On December 28, 1985, wrestling fans witnessed a pivotal moment when the American Wrestling Association (AWA) hosted its final SuperClash event in Chicago, Illinois. This event was a significant milestone in wrestling history, as it marked one of the last major attempts by the AWA to compete with the rising dominance of the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) and the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA). SuperClash featured an array of talent from various promotions, creating an electrifying atmosphere that showcased the best of what professional wrestling had to offer at the time.
One of the standout matches from the event was the AWA World Heavyweight Championship bout between Rick Martel and Stan Hansen. This match was a testament to Martel’s resilience and technical prowess, as he defended his title against the rugged and intimidating Hansen. Their clash was a hard-hitting affair that captivated the audience, ultimately ending in a controversial count-out victory for Martel, allowing him to retain the championship. This match further fueled the ongoing rivalry between the two, setting the stage for future encounters that would continue to enthrall wrestling fans.
December 28, 1998, also holds significance in wrestling history with the debut of the infamous Fingerpoke of Doom incident on WCW Monday Nitro. In a shocking turn of events, Kevin Nash, who had recently won the WCW World Heavyweight Championship, faced off against Hollywood Hogan. The match ended abruptly when Hogan simply poked Nash in the chest, leading to Nash’s dramatic fall and allowing Hogan to pin him for the win. This moment, intended to reunite the nWo factions, is often cited as a critical misstep that contributed to WCW’s decline, illustrating how storyline decisions can have long-lasting impacts on a promotion’s success.
In addition to these historic events, December 28 has been a day of memorable feuds and championship triumphs. The year 2004 saw the continuation of the heated rivalry between Triple H and Randy Orton in WWE. Their feud, characterized by personal animosity and dramatic betrayals, was a highlight of the era, drawing fans into the intense narrative that unfolded both in and out of the ring. Such storylines exemplify the drama and excitement that wrestling brings to its audience, blending athletic competition with compelling storytelling.
A fun fact about December 28 in wrestling history is that it coincides with the birthday of legendary manager and commentator Jim Ross, born in 1952. Known for his iconic voice and passionate commentary, Ross has been an integral part of wrestling broadcasts for decades. His contributions to the industry have made him a beloved figure among fans, earning him a well-deserved place in the annals of wrestling history.
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