The Redefinition of Tag Team Wrestling: The Rockers and Their Hype
Wrestling fans often debate whether a tag team ever matched the hype surrounding them. In discussing the careers of The Rockers, it is evident that this question could be considered with conviction. This article delves into the merits of The Rockers' matches, their misunderstood championship runs, and the era in which they competed.
Introduction to The Rockers
The Rockers, composed of Bret Hart and Scott Hall, were a formidable duo in the world of professional wrestling. While some argue that they lived up to their hype, others believe that they tragically underperformed relative to their initial expectations. By meticulously examining their matches, the impact of their storylines, and the context of their time, it becomes clear that The Rockers truly deserved more recognition and success.
Match Performances and Storylines
The Rockers' matches were notable for their spectacular aerial maneuvers and incredible athleticism. Their matches against tag teams like the Brain Busters, particularly against Arn Anderson and Tully Blanchard, showcased their physical prowess and technical skills. These matches were not only entertaining but also critically acclaimed within the wrestling community.
One of the turning points for The Rockers was their match against the Hart Foundation at Saturday Night's Main Event in 1991. Although they won the belts, their victory was marred by an incident involving a top rope that came loose, leading to the Hart Foundation reclaiming their titles. This event underscored the unfortunate circumstances that often surrounded The Rockers, preventing them from achieving the proper recognition they deserved.
Their rivalry with the Orient Express at the 1991 Royal Rumble was one of their last classic matches. The sheer athleticism and creativity displayed in these bouts highlight the impact they had on both their contemporaries and future generations of wrestlers.
Their Lesser-Known Career Highlights
While The Rockers are often remembered for their time in the World Wrestling Federation (WWE), their career began in other promotions, starting with the Allied Wrestling Association (AWA). Here, they had memorable matches with Buddy Rose and Doug Summers, reminiscent of their matches with Anderson and Blanchard. Their alliance with Sherri Martel added another layer of charisma and entertainment to their performances.
In the AWA, The Rockers also had notable clashes with the Nasty Boys, further demonstrating their versatility and competitiveness in various wrestling terrains. These matches not only entertained fans but also contributed to the rich storytelling that was integral to the AWA's legacy.
The Steroid Era and Their Push
The Rockers' careers were heavily influenced by the steroid era of WWE. Despite their matches often being the highlight of many cards, they never received the push they deserved due to the era's steroid-driven focus on bodybuilding and relentless competition for titles. Their physicality and skill were overshadowed by the era's dominant figures.
It was not until Vince McMahon decided to separate The Rockers and push Shawn Michaels and Bret Hart individually that they started to gain more significant recognition. This era marked a shift in focus within WWE, ultimately relegating The Rockers to the background. However, in retrospect, it is clear that The Rockers were underhyped and underutilized, especially in the context of their athletic capabilities and their captivating matches.
Conclusion: Deserving More
The Rockers remain an important part of wrestling history, though often underappreciated. Their combination of athleticism, storytelling, and impact in various promotions profoundly influenced the wrestling world. It is time to recognize their full potential and give due credit to the contributions they made to professional wrestling.