The Matches That Made And Destroyed Legitimate American Professional Wrestling

Professional wrestling has always been a source of entertainment and fascination for fans across the world. Through its larger-than-life characters, dramatic storylines, and incredible in-ring performances, wrestling has captivated audiences for decades. However, there have been key matches in American professional wrestling that not only shaped the industry but also had significant consequences on its legitimacy.

1. Hulk Hogan vs. Andre the Giant - WrestleMania III (1987)

One of the most iconic matches in professional wrestling history, the clash between Hulk Hogan and Andre the Giant at WrestleMania III defined an era. With Hogan representing the good guy and Andre exhibiting an intimidating presence, the match drew immense attention and hype.

Considered the culmination of a long-running feud, the match saw Hogan slam the 500-pound Andre the Giant, sending shockwaves through the wrestling world. This legendary moment elevated Hogan's popularity and solidified his status as a wrestling icon.

Gotch vs. Hackenschmidt: The Matches That Made and Destroyed Legitimate American Professional Wrestling

by Ken Zimmerman Jr.(Kindle Edition)

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3828 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	64 pages

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However, the Hogan vs. Andre match also marked the beginning of a transition in wrestling. The industry started shifting towards a more entertainment-focused approach, blurring the lines between reality and scripted storylines. While this allowed for greater creative freedom, it also reduced the perceived legitimacy of professional wrestling.

2. The Montreal Screwjob - Survivor Series (1997)

The infamous Montreal Screwjob is one of the most controversial incidents in wrestling history. As Bret "The Hitman" Hart faced Shawn Michaels for the WWE Championship at Survivor Series, what unfolded shocked the wrestling world.

With Hart planning to leave the WWE (then WWF) for their competitor, WCW, there was a dispute about how the match would end. In a shocking turn of events, Vince McMahon, the owner of WWE, called for a controversial finish. Without Hart's knowledge, Michaels locked him in a submission move, and the referee declared Michaels the winner, even though Hart had not submitted.

The Montreal Screwjob had far-reaching consequences. It fueled professional wrestling's transition towards predetermined outcomes and behind-the-scenes manipulation. The event shattered the illusion of wrestling being a legitimate sport and exposed the business's closely guarded secrets.

3. CM Punk vs. John Cena - Money in the Bank (2011)

In 2011, CM Punk and John Cena delivered a match that rejuvenated the wrestling industry. Punk's contract with WWE was set to expire, and he had publicly expressed his frustration with the company. This caused a surge in interest, as fans believed that Punk might legitimately leave WWE and take the WWE Championship with him.

The match was touted as a "Winner Takes All" encounter, emphasizing the high stakes involved. Punk and Cena delivered an intense and physically demanding match, leaving fans on the edge of their seats. In an unexpected twist, Punk emerged victorious and left the arena through the crowd, solidifying his status as a rebel against the establishment.

This highly memorable match highlighted the potential of blurring the lines between reality and fiction in professional wrestling. It showcased the power of intricate storytelling, capturing the imagination of fans and reigniting their passion for the sport.

4. The Invasion Angle - WWF vs. WCW/ECW (2001)

In 2001, the wrestling landscape witnessed one of the most highly anticipated storylines - the Invasion Angle. This rivalry between the WWF (now WWE),WCW, and ECW promised to be a dream come true for wrestling fans.

While the premise seemed exciting, the reality fell short of expectations. Due to various contractual and logistical issues, many prominent WCW and ECW wrestlers were not part of the angle initially. The Invasion Angle quickly lost its appeal, showcasing the difficulties of merging different wrestling promotions and maintaining the integrity of each brand.

The fallout from the Invasion Angle had a lasting impact on the legitimacy of the wrestling industry. It revealed the challenges of maintaining a consistent and believable storyline while incorporating wrestlers from different promotions.

5. Brock Lesnar vs. The Undertaker - WrestleMania XXX (2014)

In what can only be described as a shocking upset, Brock Lesnar defeated The Undertaker, ending the latter's legendary undefeated streak at WrestleMania. The Undertaker had built an unprecedented 21-match winning streak, creating an aura of invincibility around him.

Lesnar's victory sent shockwaves through the wrestling community. The Undertaker's streak had been a cornerstone of WrestleMania, and its end marked a significant shift in the landscape of professional wrestling.

While some fans were upset by the outcome, others recognized the long-term storyline implications. Lesnar's victory solidified him as an unstoppable force, paving the way for his dominant run as a top superstar in WWE. This unexpected development showcased the power of unpredictability, keeping fans invested and engaged in the product.

These matches prove that wrestling is not just about athletic contests but also about captivating storytelling. The impact of these matches on the legitimacy of professional wrestling cannot be understated. Fans continue to be enthralled by the blend of reality and fiction, eagerly awaiting the next memorable match that will define the industry's future.

Gotch vs. Hackenschmidt: The Matches That Made and Destroyed Legitimate American Professional Wrestling

by Ken Zimmerman Jr.(Kindle Edition)

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3828 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	64 pages

FREE

The Matches Which Built and Crippled an Industry

In 1908, Georg Hackenschmidt had been the touring World Heavyweight Wrestling Champion for 8 years. Considered one of the strongest men in the world, fans viewed "Hack" as unbeatable. He returned to the United States for the first time in three years to face the formidable Frank Gotch.

Gotch harbored hard feelings for not getting a title shot in 1905. The result was two controversial but legitimate wrestling matches, whose effects were felt for the next decade.