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Wrestling Throwbacks, Lakeville, MN (2026)

12/24/2025

In 2018, The Undertaker aimed to wrestle a 30-minute bout against John Cena at WrestleMania 34. However, Vince McMahon intervened, insisting that Cena be “squashed” in just three minutes. The Undertaker was reluctant, but ultimately, John Cena and McMahon teamed up to persuade him.

This match marked their first pay-per-view encounter in 15 years. The Undertaker had trained intensely, expecting a grueling “45-minute war.” He was shocked when, on the day of the event, McMahon informed him the match would only last around five minutes.

“And you know Vince, he just thought that was funny because he knew how hard I had been training,” The Undertaker shared during the “Insight with Chris Van Vliet” podcast.

The previous year, after his match with Roman Reigns, The Undertaker had left his hat and jacket in the centre of the ring as a symbolic farewell. When McMahon called months later to discuss a match with Cena, Undertaker asked for time to consider it. Despite rehabbing his hip and returning to training, he had no intention of stepping back into the ring.

Determined to see if he could still perform, Undertaker had a ring shipped to Texas and rented a space to train. “I put the ring in this building and I start training. And lo and behold, I could move again,” he recalled.

He was ready to redeem himself after his Reigns match, but when McMahon outlined the brief match length, Undertaker pushed back firmly. “No, I'm doing 30 [minutes] or I'm not going out,” he said.

Despite McMahon insisting a long match wasn’t necessary, Undertaker wanted to hear Cena’s thoughts. John Cena approached him and said, “I talked mad smack about you, dude, you need to beat me quick and get this over with.”

“At that point, they both ganged up on me,” Undertaker admitted. “I finally threw my hands up.”

In the end, The Undertaker agreed to the short match, though it was far from the epic showdown he had envisioned. The clash was brief but intense, leaving fans both shocked and captivated.

The encounter highlighted the tension between wrestling tradition and the entertainment-driven decisions of management, putting The Undertaker in a challenging position.

It was a stark reminder that even legends must sometimes navigate the demands of those in charge, balancing personal pride with professional obligations.

Despite the constraints, Undertaker’s presence and performance maintained the aura that had defined his decades-long career.

The WrestleMania 34 match remains a memorable moment, illustrating both the dedication of a seasoned performer and the behind-the-scenes pressures of professional wrestling.

12/24/2025

Twenty-eight years ago tonight, the electric atmosphere of the Golden Dome in Monaca, Pennsylvania, was charged with anticipation as ECW fans packed the arena for the iconic November to Remember event. Nearly 5,000 spectators filled the venue, setting a record attendance for the promotion, while an estimated 80,000 homes tuned in to watch the pay-per-view, eager to witness a night that would become legendary in wrestling history. Every match promised chaos, drama, and unforgettable moments—the hallmarks of Extreme Championship Wrestling at its peak.

The main event saw Shane Douglas triumph over the formidable Bam Bam Bigelow to capture the ECW World Heavyweight Championship, beginning a historic reign that would last an astonishing 405 days. Douglas’ victory was a defining moment, cementing his place as one of ECW’s most iconic champions and demonstrating the promotion’s commitment to bold storytelling and high-octane action.

The undercard delivered no less excitement. Sabu faced The Sandman in a brutal tables and ladders match, blending risk and spectacle in true ECW fashion. Meanwhile, Rob Van Dam and Tommy Dreamer battled to a no contest in an ECW vs. WWF flag match, highlighting the intense rivalries that gave the promotion its rebellious edge. Taz showcased his dominance by defeating Pitbull #2 in just 89 seconds, retaining the ECW World Television Championship in a display of sheer power and technical skill.

Adding to the mayhem, the World Tag Team Championship saw The FBI—Little Guido and Tracy Smothers—outlast The Dudley Boyz, Axl Rotten and Balls Mahoney, and The Gangstanators in a four-team elimination match, retaining their titles in a contest that combined chaos, teamwork, and strategic cunning. Every bout on that card embodied the spirit of ECW: unpredictable, extreme, and utterly captivating. November to Remember was more than a wrestling show; it was a testament to ECW’s legacy and its unrelenting push to redefine the limits of sports entertainment.

12/24/2025

Few moments in wrestling history have sparked as much debate and fascination as the infamous coconut incident involving Jimmy Snuka and Roddy Piper. What was meant to be a shocking but controlled stunt turned into a moment that left both wrestlers—and fans—talking for decades. The incident began with the idea of striking Snuka on the head with a coconut, a classic prop designed to create drama without serious injury. According to Snuka, he knew a coconut would be used and that WWF road agent ‘Chief’ Jay Strongbow had prepared it to shatter safely, shaving one side to make it easier to break.

However, the ex*****on went awry. Piper’s swing struck the wrong side of the coconut, causing it to break as intended but delivering a much harder impact to Snuka’s head than planned. The force left Snuka dazed and “loopy” for a time, though he credited his headband with softening the blow. Despite the severity, he managed to recover sufficiently to wrestle a match later that night, securing a victory, though he admitted the incident left lingering effects that required some recovery.

Roddy Piper, on the other hand, remembered the event differently. He was convinced that the coconut wasn’t rigged at all and that many elements of the segment were improvised. The moment where Snuka tore down the set was unplanned, as Piper had two other Piper’s Pit segments to tape that day. This meant the set had to be rebuilt for interviews with Terry Daniels and Strongbow. Even the whipping of Snuka with his leather belt was ad-libbed, highlighting how much of wrestling relied on in-the-moment creativity and improvisation.

Years later, both wrestlers reflected on the incident with a mix of amusement and respect for its unintended consequences. What was supposed to be a controlled prop stunt became an unforgettable part of wrestling lore, showcasing the unpredictability of live performance and the physical risks wrestlers willingly embrace to entertain the audience. The coconut incident remains a legendary example of wrestling’s blend of planning, improvisation, and sheer spectacle.

12/23/2025

Few figures in professional wrestling have commanded attention and fear quite like Kane, famously known as "The Big Red Machine." Bursting onto the scene at Badd Blood in 1997, Kane made an unforgettable debut during the first Hell in a Cell match by attacking The Undertaker and costing him the victory against Shawn Michaels. This shocking moment immediately established Kane as a mysterious and unstoppable force, setting the stage for one of wrestling’s most iconic rivalries.

Kane’s career has been defined by both his alliances and conflicts with The Undertaker. As part of the formidable duo known as The Brothers of Destruction, they dominated the tag team scene in the late 1990s and early 2000s, capturing multiple championships and thrilling audiences with their dark, theatrical presence. Their storylines, blending themes of family, betrayal, and redemption, remain among the most compelling narratives in wrestling history. Kane’s participation in high-risk matches, such as the Inferno Match against The Undertaker at WrestleMania XIV, further cemented his reputation for fearlessness and showmanship.

Beyond his partnership with The Undertaker, Kane achieved significant individual success. He claimed his first WWE Championship in 1998 by defeating Stone Cold Steve Austin, proving his ability to compete at the main event level. His initial masked persona added layers to his character, symbolising a tortured past and creating an aura of mystery that captivated fans. Over the years, Kane evolved from a monstrous heel to a more nuanced performer, displaying comedic timing and versatility, most notably during his tag team run with Daniel Bryan as Team Hell No, which earned widespread fan acclaim.

Kane’s enduring impact on WWE storytelling and his remarkable in-ring career were officially recognised when he was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2021. From terrifying debut to legendary career, Kane’s legacy lies not only in his victories and titles but in his unforgettable character, his dedication to performance, and the lasting mark he left on professional wrestling.

12/23/2025

Few entrances in professional wrestling have resonated as profoundly as Ric Flair’s iconic arrival in the WWF in 1991. Stepping out of a limousine with Bobby “The Brain” Heenan at his side, Flair immediately commanded attention, signalling a moment that would forever alter the wrestling landscape. It wasn’t merely an entrance—it was a statement of dominance, prestige, and audacity. Flair carried with him the Big Gold Belt, declaring himself the real world champion, a bold proclamation that set the stage for one of the most compelling storylines in wrestling history.

Flair’s timing and presence were impeccable. He needed no introduction to prove his worth; his reputation preceded him, and his every move exuded the confidence and authority of a man who had arrived at the very top. With Bobby Heenan providing his sharp, provocative commentary and Mr. Perfect Curt Hennig later joining in his corner, Flair had the perfect support to amplify his dominance, cutting promos that stirred controversy and cemented his position as the man to beat.

The pinnacle of this era came at the 1992 Royal Rumble. Flair delivered a legendary performance, entering early in the match and enduring over an hour of grueling competition to emerge as the WWF Champion. His stamina, skill, and charisma captivated audiences, demonstrating why he was one of wrestling’s greatest performers. Every moment reinforced his legitimacy and the notion that he was not just another competitor—he was a force that demanded respect and attention.

That moment of Flair stepping into the WWF, with Heenan by his side and the Big Gold Belt in hand, encapsulated everything he represented: elegance, confidence, swagger, and unassailable legitimacy. It was more than an entrance; it was a declaration of supremacy. Flair didn’t simply join the WWF—he took it over, leaving an indelible mark on the company and setting a standard for arrivals, performances, and storytelling that continues to inspire wrestlers and fans alike.

12/23/2025

Twenty-seven years ago today, the wrestling world lost one of England’s most imposing and unforgettable villains, Giant Haystacks, born Martin Ruane. Towering and fearsome, Haystacks became a symbol of menace in British wrestling, thrilling and terrifying audiences with his sheer size and presence. Known for his dominance in the ring, he carved out a legendary career that spanned decades, earning a reputation as one of the most memorable heels in professional wrestling history.

Ruane’s career extended beyond the UK, including a brief stint in World Championship Wrestling (WCW) in 1996. During this period, he joined the notorious Dungeon of Doom and feuded with Hulk Hogan, showcasing his talent on an international stage. Although his run in WCW was short-lived, it highlighted his ability to adapt to different wrestling styles and audiences, bringing his larger-than-life persona to a global fanbase.

Tragically, his time in the United States was cut short when he was diagnosed with lymphoma, forcing him to return home to England. Despite the illness, Haystacks remained a beloved figure among wrestling fans, respected for his contributions to the sport and remembered for the aura of intimidation he brought to every match.

Martin Ruane passed away in 1998 at the age of just 52, leaving behind a legacy defined by his size, skill, and unforgettable character work. Giant Haystacks’ impact on wrestling endures, not only through his matches but through the lasting impression he left as one of the most formidable villains in the history of the sport. His career remains a testament to his talent, dedication, and the fearsome presence that made him a legend in both British and international wrestling.

12/23/2025

Most wrestling fans remember Rick Rude as the chiseled, arrogant, and flamboyant “Ravishing” superstar who commanded attention whenever he stepped into the ring. His arrogance, charisma, and undeniable presence made him one of the most captivating figures in professional wrestling. Yet beyond the glare of the spotlight and the theatrics of his character, Rude possessed a far softer, more personal side—a side that few ever got to see.

One such glimpse into that private life comes from a rare photograph showing Rude having breakfast at the Neidhart residence. Far from being a casual acquaintance, Rude was a close family friend of the Neidharts. He spent time in their home, shared meals, and laughed with them, forming bonds that went far beyond the wrestling business. For Jim Neidhart’s daughter, Nattie, this moment was a cherished memory, capturing the genuine connection and warmth that existed behind the scenes.

These quieter moments reveal a side of wrestling that is often overlooked. Behind the pomp, the rivalry, and the dramatic storylines, there were real relationships, mutual respect, and genuine care among performers. Rude’s presence in the Neidhart household demonstrated that the men and women who played larger-than-life roles on television were also capable of forming deep, meaningful friendships off-screen.

Rick Rude’s legacy is therefore twofold. On one hand, he is remembered as a masterful performer whose arrogance and athleticism thrilled fans worldwide. On the other, he is remembered for his humanity, the friendships he nurtured, and the kindness he showed away from the cameras. Moments like these serve as a reminder that behind the spectacle of professional wrestling, there are real people, real emotions, and bonds that endure long after the crowd has gone home.

12/23/2025

Thirty-nine years ago today, WWF Superstars of Wrestling delivered a moment that left fans stunned as “Rowdy” Roddy Piper ended up knocked out on his back during an unforgettable Piper’s Pit segment. The incident began when Piper, hosting his infamous talk show, welcomed Jimmy Hart instead of his usual guest, George “The Animal” Steele. Hart, claiming he had already “taken care of” Steele using a poster of Miss Elizabeth as a distraction, stormed onto the set and launched into a furious tirade about respect, immediately setting the stage for chaos.

Piper responded with his trademark wit, mocking Hart by calling him a “Federette,” which only fueled Hart’s rage. Hart continued to provoke Piper, slapping him multiple times in an attempt to elicit a reaction. Piper remained composed, refusing to retaliate—at least until he had enough. In a surge of controlled fury, Piper lifted Hart into a chokehold, ready to take control of the segment. But the situation escalated further when Adrian Adonis suddenly blindsided Piper from behind with a crutch, locking him in a sleeper hold while Hart screamed in his face, creating a spectacle of chaos that had viewers on the edge of their seats.

Adonis added insult to injury by declaring his return and dumping flowers into Piper’s mouth, capping off the audacious ambush. The combination of Hart’s aggression, Piper’s resistance, and Adonis’s opportunistic attack created one of the most memorable Piper’s Pit segments in WWF history, showcasing the unpredictability and theatricality that made the show so compelling.

This confrontation ignited a feud that WWF would extend for months, ultimately culminating at WrestleMania III. There, the storyline reached its dramatic conclusion with Piper’s temporary retirement and Adonis’s head being shaved, providing fans with a satisfying resolution to a chaotic and entertaining rivalry. The segment remains a classic example of wrestling storytelling, blending tension, character conflict, and unexpected twists to create a moment that is still remembered decades later.

12/23/2025

The crowd erupted as “Mean” Gene Okerlund stood in the ring, setting the stage for one of wrestling’s most unforgettable fan interactions. Jimmy Hart, ever the showman, began scanning the arena for the biggest fan he could find, hopping onto turnbuckles and peering into the rafters as the audience cheered and pointed toward a lone figure seated high above. The camera zeroed in on the man, immediately revealing his staggering size—a spectacle that had the entire arena buzzing with anticipation.

Okerlund approached the man for a brief interview, clearly impressed by his presence. The man introduced himself as John and revealed that he weighed an astonishing 465 pounds. The sheer scale of John’s size seemed to unsettle Bravo’s manager, raising concerns about what exactly they had signed up for. Despite this, Bravo appeared remarkably composed and confident, radiating the kind of bravado that made fans believe he could handle nearly anything the wrestling world threw at him. The tension in the arena grew as viewers wondered how this encounter would unfold, creating a perfect blend of curiosity, suspense, and spectacle.

What followed was more than just a gimmick—it was a moment that showcased the theatricality and unpredictability that defined professional wrestling. The idea that Bravo could perform pushups with such an enormous man on his back seemed almost impossible, yet the stage was set for an unforgettable demonstration of strength, showmanship, and crowd engagement. Every fan in attendance held their breath, caught between disbelief and excitement, knowing they were witnessing a truly unique spectacle.

This segment exemplified the essence of wrestling entertainment, where larger-than-life characters meet equally larger-than-life scenarios. Beyond the scripted rivalries and storylines, moments like these—spontaneous, daring, and highly interactive—remind audiences why wrestling has such enduring appeal: it thrives on spectacle, audacity, and the ability to make every fan feel like part of the action.

12/23/2025

Few figures in professional wrestling combined mystique, fear, and storytelling prowess quite like Kevin Sullivan. Known for his dark, enigmatic persona and mastery of psychological storytelling, Sullivan captivated fans with his ability to make every feud, every match, and every promo feel real. To audiences, he was a figure to be feared, a man who could manipulate emotions and command attention with a mere glance or whispered threat. Behind the scenes, however, the reality was far different. Those who worked closely with him knew Sullivan as a compassionate and caring individual, devoted to his colleagues and deeply respected within the wrestling community.

One of the final images of Sullivan captures him alongside wrestling personalities Sonny Onoo and Missy Hyatt, moments before he was hospitalized. The photo serves as a poignant reminder of the man behind the character—a wrestler who inspired awe in the ring yet carried kindness and generosity in his personal life. His presence in the locker room, his mentorship of younger talent, and his genuine friendships with peers spoke to a side of professional wrestling that often goes unseen, hidden behind storylines and personas.

Sullivan’s untimely passing left a void in the industry, as fans and fellow wrestlers alike mourned the loss of a performer who had shaped the art of in-ring psychology. His legacy, however, endures not only through his memorable feuds and characters but also through the respect and affection of those who knew him personally.

Kevin Sullivan’s career is a testament to the duality that defines professional wrestling: the ability to evoke fear, excitement, and drama for audiences while remaining a compassionate and inspiring presence off-camera. His contributions to the craft, both as a performer and as a mentor, ensure that he will be remembered as one of wrestling’s most intriguing, influential, and beloved figures.

12/23/2025

Fifty years ago this week, “Cowboy” Bill Watts reaffirmed his dominance in the Tri-State wrestling territory by defeating Killer Karl Kox to reclaim the North American Championship, a title that had become the center of a heated dispute. Watts had long been one of the top stars in the region, known for his toughness, skill, and relentless work ethic, which earned him a devoted following among fans and respect from his peers. His departure for Eddie Graham’s Championship Wrestling from Florida in 1972 left a vacuum, and in his absence, Killer Karl Kox was recognised locally as the North American Champion, creating uncertainty over who truly held the title.

Watts’ return to the Tri-State territory set the stage for a highly anticipated showdown. The clash between him and Kox in Jackson, Mississippi, wasn’t just about a championship—it was about legitimacy, pride, and restoring order to the regional wrestling hierarchy. Fans packed the arena, eager to witness the resolution of a storyline that had simmered for years. When the bell rang, Watts demonstrated why he had been a dominant force in the territory, combining technical skill, raw power, and strategic cunning to overcome Kox and decisively win the match.

The victory solidified Watts’ position as the undisputed North American Champion and reinforced his status as one of Tri-State’s premier stars. Beyond the championship itself, the match highlighted Watts’ ability to captivate audiences, blending athleticism with drama to create a memorable and meaningful moment in wrestling history.

This episode stands as a testament to the regional wrestling era, where titles were not only symbols of achievement but also markers of respect and recognition among both fans and fellow wrestlers. Bill Watts’ triumph over Killer Karl Kox remains a defining moment in his career, illustrating his resilience, dominance, and enduring impact on the wrestling landscape of the time.

12/23/2025

In 2001, the World Wrestling Federation embarked on an unusual and charming experiment, weaving a real-life Romeo and Juliet tale into its programming. At the centre of this storyline were Molly Holly and Spike Dudley, two wrestlers caught in the middle of a bitter feud between their fictional “families.” In the scripted drama, Molly Holly was the cousin of Hardcore and Crash Holly, while Spike Dudley was portrayed as the younger brother of Bubba Ray and D-Von Dudley. Amid the chaos and violence of these rivalries, a tender romance blossomed between the two, giving fans an unexpected blend of romance and wrestling drama to follow.

Nora Greenwald, who brought Molly Holly to life, has often spoken about the storyline as one of the highlights of her career. She relished the chance to explore her character beyond wrestling moves, embracing skits, interviews, and moments that allowed the audience to connect emotionally with her and Spike Dudley. “It was fun to have acting skits and the things that the fans could get involved with, get behind, root for. So my Disney romance with Spike Dudley was by far one of my favorite things in my time with the WWF,” she reflected, emphasising the joy she found in blending performance with sport.

Matt Hyson, better known to fans as Spike Dudley, echoed her sentiments, recalling the storyline as a uniquely exciting period in his career. He noted that the romance resonated so strongly with the audience because both he and Molly Holly were “the two most average people in WWE,” characters that viewers could easily relate to in contrast with the larger-than-life personas dominating the roster. This relatability made their forbidden romance feel genuine, creating a rare emotional hook in a world often dominated by spectacle and theatrics.

Ultimately, the Molly Holly and Spike Dudley storyline stands out as a testament to wrestling’s ability to merge storytelling and performance in creative ways. By combining romance, family feud, and character-driven drama, WWF offered fans a compelling narrative that transcended the ring, leaving a memorable mark on both wrestlers’ careers and the history of the company.

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