Big Van Vader achieved great success in the land of Japan, as well as in World Championship Wrestling. In 1996, the World Wrestling Federation brought Vader into their ranks. It was considered a major signing, as Vader had already been a big star across the globe. Unfortunately, it seemed the Federation just didnt know what to do with him, and the international star floundered throughout his two year stint with the company. Initially, Vader was booked as a monster. He debuted at the 96 Royal Rumble where he eliminated four competitors before being tossed over the ropes by Shawn Michaels. An enraged Vader re-entered the ring and laid waste to everyone inside. Vader continued his onslaught against WWF competitors and officials in the following weeks, eventually attacking the Federations on-air president, Gorilla Monsoon. This led to a storyline suspension for the big man. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=znOdXmOHiOc Upon his return, Vader engaged in a feud with Yokozuna before quickly moving on to WWF Champion Shawn Michaels. The two met at the 1996 SummerSlam for the title, but Vader was bested Michaels. According to Jim Cornette, who has spent a great deal of time reflecting on his wrestling career in the past few years, Vader was originally set to defeat Michaels. He would then carry the WWF strap until 1997s Royal Rumble. There, in HBKs hometown of San Antonio, Texas, Vader was to drop the title to Michaels. Unfortunately, for whatever reason, it never happened, and shortly thereafter Vader wallowed in the mid-card until his departure from the WWF in 1998.
Douglas Scarpa is a freelance writer, independent filmmaker, art school graduate, and pro wrestling aficionado -- all of which mean he is in financial ruin. He has no backup plan to speak of, yet maintains his abnormally high spirits. If he had only listened to the scorn of his childhood teachers, he wouldn't be in this situation.
