There is not another rivalry on this list that can claim to have attracted 93,173 fans to a single event like Hulk Hogan vs. Andre the Giant did. The two Superstars had been Vince McMahon's biggest draw for years by the time they stepped foot inside historic Pontiac Silverdome in suburban Detroit and had captivated audiences with their story. Andre, jealous over the attention given to the spotlight-hogging WWE champion Hogan, had acquired the representation of manager Bobby Heenan, undergoing an unexpected heel turn in the process. Andre vowed to win the title from his former friend, then ripped the shirt, and along with it the crucifix, from Hogan's torso. If breaking Jesus isn't enough to get you heat, what is, right? Hogan defeated Andre at WrestleMania III, sending everyone home happy, but that happiness would not last. In the hotly anticipated rematch at The Main Event in February 1988, Hogan dropped the title to Andre following a ton of controversy that included evil twin referees (who likely underwent plastic surgery, according to Hogan) and the presence of Ted DiBiase, Virgil and Bobby Heenan at ringside. It was overbooking, not Hulkamania, running wild as fans wondered just how much more protection a babyface needed in order to job to someone. Andre illegally sold the belt to DiBiase, WWE President Jack Tunney vacated the title and a tournament was booked for WrestleMania IV. There, Hogan and Andre would meet for a third time, battling to a double disqualification and eliminating each other as a result. They would meet in several house show and tag team main events before going their separate ways. And thankfully so because their matches sucked. Just don't tell WWE that.
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.
