WWF Summerslam ’94: A Retrospective Review
The summer of 1994 was a pivotal time for the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), and all eyes were on the annual summer extravaganza known as “SummerSlam.” Held in the hazy heat of August, this event promised to deliver high-octane action, intense rivalries, and more drama than a daytime soap opera. Let’s dive into the matches and storylines that defined SummerSlam ’94.
Bam Bam Bigelow and Irwin R. Schyster vs. The Headshrinkers: A Battle of Brains vs. Brawn
Kicking off the event was a clash of contrasting styles. Bam Bam Bigelow and Irwin R. Schyster, with the financial backing of Ted DiBiase, squared off against The Headshrinkers, representing the wild and untamed spirit of the islands.
Behind the scenes, the WWF was capitalizing on the dichotomy between the shrewd, business-minded wrestlers and their more primal, instinct-driven counterparts. This match was a microcosm of the ongoing struggle for dominance within the WWF roster.
Alundra Blayze vs. Bull Nakano: Women’s Wrestling Takes Center Stage
The WWF Women’s Championship match between Alundra Blayze and Bull Nakano was a groundbreaking moment for women’s wrestling. Both competitors brought a fierce intensity to the ring, backed by their respective managers, Luna Vachon and the legendary Lou Albano.
Behind the scenes, the WWF was making strides in promoting women’s wrestling as a legitimate and compelling aspect of the product. This match showcased the athleticism and skill of the female competitors, paving the way for future generations of women in the industry.
Razor Ramon vs. Diesel: WWF Intercontinental Title Match
One of the most highly anticipated matches of the night was the showdown between Razor Ramon and Diesel for the WWF Intercontinental Championship. But the real intrigue lay in the betrayal that had occurred just weeks before.
Behind the scenes, Diesel (accompanied by his manager, Shawn Michaels) and Razor Ramon had formed an unlikely alliance, capturing the WWF Tag Team Titles. However, Diesel’s lust for gold led to a shocking betrayal, as he attacked Razor and aligned himself with Michaels.
Their match at SummerSlam was a clash of former friends turned bitter enemies. With NFL legend Walter Payton in his corner, Razor Ramon fought tooth and nail to reclaim the Intercontinental Championship from the treacherous Diesel.
Tatanka vs. Lex Luger
Tatanka and Lex Luger’s match at SummerSlam ’94 was more than just a contest of strength and skill—it was a battle for redemption. Both men had faced accusations of betraying their Native American heritage, and this match was their chance to prove their honor and integrity to the world.
Behind the scenes, the WWF was capitalizing on the controversy surrounding Tatanka and Luger’s characters, using it to fuel a compelling storyline that resonated with audiences. The match itself was a hard-hitting affair, with both men giving it their all to emerge victorious.
Jeff Jarrett vs. Mabel: Clash of Styles
In a clash of styles, Jeff Jarrett, the arrogant country crooner, squared off against Mabel, the larger-than-life rapper, in a battle for supremacy. Behind the scenes, this match showcased the WWF’s willingness to experiment with characters and storylines, blending elements of music and pop culture with traditional wrestling.
Bret Hart vs. Owen Hart: Brother vs. Brother in the Steel Cage
The main event of SummerSlam ’94 was a highly anticipated Steel Cage match between brothers Bret Hart and Owen Hart for the WWF Championship. The rivalry between the two siblings had reached a boiling point, fueled by jealousy, resentment, and sibling rivalry.
Behind the scenes, the Hart brothers’ real-life tension was masterfully translated into a compelling storyline that captivated fans. The Steel Cage stipulation added an extra layer of drama and danger to the match, as Bret and Owen fought tooth and nail to prove themselves the superior wrestler and claim the coveted championship.
The Undertaker vs. The Undertaker: The Ultimate Mind Game
One of the most bizarre and intriguing matches of SummerSlam ’94 was the clash between The Undertaker and… The Undertaker? That’s right—this match pitted the real Undertaker, with his manager Paul Bearer, against a mysterious imposter Undertaker, under the guidance of Ted DiBiase.
Behind the scenes, the WWF was pulling off one of its most audacious mind games yet, with the introduction of a doppelganger Undertaker. The match was shrouded in mystery and intrigue, as fans speculated about the identity of the imposter and the motives behind his actions.
In the end, the real Undertaker emerged victorious, laying to rest the imposter and proving once again that he was the one true Phenom of the WWF.
Overall, SummerSlam ’94 was a showcase of the WWF’s ability to blend athleticism, storytelling, and spectacle into a single, unforgettable event. From the opening bell to the final pinfall, the night was filled with drama, intrigue, and larger-than-life characters, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the next chapter in the ongoing saga of the WWF.
