The 2001 Royal Rumble pay-per-view was the start of a run of three show stretch that is unparalleled in WWE history. Coupled with No Way Out and WrestleMania X-Seven, it is undeniably the greatest trio of shows ever produced by the company, one whose quality may never be replicated again. From storytelling to in-ring action, character developmental and booking, those shows encapsulated everything fans enjoyed about the Attitude Era in a nice, tidy little package. The Royal Rumble match itself was a major part of the success of the January pay-per-view and no Superstar emerged from that contest with more momentum on their side than Kane. After an hour-long stint in which he eliminated a then-record 11 competitors, many were touting it the finest performance of the former heavyweight champion's decorated career. Early in his unprecedented run, his reign of dominance over WWE's Hardcore division was interrupted by the opening strains of a familiar theme song. "I got long sideburns and my hair is slicked back, I'm coming to your town in a pink Cadillac" played over the PA system and The Honky Tonk Man stepped foot inside a Vince McMahon-owned ring for the first time in six years. The Big Red Monster stood in the background, unamused by Honky's shenanigans. As the former Intercontinental Champion implored the audience to sing along with him, Kane stepped up, grabbed his guitar from him and broke it over the legendary villain's head. From there, he easily tossed him over the top rope and to the arena floor. ttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m-W2CT1HAas While Honky Tonk Man's run in the match was mere seconds long, it was the start of a pattern in which WWE reintroduced fans of the current generation to stars of the past. In years to come, various legends and iconic figures would step through the curtain for one more go-round in the annual Rumble match, proving correct the age old claim of "anything can happen."
Erik Beaston is a freelance pro wrestling writer who likes long walks in the park, dandelions and has not quite figured out that this introduction is not for Match.com. He resides in Parts Unknown, where he hosts weekly cookouts with Kane, The Ultimate Warrior, Papa Shango and The Boogeyman. Be jealous.
