SummerSlam 1991 was a pivotal event in the world of professional wrestling, showcasing a mix of memorable matches and intriguing storylines. Here's a breakdown of the event, with a focus on the key matches and their impact.
Intercontinental Championship: Mr. Perfect (c) vs. Bret Hart
This match was a standout performance, earning an A+ grade. Bret Hart's breakout moment as a singles star was marked by his submission victory over Mr. Perfect with the Sharpshooter. The match showcased Hart's resilience and Perfect's fortitude, despite the latter's back injury. The storytelling and in-ring execution were top-notch, making it a classic that still resonates with fans today.
Million Dollar Championship: Ted DiBiase (c) w/ Sensational Sherri vs. Virgil
A B+ grade was awarded to this match, which saw Virgil dethrone DiBiase. The story of Virgil's abuse at DiBiase's hands and his eventual triumph was a satisfying comeuppance. The match's high-stakes nature and the involvement of Sensational Sherri added to the drama. This was a pivotal moment for Virgil, who had been DiBiase's loyal bodyguard, and it showcased the power of perseverance.
The Natural Disasters vs. The Bushwhackers
C- was the grade for this match, which marked Andre the Giant's last pay-per-view appearance. The Natural Disasters, led by Earthquake and Typhoon, dominated the Bushwhackers. The match was a tribute to Andre's legacy, and the post-match segment with Earthquake and Typhoon cornering Andre added a touch of emotion. However, the overall match quality was lacking.
Jailhouse Match: Big Boss Man vs. The Mountie
This match received a C grade. The Jailhouse Match was a fun and over-the-top affair, with Jacques Rougeau (The Mountie) delivering a memorable performance. The post-match vignettes added humor and campiness to the segment, showcasing The Mountie's character development and his interaction with the police. It was a unique and entertaining segment that stood out from the rest of the show.
World Tag Team Championship: The Nasty Boys (c) w/ Jimmy Hart vs. The Legion of Doom
C- was the grade for this tag team title match. The Legion of Doom's victory over The Nasty Boys was a highlight, with the team's dynamic and the involvement of special referee Sid Justice adding to the excitement. The match's chaotic nature and the involvement of Jimmy Hart made it a memorable one.
Handicap Match: Hulk Hogan & Ultimate Warrior vs. Sgt. Slaughter, Col. Mustafa & Gen. Adnan
This main event received a C- grade. The match was flat and lacked the expected excitement, despite the involvement of Hulk Hogan and the Ultimate Warrior. The addition of Col. Mustafa and Gen. Adnan made the match feel disjointed, and the overall execution fell short of the high expectations for a main event.
A Match Made in Heaven: Randy & Liz Get Married
A was the grade for this wedding segment. Randy Savage and Elizabeth's wedding was a beautiful and emotional affair, with Savage's nervousness and tenderness standing out. The music video and the wedding itself were well-executed, and the post-wedding interaction between Savage and Elizabeth added to the sentimentality of the moment.
In conclusion, SummerSlam 1991 was a diverse event, offering a range of matches and segments. While some were memorable and highly rated, others fell short. The event showcased the talent and storytelling abilities of the wrestlers, and the overall production quality was impressive for its time. It remains a significant event in wrestling history, with its impact still felt in the industry today.
