Archive of PWUpdate.net (2013-2014)

Note: This is a recap/review of the original PPV airing of Wrestlemania VI so it’ll probably be missing some of the Coliseum Video touches. Pretty much that means I don’t get to see the awesome Dusty Rhodes commercial beforehand (“The Ultimate Warrior suckCUP”).’

Date: April 1, 1990

Venue: The Skydome (Toronto, Ontario)

Commentators: Gorilla Monsoon & Jesse “The Body” Ventura

To kick off the “Flashback Recaps” section of Pro Wrestling Update, I’ve elected to recap and review possibly my favorite WWE PPV as a kid: Wrestlemania VI which took place 23 years ago today. Here’s how it’ll work: it’ll read like a normal show recap, but when possible I will also include random and useless facts about each match or the participants involved (later aliases, storyline stuff, etc.). Hopefully you’ll find it fun and/or informative. If not that’s okay too. Enough rambling, let’s do this.

*****

Opening Video: Vince McMahon himself narrates the opening video, which pans a sky showing off constellations. Finally they land on the two most powerful constellations of them all: Hulk Hogan and The Ultimate Warrior. The two constellations become animated as McMahon goes into full hype mode, eventually butting heads and fading into a picture of the two eye to eye from Royal Rumble 1990. The classic Wrestlemania music hits as the logo for this year’s event comes into view.

• Thoughts: All these years later and this opening video still makes me smile. So cheesy and at the time awesome, though the fact you can hear Howard Finkel counting the crowd down while it’s playing kind of kills some of the buzz. Sometimes the Coliseum Video edits were for the best.
  

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The Wrestlemania VI logo fades into a live shot of the crowd at the Superdome in Toronto, Ontario. Gorilla Monsoon provides an brief intro, announcing the gate (over 60,000) but barely being audible due to the roar of the crowd. The show then cuts to Monsoon at the announcing area, where he gives the home audience a proper welcome before introducing his broadcast partner for the evening Jesse “The Body” Ventura. Ventura says he’s been to the Super Bowl, World Series, and The Rolling Stones, but Wrestlemania  surpasses them all. Monsoon hypes the Hogan/Warrior main event, then takes it to ringside to Howard Finkel who introduces Robert Goulet to sing the Canadian national anthem. And sing the Canadian national anthem he does in his smooth Goulet style while B-roll of random Canadian landscapes play.

• Random Video Aside: If you thought you were going to escape a Robert Goulet appearance without me linking to Will Farrell’s excellent impression of him you were wrong.
  

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The minute Robert Goulet finishes, the infectious theme of Koko B. Ware kicks on and out he comes in the mini-ring car dancing in place with his best friend Frankie (a parrot in case you weren’t watching at this point). His opponent, Rick “The Model” Martel, makes his way out second. Ventura fawns over him as the ring car slowly makes its way to the ring.

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Match #1: “The Birdman” Koko B. Ware Vs. Rick “The Model” Martel

Martel attacks Ware as the ref checks him for any foreign objects. Ware is whipped into the corner but gets a boot up during a splash attempt. Martel whips Ware into the opposite corner, but Ware jumps to the second rope and hits a crossbody for 2. Ware follows up with two dropkicks followed by a backdrop and a clothesline that sends Martel flying through the ropes and to the floor. Martel gets to the apron and Ware slingshots him back into the ring. Ware hits a shoulderblock but Martel side steps the second attempt and throws him out of the ring. Martel shows off to the crowd while Ware recovers. Ware gets to the apron but Martel kicks him off and follows him out. Martel rams the small of Ware’s back into the apron then rolls back into the ring for more gloating.

Ware rolls back in and Martel immediately puts the boots to him. Martel connects with a suplex for a 2-count and he immediately continues the punishment. Martel continues working over Ware’s lower back with forearms then hits a double axehandle to the back from the second rope. Martel connects with a backbreaker then goes for the BOSTON CRAB. Ware fights it by bridging and squirming to prevent the step through. Ware gets his arm under the bottom rope and the ref breaks the hold. Martel rams Ware’s head into the turnbuckle but since he’s black it doesn’t faze him (sigh). Ware sends Martel head-first into the corner then starts mounting a comeback with a running flying headbutt followed by another. Ware goes to hit Martel but Martel falls on his own and Ware covers him for the 2-count. Martel reverses a corner Irish whip and Ware tries the second-rope crossbody once again but this time Martel ducks. Martel takes a second to gloat about his smarts, then goes for the BOSTON CRAB once again. This time he fully steps through and soon enough Ware submits.

Winner [via Submission]: Rick “The Model” Martel (5:31)

• Trivia Bits/Historical Significance: This was Koko B. Ware’s final televised Wrestlemania match and Martel’s first Wrestlemania using “The Model” gimmick. 
• Match Thoughts: I’m an unabashed fan of the “filler match” at Wrestlemania for reasons I’ve never been able to fully ascertain and Ware/Martel might be my favorite of them all. It was a total squash for Martel, helping him look strong and get over under his new character but Ware was over with the crowd and had some brief moments of entertaining offense. Also Frankie wins the award for the most behaved bird I have ever seen. I can barely keep it together in front of 10 people and the damn parrot was a champ in front of 60,000 of them.

—–

Backstage Interview

“Mean” Gene Okerlund is standing by with the WWF World Tag Team Champions The Colossal Connection (Andre The Giant & Haku) joined by their manager Bobby “The Brain” Heenan. Heenan yells at Okerlund for mispronouncing the team’s name (he said Colostomy Connection, *rimshot*) then transitions into saying their opponents Demolition are going to be evacuated and then sent to the treatment plant (more poop!). Heenan asks Andre and Haku what they’ll be doing to Demolition and they respond in tandem “ELIMINATE THEM!”. They laugh and Heenan herds them out.

• Thoughts: …Not Heenan’s finest hour but I love the Andre laugh so it made up for it.
  

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Locker Room Interview

Sean Mooney is with Demolition (Ax & Smash). Ax says he’s called the Ax because he can cut down the biggest redwood there is (Andre) and will sheer away the Polynesian Oak (Haku). Smash says that sounds pretty good then says what he wants to do to The Colossal Connection: throw them in the back of a semi tractor trailer and drive them off a cliff to watch them “Smash” into smithereens. Mooney says this sounds more like a “Demolition Derby” and Ax says that’s exactly what happens whenever they are in the ring. Ax says they are out to demolish and destroy, and Smash finishes up by saying the only left of the scrap heap they’ll be leaving behind is the metal to forge their Tag Team Titles.

• Thoughts: GET IT THEY DEMOLISH THINGS. Maybe having writers isn’t such a bad idea after all, wrestling fans!

—–

The show goes back to the ring, where Howard Finkel introduces The Colossal Connection who are already in the ring despite being the champions. “Pain and Destruction” by Rick Derringer kicks up, bringing out the challengers Demolition. They are in full awkward S&M-mode as the mini-ring car brings them to the ring. The Toronto crowd goes wild for Ax and Smash. Easy to forget how over they were.

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Match #2: The Colossal Connection (Andre the Giant & Haku) [w/ Bobby Heenan] (c) Vs. Demolition (Ax & Smash) for the WWF World Tag Team Titles

The Colossal Connection immediately attack Demolition at the bell. Haku and Smash start at the legal men. Smash ducks a chop then hits Haku with a series of rights before sending him into Ax’s boot. Ax tags in and he clubs Haku down to all fours. Ax snapmares Haku to the mat and continues clubbing Haku until Andre comes in to attack from behind. Andre is shooed away and Smash tags in to continue the assault. Ax gets the quick tag back in and clubs Haku down to his knees. Smash tags back in and connects with a right to the midsection while Ax holds his arms. Haku gets a thumb to the eye but Smash blocks a hip toss attempt and goes for a backslide. Haku holds his ground as both jockey for position. Smash gets to his knee and finally gets the backslide but Andre breaks it up before a count is even administered.

Ax tags back in but Haku ducks a chop and hits a chop right to Ax’s throat. Haku continues to chop the fallen Ax then hits a backbreaker, holding him on the knee for a bit before going for the pin which gets him a 2-count. Haku waits for Ax to get back up before knocking him back to the mat with a thrust kick. Haku grabs the legs and buries his foot into Ax’s midsection before choking him on the bottom rope. Haku distracts the ref long enough for Heenan to slap the fallen Ax. Ax gets up but Andre catches him with a headbutt while on the apron. Haku goes for the pin but the ref isn’t paying attention and finally counts it for 2. Haku knocks Ax back down to the mat but only gets a 1-count as Ax grabs the bottom rope. Haku rams Ax into the forehead of Andre then goes for the cover but Smash comes in to make the save. Haku with another savate kick before choking him while he lays on the bottom rope until the ref makes him relinquish the illegal move.

Ax fights back with some headbutts to the midsection but Haku puts the thumb to the eye to stop the momentum. Haku brings Ax to his corner to allow Andre to get a strike in before Haku takes over once again locking on a double nervehold after a series of chops to the shoulder muscles. Smash tries to tag in but Haku hits him with a thrust kick. Smash comes in to protest, distracting the ref and allowing Andre to choke Ax with the tag rope in the corner. Ax starts fighting back but Haku strikes him in the thigh to stop the momentum once again. Haku connects with a shoulderbreaker for the 1…2…Smash breaks up the count once again. Haku whips Ax into the corner but runs right into Ax’s boot during a splash attempt. Ax then follows up with a clothesline and both men are down.

Smash gets the hot tag and unloads on Haku, ramming him in the corner then hitting a back elbow. Smash follows up with a backdrop and connects with a double axehandle/crossbody but Andre breaks the count. Ax gets in and Demolition knock Andre into the corner before double-teaming Haku. The ref forces Ax out and Andre holds Smash up for Haku to hit. Smash moves and Haku kicks Andre into the ropes, causing him to be caught up. Demolition double-team Haku with a double hot shot and finish him with the Demolition Decapitation for the 1…2…3!

Winners and NEW Tag Team Champions [via Pinfall]: Demolition (9:15)

• Trivia Bits/Historical Significance: This was Andre’s final PPV match and final Wrestlemania appearance. With this win Demolition began its third and final WWF Tag Team Title reign, which would culminate in a heel turn and the addition of a third member (Crush) leading to a “Freebird Rule” during title defenses before dropping them to The Hart Foundation at Summerslam 1990. 
  
• Match Thoughts: The edited Coliseum Video version of this match was much shorter and it was easy to see why they decided to trim it down. Not exactly a match I’d ever want to watch it again (although I probably will since I revisit this PPV a lot) but the Toronto crowd was hot for it and popped huge when Demolition got the victory. Haku worked all of the match for his team which, given the shape Andre was in at the time, was very necessary. Haku also still legitimately terrifies me.

Post-Match: Bobby Heenan gets in Andre’s face, yelling at him for costing them the match and poking him in the chest. Heenan slaps Andre in the face, and Andre immediately goozles him as the crowd goes wild. Heenan tries to apologize but Andre repeatedly strikes and paintbrushes Heenan before kicking him out of the ring. Haku sneaks up behind Andre and attempts to kick him when he turns around but Andre catches the kick and chops him down before delivering a headbutt. Haku rolls to the outside and he and Heenan try to bail via ring car but Andre knocks them both out. The Toronto crowd gives Andre a massive ovation as the ring car makes its way to the back. Heenan walks after the car, still yelling at Andre.

• Thoughts: What a wonderful send-off for Andre…granted he would be back a year later for a few months but still. A great way to say goodbye to his (televised) in-ring career. And man I’m loving this Toronto crowd; they are fired up about everything.
  

—–

Backstage Interview

“Mean” Gene Okerlund is standing by with Earthquake and his manager Jimmy Hart. Hart says scientists are predicting an earthquake tonight, with the epicenter being Toronto. Earthquake says Hercules is supposed to be mighty but says that once he feels the tremors he will start to feel fear then makes more earthquake references before calling himself “the only Natural Disaster in the World Wrestling Federation”.

• Thoughts: Earthquake sure yelled a lot back then, but damn he was imposing. I could have done without all the “get it he’s an earthquake” dialogue but I guess it’s par for the course in this era so I’ll try to let the rest of it slide.
  

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The show cuts back to the ring where Hercules is making his way to the ring via ring car as Monsoon and Ventura debate his chances against his much larger opponent. “Quake Shake” kicks up, bringing out Earthquake and Jimmy Hart.

• Thoughts: I think Hercules has a decent shot at beating Earthquake, don’t you? Also pretend that comment was written back in 1990 as the show aired live.
  

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Match #3: Hercules Vs. Earthquake [w/ Jimmy Hart]

Earthquake tries to attack Hercules from behind while he puts his chain away but Hercules catches him and lays into him with a series of rights. Hart distracts Hercules long enough for Earthquake to make a hasty exit to regroup. Hercules hypes up the crowd as Hart gives him some pointers/motivation. Earthquake makes his way back in and they stand toe to toe. Earthquake shoves Hercules then jumps up and down on the mat to “shake it” because he’s an earthquake. Earthquake challenges Hercules to a test of strength. They lock hands and the test of strength is on. Earthquake gets the advantage, knocking Hercules to one knee.

The Skydome comes alive to cheer Hercules on and he gets back to his feet. Earthquake catches him in the midsection to stop the momentum. Earthquake follows up with a forearm. Earthquake grabs a side headlock then hits a closed fist right to the throat, shielded away from the ref. Earthquake continues to work Hercules over in the corner with some shoulderblocks. Earthquake attempts a back bodydrop and Hercules connects with a forearm to the back. Hercules attempts to knock Earthquake to the mat with a series of shouldertackles and clotheslines, finally knocking him down to one knee. Hercules signals for the TORTURE RACK but Earthquake catches him with an elbow when he goes for the finish.

Earthquake follows up with a couple of elbowdrops then shows off his, erm, muscle by posing. Earthquake jumps around Hercules, signaling for the splash. Earthquake hits the ropes and connects with the EARTHQUAKE SPLASH for the 1…2…3.

Winner [via Pinfall]: Earthquake (4:53)

• Trivia Bits/Historical Significance: This would be Hercules final PPV appearance under this gimmick; he would turn heel later in the year forming the tag team Power and Glory with Paul Roma. Earthquake would continue the gimmick of being undefeated and putting people in the hospital, including Hulk Hogan, whom he would face in Hogan’s “return” at Summerslam 1990. And now the saddest significance of them all: both of these competitors have sadly passed on, Hercules in 2004 of a haert attack and Tenta in 2006 to cancer.
  
• Match Thoughts: A simple but effective squash for Earthquake as Hercules was big enough to make it look like he stood a chance (obviously he didn’t though). And I loved Earthquake rumbling the ring by jumping up and down. It’s lame by today’s standards but I remember mimicking it a lot as a kid.

Post-Match: Earthquake decides he’s not done and gives Hercules another EARTHQUAKE SPLASH as an “aftershock”. Earthquake and Hart make their exit as a replay of both of his splashes airs with Ventura really putting it over.

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Snazzy Dressing Room Interview

Rona Barrett, a former Hollywood gossip columnist, is standing by with “The First Lady of Wrestling” Miss Elizabeth. Barrett says many of Hollywood’s starlets pale in comparison to Elizabeth’s beauty. Barrett asks where Elizabeth has been for the past few months as she has all but disappeared from TV. Elizabeth says her involvement with the WWF lately has been in an advisory capacity away from the ring. Barrett asks her why. Elizabeth says she doesn’t want to disappoint her fans and Barrett asks her to go further. Elizabeth says she didn’t want to disappoint them by not getting as involved and helping her charges. Elizabeth says she has thought of nothing else but returning to ringside and promises a far more active version if she does. Barrett thanks her for her time then segues to the next interview segment.

• Thoughts: I think having Elizabeth holding up a giant “FORESHADOWING” sign would have been just as effective, but I actually kind-of liked this segment. Barrett and Elizabeth played it off realistically and while the former obviously wasn’t all that familiar with what she was talking about she was professional enough to make it work.
  

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Locker Room Interview

Sean Mooney is standing by with Brutus “The Barber” Beefcake. Mooney asks Beefcake what he’s looking at on that piece of paper and Beefcake says he was looking over Mr. Perfect‘s undefeated record. He calls it impressive but then says nobody’s perfect and promises to sever Perfect’s “perfect record”.

• Thoughts: Beefcake gets a lot of flack but I always found him entertaining.
  

—–

The show goes back live to the Skydome, quickly panning the crowd before going to the ring where The Genius introduces Mr. Perfect out to the ring. Ventura says Monsoon is jealous of The Genius because he only made it to the 9th grade. Brutus “The Barber” Beefcake makes his way out second on the ring car. Beefcake enters the ring, brandishing a giant pair of scissors, and Perfect/Genius both bail to the outside.

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Match #4: Brutus “The Barber” Beefcake Vs. Mr. Perfect [w/ The Genius]

Beefcake turns his back to hand his ring jacket to an attendant and Perfect attacks him from behind. Perfect traps Beefcake in the corner and lands some chops but Beefcake backs him into the corner and hits a series of rapid fire strikes before the final strike sends him over the top and out to the floor. Beefcake drags Perfect back in and nails him with an atomic drop sending him flying back to the outside. Perfect and Genius regroup as Beefcake struts inside the ring. Perfect makes his way back in the ring and Beefcake revs the crowd up. They go to lock up and Perfect rams a knee into the midsection followed by a chop and a couple of rights. Perfect sends Beefcake face-first into the top turnbuckle. Beefcake reverses a corner Irish whip, the momentum sending Perfect flying into the turnbuckles and right to the mat. Beefcake bodyslams Perfect and goes for the cover but it doesn’t even get a 1-count.

Beefcake whips Perfect into the corner once again, the momentum sending him flying. Beefcake clotheslines Perfect to the mat, Perfect overselling the hell out of it, then signals for the SLEEPERHOLD. The Genius gets on the apron, and drops the metal scroll on the mat. He keeps the ref distracted long enough for Perfect to crack Beefcake in the skull with it, and Perfect slides it back out before the ref gets back into the game. Perfect sits Beefcake up and hits the rolling necksnap. Perfect goes for the cover but only gets a 2. Perfect hits a running kick into Beefcake’s midsection. Perfect stands over Beefcake and knocks him to the mat by jumping up and slamming himself on his back. Perfect chops a kneeling Beefcake followed by a forearm over the chest. Perfect kicks Beefcake over and gloats to the crowd.

Perfect continues the punishment with a running high knee. Perfect strikes a kneeling Beefcake then talks trash before slapping him in the face. Perfect continues the insulting offense, slapping him around and kicking him to the mat. Perfect picks Beefcake up and floors him with another right hand. Beefcake clings to Perfect’s ankle and gets back to his knees. Perfect talks more trash and Beefcake connects with a single leg takedown before sling shotting him right “into the post” (he wasn’t even close). Perfect crumples to the mat and Beefcake covers him for the 1…2…3.

Winner [via Pinfall]: Brutus Beefcake (7:48)

• Trivia Bits/Historical Significance: Although Perfect’s undefeated streak ended with this match he would later go on to capture the Intercontinental Title and feud with Kerry Von Erich in the later months of 1990. Beefcake, meanwhile, would suffer an unfortunate parasailing accident, which would require major reconstructive surgery putting him out of in-ring action for almost 3 years. This match marks Beefcake’s last wrestling appearance on a WWF PPV until 1993’s Wrestlemania IX. As for the slingshot finish, that is exactly the same way Perfect lost the AWA Championship to Jerry “The King” Lawler back in 1988 before leaving for the WWF.
  
• Match Thoughts: For some reason I remember the match being a lot better than this. Unfortunately it didn’t live up to my original hype/expectations, sloppy in parts and featuring some ridiculous overselling on Perfect’s part that even occurred before the move was even completed (the clothesline spot especially). The finish was a good idea and a smart way to ditch Perfect’s undefeated streak while still protecting him, but Perfect completely missed the post and in plain view no less so that took a lot of oomph out of this.

Post-Match: Brutus Beefcake goes to the still out cold Perfect and motions that he’s going to cut his hair. Beefcake turns around and sees The Genius trying to escape with Beefcake’s giant scissors but catches him in time. Beefcake drags Genius back to the ring and pulls him in after he once again tries to run. Beefcake picks Genius up and applies the SLEEPERHOLD to the roar of the Toronto crowd. After a brief struggle Genius crumples to the mat and Beefcake starts strutting around before grabbing his giant scissors. He messes with them, then tosses them down in favor of tinier clippers. Beefcake kneels down over the fallen Genius and starts cutting, throwing pieces of his hair around the ring.

• Trivia Bits/Historical Significance: Soon after this event, Bobby Heenan replaced The Genius as Mr. Perfect’s manager. Genius would reappear in 1992 at the side of The Beverly Brothers, most notably in their match against The Bushwhackers at Royal Rumble 1992 which included the return of “The Bobby Heenan Show” veteran Jameson.
  

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Feud Recap Video: The Roddy Piper/Bad News Brown conflict is highlighted, starting with their eliminations/ringside brawl at Royal Rumble 1990 followed by another brawl three weeks before Wrestlemania VI on an episode of Wrestling Challenge. 

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Backstage Interview:

“Mean” Gene Okerlund is standing by with “Rowdy” Roddy Piper. Piper is turned to Okerlund, only showing his left side. Piper says he’s the Hot Rod but then turns to his other side, which is painted black, and also calls himself “The Hot Scot”. Piper says he’s a little bit of both and a little “two-faced”. Piper says Bad News Brown only has one face and it’s one for punching. He makes fun of Brown’s “bug eyes” and out of proportion ears. Piper calls Brown “son” and then mocks Brown’s giant nose. Piper says Brown has a big mouth and he’s going to shut it for him but Brown doesn’t know whether “Hot Rod” or “Hot Scot” is going to do it for him. Piper stalks off and Okerlund says it looks like Brown will have to deal with a “split-personality”.

• Thoughts: Whoever thought having Piper paint himself half-black was a good idea should’ve been been fired immediately and potentially run over by a car. Wow. Just friggin’ WOW.

—–

The show goes back to the Skydome, where Howard Finkel introduces Bad News Brown. He’s already in the ring because he’s got no time to deal with crap like entrances and entrance themes. The Scottish bagpipes kick up and out comes Roddy Piper still unfortunately painted half-black. The Toronto crowd gives him a very warm welcome. Ventura says he’s going to be a biased announcer as Piper is his “tag team partner”. 

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Match #5: “Rowdy” Roddy Piper Vs. Bad News Brown

Piper takes off his kilt and twirls it like a towel in a locker room as Brown reacts to the way he looks. Piper rips the shirt off then uses his “black” side to jive and boogie. The ref (former wrestler Danny Davis, for those wondering) separates the two and they roll around the ring until Piper gets the advantage with a series of punches. The ref separates them and Piper catches Brown with a crossbody for 2. Brown gets on top of Piper but the ref once again separates the two. The fight goes to the corner until the ref once again separates them. This time Brown drops Piper with a right over the ref’s back. Brown connects with another right and a headbutt. After another right Piper finally falls to the mat. Brown rams Piper face-first in the top turnbuckle but Piper no-sells it. Brown tries again and Piper once again no-sells it because he’s half-black now. Brown drops him with some more rights then applies a nervehold on the fallen Piper. The crowd is pretty “eh” on this one but get back into it a bit to cheer Piper on.

Piper elbows his way out and the two exchange rights. Piper no-sells a headbutt but gets taken down with a kick to the gut and a snapmare. Brown covers him for a 2-count. Brown connects with a scoop slam and hits a running forearm smash for another 2-count. Piper pokes Brown in the eye and catches an attempted kick, responding with a series of rapid-fire lefts and rights in the corner. Brown fights him off by raking the eyes. Brown takes off the top turnbuckle pad, exposing the steel. Brown attempts to whip him into the exposed corner but Piper reverses it and he slams chest-first into the steel. Piper reaches into his tights and puts on an MJ glove on the left (black) hand. Piper strikes Brown repeatedly, and he immediately goes down making it seem like it’s loaded. Piper connects with a second-rope fist sending Brown right back down.

Piper gets a running head start and strikes Brown again, sending him to the floor. Brown pulls Piper to the outside and goes for a right but Piper ducks and Brown hits nothing but post. Piper swings at Brown with a chair but misses and he hits nothing but post. The ref calls for the bell.

Winner: Double Countout (6:47)

• Trivia Bits/Historical Significance: As far as I can tell this feud was never really resolved; Piper would disappear for awhile to go back to Hollywood while Bad News Brown would be gone from the WWF almost immediately after Summerslam 1990. Brown, born Allen Coage, would continue to wrestle full-time until 1999 then sporadically after until his death from a heart attack in 2007. Piper would return to the company in 1991.
  
• Match Thoughts: Wow what a waste of time that was. They sold it as an all-out war but between Davis separating the two repeatedly and the lack of anything exciting going on, it didn’t seem like much of a war (especially since this was the first match where no one attacked someone right at the bell). Instead it seemed like a match featuring two participants whose hearts weren’t in it. That’s not even mentioning the stupidity of half-black Piper, made even worse with Monsoon calling his dancing “jiving” and Piper using a loaded MJ glove on that side. I’m still shocked they let this happen; maybe Piper knew a good coke dealer at the time.

Post-Match: Roddy Piper and Bad News Brown continue brawling up the aisle as a whole host of refs and officials try to separate the two. The camera stays with it until it finally spills backstage.

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Bathroom Humor w/ Steve Allen & The Bolsheviks

Monsoon segues to the legendary Steve Allen, who’s playing piano in the locker room showers…for some reason. Allen says he’s here to rehearse the Russian National Anthem with The Bolsheviks (Nikolai Volkoff & Boris Zhukov). In they come cheery and ready to rehearse. Allen starts off with an “I Get a Kick Out of You” parody, singing “I Get No Kick from Ukraaaaine” before Volkoff stops him. Allen says it was a joke then starts playing “Pop Goes the Weasel” before being stopped again. Allen says he knows it’s not the Russian National Anthem and Zhukov tells him it’s the “Polish National Anthem”. Allen then goes into “Chopsticks”, making up random jokey lyrics, before Volkoff once again stops him and tells him to stop warming up. But before Allen can launch into the actual song a toilet flushes and for some reason it’s enough for Volkoff to want to attack Allen. Zhukov holds him back as Allen makes a hasty exit.

• Thoughts: This little segment made me laugh in the most embarrassing way. It’s totally the sort of jokey humor you would expect your great-grandparents to love and for some reason it worked on me. Steve Allen has wonderful delivery. Also this was definitely the most entertaining use of The Bolsheviks during their entire run as a team.
  

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Cut back to ringside and The Hart Foundation are making their entrance. Howard Finkel introduces them as they pose for the crowd. The Bolsheviks make their way out next on the ring car, sans entrance music. They get in the ring and Finkel announces that Volkoff wants everyone to rise for the Russian National Anthem. Volkoff starts singing as the crowd boos but midway through the anthem Neidhart attacks him from behind.

—–

Match #6: The Hart Foundation (Bret Hart & Jim “The Anvil” Neidhart) Vs. The Bolsheviks (Nikolai Volkoff & Boris Zhukov)

The bell rings as Hart and Neidhart knock Volkoff out of the ring. Neidhart puts Zhukov into position and Hart comes off the ropes to connect with THE HART ATTACK. Hart covers Zhukov for the easy 1…2…3.

Winners [via Pinfall]: The Hart Foundation (0:20)

• Trivia Bits/Historical Significance: This is the last appearance of The Bolsheviks on PPV; Volkoff would turn face and feud with his former partner later in the year. The Hart Foundation would go on to face Demolition for the WWF Tag Team Titles at Summerslam 1990. 
  
• Match Thoughts: Poor Bret Hart; Wrestlemania finally comes to Canada and all he gets to do is a 20 second squash match. Right now I’m starting to get a little fatigued with this show; six matches have already gone down and it feels like there are at least four or five more. Talk about overbooking. Also seriously this is the fifth out of the six matches that involved a sneak attack. WHY DIDN’T PIPER/BROWN HAVE ONE?

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Wrestlemania VII Hype Video: Vince McMahon hypes up next year’s Wrestlemania which at this time was to be held at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum (home of the Olympics, the World Series, and other such events). Tickets are available “now”.

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The show joins Gorilla Monsoon and Jesse Ventura in the announce booth/box. They hype Wrestlemania VII some more and Ventura says all of his Hollywood friends will be there.

—–

Monsoon segues to the Skydome floor where The Barbarian is making his music-free entrance in the ring car joined by his manager Bobby “The Brain” Heenan. A brief audio snafu can be heard with “Mean” Gene Okerlund apparently under the assumption it was time for his interview. Howard Finkel introduces him before the show segues to Okerlund backstage.

—–

Backstage Interview

“Mean” Gene Okerlund is standing by with Barbarian’s opponent Tito Santana. Okerlund hypes Santana’s resume, including appearances at every Wrestlemania thus far plus his championship accomplishments. Santana says The Barbarian is one of the greatest specimens he’s ever seen and with Heenan at ringside, he’ll have to keep his eyes peeled. Santana then says he will with ease and ends with a good ol’ fashioned “ARRIBA!” because Mexican.

• Thoughts: Okerlund forgot to mention the fact that Santana has lost every WM match he’s had except for the first one. I guess that’s not as impressive a statistic.
  

—–

The stereotypical Mexican music hits and out comes Tito Santana via ring car. Ventura says “Chico”‘s music reminds him of The Blue Note Club in Tijuana, Mexico.

—–

Match #7: Tito Santana Vs. The Barbarian [w/ Bobby “The Brain” Heenan]

Santana and Barbarian lock up as Monsoon admonishes Ventura’s jokes about Mexican food. Santana ducks a corner right and lays into him with a series of rights before Barbarian bails to the outside. He gets back in and hits a reverse knife-edge chop. Barbarian whips Santana in the ropes, who is unable to knock him down with a shoulderblock. Santana does get him down with a crossbody for a 2-count. Santana regroups and immediately slaps on a side-headlock. Barbarian whips Santana into the ropes and takes him down with a hip toss but misses a falling headbutt. Santana hits the ropes and takes Barbarian down with a series of rights before covering him for another 2-count.

Santana reapplies the side-headlock and Barbarian sends him into the ropes, dropping him with a big boot. Barbarian picks Santana up and connects with a shoulderbreaker but misses a second-rope elbowdrop. Santana gets up and side-steps a corner splash. Santana unloads with a series of rights followed by a dropkick. A second dropkick sends Barbarian down. Santana goes to the top and hits a double axhandle, following up with the FLYING FOREARM for the 1…2…Heenan puts Barbarian’s foot on the ropes to prevent the pin. Santana goes for a roll-up but Barbarian goes through the ropes and Santana goes neck-first into the top rope. Barbarian heads to the top and connects with a FLYING CLOTHESLINE for the 1…2…3.

Winner [via Pinfall]: The Barbarian (4:33)

• Trivia Bits/Historical Significance: This was Santana’s sixth Wrestlemania and fifth consecutive loss at the biggest show of the year.
  
• Match Thoughts: A do-nothing match. Remember when I said I had a thing for filler matches earlier? I’m starting to forget why.

—–

Feud Recap Video: Highlights of the conflict between Randy Savage/Sherri and Dusty Rhodes/Sapphire play to set up the upcoming mixed tag team match. The conflict apparently began at Royal Rumble 1990 during a Brother Love segment.

—–

Locker Room Interview

Sean Mooney is standing by with “The Common Man” Dusty Rhodes and “Sweet” Sapphire. Rhodes says you aren’t going to see him pretending to be king or Sapphie pretending to be a queen. Sapphire says “there ain’t no king or queen no more!”. Rhodes says Savage and Sherri are missing the “crown jewel” which they have. They walk off as Mooney wonders aloud what the crown jewel means.

—–

Back to the ring as “The Macho King” Randy Savage and Sensational “Queen” Sherri make their entrance via ring car. Howard Finkel announces that this is the first mixed-tag team match in WWF history. Their entrance takes what seems like forever. This show is really starting to burn me out and I know there are at least three matches to go. Their opponents, “The American Dream” Dusty Rhodes and “Sweet” Sapphire make their way out next to Rhodes’ awesome WWF theme while Ventura mocks their weight. Rhodes grabs a mic and tells them to stop the music. Rhodes says they have the “crown jewel” and introduce the returning Miss Elizabeth who comes out to Savage’s music. The crowd goes wild as Ventura is shocked she’s even here.

• Oblivious Fan Thought: Wow how coincidental is it that Miss Elizabeth returns to the WWF the same night an interview between her and Rona Barrett plays? CRAZY! CRAZY I TELLZ YA!
  

—–

Match #8: “The American Dream” Dusty Rhodes & “Sweet” Sapphire [w/ Miss Elizabeth] Vs. “The Macho King” Randy Savage & Sensational “Queen” Sherri

Rhodes and Savage start off as Ventura explains the rules of mixed tag matches (man against man, woman against woman). Rhodes reverses an Irish whip and knocks Savage down with a back elbow. Rhodes follows it up with a BIONIC ELBOW and Sherri runs in to attack Rhodes from behind. Rhodes backs Sherri into his corner and Sapphire grabs her by the hair. Savage attacks from behind and tries a top rope move but Rhodes catches him and throws him into Sherri. Sapphire tags in and Rhodes rolls Sherri in. Sapphire pushes Sherri into Savage, knocking him to the floor. Sapphire connects with a series of hip shots followed by a quick Airplane Spin for a 1-count.

Sherri gets up and drops Sapphire with a right. Sherri tries for a bodyslam but Sapphire is too much for her to handle and she falls on Sherri for a 2-count. Rhodes tags in and chases Sherri out. Savage runs in and Rhodes catches him with a strike. Rhodes holds Savage’s arms and lets Sapphire get a quick shot before throwing him into a charging Sherri. Rhodes pushes Sherri into the corner, but that allows Savage to hit a flying knee to the back sending him to the floor. Savage follows out and unloads on Rhodes with a series of right hands. Savage rolls in and argues with Elizabeth before heading to the top and dropping a double axhandle on Rhodes. Savage rolls in and distracts the ref allowing Sherri to connect with a knee lift and other cheap shots.

Savage takes to the top and once again connects with a double axhandle. Savage goes for a third but Sapphire stands in front of Rhodes to prevent it. Savage goes outside and throws Sapphire to the ground to get to Rhodes. Savage rolls Rhodes in and hits another top-rope double axhandle. Savage goes for the pin but only gets 2. Sherri distracts the ref, and Savage grabs the scepter from the outside. Savage clocks Rhodes with it from the top rope then throws it out of the ring. Savage tags Sherri in and she goes to the top rope. Sherri connects with a splash for 1…2…KICK OUT. Savage goes for a top rope move but Rhodes hits him and smacks Savage and Sherri’s heads together.

Rhodes connects with a series of Bionic Elbows in the corner until Sherri jumps on his back. Rhodes backs her up into his corner and tags Sapphire in. Sapphire peels Sherri off and covers her for 1. Sapphire and Sherri go face to face and get into a hair-pulling contest. Sapphire flings Sherri off and she rolls to the outside but Miss Elizabeth rolls her back in. Sapphire connects with an awkward suplex for the 1…2…Savage makes the save. Rhodes comes in and the two go at it while Sherri mouths off at Elizabeth. Elizabeth grabs her by the hair and pushes her and Sherri tumbles over Sapphire who is on all fours. Sapphire then proceeds to roll her up for the 1…2…3!

Winners [via Pinfall]: Dusty Rhodes & Sapphire (7:32)

• Trivia Bits/Historical Significance: Not only was this the first mixed tag team match in Wrestlemania history but it was also Rhodes’ first and only Wrestlemania match and Sapphire’s first and only professional wrestling match. Rhodes/Savage would continue their feud with the blow-off happening at Summerslam 1990 as Rhodes transitioned into a feud with Ted DiBiase. 
  
• Match Thoughts: Not much more than a comedy match but the crowd was way into it, especially when Miss Elizabeth got involved. This Toronto crowd is seriously the best ever. The in-ring action wasn’t great from either of these four men but it ultimately didn’t need to be. This brought me back after a string of boring matches.

Post-Match: Dusty Rhodes, Miss Elizabeth, and Sapphire celebrate their win by dancing along to Rhodes’ theme song. I urge you to do the same.

—–

Another Wrestlemania VII hype video plays. Actually it’s just the same one as before.

—–

Backstage Interview

“Mean” Gene Okerlund is standing by with Bobby “The Brain” Heenan. Heenan tells Okerlund not to concern himself with getting along with him. Heenan rips on Andre the Giant, saying he’s the one who gives the orders and he has just committed…and draws a blank. Okerlund brings him back and Heenan calls Giant lazy and incompetent and says he’s starting a new Family.

• Thoughts: Okerlund and Heenan were totally winging it here but it worked because both men are shiny golden GAWDS.
  

—–

Special Interview Time

Gorilla Monsoon and Jesse Ventura are standing by with Rona Barrett. Monsoon asks her about tidbits she has concerning the WWF roster. Barrett says she has uncovered a piece of film about Ventura. Ventura asks if it’s Predator or The Running Man but Barrett says it’s of the more “X-Rated variety”.  Barrett tries to get the film rolling but Ventura instead segues over to the next interview segment.

• Thought: Joke fail.
  

—–

Locker Room Interview

Sean Mooney is standing by with the recently-defeated Randy Savage and Sensational Sherri. Savage tells Mooney to call somebody because suffering builds character (?!?). Savage says mind games are his thing and Rhodes is going to learn a lot about character. Savage says they’ll never be embarrassed again and says Rhodes will feel their wrath (also the crown jewel doesn’t exist).

—–

Backstage Interview

“Mean” Gene Okerlund brings in the new Tag Team Champions Demolition. Smash says the belts are what it’s all about and says they’re ready for any challengers. Okerlund tries to bring up The Hart Foundation but Ax blows him off. Ax says this is the third time they’ve won the belts and beaten the odds. Ax says they can’t even celebrate because The Hart Foundation want a shot. Ax tells them to bring it on then make an exit.

—–

-5 Minute Intermission-

—–

Gorilla Monsoon and Jesse Ventura welcome us back to Wrestlemania VI. They hype up the upcoming main event and then Monsoon says “let’s go to ringside!”

—–

Backstage Interview

Instead of going to ringside, we go to “Mean” Gene Okerlund who is standing by with WWF World Champion Hulk Hogan. Hogan says as he landed in Toronto, he was greeted with thousands of Hulkamaniacs. Hogan tells The Ultimate Warrior that the Skydome is full of his people and says the power lies in his hand. Hogan says once he gets Warrior down on his knees he’s going to ask him if he wants to live forever. If Warrior wants to live, Hogan will tell him to breathe his last breath and let him and his Hulkamaniacs save him (?!?). Hogan says it’s not whether you win or lose, it’s what kind of winner or loser you are. Hogan then says he hopes Warrior is a good loser and concludes with “Whacha gonna do, when Hulkamania and the largest arms in the world DESSTRRRROY YOU!”. Hogan poses down as Okerlund segues to an interview with Hogan’s opponent.

• Thoughts: …I have no idea what Hogan just said but I’m pretty sure Warrior is going to top the hell out of it on the insanity scale.
  

—–

Locker Room Interview

Sean Mooney goes to interview WWF Intercontinental Champion The Ultimate Warrior, but Warrior grabs him by the jacket and says he’s just a normal who doesn’t deserve to breathe the same air as he and Hulk Hogan. Warrior pushes Mooney off-camera then launches into a tirade. Warrior asks Hogan if he wants his ideas or beliefs to live forever. Warrior says no one can live forever in this physical world, but the beliefs of Hulkamania can live through him. Warrior says that’s why he breathe and why the Warriors have come. Warrior tells Hogan the darkness he speaks of is one of beliefs and accepting any and all challenges at the cost of losing everything. Warrior says Hogan has lived for the last five Wrestlemanias for this one belief. Warrior says he’s come to take what Hogan has believed in to take it further than he ever could; Warrior isn’t here to destroy the Hulkamaniacs, he’s here to bring them and the Warriors together as one. Warrior says the colors of the Hulkamaniacs are coming through the pores of his skin. Warrior says when he meets Hogan in the ring, he will realize he’s not here to destroy he’s here to take what they believe into places they shall never have been. Also “HOLK HOE-GAN”. He says that a lot.

• Thoughts: Either I’m unknowingly high or Warrior’s promo made a lot of sense. Pretty much boils down to this: Warrior has come to usurp Hogan’s throne and take his place as king, taking all of Hogan’s subjects with him and ushering in a new era that melds their energy together. Or something. Either way I really dug that. The Self-Destruction of The Ultimate Warrior makes him sound much more crazy than he really was.
  

—–

The show cuts back to the ringside area where The Orient Express (Tanaka & Sato) make their entrance along with their manager Mr. Fuji. Definitely not something that made the Coliseum Video version. The Rockers make their way out next via ring car which takes away from their usual high-energy entrance.

—–

Match #9: The Rockers (Shawn Michaels & Marty Jannetty) Vs. The Orient Express (Tanaka & Sato) [w/ Mr. Fuji]

Jannetty and Tanaka start off. Tanaka backs Jannetty against the ropes and connects with a right hand. Jannetty blocks the second and sends him to the mat with a right of his own. Tanaka returns with a reverse thrust kick. Sato comes in but so does Michaels and The Rockers clear The Orient Express out of the ring. Michaels and Jannetty both launch themselves onto Tanaka and Sato on the floor before rolling in and soaking in the cheers of the crowd. Tanaka returns to the ring and locks up with Jannetty. Jannetty grabs a side-headlock. Tanaka whips him into the ropes and Fuji hooks the ropes, allowing Jannetty to fall to the floor. Tanaka distracts the ref, allowing Fuji to strike Jannetty with a cane and Sato to throw him face-first into the ring post.

Jannetty rolls back in and Tanaka hits a series of rights. Sato tags in and they hit double kicks to Jannetty in the corner. Sato connects with a knife-edge chop. Tanaka tags in and goes for a backdrop but Jannetty lands on his feet and tags Michaels in. Michaels slams Tanaka and connects with a back bodydrop of his own. Sato tags in and whips Michaels into the ropes. Michaels reverses a backdrop attempt into a neckbreaker. Sato reverses an Irish whip and Tanaka kicks Michaels in the back of the head from the apron. Sato follows up with a gutwrench gutbuster.

Tanaka tags in and connects with a right. He whips Michaels into the ropes and hits a weird reverse bodyblock/strike/something. Tanaks rams Michaels head-first into the corner then slams him to the mat. Sato tags in and hits a top-rope knee drop for a 2-count (it was a 3, but they’re gonna pretend it wasn’t). Sato applies a double nervehold, squeezing on both trepezius muscles. Tanaka tags back in and flips over a backdrop attempt, but gloats too long so Michaels clotheslines him to the mat. Jannetty gets the hot tag and takes it to both members of The Orient Express. Jannetty hits a reverse elbow on Tanaka then smacks both his and Sato’s heads together. Jannetty goes for the cover but Sato tries to break up with an elbow. Instead he hits his partner and The Rockers both dropkick Sato to the floor. The Rockers go for their double finish but Fuji distracts Jannetty. Jannetty stalks Fuji with his own cane until Sato turns him around throws salt in his eyes. Jannetty, now blind, walks into the railing and flops into the front row. The ref finally counts Jannetty out, giving The Orient Express the win.

Winners [via Countout]: The Orient Express (7:38)

• Trivia Bits/Historical Significance: This would be The Orient Express’ only Wrestlemania appearance, both this version and the other with “Kato” instead of Sato. The Rockers would make one more Wrestlemania appearance before breaking up in late-1991. The Rockers and The Orient Express would meet again at Royal Rumble 1991 in a nearly 20-minute match that was well-received at the time.
  
• Match Thoughts: Two very capable teams but the match never really seemed to get started and the finish was ridiculously wonky (although I love Jannetty’s commitment post-salt, falling into the front row due to being “blind”).

—–

Dressing Room Interview

Steve Allen makes his way into Rhythm & Blues’ (The Honky Tonk Man & Greg “The Hammer” Valentine) dressing room for an interview. HTM says he must be excited to hear their new song, and Allen says he hasn’t been this excited since finding out that Pee Wee Herman was straight (sigh). Allen then says HTM reminds him of someone, settling on Elvis…Costello before immediately going into Abbott & Costello because comedy. HTM says when they go out there tonight, it’ll be bigger than everything including a reunion of The Beatles. Valentine concludes the interview saying they’re on their way to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Allen retorting with “I’ll call them and warn them you’re coming”.

• Thoughts: I use that last line in real-life far more than I want to admit. I would be a big hit in the 50’s.
  

—–

The show then cuts back to the ring where Dino Bravo is already in the ring alongside his manager Jimmy Hart and stablemate Earthquake. Howard Finkel gives them a proper introduction. “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan then makes his way out sans theme music. Ventura mocks Duggan for carrying an American flag in Canada. Duggan then tries to start a “USA!” chant…in Canada.

—–

Match #10: “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan Vs. Dino Bravo [w/ Jimmy Hart & Earthquake]

Duggan and Bravo lock up, the latter pushing  him off with ease. Duggan gets the crowd clapping before locking up with Bravo again. Duggan flings Bravo off, ducks a clothesline, then lands one of his own. Duggan unloads with lefts and rights then drops Bravo with a back bodydrop. Duggan clotheslines Bravo over the top rope and onto the floor. Hart helps Bravo up and he rolls back in the ring. Duggan ducks a clothesline and connects with an atomic drop. Duggan with the corner mount and a series of punches before the ref tells him to get off.

Bravo side steps a corner splash then drops Duggan with a clothesline followed by a series of throat jabs. Bravo whips Duggan into the ropes and connects with an inverted atomic drop. Bravo chokes Duggan as the ref counts. Bravo lets go in time and distracts the ref, allowing Earthquake to connect with a cheap shot. Bravo gets a full head of steam and connects with an elbow drop for 2. Bravo rams Duggan head-first into the corner but he no-sells it and goes after Bravo. Duggan whips Bravo and attempts a back bodydrop but gets a kick to his face for his troubles. Bravo stomps the fallen Duggan then whips him in the corner. Duggan gets his knee up during a corner splash then drops Bravo with three consecutive clotheslines.

Duggan sits up for the THREE POINT STANCE but Earthquake distracts him. Duggan brings Earthquake to the apron and strikes him. Duggan then grabs his 2×4 which I guess was in the ring (I looked down for a second), clobbers Bravo with it while the ref is distracted, then covers Bravo for the 1…2…3.

Winner [via Pinfall]: “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan (4:15)

• Trivia Bits/Historical Significance: Dino Bravo would make one more Wrestlemania appearance before leaving the WWF and retiring in 1992. Unfortunately his story doesn’t end well as Bravo would later be murdered gangland style in his Canadian home in early-1993.
  
• Match Thoughts: Ugly stuff but it was what it was.

Post-Match: Earthquake attacks Jim Duggan immediately after the bell. Earthquake beats him down then connects with two running elbowdrops before flattening him with three EARTHQUAKE SPLASHES.

• Thoughts: I guess Earthquake didn’t like the match either.
  

—–

Feud Recap Video: Jake Roberts/Ted DiBiase. The feud began in May of 1989 with DiBiase attacking Roberts from behind. The video then cuts to six months later where Roberts attacks DiBiase and grabs his Million Dollar Belt, holding it high in the air.

—–

“HAHAHAHAHAHA!”

The music of “The Million Dollar Man” Ted DiBiase starts playing as we see a shot of the Million Dollar Belt already in the ring. DiBiase and his manservant Virgil make their way to the ring via ring car as Monsoon says it’s not a recognized title.

—–

Backstage Interview

“Mean” Gene Okerlund is standing by with Jake “The Snake” Roberts. Roberts calls this match the biggest of DiBiase’s career because everything he stands for is on the line. Roberts says the Million Dollar Belt can be his again if DiBiase can get through him and Damien. Roberts runs down DiBiase for humbling and humiliating those less fortunate than him, but this time he’ll be the one humbled and humiliated, groveling on his hands and knees for the money. Roberts says it’s appropriate that the money DiBiase will grovel for will be his very own, a victim of his own greed, wallowing in the muck of Everest. Okerlund states that “Longfellow couldn’t have said it better” as Roberts exits the interview area.

• Thoughts: Any wrestling fan worth their weight in salt is already well aware of Roberts’ mastery of the art of the promo and this is one of his best. Calm, cool, collected, and a little unsettling but tremendous. Definitely the best promo of the show, no one else can touch it.
  

—–

The show cuts back to the ring as Howard Finkel announces that the Million Dollar Belt is on the line. He introduces Ted DiBiase to the crowd before Jake “The Snake” Roberts makes his way out on the ring car to his entrance theme. Finkel introduces him as the car inches closer to the ring.

• Thoughts: Roberts even makes the ring car look cooler by his presence alone.
  

—–

Match #11: “The Million Dollar Man” Ted DiBiase (c) [w/ Virgil] Vs. Jake “The Snake” Roberts for the Million Dollar Belt

The bell rings as soon as Roberts hits the ring and the two immediately go at it. DiBiase whips Roberts into the ropes but is taken down with a shoulderblock. Roberts goes for the DDT but DiBiase squirms out and exits out to the floor. Virgil jaws with Roberts at ringside as DiBiase makes his way back in. They go to lock up but DiBiase buries a knee to the gut. Roberts quickly recovers with a hip toss but misses an elbow. DiBiase then misses one himself and Roberts unsuccessfully attempts the DDT twice in a row, the second resulting in DiBiase once again bailing to the outside. Roberts grabs DiBiase by the arm and pulls him back in the ring, applying a Greco-Roman knucklelock into a hammerlock. Roberts takes DiBiase down to the mat and repeatedly drives his knee into DiBiase’s tricep. Roberts lays back to add some torque. Roberts keeps the hold applied while yelling at DiBiase to give up.

They get to their feet and DiBiase manages to reverse the hammerlock into one of his own. Roberts, however, uses DiBiase’s own momentum to send him back out to the floor. This time Roberts follows him out and immediately throws him back in. Roberts goes for a back bodydrop but DiBiase drops the elbow to the back of the head. DiBiase goes for a corner splash but Roberts gets the knee up. Roberts tries to follow up with a massive kneelift but DiBiase sidesteps and Roberts goes flying into the turnbuckle, falling flat on his face in the process. Cool spot. DiBiase keeps up the offense with a number of forearms on Roberts as he attempts to get back up. Roberts slaps the mat to gain the support of the crowd, but DiBiase stops him with a front chancery.

As Roberts gets to his knees, the Skydome crowd decides to entertain themselves by doing “The Wave”. The camera follows the Wave as Roberts backs DiBiase into the corner. DiBiase clubs Roberts off and out he spills to the floor. DiBiase rolls outside and rams Roberts’ shoulder into the ring post. DiBiase rolls Roberts in and tells the Skydome crowd to quiet down in attempt to build heel heat but no one’s paying attention. DiBiase picks Roberts up and nails a piledriver. Finally the crowd checks back in and DiBiase goes for a lackluster cover. 1…2…Roberts reverses it into a sunset flip roll-up for a 2-count of his own.

DiBiase waits for Roberts to get up and slaps on the MILLION DOLLAR DREAM. Roberts starts to fade but manages to get a foot on the rope as he falls to the mat. DiBiase then goes for the pin but Roberts’ foot is still on the rope. DiBiase pulls Roberts into the center of the ring and goes for another pin. 1…2…kick out. DiBiase climbs to the second turnbuckle and waits for Roberts to get to his feet. He goes for a double axhandle but Roberts catches him with a right to the midsection as he comes down. Roberts follows up with a clothesline followed by an inverted atomic drop as the crowd chants for the DDT. Roberts drops DiBiase with another clothesline, whips him into the ropes, and connects with a back bodydrop. Roberts takes a second to yell at Virgil then goes back to DiBiase and hits a short-arm clothesline. Roberts signals for the DDT and the Skydome crowd goes wild. DiBiase grabs the ref to distract him and Virgil pulls Roberts to the outside. Roberts slams Virgil on the floor, but DiBiase rolls out and locks on the MILLION DOLLAR DREAM. Roberts sends DiBiase into the post. Roberts crashes down and Virgil rolls DiBiase back into the ring, beating the count and winning the match.

Winner [via Countout]: Ted DiBiase (11:54)

• Trivia Bits/Historical Significance: This would be the last Wrestlemania for DiBiase and Virgil as a duo, as Virgil would turn on his now-former employer at Royal Rumble 1991 and embark on a months-long feud with him culminating at Summerslam 1991. Roberts would segue from this feud to one with Rick “The Model” Martel, resulting in being blinded by Martel’s cologne “Arrogance”, that would last until Wrestlemania VII with the infamous “Blindfold Match”.
  
• Match Thoughts: Monsoon and Ventura did an excellent job trying to explain away the Skydome’s sudden desire to do “The Wave” but let’s call a spade a spade: they were getting bored and antsy. This show has felt like it’s gone on forever and I’m just watching it after the fact; I can’t imagine what some of the fans in Toronto were feeling by this time. The layout of the Roberts/DiBiase match didn’t help matters, as front chanceries and hammerlocks aren’t exactly the most visually exciting moves in professional wrestling and the pace was a lot slower than one would expect for a match between two heated rivals. Luckily the Skydome crowd appeared to get back into things as the match winded down, especially for Roberts who had them in the palm of their hands by the end of it. The finish was a little screwy, and also the third contest to end in a countout, but there was really no way to conclude it without either man looking weaker in the process. This way both looked and stayed strong.

Post-Match: Ted DiBiase celebrates in the ring with Virgil and his Million Dollar Belt. Roberts slides back into the ring and takes the duo down with a double clothesline sending the fistful of cash Virgil was holding flying to the mat. Virgil grabs the belt and makes a run for it as DiBiase attacks Roberts from behind. But his attack is short-lived as Roberts rebounds and finally connects with the DDT to the roar of the crowd. Roberts grabs the money off the mat and starts giving it away to the folks at ringside including legendary actress Mary Tyler Moore. Roberts climbs back into the ring and stuffs one of the bills into DiBiase’s mouth for a little poetic justice before grabbing the snake bag. Virgil makes his way back out and pulls DiBiase out of the ring as Roberts slides Damien out of the bag. Roberts puts Damien over his neck and runs after them down the aisle.

• Thoughts: Mary Tyler Moore saying “oh wow, thank you” after being handed a 100 dollar bill was adorable. Also it still angers me that I’ve never been at an event where a wrestling company has given me free money for no reason. One day. One day.
  

—–

Locker Room Interview

Sean Mooney is standing by with Akeem “The African Dream” and his manager “The Doctor of Style” Slick. Akeem is awkwardly and I mean awkwardly gyrating his arm in attempt to dance. Mooney recaps the feud, saying The Twin Towers broke up due to The Big Boss Man’s refusal to accept Ted DiBiase‘s money. Slick says money is what it’s all about and says he’s the happiest man in the world right now because DiBiase just recaptured his Million Dollar Belt and he’s given he and Akeem “thousands of reasons” to act as the judge, jury, and executioner on Boss Man. Slick says Boss Man will be the one serving hard time, and Akeem follows up by saying two things don’t last long: dogs that chase after cars (what?) and law officers who won’t take “thuh monaaaaaaaaaay”. Slick tells Akeem that he just coined a phrase and laughs. Mooney then segues over to the next interview segment.

• Thoughts: I wonder if Slick was ever beat up by a group of self-respecting African Americans for his ridiculously stereotypical portrayal of a hustler (or for this music video). Also I can’t believe Akeem lasted as a gimmick for longer than a week. Two years! TWO YEARS PEOPLE.
  

—–

Backstage Interview

“Mean” Gene Okerlund is standing by with The Big Boss Man. Boss Man says Ted DiBiase is scum and he won’t take money from scum. Boss Man says he’s proud to walk to the ring alone without Akeem and Slick as well as proud to wear the badge and to be an American. Boss Man growls and walks off.

• Thoughts: Lots of emphasis on DiBiase from both Akeem/Slick and The Big Boss Man. It’s almost like this match is an afterthought before it’s even begun.
  

—–

“Jive Soul Bro” kicks up in the Skydome as Akeem and Slick make their way out on the ring car, both jiving to Slick’s self-sung theme.

• Thoughts: I used to own Piledriver: The Wrestling Album II on cassette and “Jive Soul Bro” was one of my favorite songs. And even though I’m older and wiser now I still can’t help but nod my head and sing along. I feel gross. Also Piledriver: The Wrestling Album II is one of my favorite wrestling-related things of all-time and I don’t feel gross about that. YouTube it, it’s a goddamn gem.
  

“Servin’ Hard Time” kicks up, bringing out The Big Boss Man in the ring car. He stares daggers at Akeem, pointing and talking trash. Boss Man exits the ring car and is blindsided by Ted DiBiase who apparently is still ringside. DiBiase slams Boss Man on the floor and drops an elbow before ramming him into the steel post. DiBiase rolls Boss Man into the ring and the match starts…without a bell.

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Match #12: The Big Boss Man Vs. Akeem [w/ Slick]

Akeem builds upon the sneak attack and splashes Boss Man in the corner. Akeem clubs Boss Man with forearms and elbows before ramming him back-first in the corner. Akeem goes into the corner mount and lays in a series of rights. Boss Man tries to counter with an inverted atomic drop but it doesn’t go so well so he hits the big boot instead. Boss Man mounts a comeback and repeatedly sends Akeem into opposite corners before flooring him with a clothesline. Boss Man whips Akeem into the ropes and although he ducks a clothesline, Boss Man catches him with THE BOSS MAN SLAM for the 1…2…3.

Winner [via Pinfall]: The Big Boss Man (1:51)

• Trivia Bits/Historical Significance: This was The Big Boss Man’s first singles match at a Wrestlemania and Akeem’s final Wrestlemania appearance. He would leave the WWF for good later that year. Slick would stick around with his current gimmick until late 1991, managing the team of Power and Glory as well as Rick “The Model” Martel.
  
• Match Thoughts: I know The Twin Towers never really ascended to the top tier in the WWF tag team division but they deserved a better blow-off than that. It was a do nothing match that focused more on setting up the Boss Man/DiBiase feud which I feel was a bit of a disservice. And having Boss Man overcome that attack and beat his former partner in short order pretty much put the nail in the coffin of Akeem as a viable threat. I mean that wasn’t a bad thing considering how terrible that gimmick was, but still I’m mentioning because whatever shut up.

Post-Match: Slick enters the ring and The Big Boss Man clocks him as Akeem makes an exit.

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Sean Mooney has moved from the locker room to inside the Skydome. He asks a kid if he’s looking forward to the Rhythm and Blues concert coming up and he’s having none of it. Mooney asks a girl if she’s excited for the concert, which she is and she even gets the song name right (Honka Honka Honky Love). Mooney then interviews Mary Tyler Moore who’s “excited” to be at the show. Mooney asks her about The Honky Tonk Man and she says she owns all of his albums. Mooney then asks her who Rhythm and Blues remind her of and she says Elvis because she has no idea what’s going on.

• Thoughts: Mary Tyler Moore awkwardly trying to play along in that Mooney interview was adorable. You’ve probably caught on to my crush on her by now.
  

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The Rhythm and Blues Concert

Howard Finkel introduces Rhythm and Blues (Honky Tonk Man & Greg Valentine) and out they come riding in the back of a pink Cadillac. Two “Honkettes” are sitting in the front clapping along to “Cool, Cocky, Bad” as Jimmy Hart holds up a gold record.

• Trivia Bit You Probably Already Know: The driver of that pink Cadillac? “Diamond” Dallas Page.
  

Rhythm and Blues, Hart, and the Honkettes make their way into the ring. HTM grabs a mic and thanks the Skydome for being a beautiful audience. He says he knows everyone is here to hear his new song. He cues the music and starts live-singing “Honka Honka Honky Love” way off-time and ahead of the music. The guitar solo pipes up and Valentine strums along on an acoustic guitar. The song continues, the singing eventually coinciding with the actual music, for another minute or so. HTM thanks the audience at the conclusion, then sees a couple of vendors at ringside. He tells them to get out then realizes that they aren’t vendors…they’re The Bushwhackers. The Bushwhackers take off their disguises and rush the ring as Rhythm and Blues make a slow exit out of the ring along with Hart and the Honkettes. The Bushwhackers stomp around then grab the two acoustic guitars. They stomp and destroy the guitars as their theme music kicks up.

• Historical Context: These two teams were feuding at the time, as I’m sure you were well aware. This also happened to be HTM’s final Wrestlemania appearance as a member of the WWF roster.
• Thoughts: I’m sure wrestling fans back then were tired of/disinterested in Rhythm and Blues but watching this years later I couldn’t help but find this whole segment ridiculously entertaining. This show is dragging its feet in the worst way but this was the sort of goofiness I needed to get me back into the zone. Plus “Honka Honka Honky Love” is actually a good song. What? WHAT? Stop looking at me like that, internet.
  

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The Wrestlemania VII promo that’s played twice already plays once again. Third time’s the charm?

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Howard Finkel announces that Wrestlemania VI has set the Toronto Skydome attendance record with 67, 678 people watching this show live. The crowd gives themselves a round of applause before the music of “Ravishing” Rick Rude hits. Out he comes on the ring car along with manager Bobby “The Brain” Heenan. Meanwhile Gorilla Monsoon welcomes Steve Allen to the announce booth where he does more schtick with the two commentators. Rude shows off his body sans the heel promo unfortunately. His opponent, “Superfly” Jimmy Snuka, makes his way out next. Allen makes fun of Snuka’s looks and Monsoon/Ventura no-sell it.

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Match #13: “Superfly” Jimmy Snuka Vs. “Ravishing” Rick Rude [w/ Bobby “The Brain” Heenan]

Rude attacks Snuka from behind as he’s adjusting his kneepads. Rude clubs Snuka with an elbow but Snuka side steps a dropkick attempt. Snuka whips Rude into the ropes and plants Rude on the mat face-first. Snuka whips Rude into the ropes and once more and connects with a back bodydrop. Snuka mocks Rude’s gyrating and hits a running headbutt before dropkicking him out to the floor. Rude immediately gets to the apron and attempts a sunset flip but Snuka blasts him with a right hand. Snuka whips Rude into the ropes a third time but Rude counters a back bodydrop with a snap suplex. Rude gyrates a bit then goes back on the assault. Rude whips Snuka into the ropes and hits a back bodydrop of his own. Rude tries for another but Snuka drives him face-first into the mat. Rude takes Snuka down with a shouldertackle but is met with a headbutt moments later. Snuka goes to the top for the SUPERFLY SPLASH but Rude gets up. Snuka jumps over Rude and whips him into the corner. Snuka follows up with a bodyslam then ascends back to the second turnbuckle. Rude moves out of the way of a flying headbutt then connects with THE RUDE AWAKENING moments later for the 1…2…3.

Winner [via Pinfall]: Rick Rude (3:51)

• Trivia Bits/Historical Significance: This match was Rude’s final Wrestlemania appearance, as he would leave the company later that year. As for Snuka he stuck around the WWF as an active competitor for a couple of years (sporting a goatee and booooots) putting over new talent, including some forgotten jabroni named The Undertaker at Wrestlemania VII. Whatever happened to that guy?
  
• Match Thoughts: If you love Irish whips, this was the match for you. Honestly this was just another in a series of pointless filler matches and although I still like them in theory sometimes too much of a good thing can ruin it. Rude and Snuka also looked pretty gassed, if you catch my drift (ROIDS, MAN).

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Main Event Hype Video: Clips from Hogan/Warrior’s brief meeting in the Royal Rumble 1990 match, followed by the aftermath of their tag team win over Mr. Perfect and The Genius. Warrior levels the two heels then accidentally levels Hogan with a clothesline. Then we see a clip of Hogan saving Warrior from a second rope splash by Earthquake. Warrior gets in Hogan’s face for interfering. Cut to an episode of Superstars where Warrior saves Hogan from a second EARTHQUAKE SPLASH. This time Hogan is the one who protests the interference and Warrior stops short of clotheslining him before running out of the ring and to the back.

• Thoughts: Interesting build-up to the main event and really the only way they could have done it without turning one of these guys heel.
  

—–

The guitars rev up and out comes WWF Intercontinental Champion The Ultimate Warrior for the main event. Instead of using the ring car like everyone else Warrior sprints like a madman to the ring after Howard Finkel introduces him. Ventura admonishes Warrior for wasting energy running when he should be conserving his strength. “Real American” then kicks up, bringing out WWF World Heavyweight Champion Hulk Hogan. Hogan also doesn’t a ring car, choosing instead to walk to the ring while pointing and muttering. The crowd is decidedly louder for Hogan. Hogan enters the ring and rips the shirt as Warrior stares at him from the corner.

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Main Event: Hulk Hogan (c) Vs. The Ultimate Warrior (c) for the WWF World Title and the WWF Intercontinental Title

Referee Earl Hebner checks both men and brings them to the center of the ring to explain the rules of the contest. Warrior and Hogan stare daggers at one another as they hand their titles to Hebner. Hebner raises both belts in the air as the Toronto crowd goes wild. The bell rings again so apparently now the match is happening. Hogan and Warrior continue to stare at one another before Warrior makes first contact with a shove. Hogan shoves back and they lock up, Warrior sending Hogan intot he corner. Hogan returns for a second lockup and after a brief struggle sends Warrior into the corner. Warrior comes out of the corner with an arm raised, signaling for a test of strength. Hogan agrees the test is on. They bash chests repeatedly, each jockeying for position, until Warrior turns the knuckles over and sends Hogan to his knees. After a brief struggle Hogan gets back to his feet and sends Warrior to his knees.

Warrior struggles back to his feet as the Skydome urges him on. Hogan takes him down quickly with an armbar and connects with an elbowdrop for the first 2-count of the contest. Warrior and Hogan crisscross on the ropes until Hogan slams Warrior to the mat. Warrior, however, immediately gets up. They crisscross the ropes once again and this time Warrior slams Hogan to the mat. Warrior follows up with a clothesline, sending Hogan out to the floor. Hogan gets up and limps, clutching his left knee, until he falls back to the mat. Warrior, having enough, rolls out and stomps the fallen Hogan a few times before rolling back into the ring to play to the crowd. Warrior goes to the outside and throws Hogan back into the ring. Warrior attacks the knee then the match turns into an eye-gouging contest which Ventura loves. Hebner tries to get in between them and Warrior clubs Hogan over his back.

Hogan wakes up and unloads with a series of rights followed by a corner clothesline. Hogan goes into the corner mount and connects with the eight rapid fire punches as the crowd chants along. Hogan slams Warrior to the mat and connects with two elbows back to the back for a 2-count. Hogan applies a front chancery to a standing Warrior then rolls him up for a small package for another 2-count. Hogan connects with a series of rights to the side of Warrior’s face then yells at Hebner for getting involved. A kneelift by Hogan sends Warrior into the corner. Warrior gets a kick in but Hogan responds with a series of rights. Hogan whips Warrior into the ropes and drops him with a clothesline. Hogan goes for the cover. 1…2…kick out.

Hogan picks Warrior up and connects with a backbreaker for the 1…2…kick out once again. Hogan jaws at Hebner then applies a reverse chinlock. Hogan eventually releases the hold and drives three knees to the back before picking him up for a back suplex. Hogan goes for the cover, leg unhooked, for the 1…2…kick out. Hogan immediately goes back to the reverse chinlock. Warrior uses the energy of the people to get back to his feet and break out with a series of elbows. Warrior hits the ropes and both men take one another down with a clothesline.

Warrior is first up at the count of 6 and starts shaking the ropes for energy. Hogan clubs Warrior in the back but he starts shaking and spasming impervious to pain. Warrior connects with a roundhouse right and hits three consecutive clotheslines. Warrior backs Hogan in the corner and chops him before repeatedly whipping him into opposite corners until he falls to the mat. Warrior suplexes Hogan to the mat and goes for the cover. 1…2…kick out. Both men get to their feet and Warrior applies a bearhug on the World Champion. Warrior wrenches the bearhug as Hogan starts fading. Finally, after what seems like a minute or longer, Hogan goes limp in Warrior’s arm. Hebner checks the arm once…goes down…twice…goes down…the third time…HOGAN IS STILL ALIVE. Hogan yells and breaks out of the bearhug with a series of rapid-fire rights. Warrior hits the ropes and ducks a clothesline but runs right into Hebner after Hogan ducks down.

Warrior heads to the top rope and hits two consecutive double axhandles. Warrior revs up and goes for the flying shouldertackle but Hogan sidesteps and Warrior eats the mat. Hogan rolls over the Warrior and goes for the cover but Hebner is out cold. Hogan tries to wake up Hebner and gets dropped with a back suplex from behind. Warrior then covers Hogan, but Hebner is still out cold. Warrior wakes Hebner up and re-covers Hogan for the 1…2…kick out! Hogan rolls Warrior from behind for the 1…2…kick out! Hogan connects with three right hands and whips Warrior into the ropes, knocking him out to the floor with an elbow. Hogan follows him out and they both try to ram one another into the post but they both block it. Warrior, however, strikes Hogan and throws him right into the post.

Warrior rolls Hogan back in and connects with the GORILLA PRESS SLAM followed by the RUNNING SPLASH for the 1…2…kick out! Hogan immediately gets to his knees, reenergized and ready to Hulk Up! Warrior strikes Hogan, who is unfazed. He tries again, Hogan still feels nothing. Hogan gets up and marches around the ring shaking his fists. Hogan points at Warrior and connects with three right hands. Hogan whips Warrior into the ropes  and goes for the BIG LEGDROP but Warrior moves out of the way. Warrior then connects with the RUNNING SPLASH for the 1…2…3! New champion!

Winner and NEW World Champion/STILL Intercontinental Champion [via Pinfall]: The Ultimate Warrior (22:47)

• Trivia Bits/Historical Significance: This match was to act as the true “passing of the torch” from Hogan to Warrior as the latter was pegged to become the new face of the WWF. However Warrior’s run as champion would prove to not live up to the hype and at the very next Wrestlemania Hogan would once again reign supreme as the World Champion. This match also marks Warrior’s first and only reign as WWF World Champion and would also conclude his second and final reign as IC Champion as the belt would be vacated later on resulting in Mr. Perfect winning it in a tournament.
  
• Match Thoughts: It’s obvious given the two men involved that the match wouldn’t be pretty to watch but oh dear god does this match work despite that. The storytelling here was off the charts, with both men looking strong and the match looking dead-even throughout the duration of this contest. Hell I’ve watched this match hundreds of times and there are moments when I think Hogan might actually pull it off. The great storytelling plus the hot Toronto crowd and the brevity of the contest as a whole make this a must-watch and one of the most memorable Wrestlemania main events of all-time. It’s a shame Warrior’s reign as WWF Champion would lose steam so quickly but I guess when your character is a raving lunatic in facepaint it’s hard to be the same type of media darling Hulk was (and still is).

Post-Match: Finkel announces Warrior as champion as Hogan stands in disbelief. Warrior celebrates with the IC Title as Hogan exits the ring. He grabs the World Title with a dejected look on his face and heads back into the ring, belt slung over his shoulder as Warrior’s music dies down. Hogan hands Warrior the belt and raises his arm in the air as the music kicks back up. Hogan and Warrior hug and then Hogan leaves the ring to let Warrior celebrate with both belts. Pyrotechnics go off and above and in the ring as Warrior shakes the ropes in victory. The camera cuts to Hogan watching Warrior celebrate on the ring car then back to Warrior as Monsoon signs off.

• Thoughts: One of the ultimate passing of the torch moments in my life as a pro wrestling fan and I still get goosebumps watching it. Hogan really put Warrior over in a big way (while also taking some spotlight for himself but not as much as others would have you believe). The end of this show truly felt like a new era in the WWF was really beginning. We know it really wasn’t, but hey hindsight is 20/20 my friend.

 *****

Overall Show Thoughts: I’ve said for a long time that Wrestlemania VI is my favorite wrestling PPV of all-time but having gone through and watched it with a more critical eye I think I’m going to have to rethink my decision. While there were plenty of okay moments and a goddamn home run of a main event, the show just dragged and dragged with tons of filler matches. It felt like an overbooked show that tried to cram way too much in with very little benefit. I can think of at least three matches that could have been cut, maybe even five. The slow pace of the show kills some of the nostalgia buzz but I would still recommend Wrestlemania VI to any wrestling fan regardless; just make sure you find the edited version instead so it feels like three hours instead of 40.

• Best Match: Hulk Hogan Vs. The Ultimate Warrior
  
• Worst Match: Jim Duggan Vs. Dino Bravo
• Favorite Non-Wrestling Moments: The Rhythm and Blues concert, Jesse Ventura’s commentary, Steve Allen rehearsing with The Bolsheviks
• Least Favorite Non-Wrestling Moments: Mary Tyler Moore being forced to pretend she knows what’s going on, the bulk of the pre-match interviews.

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