Bayley Injured: A blessing in disguise?

  Nxt's resident sweetheart appears to have torn her ACL which could see her on the injury list for anywhere between 6 to 9 months. We are not here to discuss whether the angle is a work as some claim that Nia Jax who she was wrestling at the time repeatedly worked over the leg after the apparent injury had taken place, we are here to discuss the possible positives for Bayley due to the injury for even injuries have their benefits sometimes.

                                   Not Thrust onto the main roster

     The former NXT Women's champion has done it all on NXT, being one of its longest servants and it is inevitable that one day we will be seeing our beloved Bayley on the main roster. Similarly to Finn Balor, the main roster rumours went into overdrive as Bayley dropped her NXT Women's championship to Asuka at Takeover: Dallas. It was the raw after Wrestlemania and we all expected to see Bayley dethrone Charlotte it was not to be and this could be a good thing. Bayley has all the potential to be the next big star for WWE, the closest thing they have to a female John Cena, it is not hard to see why all kids from around the world would see Bayley as their idol. Her character is such an innocent and fun loving person that you cannot stop yourself from caring about, she is just the ultimate underdog is so many ways. Triple H knows there is such huge money in Bayley but does Vince know there is money in Bayley? With the influx of NXT talent on the main roster over the years, how many have truly been successful? Kevin Owens is an example, Baron Corbin is doing well because he is tall and looks as if he will squash Dolph Ziggler on Sunday at Payback. However, there are a lot more talents from NXT which did not go down so well like Bo Dallas Adam Rose, The Ascension. The Women's Division is looking the best it has been since the days of 2003 where Lita Victoria Jazz Trish Stratus and Molly Holly were tearing it up in the ring every night. But will Mcmahon understand Bayley? Will Mcmahon know what to do with a character such as Bayley? Only time will tell but for now, with this injury Bayley will avoid the call up to the main roster.

                                  Protects Her From Over Exposure

     Bayley has done it all in NXT, she was built up from the ground to becoming the champion. The impossible dream made possible, her crowning moment coming at NXT Brooklyn where she defeated Sasha Banks for the title in a fantastic match. The question from that point would always be where does she go from here? Bayley had peaked, it would be difficult to keep that momentum train going at full speed. Bayley defeated Nia Jax and Eva Marie before battling the undefeated Asuka. Perhaps Asuka's undefeated streak was not taken into consideration as so many were legitimately surprised when Asuka choked Bayley out to win the championship. Looking towards the future, plans would have been made for a rematch with Asuka but it would not be the same as before, Bayley could not feud with Emma or Dana Brooke because it was so clear that Bayley was head and shoulders above them as she won the championship. Basically, Bayley was running out of opponents in NXT, she was not stale but it was always a possibility but this injury allows Bayley to come back fresh and challenge whoever the champion may be. Maybe Asuka will dominate the division turning heel setting up an eventual rematch with a returning Bayley which could be a great story as she never got her rematch for the title and now she's back with a vengeance and more determined than ever.

   Absence makes the heart grow fonder and this is certainly the case with wrestling. If the rumours are true, this could be a good thing for Bayley as it stops her from becoming stale in the eyes of the fans and come back strong with a good program against whoever the NXT Women's champion is. Bayley is one of the four horsewomen and is a star waiting to happen, let us hope that the WWE handle her properly and have something to do for her when she comes back if the injury is real.

Journey Through The Attitude Era Vol 5: WWF Summerslam 1998 Review

                                                           One of my favorite posters for a pay per view!

 Welcome one and all to another edition of our journey through what was the attitude era. Tonight we shall indulge in what was WWF Summerslam 1998, a big pay per view for The Rock and Triple H as they made themselves stars in their epic ladder match while Austin and Undertaker just never seemed to have enough chemistry for a truly awesome match did they? Well let's waste no more time and get it on!

Opening package reminds us that Undertaker and Kane are now on the same page, The Brothers of Destruction unite for the first time and that spells trouble for The Rattlesnake Stone Cold Steve Austin as he defends his championship against Undertaker.

Val Venis vs D'Lo Brown(WWF European Championship Match)

This match was really enjoyable, it was slow to begin with but it build as the match continued. The story of the match was D'Lo's chest protector gave him an unfair advantage so to begin with D'Lo had the advantage as he wore down Val by using his chest protector. Val's selling was great as he bounced all over the place for D'Lo who hit powerbombs and elbows nad a mid air sky high which was really impressive.

The match came to a disappointing end as Val stole the chest protector and the referee refused to allow Val to use it even though D'Lo could use. Anyways, Val shoves the referee and the match ends in a DQ. Disappointing end as the match was building and was winning the crowd over but the finish protects Val who had recently debut while D'Lo keeps his championship.

Oddities W/ ICP vs Kaientai

What to say hmmmm..... interesting? Yeah let's go with that as The Oddities take on Kaientai. Just lower card comedy here with some funny spots as the big men like Giant Silva and Kurrgan(Do not worry if you do not know who these are, most people don't!) toss around Funaki and Taka Michinoku. Oddities get the win when Kurrgan and Giant Silva chokeslam all four members of Kaientai and Golga(Earthquake) splashes all four members.

Winners: Oddities over Kaientai following The Splash of Doom!

 X-Pac vs Jeff Jarrett(Hair vs Hair match) 

This was an ok match from these two. Jeff Jarrett had cut Howard Finkel's hair on Heat so Finkel was in X-Pac's corner. They go through the motions here nothing really memorable as Jarrett reaches for the guitar but X-pac clobbers Jarrett over the head and gets the win.

 Jarrett's hair was shaved by Finkle and X-Pac so everyone had a good time. Jarrett had the mullet style of hair for so long but so many fans nowadays would recognize his short hair look with his guitar in hand. The future looked bright for both these men in the WWF but this match was nothing to write home about.

Winner: X-Pac over Jarrett following Guitar Shot!

 

 

Edge & Sable vs Marc Mero & Jacqueline

Sable's mystery partner for her match against Mero and Jacqueline turns out to be the mysterious Edge who has been seen at the last few pay per views watching on from the rafters and various other locations. Sable's voice is like nails on a chalkboard, I mean like Brie Bella looks tame in terms of annoyance.

 However, Sable's wrestling was far worse than her shrieking, selling was non existent and this match was bad. Comedy was an important element in this match but it really was poor at times. Many people criticize Mero and he was poor in this match but I will have to watch him in WCW as Johnny B Badd to see if that is true. All around a poor match with Sable pinning Mero after an assist from Edge.

Winners: Edge & Sable over Mero & Jacqueline!

 Ken Shamrock vs Owen Hart(Lion's Den Match)

Ah WWF, you could have made a few bucks off Dan Severn vs Shamrock in a real UFC fight perhaps a missed opportunity right there, it could not have been as bad for the brawl for all(That will be reviewed one day). Owen Hart since joining the Nation has been an annoying little shit and everyone wants Shamrock to kill him. This is Shamrock's match and Hart looks like it could be game over.

Shamrock starts off intense as always throwing Hart around the cage, this match follows the same formula last time as it very quickly goes from fight mentality orientated back to wrestling orientated and it kinda loses some of its magic for me when they go from shooting takedowns to throwing irish whips and back body drops. Hart tries to lock in his chokehold learned from Dan the beast Severn but Shamrock flips out of the choke and locks in the Anklelock. Severn walks away in disgust as Hart taps like a little girl. Good match from these two as Shamrock was so over at the time and it is no surprise that he is placed so highly on the card for the next ppv competing for a shot at the title. Hart played a great chickenshit heel here, great selling and when he tapped, the crowd erupted.

Winner: Shamrock over Owen Hart following An Ankle Lock!

Mankind vs New Age Outlaws(WWF Tag Team Championship Match)

The tag team titles are on the line as Kane is nowhere to be seen so Mankind will be taking on both men by himself, defending his championship. The seeds are planted here for the more cartoony fun loving Mankind who they people would be sympathetic towards. Mankind gets brutalized by The Outlaws trays and chairs are on the menu for Foley as he gets rammed into a dumpster by ringside.

 Mankind gets powerbombed through two chairs before getting a spike piledriver onto one of the tag team belts as The New Age Outlaws are your new tag team champions. Crowd is chanting throughout for Mankind. Kane appears from the dumpster which New Age Outlaws brought to ringside and smashes Mankind with a sledgehammer.

Winner: New Age Outlaws over Mankind!

Triple H W/ Chyna vs The Rock W/ Mark Henry(Ladder Match Intercontinental Championship)

The Rock defends his championship against Triple H, it is the culmination of a rivalry that sprang from Spring until Summer. The Nation and Dx would finally go their separate ways after this match but who will walk away the champion? Triple H's knee was softened up by The Rock on Heat after he assaulted Triple H with the belt. Both men trade dominance at the beginning before Triple H attempts a pedigree but is sent tumbling over the top rope. Triple H is catapulted into a ladder at ringside, as Rock nails him with a clothesline.

 Rock climbs a ladder inside the ring but Triple H pushes him off as both men are down. Triple H tries to climb to the title but Rock yanks Hunter down, Hunter clutched his heavily taped leg. Rock zeroes in on the leg Hunter's leg is put in a ladder while Rock decides that Hunter deserves a chair shot to the injured leg. Feeling that this one is in the bag, Rock takes his time climbing the ladder. Big mistake as Hunter shoves the ladder over, he also throws the ladder to the outside to by time. Smart strategy from the challenger as JR is putting over this match big time. Hunter gets backdropped on a ladder at ringside while Rock goes for Gold once more. The Great one is denied by Hunter as he shoves the ladder down and baseball slides the ladder into The Rock's face.

 Rock is busted open by the ladder shot to the face, Hunter tries to climb the ladder, he is inches away from grabbing the belt before Rock tips the ladder over. Both me climb to the top of the ladder before Hunter is thrown off the ladder but he rebounds and sends Rock crashing to the floor, Chyna gifts Triple H a chair as he lays into Rock over and over again with the chair. Triple H attempts a pedigree on the ladder but Rock reverses and Triple H lands right on the ladder. Rock signals for The People's elbow as the crowd goes nut as Rock nails Hunter. Both men attempt climbing the ladder while trading finishers, Rock hits the rock bottom before Triple H nails the pedigree. Both men still down as Mark Henry at ringside throws powder in the eyes of Hunter who cannot see a stitch now.

 They climb the ladder trading blows with The Rock having the upper hand as Triple H cannot see anything. Chyna evens the odds by low blowing Rock who falls to the mat, Triple H is all alone at the top of the ladder as he pulls down the championship. All I can say is what a match, from the crowd reaction to the wrestling is what fantastic, The Rock and Triple H tore it up inside that ring and both men would be looked at differently after this match. If you could signal one match as the turning point in someone's career, it would be this match and it would be for both men. Congratulations to both men who stole the show in Madison Square Garden.

Winner: Triple H over The Rock by retrieval of the belt!

(WWF Championship Match) Stone Cold Steve Austin © vs The Undertaker

The champion Austin taking on The Undertaker who has his brother Kane on his side. Both men are pummeling each other to begin with with Stone Cold showing off some nice wrestling moves such as a fujiwara armbar and drop toe holds to take down the bigger and larger Undertaker. Undertaker hits Austin with a stungun to take down the champion. Hard Irish whip by The Phenom, Austin goes low and starts working over the leg of the challenger but Austin cannot sustain the advantage for long as Undertaker hits a leaping clothesline, taking Austin off his feet. Undertaker chokes Austin before deciding its time for old school. Unfortunately for Taker, Austin counters and goes right back to the leg of the demon from death valley. Kane comes out to ringside but Undertaker sends his younger brother away deciding he will do this on his own without any help.

 Austin and Undertaker brawl into the crowd, back in the ring Austin attempts the stunner but Taker bails to the outside of the ring. Austin goes for a double axe handle but Taker catches him and Austin's back meets the ringpost. Taker decides the spanish announce table needs some redecorating as he lays Austin on top. Taker climbs the top rope and legdrops Austin through the table. Great looking spot there by Undertaker as it looks like he nearly killed Austin. Taker carries the champion's limp body back into the ring and covers him. 1...2.... Kickout by Austin, double clothesline as both men are down. Referee Earl Hebnar starts the ten count, right hands by Austin, Lou Thesz Press and an elbow from Austin. Here things get a bit hazy as Undertaker and Austin have some miscommunications which leads to a very awkward part of the match with Austin attempting to hit the stunner and both men awkwardly hitting one another.

 The match comes to an end as Taker tries Old School one more time but Austin low blows Undertaker in mid air and plants him with the stunner for the 1..2..3. Unless I missed it I do not remember hearing this was no disqualifications so it was strange to see the referee looking at Austin as he low blowed the Undertaker. Regardless of the finish, Undertaker sits up and hands Austin the title in a sign of respect before meeting his brother Kane in the entrance way as both men stare at Austin. It was a decent match, not a bad match.

 It had a good story with Undertaker still being a face despite his alliance with Kane. Undertaker sending Kane away was a nice touch to further this point but the wrestling was not all that great in this match. The ending was admittedly sloppy I do not really know what happened but it did not look very good. However, it was still a solid match from the two biggest faces in the company at the time.

Winner: Stone Cold Steve Austin over Undertaker following a Stunner!

 

Overall, it was another pay per views that was carried by one or two matches. The memorable moments were The Rock and Triple H's fantastic ladder match, it absolutely stole the show and launched both men to another level. Austin and Undertaker was not as good but was still enjoyable match from those two while Val Venis and D'Lo Brown had a great opener, probably the best opener of all the pay per views from 1998 I have seen so far. The rest of the card did not feel like a Summerslam card though, it did not feel like a big four pay per view. Sable match was really bad and The Kaientai vs Oddities was a comedy match that should have been on heat. Check in with us next time for WWF Breakdown ! See You next time!

Journey Through The Attitude Era Vol 4: WWF Fully Loaded 1998 Review

  

It must be time once again to dive into the midst of the attitude era and we have for you this time WWF Fully Loaded 1998. With Austin and The Undertaker making an uneasy alliance to combat Mankind and Kane and The Rock defending his championship against Triple H, we should be in for a good night of wrestling so let us waste no more time and dive into the action.

Jeff Jarrett vs Val Venis

  Jarrett's strut is awesome as ever, Yamaguichi San is possibly the greatest commentator of all time(He is the manager of Kaientai). I am not sure if this is after we choppy choppy your pee pee but from what Yamaguichi is stating I guess it is just before the "incident". Jarrett hits a big powerbomb on Venis and gets the heat on Val. Tennessee Lee piles on the punishment on Val as Venis is not fairing to well in his pay per view debut. A chop war ensues between the two men, ddt from Double J plants Venis.

 Val hits a belly to belly suplex and starts his comeback with clotheslines and an inverted atomic drop. Going for the money shot, Jarrett pulls the referee in the way and the referee takes a bump. Tennessee Lee shoves Val on the turnbuckle while Double J hits a suplex from the second rope. Two count as Venis reverses a figure four attempt by Jarrett. Lee is up on the apron and Venis smashes Jarrett into Lee and rolls up Jarrett. Venis is still undefeated and this was a solid opener. The crowd hated Double J so it made the match better.

Winner: Val Venis over Jarrett via roll-up!

     D'Lo Brown W/ Godfather vs X-Pac W/ Chyna 

  

D'Lo Brown had beaten Triple H on the previous raw for the European title after The Rock interfered in the match. D'Lo is massively hated by the crowd. Unfortunately, it is a non title match. These two had great chemistry, the match starts of at a quick pace before D'lo lays out Pac with a calf kick. D'Lo grabs a sleeper after a stiff clothesline, Pac fights back before D'Lo sends Pac flying into the turnbuckle. Snapmare and signature leg drop by Brown, only a two count for the champion.

 Diving elbow from the second rope by Brown connects, only two so Brown locks in a chinlock. D'Lo misses a moonsault, he eats a spinning heel kick form Pac who hits the bronco buster. Pac looks like he is back in the match before Godfather rises up to the apron and clubs Pac in the back. X-Pac gives Godfather a receipt but he walks into the sky high by D'Lo for the victory. A good match from these two, not the best but they will go on to have better matches down the line.

Winner: D Lo Brown over X-Pac following a Sky High!

Bradshaw and Terry Funk vs Too Cold Scorpio and Faarooq

  Before this match begins, it is announced Undertaker has not yet arrived to the arena, fueling the rumour that Austin may be left alone in the ring tonight facing Mankind and Kane. Faarooq and Scorpio have apparently been undefeated on Shotgun Saturday Night for the last couple of weeks so they go to face Bradshaw and Terry Funk. Funk announces that this will be his last match in the WWF as he wishes to take a break after his battles with and against Mankind. Bradshaw is pissed by Funk's announcement, crazy seeing Faarooq and Bradshaw on opposite sides of the ring as they were partners for many years after this as the Acolytes and the APA.

 Scorpio uses his speed to take down Bradshaw, Faarooq comes in before the younger Bradshaw gets the upper hand on the veteran with a diving shoulder block. Funk comes in to a good ovation from the crowd a neckbreaker follows for Faarooq. Bradshaw goes for another diving shoulder block but gets caught in a powerslam by Faarooq. Funk dishes out punishment to Scorpio on the outside as Bradshaw watches on. Through the crowd Funk battles Scorpio before coming back to the ring.

 Scorpio starts beating on Funk with leg drops and splashes before hitting the 450 splash for the victory. Bradshaw snaps post match with lariats to Funk and Scorpio before decimating Faarooq with a steel chair shot to the head. Ok match nothing more to be said.

 

 

Winners: Scorpio & Farrooq over Bradshaw & Funk via 450 Splash!

  Vader vs Mark Henry

  As a fan of All Japan Pro Wrestling, I am well aware of Vader's run as champion and path of destruction. To me, the timeline is a bit hazy but I am sure Vader got to All Japan by 1998 which is true but my god, he was in WWF for a longtime in 1998. I thought he was gone after his match with Kane, I was wrong. Didn't Vader lose a mask vs mask match against Kane?

 Perhaps I am losing it, anyways this match is like most big man vs big man matches, slow plodding and quite dull at times. For the first three minutes, it is an extended squash as Henry dominates Vader. Vader hits one splash on Henry but Henry kicks out and Vader is soundly beaten by Henry who ends it with a splash of his own.

Winner: Henry over Vader following a big splash!

 DOA W/ Paul Ellering vs LOD 2000 

   A bit of history here as LOD's former manager Paul Ellering returns to beat the hell out of the team he used to manage on their initial path to success. No Droz nor Sunny but Sunny may have gone to ECW by this time. Hawk and Animal exchange quick tags as Skull or 8-Ball gets worn down. Hawk hits the ringpost hard as he clutches his shoulder on the outside.

 Ellering attacks Hawk on the outside behind the referee's back. Hawk is isolated and looks absolutely out of it as the crowd continues to chant LOD. Animal gets the hot tag and runs wild for about 10 seconds before it is time for the doomsday device. LOD hit their move but DOA pull a twin magic as they switch places, Animal gets planted with a ddt and DOA steal the win. Standard tag match with heels winning the match.

Winners: DOA over LOD 2000 via a DDT!

   Owen Hart vs Ken Shamrock(Lion's Den Match)

   Before this match starts, Vince announces that Taker may not make it for the main event but fear not wwf fans for Vince has a suitable replacement, the great and almighty Brooklyn Brawler. Severn is the special referee what a beautifully ridiculous match this is so it starts off relatively well, Shamrock a UFC and Pancrase legend by this point shoots for a takedown and pummels Hart like a bitch.

 Submission counters galore as these two make it seem like a real fight. It goes down hill very quickly as they start hitting frankensteiners and irish whips on one another losing that real fight feel. The match ends after Shamrock clobbers Dan Severn by accident so Hart grabs a dumbbell from the wall and smacks Shamrock across the head. Shamrock is out cold and the King of Hearts is victorious! Quick match and fun!

Winner: Owen Hart over Shamrock due to Shenanigans!

The Rock vs Triple H (Two out of Three Fall Match) (WWF Intercontinental Championship Match)

Rock dominates early portion of the match with punches and kicks. Helmsley takes over as they battle up and down the entrance way. Rock whips Hunter into the steel steps, kicks to the midsection by the champion. Inside the ring the champion chokes the challenger as the crowd chants Rocky sucks!Triple H battles back with a suplex and a knee drop, a chop battles ensues between champion and challenger with Rock sending Hunter over the top rope. Henry interferes and crushes Triple H, the damage has been done as Billy Gunn makes the save for Triple H. The Rock hits Triple H with the intercontinental championship but Triple H kicks out.

 Neckbreaker by Rock who wears down Triple H with a sleeper hold. Hunter fights back but Rock cuts him off again. Rock spikes Helmsley with a ddt but only gets two. Rock grabs another sleeper as JR mentions The Rock may be trying to waste time for the time limit to expire in this two out of three falls match. Rock has Hunter well scouted as he continues to cut off Hemley's offence. Big knee by Hunter it leaves The Rock reeling, but Rock sends Hunter into the ropes. Godfather tries to interfere but the new age outlaws come to ringside and prevent any interference. The Rock distracts the referee as D'Lo tries to interfere but it backfires as Hunter catches D'Lo and smacks him with the European championship right over the head.

 Unfortunately, Hunter walks right into a Rock Bottom as The Rock takes the first fall in this match. They battle on the outside with Rock catapulting Hunter into the Spanish announce table. People's Elbow from The Rock but Hunter kicks out at two, frustration is building inside of the champion. Desperation clothesline from Hunter as both men are down, D'Lo appears on the apron once more but Chyna takes him down this time as he crashes into the guardrail. Referee is distracted as X-Pac nails Rock with the X Factor. Hunter goes for the win but Rock kicks out. Hunter grabs a chair with Chyna distracting the referee but Rock takes the chair from Hunter, he wings for his head but hits the referee. Chyna enters the ring hits the low blow on The Rock and plants him with a ddt. Chyna removes the evidence as Hunter pins Rock.

 It is 1:1 as both men recover. Hunter gets a pin on Rock but it is only two. Two minutes are left as they exchange punches. Rock goes for a Rock Bottom but Hunter counters and hits the pedigree! Hunter goes for the pin but the time has expired, Rock retains the title. Great match from these two who will make their star presence felt as next month's Summerslam but take nothing away from this match, this was a great fun match. Rock was great as a heel escaping with the championship but just barely. I like subtle hints showing that Rock's reign is coming to an end, Triple H had his number here if it was not for the time limit expiring. Hunter will have his day.

Winner: The Rock due to time limit expiring!

  Bikini Contest Sable vs Jacqueline

    Well does this need a review? I guess it is my job to cover everything on this show. It had a promo package my god they really loved Sable didn't they? So lots of name calling such as skank whore slut etc.  Well yeah Jacqueline strips and looks fantastic so yeah Sable has to strip. Sable cuts a long promo which is hilarious in the context of this bikini contest. And then Sable reveals the handprints on her breasts bikini.

 How did they get away with this? It is so crazy to think that this happened on pay per view, but they were targeting that audience so yeah it works I am not complaining! Vince comes out and covers up Sable acting like this was too much for him and being apologetic when he is the man who booked this crap! Yeah it was what it was. T&A for every horny adult who watched 

(WWF Tag Team Championship Match) Kane & Mankind vs Stone Cold & The Undertaker)

  Excellent promo package here setting up the main event. The big story is where does The Undertaker's allegiance lie? Will he be on the side of Stone Cold who will face at the next month's pay per view or will he side with his brother Kane? Austin enters to a monstrous pop and Undertaker confronts Austin on the rampway. Mankind and Kane take the fight to Undertaker and Austin. Austin takes a part Mankind before a thumb to the eye turns the tide in Mankind's favour. Kane comes in and wrecks Austin before Austin hits a Lou Thesz press and an elbow. Kane bails out of the ring before Austin hits the stunner. Austin tags in Undertaker who flips off Austin and goes after Mankind.

 Old school by Undertaker, right hands by the phenom who is whooping Foley's ass. Mankind makes the blind tag and Kane enters the fray and chokeslams his brother. Kane shows no remorse for his brother, Mankind comes into the ring and dominates Undertaker. Cactus Jack clothesline by Mankind and Taker is sent flying to the outside. Austin involves himself by attacking Mankind, Undertaker is at a two on one disadvantage as Kane and Mankind pummel Taker. Taker creates separation with a big ddt, Austin comes in and knocks down Kane with a big chairshot. Kane kicks out at two and big boots Austin into oblivion. On the outside Austin is dropped onto the guardrail repeatedly. Kane and Mankind keep making tags staying fresh while wearing down Austin. Austin is assaulted as Undertaker watches on from the apron.

 Chokeslam by Kane on Austin, Mankind tells Kane to go for the tombstone. Double stunner from Austin he nails Kane and Mankind. Austin reaches for the tag to Taker but Taker does not look the slightest bit interested before saying screw it and Austin makes the tag. Undertaker cleans house and chokeslams Kane and gives a tombstone to Kane. Austin takes out Mankind as Taker pins his brother Kane. Crowd was hot for this match, Austin was white hot as usual and Taker was over big time here too. Not a lot of technical wrestling but you cannot expect that from these four brawlers. Exciting match with a good finish as Taker and Austin are the odd couple tag team champions. Roll On Summerslam!

Winners: Stone Cold Steve Austin & The Undertaker following a Tombstone!

Journey Through The Attitude Era Vol 3: King Of The Ring 1998 Review

   

  Welcome wrestling fans of the internet as we embark on the third in our series of our journey through The Attitude Era. This time we revisit King of The Ring with the infamous Hell in a Cell between Mankind and Undertaker while we also see WWF champion face the ultimate task in fighting Kane in a first blood match. If Kane loses, he will set himself on fire but surely Kane cannot lose since he has a mask? Well let us see!!!

Kaientai(Sho Funaki/Men's Teioh/Dick Togo) vs The Headbangers And Taka Michinoku

6 man tag team action as we see Taka Michinoku battle Kaientai who have been tormenting him for weeks on end. There is no Bradshaw this time as Taka has found himself partners in Mosh and Thrasher of The Headbangers. Mosh and Thrasher dominate the smaller Kaientai members. Mosh powerbombs Funaki as Taka comes in with high flying offence. Signature no hands springboard dive by Taka. Taka gets assaulted by Togo who is wearing an Iron Maiden shirt. Bonus points for Togo, baseball slide into a headscissors by Togo. Kaientai takes turns ragdolling Taka around the ring.

 Miscue by Funaki who knocks out Teioh, Taka gets the opportunity to make the tag. Thrasher and Mosh come in, punches and backdrops follow for Kaientai. Thrasher gets Funaki all alone and nails a scoop slam, Taka is assisted by the headbangers and hits a splash on  Funaki. Taka signals and delivers The Michinoku driver for the win. Fun little opener perhaps a little on the short side but it was fine, everyone did well and there were no mess ups in this match.

Winners: Taka & Headbangers over Kaientai via a Michinoku Driver!

 

 

Semi Final Match: Jeff Jarrett vs Ken Shamrock

First semi-final match kicks off with Jarrett vs Ken Shamrock. Jarrett makes his grand entrance with pyrotechnics and signature strut. Ain't I great screams Jarrett as he enters the ring with Tennessee Lee. Jim Ross brings up  that Owen Hart and The Nation had previously softened up Shamrock's ankle so he may not be 100%. Shamrock is explosive to begin with with kicks and a clothesline.

 

Jarrett, the veteran hits a neckbreaker and a dropkick to gain control in this match. Jarrett's advantage doesn't last long as Shamrock beats the piss out of Jarrett. Tennessee gets involved, focusing on Shamrock's ankle , Jarrett goes to work. Thinking he has the match won, Jarrett eases off, he eats a spinning heel kick for his arrogance. A spinning elbow and a frankensteiner follow before Shamrock locks in The Angle Lock. Game over as Jarrett taps immediately. Shamrock was over huge in this match and he has a lot of credible offence which makes him look unstoppable.

Winner: Shamrock over Jarrett in dominating fashion!

Semi Final Match: The Rock vs Dan Severn

The Rock enters the ring first as Mark Henry and Godfather are ejected from ringside. His opponent is former UFC champion Dan Severn who injured D'Lo in a King of The Ring qualifier. What a potential match it could have been between Shamrock and Severn, too bad Vince did not think much of UFC, that must be frustrating now Vinnie Mac? Severn outwrestles Rock trying to break him into pieces. Firemen's carry by Severn who continues to cut off Rock with armbars and choke holds.

 Big reactions for The Rock as he continues mocking Severn. Suplexes and kicks by Rock who is just trying to stamp out Severn. Double knock down as both men clash heads. D'Lo Brown emerges from ringside with his now famous chest protector and frog splashes Severn. The Rock takes the pin and we have The Rock vs Ken Shamrock in the final. Another short match but that is not a big deal as the final is the big match. The Rock cuts a promo after the match which he runs down Shamrock. Big Rivalry between these two, the story is there and this is going to be a great match.

Winner: The Rock over Severn thanks to D Lo Brown!

Too Much (Scotty Too Hotty/Brian Christopher) vs Al Snow

So, Al Snow returned from ECW after becoming a hit after talking to a plastic mannequin head. The story goes that Snow wants a meeting with Mcmahon to be a WWF wrestler so he stole Jerry Lawler's crown and was granted this match. If he wins, Al will win a meeting with Vince and will become a wwf wrestler. There is no referee in the ring and it is announced that Jerry Lawler will be the special referee. JR on commentary by himself is better than the current product, a million times better in fact. Al Snow beats up Scotty with Jerry giving an unfair advantage to Too Much, Snow beats up Brian Christopher and Jerry gives an unfair advantage to Too Much.

 Snow pins a Too Hot but Lawler counts so slow that you could have a birthday while he counts. Of course, Scotty kicks out and this handicap match continues. Scotty covers Al as Jerry does a fast count. Two count as Scotty hits a pumphandle suplex on Snow. Snow turns the tide with a double ddt and is reaching to Head for the tag. He tags in head and starts knocking Too Much around the ring with Head. Snow hits a Snowplow on Scotty Too Hotty but Jerry Lawler counts the pin as Brian Christopher pins the Head after putting a bottle of head and shoulders shampoo bottle on it. Yeah you read that right, Too Much wins by pinning Head because it was Head and Shoulders got it ? Funny right? Yeah I am not sure what Al was thinking agreeing to this finish but it is what it is so yeah terrible finish. Let's move on!

Winner: Too Much over Al Snow due to Tomfoolery!

 

 

X-Pac with Chyna vs Owen Hart

X-Pac's first pay per view match since returning from WCW. Continuing the ongoing feud between the Nation and Dx, Owen Hart is taking on X-Pac. Both cost one another King of The Ring Qualifiers. Baseball slide by Pac to start off the match, both men start aggressively as JR fills us in on X-Pac's history of neck issues. Hard irish whips by Hart followed by spinning heel kicks. Back drop by X-Pac before he sends Owen crashing to the floor with a clothesline. Hart flings X-Pax into the timekeeper's area, missile dropkick by Owen Hart. Sleeper hold is applied by Owen who is keeping the high flyer grounded. Martial arts kicks by X-Pac, next comes the bronco buster.

 

X-Pac goes to the top rope, Hart catches Pac off guard and both men take bumps from the turnbuckle, X-Pac lands on the outside. Mark Henry runs to ringside as he splashes X-Pac. Chyna and Henry square off before Vader comes out of nowhere and starts brawling with Mark Henry. In the ring Chyna stops Hart's sharpshooter and ddts Owen into the canvas 1...2....3. Decent match from these two but they have had better matches than this, it is nothing too special.

 

 

Winner X-Pac over Owen Hart thanks to Chyna!

 

 

(WWF Tag Team Championship Match) New Midnight Express vs New Age Outlaws With Chyna

 Road Dogg and Bodacious Bob Holly kick us off. Bodacious Bob wants no part of Billy Gunn. Bob tags in Bart, Gunn's former smoking gunn partner. Nice wrestling from both men, Gunn tags in Road Dogg who gets assaulted illegally by Bodacious Bob. Midnight Express get the heat on the Road Dogg, dropkicks and double teams follow on the road dogg who sells and sells until it is time for Billy Gunn to run wild.

 Billy goes for a piledriver on Bob but eats a nwa tag belt to the back of the head from James E Cornette. Billy kicks out as the ref is distracted by Road Dogg and Bart fighting on the outside. Cornette goes to attack Billy again but is thwarted by Chyna who low blows him into next week. Double stun gun by Dogg and Gunn for the victory and they retain the titles. A fine match with the outlaws being over like rover.

 

Winners: New Age Outlaws retain the titles!

King Of The Ring Final: The Rock vs Ken Shamrock

Last year's winner Triple H joins the commentary team. Rock comes out first as the announcers play up on the fact that there is a bitter rivalry between Rock and Shamrock. Fast paced beginning from both men who seem on their game. Shamrock scores with a kick to the chest which makes Rock bail to the outside. Announcers mention Shamrock's injured ankle and his temper which may cost him the match. Rock shoves Triple H at ringside which leads to Shamrock battering The Rock around the outside of the ring. Shamrock hits a floatover suplex on Rock. Rock regains the advantage with a swinging neckbreaker. Shamrock battles back but meets a ddt which plants him.

 Sleeper holds by The Rock to wear down the world's most dangerous man. People's Elbow and a ddt take Shamrock almost out of it but Shamrock will not stay down. Powerslams from both men, trying to put the other away. Northern lights suplex by Shamrock, Rock gets out a two and half. More nearfalls before Rock gets frustrated, venting his frustration at the referee. Shamrock plays possum and when The Rock comes back to finish the match, Shamrock catches Rock off guard and executes the ankle lock. The Rock screams out in  pain and realizes he cannot go anywhere so he taps out in the middle of the ring.

 

Great match between these two who knew each other so well due to their months of feuding. Rock brought out best of Shamrock and this may have been Shamrock's highest moment in the WWF. Not the most successful king as nothing really came together for Shamrock but this was a great match if nothing else at the end of the day.

Winner: Shamrock over The Rock following an Ankle Lock!

Mankind vs Undertaker(Hell In A Cell Match)

The main match that everyone can remember from this pay per view, the match that quite possibly made Mick Foley's career in the WWF. Mankind would have to settle his issues with The Undertaker in the most demonic structure ever assembled in WWF history. To start off the insanity, Mankind climbs to the top of the cell with a steel chair. Mankind persuades Undertaker to start the match on top of the cell and he is all too happy to honor Mankind's request. Mankind attacks with the chair but Undertaker is too strong and in the one of the most iconic moments of Attitude Era history, Undertaker tosses Foley from the top of the cell through the spanish announce table.

 One of the craziest bumps I had ever seen in my life and so many others would testify to the insane risk involved with this bump. Foley is stretchered as far as the ramp before Foley sits up and makes his way back to the top of the cell. Bad idea as Undertaker chokeslams Foley through the top of the cell. Foley is unconscious as Terry Funk and wwf officials tend to the injured Mankind. Undertaker chokeslams Terry Funk who is helping his dear friend Mick Foley. Mankind counters old school, going on the offensive for the second time in this match. Taker rams Mankind with the steel steps, Mankind is clutching his left arm which seems to be dislocated while also bleeding from his lip. Undertaker misses the suicide dive resulting in Taker being bloody.

 Piledriver by a one armed Mankind on The Undertaker, only gets a two count leg drop by Mankind on the Undertaker and still, only a two count for Foley. Mankind grabs a bag from underneath the ring and it appears to be a bag of thumbtacks. Spreading them across the canvas, Mankind applies the mandible claw as Undertaker begins to fade the hand of the demon from death valley drops once, drops twice but the final time, it does not drop as Undertaker hoists Mankind onto his back and falls directly onto the thumbtacks. Foley writes around it excruciating pain, he stumbles to his feet to meet The Undertaker and a chokeslam on the thumbtacks for good measure.

This brawl comes to an end with a tombstone from Undertaker to Mankind for the 1..2...3. Simply one of the best matches in Attitude Era history, it is not a technical masterpiece, it may not have a gripping story but the bumps and the images of Foley flying off of and through that cell burn so strongly in the memory of any fan of wrestling that they will never be forgotten. A great match from two absolute legends of the wrestling world.

Winner: Undertaker over Mankind via Tombstone to Hell!

(WWF Championship Match) Stone Cold Steve Austin (C) vs Kane (First Blood Match)

Kane's first main event in the WWF, a first blood match for the championship.  Gas canisters surrounds the ring if Kane loses. How will Austin bust open Kane when a mask covers his face? Will Kane be set on fire? When the glass shatters, the crowd comes unglued as Austin comes walking down to the ring. Just to show how much a monster Kane is in this match, the first 30 seconds consist of Kane being smacked in the face with the title twice and he just sits right back up. Austin had a staph infection at the time so his elbow is the size of a bowling ball, its taped up but looks nasty. Five minutes into the match, the hell in a cell is lowered as JR wanders why this is happening. Kane is punishing Austin around the ring before Austin turns the tide by sending Kane into the cell door. The rattlesnake gets suplexed right onto the ramp, Austin gets the better of Kane in the ring as they continue to brawl all around the arena.

 Austin slams Kane into the exposed turnbuckle, Mankind makes his way to the ring with a chair. It's a two on one situation with the referee down on the outside. Stunners to both Kane and Mankind by Austin who collapses in exhaustion, all three men are down. Here comes The Undertaker with a steel chair, Austin has a steel chair, they both attempt to take mankind's head off but Undertaker wallops Austin with the chair. Undertakers picks up the referee and pours gasoline on him, reviving him in the process. Kane hits Taker taking him out of the match while Austin staggers to his feet, Kane attempts to strike Austin with the chair but Austin reverse and levels Kane.

 However, the referee sees Austin has been busted open by Taker's chairshot and we have a winner and new champion, Kane!!!. Felt this match was a bit on the short side but enjoyable not the less. It is funny that people criticize Cena as barely doing more moves than 5 when Austin matches after his neck injury consist of punches, kicks and a lou thesz press, an elbow drop and a stunner. Difference is Austin is over like rover and nothing is stopping Austin's momentum win or lose.

Winner: Kane over Austin thanks to Undertaker!

Overall, this was an exciting show, a lot of the matches were fun and did not go on for too long. Of course, we have the iconic hell in a cell match but The Rock vs Shamrock in the finals is a very underrated match on this card. Austin and Kane delivers as well as the WWF were firmly kicking WCW's ass by this point in time. Very interesting as from watching WCW, most people agree that their undercard matches were far superior to the WWF while the WWF main events were superior to its undercard matches. To be fair, it is the main event matches that draw the crowds to the arenas and to buying the pay per view and the WWF were absolutely killing it at the time. Join me next time for the next installment WWF Fully Loaded.