WWF Summerslam ’93: A Retrospective Review
SummerSlam 1993, held on August 30, 1993, at The Palace of Auburn Hills in Auburn Hills, Michigan, was a pivotal event in the World Wrestling Federation’s (WWF, now WWE) history, reflecting the company’s transitional period from the Golden Era to the New Generation Era. This event was marked by significant matches and behind-the-scenes developments that shaped the trajectory of the company.
Opening Match: Razor Ramon defeats Ted DiBiase
The event kicked off with Razor Ramon facing the veteran Ted DiBiase. This match was significant for Razor’s character development, as he was transitioning from a heel to a face, gaining popularity with the audience. DiBiase, nearing the end of his active wrestling career, was instrumental in elevating rising stars like Ramon. Razor’s victory signified the passing of the torch from one generation to the next.
WWF World Tag Team Championship: The Steiner Brothers (c) vs. The Heavenly Bodies
The Steiner Brothers, Scott and Rick Steiner, defended their WWF World Tag Team Championship against The Heavenly Bodies, Jimmy Del Ray and Tom Prichard. This match showcased the Steiners’ dominant and dynamic wrestling style against the more traditional, Southern-style wrestling of The Heavenly Bodies. The Steiners’ victory reinforced their status as top tag team competitors in the WWF.
WWF Intercontinental Championship: Shawn Michaels w/ Diesel (c) vs. Mr. Perfect
Shawn Michaels, the reigning champion, faced Mr. Perfect in a highly anticipated match. Both were known for their exceptional in-ring abilities, and the match was expected to be a classic. However, the ending came via count-out, allowing Michaels to retain the title. This finish protected both wrestlers’ images: Michaels remained the champion, while Mr. Perfect maintained his credibility as a top performer.
Irwin R. Schyster defeats The 1-2-3 Kid
Irwin R. Schyster (I.R.S.) facing The 1-2-3 Kid was a classic David vs. Goliath story. The 1-2-3 Kid had gained fame for his upset victory over Razor Ramon earlier in the year, and this match was an opportunity to solidify his underdog status. I.R.S., a seasoned veteran, used his experience to secure a victory, but the match helped elevate The 1-2-3 Kid’s standing with fans.
Bret Hart vs. Doink the Clown
Bret Hart’s match against Doink the Clown started as a comedic yet competitive encounter, showcasing Doink’s heel antics. However, the match ended in disqualification, leading to a surprise second match where Bret faced Jerry “The King” Lawler, who was feuding with Hart at the time. This segment was memorable for its storyline depth and the personal nature of the Hart-Lawler feud.
Ludvig Borga defeats Marty Jannetty
Ludvig Borga’s match against Marty Jannetty was part of the WWF’s attempt to build Borga as a new monster heel. Defeating Jannetty, a well-respected and skilled wrestler, helped establish Borga as a formidable force in the company.
Rest in Peace Match: The Undertaker vs. Giant Gonzales
The Undertaker’s “Rest in Peace” match against Giant Gonzales marked the end of their feud, which was characterized by bizarre and memorable moments. This match was significant for being Gonzales’ last major WWF appearance and for reinforcing The Undertaker’s status as an unstoppable force within the WWF.
Six-Man Tag Team Match
The Smoking Gunns (Billy and Bart Gunn) teamed up with Tatanka to face The Headshrinkers (Fatu and Samu) and Bam Bam Bigelow in a six-man tag team match. This match was a showcase of the diverse talent within the WWF’s tag team division, with each team bringing a unique style to the match. The victory of The Smoking Gunns and Tatanka added momentum to their growing popularity.
WWF World Heavyweight Championship: Yokozuna (c) vs. “All American” Lex Luger
The main event featured Lex Luger challenging Yokozuna for the WWF World Heavyweight Championship. This match was the climax of a patriotic storyline, with Luger positioned as the American hero against the foreign villain, Yokozuna. Despite Luger’s victory via count-out, Yokozuna retained the championship, which was a controversial decision that left the audience with mixed feelings. This outcome maintained Yokozuna’s dominance as champion while keeping Luger strong in the eyes of the fans.
Behind the Scenes and Legacy
SummerSlam 1993 occurred during a period of transition for the WWF, with the company looking to establish new stars while phasing out some of the older talent. The event was critical in laying the groundwork for future storylines and character developments.
In the aftermath, the WWF continued to build new stars and develop existing talent, setting the stage for the New Generation Era. The outcomes and storylines from SummerSlam 1993 had lasting impacts on the characters involved, influencing the direction of the WWF’s creative planning in the subsequent years.
Overall, SummerSlam 1993 was a showcase of the old and the new, blending established stars with rising talent to create an event that reflected the changing landscape of professional wrestling in the early 1990s.
