Valentine goes the true heel route to use the ropes for leverage to earn the win.

But then Tito Santana runs in to convince the referee of the cheating. So the referee restarts the match and counts out Valentine to award JYD the victory but not the title. This was a finish, but I didn’t love it (the fans popped big for JYD being announced the victory, though). (*1/2)

• Winner: The Junkyard Dog via countout

BACKSTAGE: Love hearing The Iron Sheik call Mean Gene “Gene Mean.” Sheik, Nikolai Volkoff, and Freddie Blassie want to take over the world. Captain Lou Albano comes in with Mike Rotundo and Barry Windham, and they’re ready for the match.

The Iron Sheik and Nikolai Volkoff (w/Freddie Blassie) vs. (c) Barry Windham and Mike Rotundo (w/Captain Lou Albano) – WWF Tag Team Titles

To no one’s surprise, the crowd trashes the ring for Nikolai’s singing of the Russian national anthem. About the type of tag team match formula you would expect in this era, as the babyfaces focus on wrestling and teamwork, while the heels aim for illegal tactics. Four entertaining wrestlers, so they made this fun and kept the fans involved throughout the match.

Windham was in the hot tag spot, but after he hits the bulldog on Volkoff, all breaks loose. Of course, that allows Blassie to get the cane to Sheik, who wallops Windham with it while the referee is distracted with Rotunda. New champs in what was a solid tag match. (**1/2)

• Winners: The Iron Sheik and Nikolai Volkoff via pinfall to win the titles

BACKSTAGE: Gene Mean questions the new champs, and Sheik no-sells it and boasts his awesomeness.

BACKSTAGE: Gene welcomes Big John Studd and Bobby Heenan with the $15,000 prize. Heenan is truly the best as he scolds Gene and tells him not to touch the money.

Big John Studd (w/Bobby Heenan) vs. Andre the Giant – $15,000 Slam Match

So, the rules are if Studd gets slammed, Andre wins the money. If he doesn’t, Andre must retire. A true spectacle here, with the crowd mesmerized by Andre. I appreciate the trivia note from Jesse on Andre’s shoe size, which is 23 or 24. The manager picture-in-picture is back, and I wish they’d do more of this in modern wrestling. It’s a cool reaction visual.

Speaking of modern wrestling, this is a match that doesn’t hold up well in an era of speed and athleticism. This one is all about power, and it’s certainly not for everyone. Eventually, Andre slams Studd to win the money, and the fans go wild. Heenan sneaks in to steal the money because Heenan was just fantastic. (*1/2)

• Winner: Andre the Giant via bodyslam

BACKSTAGE: Gene is impressed by Andre, who doesn’t care about the money. He slammed Studd and isn’t gonna retire.

BACKSTAGE: Gene with Wendi Richter and Cyndi Lauper. This is the 80s! Richter and Lauper are pissed and want some payback. The Fabulous Moolah and Lelani Kai guarantee victory.

Wendi Richter (w/Cyndi Lauper) vs. Lelani Kai (w/Fabulous Moolah) – WWF Women’s Title

Lauper is awesome in her role. Obviously, this was a huge deal to have Lauper involved, so it’s cool that she embraced it. Richter was pissed entering the match, and she rightfully came out with a lot of aggression from the start. They exchange offense for a while until the inevitable spot with Moolah going after Richter, only for Lauper to break it up.

A nice near fall after that with Kai kicking out at two and a half, and that gets a pop from the crowd. Another near fall follows, and I give them credit for working in several of these to win the fans over. Kai’s flying cross body is reversed into a pinfall by Richter, which is enough for the win. More about the celebrity involvement than the match.(*1/2)

• Winner: Wendi Richter via pinfall to win the title

BACKSTAGE: Gene with Richter, Lauper, and Dave Wolff. Lauper is thrilled.

IN THE RING: Fink invites Billy Martin in as the special guest ring announcer. He introduces Liberace and Muhammad Ali as special judges.

Roddy Piper and Paul Orndorff (w/Bob Orton) vs. Hulk Hogan and Mr. T (w/Jimmy Snuka)

The build to this match was truly a spectacle, with all four playing a role in the Hogan/Piper match for the WWE title at The War to Settle the Score the month prior. Piper and Orndorff truly are a great duo. Hulkamania is 100 percent running wild in this era, as showcased by the huge pop when his music hits. Jesse calls it the biggest match in the history of wrestling which, at this point, is true considering what WrestleMania would become. Chaos breaks loose early, and that allows Ali to jump in and restore order. Love it.

Everything builds to a hot tag to Mr. T, which then builds to the hot tag to Hogan. All four men were excellent in keeping the fans engaged, and it’s booked well from a “spot” standpoint. Snuka and Orton eventually go at it, and then it’s Orton who accidentally hits Orndorff off the top to allow Hogan to score the pin for the victory. Not every match has to be a technical masterpiece, especially when the entertainment value is high. That’s what this match was all about. (**1/2)

• Winners: Hulk Hogan and Mr. T via pinfall

BACKSTAGE: Gene with Hogan and Mr. T, who celebrate their victory.

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BLAKE’S TAKE ON WRESTLEMANIA I

Recommended Matches: The two tag team matches aren’t great, but they’re the best things on this particular card.

Show MVPs: Let’s give it to Gorilla Monsoon and Jesse Ventura, who were terrific as always. Shout out to Mr. T and Cyndi Lauper as well for having fun out there.

Overall Rating: 5.0/10

Thoughts: There’s plenty of nostalgia with WrestleMania I, but it’s far from a must-see wrestling show. This is one that cannot be understated in terms of importance. But as for quality, it’s probably on the lower end of WrestleManias throughout history. The celebrity involvement was fun, and the MSG crowd brought enthusiasm. However, it’s just not a WrestleMania with a lot of replay value.

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For more of my show reviews, visit the Pro Wrestling Reviews section!

After an interesting WrestleMania, we’re onto the Summerslam 1989 review.

Of course, as most will remember, the build to the biggest match on this show was based around the No Holds Barred movie that featured Hulk Hogan.

Let’s dive into Blake’s Summerslam 1989 review.

Date: August 28, 1989

Location: The Meadlowlands in East Rutherford, NJ

The Hart Foundation vs. (c) The Brain Busters (w/Bobby Heenan)

The story here is that the Busters are the champs but they weren’t the champs before the contract was signed, thus this isn’t a title match. Bret and Tully with technical action early before Neihart and Arn work their way in. Arn dives for a tag but Neidhart prevents it and tags in Bret. Some offense from Bret and then Neidhart is back. Arn finally makes a tag to Tully, with the latter going for a cheap shot but Bret blocks and tags in Neidhart. Tully then goes for a hip toss but another block from Neidhart. Good announce work from Tony Schiavone here in putting over the Foundation’s teamwork. That naturally leads to Jesse Ventura calling him out.

Tully delivers some chops to Neidhart and the Anvil is pissed. He throws Tully hard into the corner and tags in Bret. This has been a squash to this point. Bret locks in the hammerlock and Tully eventually gets out and we get the bridge by Bret. Arn comes in for the double team, and Bret flips over and sends them both reeling. Bret and Tully exchange punches before going outside. Bret chases and doesn’t see Tully make the tag, with Arn coming from behind and going to work.

Arn goes for some offense off the top but Bret gets the knee up. The Busters go outside to regroup with Heenan giving instructions. Back in the ring and Bret drives the boot into Tully’s stomach. Neidhart comes in with the evil laugh and catches Tully in mid-air before delivering right hands in the corner. Arn breaks that up but Bret comes in to take down Arn. Foundation go for the double team on Tully but Arn pulls his partner out of the way.

Tully now with the chin lock on Neidhart. Arn gets in and goes for a pin, and Neidhart tosses him to Jupiter. Busters exchange tags and stay on offense until Neidhart and Arn collide mid-ring. Neidhart tries to get the tag but Arn doesn’t allow it. Bret nails Arn in the back and both men down again. Arn makes the tag to Tully, and then Neidhart manages to reach for the tag to Bret. Elbow and a slam to both Busters. Dropkick to Arn, and Bret slams Tully again for good measure. Bret comes off the top with the elbow to Tully before hitting as suplex. Arn breaks the count and now all four men inside.

Bret and Tully collide on the clotheslines as Arn and Neidhart fight outside. Bret sling shots Neidhart back in onto Tully. Neidhart picks Bret up off the top and power slams Bret onto Tully but referee Joey Marella gets occupied with Heenan. That allows Arn, who isn’t the legal man, to hit the double ax handle off the top and pin Bret for the three at 16:23. Solid tag team match that’s enjoyable from start to finish.

• Rating: ***1/2

BACKSTAGE: Gene Okerlund with Dusty Rhodes. He hypes the match with Honky Tonk Man.

Honky Tonk Man (w/Jimmy Hart) vs. Dusty Rhodes

Jesse says Honky needs to outwrestle Dusty to win. That may be a problem. Dusty backdrops Honky right off the bat. Dusty then with some theatrics while messing with Honky’s hair. Atomic drop from Dusty and then he hits the elbow to the head. We get the usual 10 corner punches and then Dusty has apparently decided to give Honky a hamstring stretch. Honky gets out and they exchange headlocks and punches. Dusty goes off the ropes and Hart grabs his leg, which sends Dusty on the chase. Hart gets inside and the ref gets occupied with him, and that allows Honky to nail Dusty in the stomach with the megaphone for a two count.

Honky in control with the headlock for what feels like hours. Dusty eventually fights out and slams Honky but the latter reverses and goes back to the headlock. They fight to the corner and Honky keeps thwarting Dusty’s comeback until the polka dot king starts dancing. They go to the corner again and Honky sends Dusty into the referee. WE’VE GOT A REF BUMP IN A MATCH ASSOCIATED WITH DUSTY RHODES. I am shocked. Hart grabs the guitar and accidentally bonks Honky in the head after Dusty moves, which leads us to the pin at 9:36. The match was what you expected it to be.

• Rating: *1/2

BACKSTAGE: Gene with Hacksaw Jim Duggan and Demolition. Hacksaw is wearing a Demolition mask. Smash says they’ve been tossing cars around in the parking lot to prepare for the amount of weight they’re gonna face on the other team.

Mr. Perfect vs. The Red Rooster

Perfect is still absolutely perfect to this point. I don’t feel good about a rooster ending someone’s undefeated streak. Arm drags from Perfect but Rooster slaps him in the face. This leads to a leapfrog sequence that results in Rooster legitimately blowing out his knee. He goes for a bodyslam on Perfect but can’t even get him up, which causes Perfect to fall on him for a pin attempt.

Chops and kicks from Perfect, and then a dropkick sends Rooster outside. Rooster rolls back in and his knee is fucked. They fight outside for a minute and Perfect takes it back in for the Perfect Plex and the win at 3:21. Just a showcase for Perfect here with Rooster clearly in pain after a legit injury.

• Rating: *

BACKSTAGE: Gene with Heenan and Rick Rude. The IC champ is gonna prove that the Ultimate Warrior is a liar. Heenan says Warrior will have a blue and black eye. It’s worth noting that this is the famous interview where the Summerslam sign fell on Gene, which led them to doing a double take. The original version is out there on YouTube for your viewing pleasure.

The Rockers and Tito Santana vs. The Rougeau Brothers and Rick Martel (w/Jimmy Hart and Slick)

CAN WE ALL AGREE THAT THE ROUGEAU’S MUSIC IS THE GREATEST? I loved these dudes. The Rougeaus and Martel have an inspirational chat before the match begins. Jacques and Tito get us started. That doesn’t last long as the Rockers come in and we’ve got chaos. The good guys clean house much to the crowd’s delight. Jannetty and Jacques go at each other until Raymond and his mullet get the tag for a little offense.

Martel comes in and goes to work. He decides to showboat, and that allows Jannetty to tag in Tito. Martel gets the hell outta there and tags in Raymond. We work back to the bad guys using the double team, with Martel coming in once Tito was incapacitated. Martel gets some offense before tagging back out. Eventually Tito regains control and Martel is back in on the receiving end of it. Martel manages to get some offense in and tag to Raymond, who keeps going at Tito.

It’s pretty much all heels for a while as they use underhanded tactics. Tito gets a few reversals and near falls but it leads back to the bad guys wearing him down. Miscalculation from the Rougeau men and that finally leads to the hot tag to Michaels. Crowd goes crazy and he goes wild on Martel. More chaos ensues as everyone gets in on the action. Eventually we get shenanigans and Martel pins Jannetty for the victory at 14:58. Two out of three matches where the legal man doesn’t get pinned, but rules are made to be broken or something like that. I liked the match, even if it was your typical six man tag where the heels work over one guy until a hot tag.

• Rating: ***

VIDEO: We get the events leading up to the IC title match between Rude and Warrior.

BACKSTAGE: Gene with Warrior, who cuts one of the most mind-blowing promos ever.

The Ultimate Warrior vs. (c) Rick Rude (w/Bobby Heenan – Intercontinental Title

Jesse’s pre-match commentary is pretty stellar. Rude with quick offense but Warrior will not stand for that. Rude keeps trying, and Warrior keeps making the champ look silly. Then we get the strength of Warrior on display as he military presses him to the outside. That looked like it hurt. Warrior goes out there with him and he picks up the belt and hammers Rude with it. This leads to one of the best commentary lines ever:

Jesse: “That’s a disqualification! Where the hell is the referee?”

Schiavone: “It’s outside the ring, Jesse.”

Jesse: “So what! What are you gonna tell me, Schiavone? You can shoot someone outside the ring as long as it’s outside the ring?”

Jesse is a natural treasure, folks. He goes off on Warrior not being able to wrestle as the challenger goes up top. Warrior hits the double ax handle on Rude but only gets a two count. A couple of slams and Irish whips for another two count. Then Warrior hits a suplex for another two. Warrior just dominating this thing as he mocks Rude’s dancing.

Warrior goes back up top but Rude flings himself at the turnbuckle and the mini Warriors are officially crushed. Rude goes at the back and hits a suplex for two. Rude locks in the reverse chin lock as the crowd tries to pump up the Warrior. Rude goes for the Rude Awakening but Warriors gets loose momentarily before Rude jumps on for the sleeper hold. Warrior gets out and they both run off the ropes and collide, which also sends the ref to the mat.

Ref still down as Rude gets up and hits Warrior a few times. WARRIOR IS HULKING UP. Flurry of offense from Warrior and he hits the power slam for the pin but the ref is out cold. Warrior delivers a piledriver to Rude and HERE COMES THE REF…….1……2……Rude gets the foot on the rope. Now Warrior goes for the splash but Rude gets the knees up. Rude then tries a piledriver of sorts that doesn’t turn out so well but he still gets a two count.

Rude now up top and he gets the foot to the head for a two count. Crowd starts going bananas AND THE HOT ROD IS HERE. Piper stands near the ring as Rude gets upset and dances. Piper literally shows his ass and Warrior catches Rude off the top with a belly to back suplex. Warrior nails the shoulder block before hitting the press slam and splash to win the title at 16:02. This was a lot of fun, and it was entertaining enough to warrant a higher rating than most may give it.

• Rating: ***3/4

BACKSTAGE: Gene with Mr. Perfect. He runs down the Rooster and we get a replay of the Perfect Plex. Perfect exits and here comes Piper. It’s sad that these two legends left us so early. Piper cuts a wacky promo before leaving. Now we’ve got Ronnie Garvin, who is dressed in a full tuxedo. He’s outta there as Heenan flies in upset. He goes off on Piper as Rude enters the picture. Rude is fuming over losing the title and Heenan requests that the match be started over right now.

RING AREA: Schiavone and Jesse send us to intermission. Just think if WWE had intermissions now during their already 14-hour long PPVs.

BACKSTAGE: Gene shows us a video hyping the feud between Hulk Hogan and Zeus.

The Twin Towers and Andre the Giant (w/Slick) vs. Demolition and Hacksaw Jim Duggan

I’ll give this match six stars if “Jive Soul Bro” plays on repeat in the background. But let’s stop for a second and appreciate the group of hosses in this one. Duggan has American face paint on as he and Akeem go nose to nose to start things off. Demolition come in for the double team shortly after.

Good guys stay in control for a bit until Ax gets caught and Andre comes in. He and Akeem do some damage until we get the hot tag to Smash. He goes wild and slams both Boss Man and Akeem. All hell breaks loose as the referee loses control. Then, like a true babyface would, Duggan gets the 2×4 when the ref’s back is turned and wallops Akeem to allow Smash to get the pin at 7:23. Not much to this but HOSSES WERE EVERYWHERE.

• Rating: *1/2

BACKSTAGE: Gene with Ted DiBiase. He says he’s the greatest and will squash Jimmy Snuka.

IN THE RING: Howard Finkel announces Ronnie Garvin as the special guest ring announcer. He runs down Greg Valentine while introducing him, which furthered the somewhat interesting feud between the two.

The Mighty Hercules vs. Greg Valentine (w/Jimmy Hart)

Garvin goes to nail Valentine before the match starts but Here steps in and delivers a punch. Lots of offense from Herc until Valentine goes to remove the shinguard to hook the Figure Four. Herc reverses and Valentine goes up top. Valentine flies off the top but Herc hits the punch to the midsection. More back and forth until Valentine uses the ropes in the corner to score the cheap pin at 3:08.

Garvin gets in and announces Herc as the winner, which of course leads to Valentine decking him. Valentine and Herc go at it and Garvin comes back in to send Valentine reeling. This simply furthered a feud.

• Rating: 1/2*

BACKSTAGE: Gene with Randy Savage, Zeus, and Sensational Sherri. They’re standing around the cauldron of madness, which is a trash can with smoke flying everywhere. Sherri sees the future, and Savage hypes the showdown.

‘Million Dollar Man’ Ted DiBiase (w/Virgil) vs. Jimmy Snuka

DiBiase gets the jobber entrance as Schiavone hypes Snuka’s entrance and the crowd going wild. They actually don’t seem to be that excited. Snuka to work right away. Virgil hops on the apron and gets mouthy with Snuka, and that leads to DiBiase accidentally hitting Virgil. Snuka sends DiBiase outside to regroup. Then we get what is apparently the move of doom for the evening, as Snuka goes for the leapfrog but can’t up high enough and essentially just falls on DiBiase’s head. Not good.

Back and forth we go with Snuka hitting a backdrop. DiBiase finds a way to send Snuka flying into the ropes and proceeds to deliver punches in the corner. Vertical suplex gets a two. DiBiase goes up to deliver the elbow drop but Snuka gets out of the way. Snuka up top now and he hits the headbutt but doesn’t cover. Jesse pretty much calls him a moron for this. Virgil steps on the apron and Snuka goes to chase him.

DiBiase goes with them and throws Snuka into the post before getting back in. Snuka can’t make it back in and DiBiase wins by countout at 6:27. Snuka attacks both afterwards and hits a truly awful backbreaker to Virgil. I didn’t particularly care for this at all.

• Rating: 1/2*

BACKSTAGE: Gene with Hulk Hogan and “Beefcake Barber” as our good friend Zeus would say. Hogan talks about Moses crossing the Red Sea and some other stuff.

IN THE RING: Ladies and gentlemen, THE GENIUS IS HERE WITH A POEM!

Randy Savage and Zeus (w/Sensational Sherri) vs. Hulk Hogan and Brutus Beefcake (w/Miss Elizabeth)

Hogan goes over to Finkel before the match starts and whispers in his ears. HERE COMES MISS ELIZABETH. Savage flips out over this. All four men going at it to kick things off and Hogan tries to lift Zeus but that ain’t happening. Zeus drops down and chokes the daylights out of Hogan before catching Beefcake off the top. Hogan comes from behind and nails Zeus but it does nothing. Zeus picks Hogan up and Savage comes off top to start the double team.

Savage wearing down Hogan with a sleeper hold but the champ goes to the wrong corner and Zeus nails him. Zeus in now and he locks on the bearhug of doom. WILL HOGAN TAP OUT? I already know the answer to this, and I hope you do too. Zeus rams Hogan into the turnbuckle and Savage tags in. He delivers some offense and spits in Beefcake’s face. DO IT AGAIN. Savage tries to go back on offense but Hogan gets the hot tag to Beefcake. He clotheslines Savage and hits the high knee for a two.

Sleeper hold from Beefcake until Savage runs him into the turnbuckle. Savage tags in Zeus and he goes at Beefcake, but the latter rakes the eyes. Referee turns his back to go over to Hogan, and Savage uses Sherri’s purse to clock Beefcake. IT APPEARS THAT BEEFCAKE IS UNCONSCIOUS AFTER GETTING HIT WITH A LADY’S PURSE. Savage races outside to go after Elizabeth but Hogan stops it. Then Savage goes in for another pin but Hogan stops that as well.

Zeus in and he rides Beefcake like a bronco. More offense from the big man until Savage tags back in. Double clothesline and both dudes are down. Beefcake makes the hot tag and Hogan goes wild. He goes for a suplex on Savage but Sherri pulls his legs and Savage falls on him to regain the advantage. Savage goes for the elbow drop and hits it. HOGAN’S NOT SELLING THAT SHIT, FOLKS. Hogan gets up immediately and sends Savage outside the ring.

Zeus in and Hogan eventually knocks him off his feet while Elizabeth trips up Sherri. Chaos everywhere. Hogan then picks up the purse and hits Zeus with it. That’s enough to get the pin at 15:04. Wild scene after the match as Hogan gives Sherri an atomic drop and they cut her hair. WHAT A TRUE AMERICAN HERO! Your typical late 80s Hogan match, and I honestly didn’t think Zeus was that bad in his role.

• Rating: **

SHOW SUMMARY

Warrior/Rude was the best thing on the show, and the main event used the same formula we saw many times during this era. It’s full of entertainment, but it doesn’t really hold up in this day and age. As always, Jesse’s commentary was excellent and made things better than they should have been.

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For more of my show reviews, visit the Pro Wrestling Reviews section!

In this WWF Royal Rumble 1998 review, Shawn Michaels and The Undertaker square off for the WWF title, Stone Cold Steve Austin enters the Rumble match with a target on his back, and much more.

Let’s jump in!

• Show: WWF Royal Rumble 1998
• Date: January 18, 1998
• Location: SAP Center in San Jose, CA

The sponsor for this show is 1-800-COLLECT, and that is as 1998 as it gets.

Jim Ross and Jerry ‘The King’ Lawler are at ringside.

IN THE SUITE: Mike Tyson is here and the fans are booing him.

Goldust (w/Luna Vachon) vs. Vader

We get a video showing Goldust breaking up with Marlena a few months prior, which led to him wearing baby suits, dressing in lingerie, and hitting Vader with a coconut during the build to this match. I love professional wrestling.

Goldust attacks Vader before the bell, but that doesn’t work as Vader hits a big splash in the corner. Goldust retreats and gets a hug from Luna. Vader isn’t having any of that hugging shit (sorry Bayley) as he runs behind and rams Goldust into Luna to send both to the floor. Vader with punches on Goldust before sending him head-first into the ring steps. Vader picks up the steps but referee Jack Doan forces him to think better of it.

Back inside and Vader delivers the back body drop. Luna grabs Vader’s leg and that allows Goldust to go on offense. Running clothesline from Goldust, and then he goes up top and hits the ‘ol diving fist to the nuts move on Vader. The action goes back outside as Goldust throws Vader into the steps. Goldust goes back in to the distract the ref, which allows Luna to start choking Vader.

Right hands from Goldust in the corner until he figures that’s not enough and starts biting Vader’s head. But Vader comes back with a left-handed clothesline. Both men up and Goldust goes for a bodyslam, but that doesn’t work. Vader hits a suplex and then hits a splash for a two count. Another clothesline from Vader before he goes up top to hit the Vader Bomb, but Luna distracts the ref and Goldust hits the low blow. Sunset flip from Goldust doesn’t work, and Vader sits down on him.

Vader drags Goldust to the corner, and Luna hits the ring and jumps on Vader’s back. But the ref isn’t gonna DQ her, and instead, watches Vader hit the Vader Bomb with Luna on his back to get the pin at 7:51. This wasn’t a technical masterpiece, but the crowd fucking loved the Vader Bomb spot with Luna.

• Rating: *1/2

IN THE PARKING LOT: Stone Cold Steve Austin arrives and Michael Cole wants a word, but Austin tells him to park his truck. He also tells him he’s gonna kick his ass if he scratches it. Austin goes into the building before the Godwinns threaten Cole to give them Austin’s location.

Battallion, Tarantula, and El Torito vs. Max Mini, Nova, and Mosaic – Special Guest Referee: Sunny

Sunny refereeing a minis match is something else, folks. Nova is out here kicking some ass early on with hurricanrana’s and dropkicks. Max then starts whooping that Battallion ass. El Torito comes in and press slams Mosaic. Arm drags from Mosaic, and now Tarantula is back for some offense. Lawler makes a Max reading ‘Little Women’ joke.

The camera cuts to Mike Tyson again, who is loving this match. Absolutely loves it. Lawler has to get his jokes in, as now it involves Max playing hockey on an ice cube. And Lawler informs us that Max is gonna buy himself a Matchbox car if they win the match. Torito throws Max into Sunny, who helps him attack the bad guys by holding him in the air. Planchas and corkscrews all over the place as everyone is getting their spots in here.

Max goes up top and hits the flying head scissors takeover before using the cradle to get the pin on El Torito at 7:48. You knew what you were getting here, and it was a nice spotlight for both the wrestlers and Lawler’s comedy routine.

• Rating: *1/2

BACKSTAGE: The Nation of Domination goes to barge into Austin’s locker room, but Farooq holds them back. He tells Mark Henry he has to prove himself in the group and that he wants him to kick Austin’s ass. Farooq, Henry, Kama, and D’Lo Brown barge into the locker room, and Austin isn’t there but left them a middle foam finger sitting in a chair.

IN THE SUITE: Vince McMahon and Shane McMahon have joined Tyson.

VIDEO: JR and Lawler hype the build to the upcoming Intercontinental title match between The Rock and Ken Shamrock.

BACKSTAGE: Cole with Rock. We get a video of the Nation arguing about who will win the Rumble. Rock tells Cole he’s a complete idiot and then rants about the Bill Clinton/Paula Jones controversy.

(c) The Rock vs. Ken Shamrock – IC Title Match

Rock berates the crowd before the match and says he’s the best IC champ ever. Rock forces Shamrock into the corner and swings and misses. They tie up again and Shamrock forces Rock into the corner and blocks the latter’s punch before delivering one of his own. Right hands from Rock but Shamrock hits the karate kick and then hits a hard right to send Rock over the top rope.

Back inside and Rock gets some offense in on Shamrock. Rock with some kicks in the corner but Shamrock hits multiple clotheslines after an Irish whip. Shamrock goes for a hurricanrana but Rock blocks it and racks his neck on the top rope before getting a two count. They trade punches before Rock rakes the eyes and goes back to work. Rock chokes Shamrock in the corner, but Shamrock eventually fights back. Another eye rake from the Rock but Shamrock hits a flying cross body for a two. Then’s it a fisherman’s suplex for another two.

Big clothesline from Rock before he throws Shamrock outside. Shamrock meets the ring steps before Rock throws him back in. Shamrock tries to go back on offense but Rock floats over and hits a brutal DDT for a near fall. Rock locks in the headlock as the chant tells Rock that he sucks. JR and Lawler continue to play up Austin having a bull’s eye on him in the Rumble. Rock goes for another DDT but Shamrock counters it into a fireman’s carry takeover. Both men down and JR tells us this isn’t the senior’s tour. Hello, WCW!

Shamrock with several big right hands and Rock starts pleading for him to stop. Powerslam from Shamrock gets a near fall. Shamrock starts beating the hell out of Rock but gets the eyes raked. Reversal from Shamrock into a hurricanrana, but here comes Kama and D’Lo. Shamrock hits them both and D’Lo gets caught in the ropes, which forces the referee to try to help him. Rock loads up the brass knocks and hammers Shamrock. Ref comes back over and counts 1….2…..no! Crowd popped big at the kick out here.

D’Lo is still in the ropes as Shamrock hits the belly-to-belly suplex and seemingly wins the title at 10:52. BUT BRO, IT’S A SWERVE. Rock had put the brass knucks in Shamrock’s tights after hitting him earlier, so Rock tells the referee that he got hit by them. The ref tells Shamrock to, um, pull it out of his pants. Shamrock pulls that thing out (we’re still talking about the brass knucks here) and doesn’t know how it got there. Ref calls for the bell and rules that Rock retains the title by DQ. Shamrock is pissed and gives the ref the belly-to-belly and then puts him in the ankle lock. You knew what you were getting from finishes in this era, but I thought this one was creative and played into both guys’ characters rather well. Fine match.

• Rating: **1/2

RINGSIDE: We see the 1-800-COLLECT blimp flying around inside the arena as JR and Lawler start talking about Cactus Jack before they send it to the back. Los Boriquas hit the locker room and think they’re attacking Austin, but it’s actually either Skull or 8-Ball. That leads to a brawl before we go back to JR and Lawler who hype the upcoming tag team title match.

VIDEO: Hype video for the Legion of Doom vs. the New Age Outlaws.

BACKSTAGE: Michael Cole with LOD. We see the footage of DX powerbombing Animal through a table on RAW, which leads to him cutting an insane promo. Hawk says they’re gonna put the Outlaws on ice.

(c) New Age Outlaws vs. Legion Of Doom – WWF Tag Team Titles

Road Dogg and Billy Gunn are wearing Brett Favre jerseys to get that heat with San Francisco 49ers fans. Outlaws attack LOD from behind before the bell and WE’VE GOT A BROUHAHA. Animal hits a quick powerbomb on Road Dogg but Billy breaks up the count. Outlaws leave the ring to regroup but LOD chase them down. JR tells us earlier in the day that Animal was almost not cleared to be in the match. JR is a kayfabe legend.

Hawk with a big clothesline in the corner to Road Dogg before getting a big boot. Animal in and we get a double team on Road Dogg, who is bleeding from the mouth. Hawk comes back in and hits the neck breaker, but Road Dogg manages to make the tag. Hawk with the Lou These press on Billy and he’s BEATING HIM LIKE A GOVERNMENT MULE. Animal hits a suplex on Gunn and then hits a pair of powerslams on both.

Good guys in control for a bit until Road Dogg trips Animal and Billy throws him outside. Road Dogg slings Animal into the steps and now we’re 3-for-3 on the evening when it comes to the steps getting involved. Road Dogg keeps kicking at Animal’s injured back and then all four men are going at it again. Road Dogg and Billy try to double team Hawk, but he reverses and hits a double clothesline. Hawk goes for a spear on Road Dogg in the corner but misses and goes flying to the outside. Road Dogg throws Hawk face-first into the steps and then grabs a pair of handcuffs and hits Animal with them before using them to lock Hawk to the ring post.

Road Dogg and Billy for the back suplex on Animal, but he reverses and hits a double clothesline of his own. Animal hits a flying shoulder tackle on Billy and gets a two count. Billy goes up top but Animal catches him and turns it into a powerslam before Road Dogg breaks up the pin with a chair to force the DQ at 7:57. Road Dogg hammers Animal in the back with the chair and Hawk is going nuts as the beatdown continues. Hawk breaks the handouts and hits Road Dogg over the head with the chair. Hawk checks on Animal as Road Dogg and Billy retreat.

• Rating: *1/2

RINGSIDE: JR and Lawler prepare us for the STONE COLD TRUCK GIVEAWAY. Congrats to Mildred Bowers from Nashville!

VIDEO: Hype video for the Rumble match with a recap of Austin kicking everyone’s ass and playing up being a marked man.

The 1998 Royal Rumble Match

Let the fun begin. No. 1 is Cactus Jack and No. 2 is Chainsaw Charlie aka Terry Funk. Charlie revs up the chainsaw and that leads to Cactus throwing numerous chairs into the ring. Cactus uses a chair to knock the chainsaw away and then nails Charlie in the head. While this is going on, the CHAINSAW IS STILL RUNNING and Charlie nearly runs into it. Referee Jack Doan realizes that it’s probably wise to get it out of there. Dueling chairs until Charlie just stops and tells Cactus to hit him in the head with a chair. So he does. Well that’s not a wise strategy. Now Cactus hands Charlie the chair and he returns the favor. JR reminds us that human heads aren’t built to take chair shots, which unfortunately isn’t something Cactus would listen to given what took place at the following year’s Rumble.

Charlie tries to eliminate Cactus and here comes Tom Brandi at No. 3. Prediction: he isn’t winning this thing. Cactus and Charlie send Brandi over the top in about five seconds, so my prediction was correct. Cactus sets up two chairs and suplexes Charlie onto them. No. 4 is The Rock. He goes after Cactus and Charlie as the crowd starts chanting about the Rock sucking something that rhymes with his name. Beats me. Cactus hits Rock over the head with a trash can and then puts it over his head. Cactus and Charlie beat the trash can and Cactus hits the can with a chair, which sends Rock through the middle ropes to the outside. Mosh is No. 5 and Charlie tries to throw a chair at him as he enters the ring.

Mosh gets some offense in on Charlie while Cactus and Rock go at it. Charlie goes for a moonsault on Mosh but it doesn’t work. Phineas Godwinn is in at No. 6. The usual Rumble offense from all involved and then 8-Ball hits the ring at No. 7. Cactus goes after Charlie but gets flipped over the top for the first elimination. Meanwhile, Lawler tells us that he’s been told that someone has gotten to Austin in the back and that he may not make it to the match. Rock nearly eliminates Charlie but he hangs on. Next is Blackjack Bradshaw at No. 8. JR reminds us that Mike Tyson is gonna be on RAW. I wonder if that will be any good or if anyone will watch? Owen Hart is No. 9 and Tyson loves it, but Jeff Jarrett attacks Owen from behind as Cornette encourages him. Cornette then hits Owen with the tennis racket. Jarrett keeps going to work until a host of referees pull him away.

Next up is Steve Blackman at No. 10. Blackman goes at Charlie, who barely hangs on once again. Lawler says that his source tells him it may have been Shamrock who attacked Austin in the back. D’Lo Brown is No. 11. Rock delivers his trademark kicks to Blackman with the usual exaggerated mannerisms. D’Lo comes over and now we’ve got the two Nation members brawling. Kurrgan in at No. 12. Mosh tries to get some offense in but Kurrgan throws him over the top. Marc Mero is No. 13 and he’s got Sable with him. She gets the biggest pop of the night thus far and about half the men in the crowd are up taking photos of her. Kodak cameras were the best. Kurrgan eliminates Blackman but everyone is still zoned in on Sable. Ken Shamrock in at No. 14.

Shamrock hits a few karate kicks to send Kurrgan to the mat. Then everyone comes over to help send Kurrgan over the top. And Thrasher is No. 15. D’Lo is choking Rock to remind you that it’s every man for himself. Huge Sable chant breaks out and the TESTOSTERONE IS RUNNING WILD, BROTHER. Mankind is No. 16 and JR and Lawler can’t figure out how since Cactus was eliminated earlier. Mankind hits the ring and quickly eliminates Charlie. Shamrock and Rock are back at it again as Goldust enters at No. 17. He battles with Mankind and eventually throws him out. Jeff Jarrett is No. 18. JR and Lawler really play up the fact that he’s the NWA North American champion and is the only representative of the company in the match.

Jarrett enters the ring but Owen runs down and beats him silly. Jarrett goes to throw Owen out but he hangs on and then comes from behind to toss Jarrett over the top. And No. 19 is……The Honky Tonk Man! I legitimately do not remember Honky being in this match, so my guess is that he’s not going to be in the main event at WrestleMania. Right behind Honky is HHH, who is on crutches, and Chyna. Rock eliminates Shamrock while Honky gets his ass kicked. Owen isn’t happy with HHH being ringside and lets him know about it. But Chyna swings a crutch at Owen and he gets distracted. That allows HHH to hop on the apron and hit Owen with the other crutch, which sends him over the top rope. HHH keeps hitting Owen with the crutch until heading to the back.

Owen chases HHH as Ahmed Johnson enters at No. 20. He goes at it with several dudes before Mark Henry comes in at No. 21. Quote of the evening from JR: “Mark Henry is handling the big Johnson.” My teenage humor had to be loving that line. The buzzer goes off for the next entrant but no one comes out, and that leads to JR and Lawler wondering if it was supposed to be Austin. Ahmed gets tossed out by someone, and Phineas also gets thrown over the top. They decide to fight with each other to the back for no apparent reason. Kama is what I guess is No. 23 in this thing.

And here comes Stone Cold Steve Austin at No. 24. His music hits and everyone in the ring stops to stare at the entrance, but he comes from behind and quickly throws out Mero. Everyone goes to gang up on Austin but he gets away and sends 8-Ball packing. Austin uses his jacket to choke D’Lo for a bit. Henry Godwinn is No. 25. The crowd opposite the hard camera turns around away from the ring and is going crazy about something. Maybe someone is riding the 1-800-COLLECT blimp. Savio Vega is No. 26 and he brings his entire Los Boriquas crew into the ring with him. They all attack Austin, who quickly fights them off and goes back on offense.

The Nation music hits for about the 72nd time and Farooq runs in at No. 27 and starts kicking Rock’s ass as Austin goes through the middle rope to the outside. Farooq then goes at D’Lo and Kama. EVERY MAN FOR HIMSELF. Rock and Austin battle on the outside and Rock sends him flying into the ring steps. Those things better be getting extra pay for their performance at this show. Rock throws Austin over the steel railing before getting back in the ring. Dude Love is No. 28 to give us the Mick Foley trifecta. He eliminates Bradshaw right away, and Austin throws Goldust into…….the ring steps! It seems like Goldust has been eliminated. Rock hits the elbow on D’Lo but Austin comes back in and beats the hell out of Rock.

The obvious winner of this match is next as Chainz enters at No. 29. Farooq sends D’Lo out while everyone else continues to brawl. Vader is No. 30 and by my count we’ve got 13 left. Make that 12 as Vader sends Honky to the showers. Meanwhile we’ve got CHAINZ AND AUSTIN, CHAINZ AND AUSTIN, CHAINZ AND AUSTIN throwing down. Even Lawler suggests that Chainz could win. Austin eliminates Thrasher and then does the same to Kama. Austin with another elimination to Kama, and Goldust follows that up by eliminating Vader. Godwinn and Goldust then get thrown out. WRESTLECHAINZIA is within reach. And then Austin eliminates Chainz. Well shit.

Farooq sends Henry out and we’re down to four: Farooq, Rock, Austin, and Dude. Austin and Dude send Rock and Farooq into each other for the double whammy. Double arm DDT from Dude on Rock. Dude then locks in the mandible claw on Austin, but Austin gets out of it. Farooq then throws Dude out. Farooq goes to work on Austin but Rock sneaks in from behind and tosses Farooq. Rock and Austin exchange punches as the crowd goes fucking insane. Austin throws Rock over but he manages to hold on. Austin then hits the Stunner and throws him out to get the win at 55:25. Tyson celebrates with Shane after Austin’s victory.

This was fun due to Foley’s character switches and Austin’s awesomeness, but there weren’t any spots that stood out and you had no doubt who was winning. But note to Vince in 2019: Giving people what they want is a perfectly fine business model.

• Rating: **1/2

IN THE SUITE: Cole with Tyson, who says that COLD STONE is his man. Cole asks for a pick in the Shawn Michaels vs. Undertaker match but Tyson loves them both.

VIDEO: Hype video for the Michaels/Taker rivalry. We see highlights from their Hell in a Cell match at King of the Ring 1997 and how that led to Kane and Taker eventually joining forces to try to combat DX.

(c) Shawn Michaels (w/HHH and Chyna) vs. The Undertaker – Casket Match for the WWF Title

Tyson gives Michaels the suck it gesture which isn’t something most people expected in pro wrestling in 1998. Michaels throws punches right off the bat but Taker gets the advantage and back drops Michaels on the side of the casket. Taker then press slams Michaels on the floor before throwing him into the casket. Michaels quickly gets out and regroups. Back inside and Taker hits a huge right hand. Bodyslam from Taker and then he misses an elbow.

Taker goes up top for OLD SCHOOL (well it wasn’t it called that yet, but let’s go with it since Cole is all over this show) and then flings Michaels to the outside via the corner turnbuckle. Michaels hops on the apron and hangs Taker on the top rope. Michaels jumps off the top but Taker reverses it into a powerslam. Taker rolls Michaels into the casket but can’t get it closed. Michaels throws powder in Taker’s eyes but then gets clocked by a punch. Michaels regains control in the corner and Taker goes for a choke slam but Michaels counters and gets on the top rope before hitting a flying moonsault.

The action goes back outside the ring as Taker throws Michaels into the rail. Are the steps next? No they aren’t, as it’s the French announce table. But then we get what we came for, and that’s Taker getting thrown knee-first into the steps. Folks, I’ve seen a lot of dudes get throw into ring steps (including about 458 times on this show), but this was brutal. It looked like Taker’s knee got shattered because of how hard he hit it. Michaels picks up the steps and hits Taker multiple times over the back. And Michaels then delivers the piledriver on the steps and that was ugly.

HHH uses the crutch to keep Taker down on the outside and then hits him a few times once he gets to his feet. Michaels grabs a chair and hammers Taker in the back. They return to the ringing Michaels hits a flying elbow before asking the ref to raise the lid on the casket. Taker fights his way out of it as they go back into the ring. Michaels counters with a spinning neck breaker and then jumps on Taker to lock in the sleeper hold. Taker eventually counters it into a suplex, but Michaels comes right back and hits a flying forearm.

Michaels goes up top and hits the flying elbow and sets up for the Sweet Chin Music. Taker stumbles up and Michaels hits it. He rolls Taker into the casket and goes to close it, but instead decides to tell Taker to suck it. Taker does not accept the offer and grabs Michaels by the balls before throwing him in the ring. Taker throws Michaels all over the place and hits a big boot to the face. Michaels ducks another move and that sends Taker flying over him and into the casket. Michaels goes up top and hits the flying elbow onto Taker and the ref closes the lid. The casket starts shaking and Michels tries to escape but Taker drags him back in.

Both men get out of the casket and Taker hits a huge chokeslam to Michaels in the ring. Taker then steps over the top and hits the Tombstone on Michaels into the casket. That was something else right there. Chyna shoves the ref and Road Dogg, Billy, and Los Boriquas hit the ring and start attacking Taker. The lights go off and Kane makes his way down to clear the ring except for Taker. HHH and Chyna help Shawn out of the casket, and then we get the SWERVE as Kane attacks Taker. Kane chokeslams Taker into the casket and Michaels shuts the lid to retain at 20:30 even though there was no bell. Paul Bearer comes to the ring and he and Kane lock the casket before rolling it to the entrance. Kane grabs an axe and destroys the casket. Kane then pours gasoline on the casket and Bearer grabs a match and lights it on fire. Well then. Good match given the stipulation.

• Rating: ***1/2

SHOW SUMMARY

This show didn’t have any technical masterpieces, but it was all about the story. And for that, the WWF accomplished its goal of taking a big step with Austin while also setting up Undertaker vs. Kane. But I still think Chainz was the better call for the WrestleMania main event.

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In this WWF Royal Rumble 1997 review, Sycho Sid defends the WWF title against Shawn Michaels, controversy surrounds the finish of the Rumble match, and much more.

Let’s jump in!

• Show: WWF Royal Rumble 1997
• Date: January 19, 1997
• Location: The Alamodome in San Antonio, TX

VIDEO: Highlights of the feud between Sycho Sid and Shawn Michaels, including “The Favorite Son” returning home as a man. Congrats on puberty, Shawn!

RINGSIDE: Vince McMahon, Jim Ross, and Jerry Lawler hype the action.

VIDEO: We recap the feud between Goldust and Hunter Hearst Helmsley, with questions as to whether HHH is infatuated with Marlena.

Goldust (w/Marlena) vs. (c) Hunter Hearst Helmsley (w/Mr. Hughes) – Intercontinental Title

Hughes joining HHH is a surprise development, and Vince and JR play it up. Goldust is the aggressor right off the bat, which certainly makes sense from a psychology standpoint. He destroys HHH with the steel steps, and Earl Hebner apparently doesn’t give a flying fuck as he doesn’t even acknowledge it. Hilarious. Every time the camera cuts to Marlena, the crowd goes wild. HHH uses some underhanded tactics to take control, but he runs his knee into the steel railing. And then Goldust uses the steps on HHH yet again. Hebner for referee of the year! It’s pretty much all Goldust as he works on HHH’s leg. Meanwhile, JR points out that Hebner is calling the main event, so there won’t be any DQs in that one.

Now it’s HHH slamming Goldust’s face onto the steps, and Hebner calls for the DQ. Just kidding. HHH goes to use Marlena’s chair, and HERE COMES EARL to intervene. Steel steps aren’t weapons, but director’s chairs are. Noted! Todd Pettengill is with country star Collin Raye, and Todd asks him to sing. Meanwhile, the match is still going. Goldust misses an elbow off the top, and Hughes tosses the belt to HHH. Hebner gets distracted with Hughes, so naturally, HHH kisses Marlena. Goldust then clocks HHH with belt but Hughes pulls HHH out. More distractions, and HHH sneaks from behind and hits the Pedigree for the win at 16:50.

Blake’s Rating: I didn’t hate this match, but it could’ve accomplished the same goal in half the time. It was slow from the start, and the crowd was not having that. The finish didn’t exactly do Goldust any favors, though HHH retaining the belt was likely the predictable choice. **

VIDEO: Bret Hart says there’s no turning back in the Rumble, then Mankind talks about wanting to hurt people.

VIDEO: Highlights of the feud between Farooq and Ahmed Johnson, featuring Ahmed’s quick rise to the top of the WWF and his legitimate kidney injury at the hands of Farooq.

Farooq vs. Ahmed Johnson

Ahmed with a flurry of punches to get things started, and I can appreciate that given the bad blood between the two. He also continues the theme of using a weapon with zero repercussions, as he whips Farooq with a belt while Mike Chioda gently asks him to stop. Farooq returns the favor by bashing Ahmed’s back with a chair. Everything’s legal at Royal Rumble 1997! Farooq smartly keeps the focus on Ahmed’s back and kidney. But Ahmed fights back and gets some momentum going, which leads to the Nation hitting the ring. Ahmed fights them off, but Chioda calls for the bell for the DQ at 8:48. Weapons legal, humans illegal. After the match, Ahmed hits the Pearl River Plunge on one of the Nation members and puts him through the French announce table.

Blake’s Rating: This had decent intensity which is always welcomed in a battle between bitter rivals. But the DQ finish made it really nothing more than another way to continue the feud between Ahmed and the Nation. *1/2

VIDEO: Terry Funk is here to kick some ass in his home state.

BACKSTAGE: Pettengill with the Nation. Farooq is pissed that some of the Nation members left him out there with Ahmed, and he promises to get his revenge in the Rumble.

Vader vs. The Undertaker

This is officially a HOSS FIGHT. They exchange power moves in the early going, and Vader goes to retreat and hit the road. Taker gets him back involved, with Taker hitting a bodyslam and leg drop for two. JR says he’s never seen anyone deliver a leg drop like Taker, so take that, Hulkster. Taker goes old school, but Vader has it scouted and grabs the ropes to rack the mini Takers. Vader then hits a low blow. Rough match for Taker’s groin. Pettengill is in the crowd with a young girl, who saved her money from babysitting to travel to see Michaels. Good for her. Vader in control until Taker gets the strength to hit a back suplex. Vader goes up to the second rope, but Taker reverses into a powerslam. Vader picks up Taker and hits the Vader Bomb, and Taker kicks out at two and a half.

The crowd turns their attention to the aisle, and here comes Paul Bearer as Taker hits Vader with a choke slam. Taker turns around and sees Bearer, so he decks him. Taker rolls Bearer into the ring and goes for the chokeslam, but Vader gets in the way. Things spill outside, with Bearer moving Vader out of the way to send Taker into the steel railing. Bearer JUMPS OFF THE APRON onto Taker and hits him with the urn. One has to assume referee Jack Doan saw it, as weapons are clearly legal in this company in 1997. Bearer was so awesome. Vader then hits the Vader Bomb to pick up the win at 13:19. After the match, Taker is PISSED and chokeslams Doan before destroying the ringside area.

Blake’s Rating: I enjoy a good hoss fight, but this was pretty similar to the first two matches in terms of the slow pace and interference finish. On the bright side, where else are you gonna get a high-flying Bearer? **

VIDEO: Steve Austin is gonna win the Rumble, and so is British Bulldog. 1994 repeat?!

Fuerza Guerrera, Heavy Metal, and Jerry Estrada vs. Canek, Hector Garza, and Perro Aguayo

An interesting AAA trios match here. Early highlight is Aguayo coming in with zero fucks to give, as he has all the confidence in the world. Lawler talks about being a fan of Canek, but my guess is it’s simply because of his name. Some great athleticism on display from Metal and Garza, as they got about a hundred miles an hour during a rather entertaining exchange. Vince sounds like he just wants this match to be over, and the crowd isn’t exactly disagreeing with that. Guerrera and Aguayo also deliver a fun back and forth. Finally the crowd gets into it with a showcase of strength from Canek, then a flying maneuver from Garza. Aguayo gets the pin for the victory at 10:56.

Blake’s Rating: The match itself wasn’t terrible, but the issue is the crowd did not care at all since there were no storylines or stakes attached. With the WWF working with AAA, it’s understandable to put it on this card though. **

IN THE RING: Howard Finkel explains the rules of the Rumble.

The 1997 Royal Rumble Match

Crush is No. 1, and Ahmed Johnson is No. 2. The drawing is totally random! Totally random. They brawl until Fake Razor Ramon is No. 3, as he comes out to no countdown and no music. I’m sure Vince is pleased with that. Ahmed tosses Fake Razor in about 15 seconds. Ahmed sees Farooq in the aisle, so he eliminates himself and chases Farooq to the back. Genius idea. Phineas Godwinn is No. 4 with Hillbilly Jim in tow. Stone Cold Steve Austin is No. 5, which would’ve been more dramatic with a countdown clock. Vince is still pissed. Phineas throws out Crush after Austin accidentally hits him, then Austin hits the Stunner on Phineas to eliminate him. Bart Gunn is No. 6. Austin quickly eliminates his ass too and does some push-ups and sits on the turnbuckle looking at his imaginary watch. He’s a total star.

Jake Roberts is No. 7 as the countdown clock is officially working. All Jake until Austin eliminates him as the British Bulldog comes in at No. 8. Of course, Austin clipped Bulldog’s knee on the go-home edition of Monday Night Raw, so there’s bad blood with these two. AAA star Pierroth is No. 9. Here comes The Sultan at No. 10, and he’s got SHEIKY BABY with him. Who knew Sultan would run Austin over with a car nearly three years later? In at No. 11 is the one and only Mil Mascaras. Every time I see him, I think of Bruce Prichard’s stories of Mascaras not wanting to job to anyone. NO JOB. Hunter Hearst Helmsley joins the mix at No. 12. Who knew Austin would drop HHH from a crane nearly four years later?

Bulldog eliminates Sultan, then it’s Owen Hart at No. 13. Austin tries to eliminate Bulldog, which leads to Owen accidentally eliminating Bulldog while trying to put out Austin. Here comes Goldust at No. 14. And it’s Cibernetico at No. 15. He was only 20 years old and would go on to have quite a career. Marc Mero in at No. 16, and Cibernetico and Pierroth are eliminated. That leads to the infamous spot of Mascaras eliminating himself with a flying cross body onto Pierroth on the outside. The referees have to get Mascaras outta there. Goldust then eliminates HHH for a little revenge. Latin Lover makes his way out at No. 17.

Owen eliminates Goldust as Farooq joins at No. 18. Farooq eliminates Lover and here comes Ahmed who’s GOT WOOD. That’s enough to eliminate Farooq. Meanwhile, Austin throws out both Owen and Mero, and he’s alone again in the ring. Savio Vega runs in at No. 19, and these two had a nice strap match in 1996. Austin dumps Vega, and Jesse James is No. 20. Austin makes quick work of him and throws Double J out. And here comes Bret Hart at No. 21. They go at it until Jerry Lawler hops in at No. 22. Bret clocks him with two punches and Lawler flies over the top and goes right back over to commentary and puts his headset. Legit one of the most hilarious spots in Rumble history.

Fake Diesel is No. 23, and Terry Funk is No. 24. Put the belt on Funk! Rocky Maivia is No. 25, and what a visual as he goes right at Austin. It’s incredible to think how dramatically Rocky’s look would change over the next year or so. Mankind is No. 26, and there’s a hell of a group in there right now as all six are future Hall of Famers. That’s a cool trivia note. Some may argue Flash Funk deserves high praise as well, as he’s in at No. 27. Another future Hall of Famer joins the action with Vader at No. 28. Henry Godwinn is in at No. 29. And of course, No. 30 is The Undertaker. Vince already calls him the winner.

Taker choke slams both Austin and Vader, then goes after Fake Diesel and Rocky. Vader eliminates Flash via badassery. Taker eliminates Henry, with Rocky getting some shine until Mankind brings out the claw and eliminates him. Then Mankind suplexes Funk to eliminate him as well. Taker hits the boot to the face to send out Mankind, who starts fighting with Funk on the outside. All the referees try to break it up, and that’s where Bret throws out Austin, but he sneaks back in since the refs didn’t see it. Austin quickly eliminates Taker and Vader, and Bret eliminates Diesel. Austin then grabs Bret from behind and eliminates him to score the controversial victory at 50:30. After the match, Bret loses his mind and roughs up referee Jimmy Korderas before grabbing Vince by the jacket and berating him.

Blake’s Rating: I probably enjoyed this Rumble more than most, especially with the action-packed finish that involved so many legendary superstars. Of course, the controversial finish takes it down a notch, but I thought it worked well given Austin’s character. And this was undoubtedly a huge plot point in Austin’s trajectory to the top. It also added more ammunition for Bret to be pissed off at the WWF for being screwed, which would also play out in future storylines. ***

VIDEO: We get a recap of all the events leading up to the main event for the WWF title. And then it’s an interview from Superstars where Michaels talks about having the flu, but it won’t stop him from being ready for the match.

Shawn Michaels (w/Jose Lothario) vs. (c) Sycho Sid – WWF Title

Michaels’ entrance may have been longer than Taker’s, which is quite a feat. Very few boos for Michaels from the San Antonio crowd, unlike the reaction he got at Survivor Series. Still a lot of fans who love Sid though. I’ll tell you what I love, and that’s Sid’s pyro over the ring. It’s terrific. Hot start to the match with Sid going the power route, while Michaels uses his speed to counter and send Sid to the outside. Pete Lothario is ringside, and he better hope no tables are nearby. Sid will slam his ass again. Sid works on Michaels’ back by locking in the Camel Clutch for a good while. Michaels eventually fights out of it, but Sid whips out of the ring to continue the attack.

Sid rams Michaels’ back into the ring post and they head inside where Vince has to be livid about two visible nWo signs in the crowd. The story continues to be Sid overwhelming Michaels with his power which, in turn, allows him to slow the pace of the match. Michaels attempts to head up top to reverse the momentum, but Sid catches him for another bearhug. Here comes Michaels with a flurry of offense, including hitting a bodyslam. However, Sid thwarts Michaels’ plans by giving him a back body drop over the top.

That leads to Sid hitting the powerbomb on Michaels on the floor. Then the champ grabs both Jose and Pete before Michaels breaks it up. Hebner gets knocked down as Sid seemingly finishes off Michaels, but Mike Chioda runs down to count and Michaels kicks out at two. Sid is pissed, so he nails Chioda. Jose distracts Sid, which allows Michaels to grab the television and he hauls off on Sid. Hebner crawls over but Sid kicks out at two and a half. Pretty great sequence there. Michaels then hits the Sweet Chin Music to win the title at 13:49.

Blake’s Rating: The real question is how much the match structure changed due to Michaels having the flu. But when you look at the psychology, Sid’s approach probably would’ve stayed the same. He slowed things down to counter Michaels’ incredible speed and athleticism, but it was Michaels going into Sid’s own back of tricks by using underhanded tactics to regain the title. However, it was yet another screwy finish on a card stacked with them, and it was nowhere near the quality of their Survivor Series match (with Michaels having the flu perhaps playing a big role in that). The fact that it was on the shorter side helped I suppose, but there was little suspense since Michaels winning in his hometown was the obvious outcome. **3/4

Blake’s Take on WWF Royal Rumble 1997

• Best Match: The 1997 Royal Rumble Match
• Show MVP: Stone Cold Steve Austin
• Overall Rating: 5.0/10
• Thoughts: In all honesty, this was the definition of an average show. There are no matches that are must-see, and the majority of them followed the same pattern, which allowed none of them to truly stand out. Even the Rumble match involved a non-clean finish. But speaking of the Rumble, the true star on this show was Austin, who was already finding his groove as a top star.

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For more of my show reviews, visit the Pro Wrestling Reviews section!

In this WCW Great American Bash 1996 review, The Giant defends the WCW title against Lex Luger, Eric Bischoff confronts Scott Hall and Kevin Nash, and much more.

Let’s jump in.

• Show: WCW Great American Bash 1996
• Date: June 16, 1996
• Location: Baltimore Arena in Baltimore, MD

*Blake’s Match Rating Guide: I’m using a new match rating system, which focuses on three simple categories and ignores the need to rate every single match since different matches have different goals. This makes it easier to suggest the best matches rather than compare every match on the card:

• Recommended: ***1/2 to **** stars
• Must-See: **** to ****1/2 stars
• Legendary: ****3/4 to ***** stars

RINGSIDE: Tony Schiavone and Dusty Rhodes hype the top matches, plus WCW potentially addressing the “war” with the invaders. Tony and Dusty also pay tribute to Dick Murdoch.

Fire and Ice vs. The Steiner Brothers

Scott is jacked, and it’s wild to think he’d become even more jacked. Fire and Ice was an interesting tag team, though I can’t exactly remember anything notable with them. I’ve always enjoyed Scott Norton, and his power is on full display. However, Scott (Steiner, that is) nearly breaks Norton’s neck on a suplex attempt. A brutal spot there. This is a solid tag match that goes back and forth, and it’s Scott hitting a botched Frankensteiner on Norton for the win. The chemistry wasn’t there between those two, and Norton seemed pissed after both of those moves.

BACKSTAGE: Mean Gene Okerlund with Kevin Sullivan and Jimmy Hart. Sullivan hypes his issues with the Four Horsemen.

El Gato vs. (c) Konnan – US Heavyweight Title

So, I just realized I reviewed this show a few years ago. The problem? I have no clue where the review is. Encore! From what I recall, this was a quality affair. Gato is Pat Tanaka, so you’ve got two good workers. Some unintentional comedy with Tony and Dusty trying to figure out several technical maneuvers. Another competitive match with a variety of offensive moves both men, and that keeps the crowd in it. Konnan uses the sunset slip for the pin to retain the title. This was enjoyable.

BACKSTAGE: Gene with Sting. They both taunt Steven Regal and suggest he’s prissy.

Diamond Dallas Page vs. Marcus Bagwell – Lord of the Ring

DDP is the reigning BattleBowl champion, so they play that up. They’re pushing the Lord of the Ring concept, which was another forgotten WCW theme. Bagwell won a coin toss between the American Males to earn this match. It’s all Bagwell in the early going, and he even flies over the top with a cross body. DDP’s selling mannerisms are pretty hilarious. He’s a good heel. The crowd is fully behind DDP in this match, and they cheer when he hits the Diamond Cutter for the victory. A fine showcase for DDP but not much more than that.

BACKSTAGE: Gene with The Giant and Jimmy Hart. Every time Giant cuts a backstage promo in this era, all I think about is The Waterboy. He’s gonna destroy Luger.

Rey Mysterio Jr. vs. (c) Dean Malenko – WCW Cruiserweight Title

This is Rey’s debut and another reason why I remember reviewing this show previously. The chemistry between these two was always great, and this match is no different. Mike Tenay, as per usual, does a terrific job detailing the action and the motivation behind the moves. It adds so much to these cruiserweight matches. Right from the start, it’s obvious that Rey is a special talent. By the way, he’s only 21 here. 21! Tenay notes during the match that Eddy Guerrero defeated Jushin Thunder Liger to win the Super J Cup, so that’s another nice touch. The theme throughout this one is Malenko being unable to put Rey away, despite repeatedly working over his arm on the mat.

The big spot is Rey hitting a somersault off the top onto Malenko on the outside, and the crowd loves it. This what Eric Bischoff meant by creating something different than everything else on the show. The finishing sequence is just tremendous, with a variety of reversals and near falls in Rey’s favor. But he just can’t pin Malenko, and the champion finally gets the opening he needs to hit a power bomb in the corner and uses the ropes for leverage for the pin to retain the title. A fantastic match that 100 percent deserves the standing ovation it receives from the crowd. (****1/4, Must-See)

BACKSTAGE: Gene with Lex Luger, who wants no part of the interview. He says his mind is on the Giant and puts over his dominance. Luger wants the title.

Big Bubba (w/Jimmy Hart) vs. John Tenta

This is a HOSS FIGHT with Big Boss Man vs. Earthquake. Neither were in their prime at this point, but there’s no denying how good they were at their best. Lots of heel tactics from Bubba and Hart, which is the story of the match. So is Tenta only having half his hair intact, as it was shaved by Bubba on a recent show. Love both guys, but this was the exact opposite of the previous match, and the crowd struggled to get into it. Tenta catches Bubba with a power slam for the win. After the match, Tenta trims a little of Bubba’s beard.

BACKSTAGE: Gene with Steve and Debra McMichael, along with Kevin and Terry Greene and his wife. Mongo doesn’t care about the gameplan, and Greene plans to come hard and come heavy. Randy Savage joins the mix and uses some football puns to take aim at Ric Flair and Arn Anderson.

Chris Benoit vs. Kevin Sullivan (w/Jimmy Hart) – Falls County Anywhere Match

Another match that I remember from the aforementioned review a few years ago. What a brawl that certainly played into the stipulation. They fought into the crowd, bathroom (which included Dusty Rhodes losing his mind over a woman in the “men’s john”), and arena concourse before making their way back to the ring. Benoit hits a huge superplex off the top with both men standing on a table to pick up the victory. As always, if you can still watch Benoit matches, this is an elite brawl. (***3/4, Recommended)

IN THE RING: After the match, here comes Arn Anderson, and Hart thinks he’s coming to help Sullivan. No chance of that, as Arn takes it to Sullivan before the Dungeon of Doom run off Arn and Benoit.

BACKSTAGE: Gene with Woman and Elizabeth. Arn, Flair, and Heenan make their way in, and Arn takes aim at Sullivan and company. Flair and Heenan do their thing to push the Horsemen’s dominance.

Lord Steven Regal (w/Jeeves) vs. Sting

Here’s one of those interesting WCW pairings that seemed strange on paper but featured two eventual Hall of Famers. Regal’s heel tactics are tremendous as usual, with his facial expressions adding so much to the match. A pretty lengthy contest with Regal using a variety of holds to wear down Sting, who loses all his face paint. That’s when you know it’s a long match. Regal works the crowd to keep them as engaged as he can given the different styles on display. The fans are fully invested for the finish, with Sting reversing the momentum and locking in the Scorpion Deathlock for the win.

VIDEO: A totally 1996 video package promotes Bash at the Beach in July. That would be kind of a big deal, folks.

Ric Flair and Arn Anderson (w/Bobby Heenan, Miss Elizabeth, and Woman) vs. Steve McMichael and Kevin Greene (w/Randy Savage)

Schiavone says Savage has been reinstated to wrestle after going through counseling. I vaguely remember the storyline, but it leads to a Savage vs. Flair match on Nitro. Mongo and Greene do quite a pump-up routine to get ready for the match. On the surface, you would think this match would have no chance with two-non wrestlers teaming up against two of the best to do it. But this is one of those matches that’s a perfect example of why wrestling is about more than moves. Arn and Flair are awesome at selling the story, including their confidence in taking care of business against two NFL stars.

Of course, that thinking changes as Mongo and Greene prove their worth, which forces the heels to backtrack. Everyone plays their role to perfection, and the crowd eats it up with a spoon. Mongo and Greene putting Arn and Flair in the Figure Four is an excellent spot, and there are many others that make this match what it is. The payoff is Debra going to the back with Liz and Woman, changing her clothes, then coming back with a briefcase with cash in it. That leads to Mongo hitting Greene with the briefcase and Flair pinning him for the victory. And that’s how Mongo joins the Horsemen. (***3/4, Recommended)

ON THE STAGE: Eric Bischoff welcomes Scott Hall and Kevin Nash, and he sets up the eventual Bash at the Beach match. Hall and Nash make it clear they don’t work for the WWF, then question the opponents that them and their “surprise buddy” will face. Hall hits Bischoff in the midsection, and Nash powerbombs Bischoff off the stage. Schiavone leaves the announcer’s area, and Dusty is pissed off about this turn of events. Luger then makes his way to the ring for the main event and stops to check on Bischoff. Again, the nWo storyline (in its early days) was quite a piece of business where they did a terrific job connecting all the dots.

Lex Luger vs. (c) The Giant (w/Jimmy Hart) – WCW World Heavyweight Title

Schiavone and Dusty play up Luger being affected by Hall and Nash’s antics, which is another great point of continuity. Luger quickly clotheslines Giant over the top, but it doesn’t exactly get much of a reaction from the crowd. Hart tries to get involved early, and it’s Sting who makes the save to run him to the back. Dusty continues to push the Bischoff situation, and both he and the fans are seemingly on the same page. They simply don’t care about the match, so it’s fair to question whether that was the right spot for it. Even when Luger mounts his comeback, the crowd is indifferent until he takes Giant off his feet. Luger picks Giant up for the Torture Rack but can’t hold on. Giant chokeslams him and that’ll do it for the win.

BLAKE’S TAKE ON WCW GREAT AMERICAN BASH 1996

Overall Rating: 7.0/10

Thoughts: An above average pay-per-view that featured one must-see match, one wild match, and one match that wildly exceeded expectations. Most of the matches got a lot of time, except for the main event which was largely forgettable. But this was the last show before WCW would change the game forever, so consider it the calm before the storm that was Bash at the Beach.

For more of my show reviews, visit the Pro Wrestling Reviews section!