Match: Bret Hart vs. 1-2-3 Kid – Raw (1994)
Monday Night Raw’s first top-class match. Receives Standing ovation.
Context
On Raw in 1994 Champion Bret Hart faced off against the 123 kid (Sean Waltman) for the title. 123 kid had gained popularity after upsetting Razor Ramon for a big win in a previous match. Now he was facing the WWF champion and the resulting match is still being talked about to this day.
A technical match full of drama, near falls and reversals. High levels of storytelling and in ring psychology had The 123 Kid come off as a legitimate contender for Bret’s title. The crowd were hooked throughout hoping to see a repeat of the upset against Razor Ramon. The match ended with the audience and commentators giving both men a standing ovation. High paced, high action and a thoroughly entertaining match.
Did You Know?
123 Kid would later become X-Pac in WWF. Before that he moved to WCW as Syxx. A play on his original 123 character adding up to the number 6.
Why You Should Watch
A 20 minute match on Raw at that time wasn’t very common. The match showed what Bret Hart could do as Champion to help elevate 123 kid. A must see match for the drama, storytelling and in ring work. It’s considered one of the best early matches in Raws history.
Where Can You See It?
At time of writing WWE has the match on their official Youtube Channel (WWE VAULT). You can find it here.
Let’s Talk
Is this the best match in Raw’s early history? What do you like about it? Give it a watch and lets discuss.
Coming Next Week:
The Hardy Boyz Return – WrestleMania 33 (2017)
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