10 Relatively Unheralded Matches Worth A WWE Network Revisit

3. Owen Hart Vs. Ken Shamrock - WWF SummerSlam 1998

Sabu Rey Mysterio ECW one Night Stand 2006
WWE.com

Owen Hart's post-Montreal Screwjob work isn't remembered with any particular affection - but this match proves that his WWF career didn't end when his brother's did. Remembered more for its unique stipulation more so than its content, this match, filmed in the theatre adjacent to the main arena, benefits also from its intimate setting.

While not quite as impeccable a fusion between MMA and pro wrestling in the manner of Shinsuke Nakamura Vs. Kazushi Sakuraba at NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 7, its no-ropes setting still allows for more credible action, such is the relative and complete absence of Irish whips and choreographed top rope spots respectively.

Structured to resemble a traditional wrestling match - Shamrock as the face gets his opening shine in before Hart takes advantage by viciously throwing his foe into the steel bars separating the fencing - the two men still make inventive use of their environment.

The highlight of the match sees Shamrock get caught in a snap scoop powerslam following an ill-fated attempt to rebound off the cage wall with a karate kick.

Dan Severn, Owen Hart's trainer, puts Shamrock's ankle lock over massively at the finish, turning his back on the Black Hart with a rueful expression - confirming also that he wasn't a cyborg - the second it was applied.

Contributor
Contributor

Michael Sidgwick is an editor, writer and podcaster for WhatCulture Wrestling. With over seven years of experience in wrestling analysis, Michael was published in the influential institution that was Power Slam magazine, and specialises in providing insights into All Elite Wrestling - so much so that he wrote a book about the subject. You can order Becoming All Elite: The Rise Of AEW on Amazon. Possessing a deep knowledge also of WWE, WCW, ECW and New Japan Pro Wrestling, Michael’s work has been publicly praised by former AEW World Champions Kenny Omega and MJF, and current Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes. When he isn’t putting your finger on why things are the way they are in the endlessly fascinating world of professional wrestling, Michael wraps his own around a hand grinder to explore the world of specialty coffee. Follow Michael on X (formerly known as Twitter) @MSidgwick for more!