5. Edge And Christian & The Hardy Boyz - Tag Team Ladder Match - No Mercy 1999
The result of a weeks long series of matches for $100,000 and the managerial services of the buxom Terri Runnels, the Tag Team Ladder match at October 1999's No Mercy was not only the first of its kind but a coming out party of sorts for the Hardy Boyz and Edge and Christian. Prior to the show, everyone understood and appreciated the talented young teams for their quality ring work but they were never seen as anything but mechanics. They were good workers who could be counted on to deliver on the undercard but beyond that, the company had no real plans for them, outside of Edge. Maybe. As they took to the ring for the Ladder match that would launch them into superstardom, all four performers recognized the opportunity they had to accomplish something truly special and they seized said opportunity. For nearly 17 minutes, the two teams wowed the thousands inside Cleveland's Gund Arena and millions watching at home by sacrificing their own well being in truly jaw-dropping spots. Soaring through the air, they took everything memorable about the Shawn Michaels-Razor Ramon classic from WrestleMania X and adapted it, improved it, to better fit the era. The result was an instant classic that elevated both the Hardys and Edge and Christian and brought tag team wrestling back to the forefront of the industry.
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.
