A compelling discussion on the latest episode of “The Jim Cornette Experience” has unearthed a forgotten gem in professional wrestling history. Wrestling icon Jim Cornette, alongside co-host Brian Last, tackled a listener’s question about the “greatest opening match in wrestling history,” revealing a match that, according to Cornette, has been unfairly relegated to obscurity due to its placement on the card.
Cornette lamented a significant shift in modern wrestling show construction, arguing that the emphasis on saving “big” matches for later in the program often overshadows the quality of earlier contests. This practice, he contends, has led to a classic encounter being largely overlooked by contemporary fans and wrestling historians.
The Lost Classic: A Forgotten Opener
The match in question, as revealed by Cornette, is the opening bout between Bret Hart and Owen Hart from WrestleMania X in 1994. Cornette passionately explained that the sheer intensity, technical brilliance, and emotional depth of the match were exceptional, even by Hart family standards. He believes its placement as the opening contest significantly diminished its long-term recognition.
“It’s a tragedy, really,” Cornette stated on his podcast. “You had two of the most gifted performers in the world, brothers with a legitimate, deeply personal storyline, putting on a clinic. And it went on first! People were still getting settled, grabbing concessions… it didn’t get the immediate respect it deserved.”
The conversation highlighted a broader issue within the wrestling industry: the tendency to prioritize perceived “main event” status over simply showcasing excellent wrestling. Cornette argued that a truly great match should stand on its own merits, regardless of where it falls on the card. He posited that the current emphasis on building to a crescendo often sacrifices the opportunity to immediately captivate the audience with a high-quality opening contest.
Did You Know?: WrestleMania X is widely regarded as a turning point in professional wrestling, showcasing a more athletic and technically proficient style that would become dominant in the years that followed.
The Evolution of Wrestling Card Structure
The discussion then delved into the historical evolution of wrestling card structures. Cornette recalled a time when opening matches were often used to establish a specific tone or style for the show, rather than simply being a “warm-up” act. He contrasted this with the modern approach, where the opening match is frequently viewed as a placeholder until the “real” action begins.
“Back in the territory days, and even into the early 90s, the opener was a chance to set the pace,” Cornette explained. “You could have a fast-paced tag team match, a hard-hitting brawl, or a technically sound contest to get the crowd invested. Now, it often feels like they’re just trying to get through it.”
This shift, Cornette believes, is a symptom of a larger trend towards prioritizing spectacle over substance. The focus on elaborate storylines, larger-than-life characters, and dramatic moments often overshadows the importance of in-ring performance. He wonders if modern audiences are even capable of appreciating the nuances of a truly great wrestling match if they’re constantly bombarded with distractions.
What do you think? Has the placement of matches on wrestling cards become less important in the age of social media and highlight reels?
The Significance of Bret Hart vs. Owen Hart
The Bret Hart vs. Owen Hart rivalry is considered one of the most compelling and emotionally resonant storylines in wrestling history. Owen’s desire to step out of his older brother’s shadow, coupled with Bret’s frustration at being perceived as overly cautious, created a dynamic that captivated audiences. Their matches were characterized by a blend of technical skill, athleticism, and genuine animosity.
WrestleMania X marked the culmination of this feud, and their opening match was a masterclass in storytelling. The match built slowly, with both wrestlers showcasing their technical prowess, before escalating into a frantic and emotionally charged climax. The finish, with Bret Hart securing a hard-fought victory, was a testament to their commitment to the craft.
The match’s impact extends beyond the ring. It helped to establish Owen Hart as a legitimate singles competitor and solidified Bret Hart’s position as one of the top stars in the industry. It also served as a reminder that even seemingly minor details, such as the placement of a match on the card, can have a significant impact on its legacy.
For further insight into the Hart family dynasty and their contributions to professional wrestling, explore resources like WWE’s official Hart Family page and SLAM! Wrestling’s Hart Family archive.
The debate over the importance of match placement continues, but Cornette’s perspective serves as a valuable reminder that a truly great wrestling match deserves to be seen and appreciated, regardless of where it falls on the card. Do you agree with Cornette’s assessment? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Disclaimer: This article provides commentary on professional wrestling and does not constitute professional advice. Views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Archyworldys.
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