10 Epic WWE TV Matches That Could Have Been On PPV
8. Owen Hart Vs. British Bulldog - Raw 1997
The bout between Owen Hart and British Bulldog to crown the first-ever WWF European Champion is an absolute masterpiece. From technical wizardry to old-school storytelling, the match is a rare timeout from the typical storyline-driven WWF of the time and a simple yet genius throwback to yesteryear.
With Owen and Bulldog teaming up as villainous Tag Team Champions at the time, the bout presented an unusual heel vs. heel, champion vs. champion, partner vs. partner affair. However, the fact that the match took place in Germany made Davey Boy the fan favourite and the bout soon went from straight up wrestling to traditional heel vs. babyface presentation.
The match is also a great display of just how technically brilliant both Owen and Davey were. Trading holds, counter-holds and nip-ups, the brothers-in-law made the art of wrestling seem easy, in the truest sign of their advanced wrestling acumen.
The historic nature of the bout also warranted PPV status, as the European Title was the first new championship to be introduced to the WWF since the IC in 1979. Nevertheless, the geographical location of the show, held in Berlin, Germany, made for a fitting venue for tournament finals - even if the match itself was deserving of PPV.