4. Larry Zbyszko Turns On Bruno Sammartino (1980)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=39Btl0dJ3IQ Larry Zbyszko was trained by Bruno Sammartino. His Hall of Fame speech this year told the story of how he idolised him and came about to be trained by him. Zbyszko enjoyed success in the then WWWF, winning the World Tag Team titles, using a scientific, technical style to overcome men much bigger than him. However, he was frustrated that he could never step out of his mentors shadow. In 1980, Zbyszko claimed that the only way he could do this would be to face the legendary former World champion Sammartino in an exhibition match. Sammartino was reluctant to take the match, but Zbyszko threatened to retire if he didnt get his wish. Eventually, Sammartino agreed and the match took place in Allentown, PA. Starting off sportingly, Zbyszko gradually became more and more exasperated as he failed to get the better of Sammartino. Every move of Zbyszkos was countered by Sammartino. It made sense that the more experienced wrestler would be the match of a man who he trained, but Zbyszko didnt see it that way. Gradually and subtly, Zbyszkos demeanour changed until he finally snapped, grabbing a wooden chair from ringside and hitting Sammartino over the head with it, leaving the legend bleeding. The match had suddenly turned from a sporting contest to a violent fight. The angle instantly turned Zbyszko into a despised heel and was the single most famous moment of Zbyszkos career. In fact, it was so effective that Zbyszkos car was repeatedly damaged and a taxi carrying him once was attacked. Its safe to say that this angle shaped Larry Zbyszkos successful Hall of Fame career.
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Dean Ayass is a well known name to British wrestling fans. A commentator, manager, booker and ring announcer who has been involved in the business since 1993, Dean's insight into the business is second to none.
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