Andre the Giant was the most beloved Superstar in WWE history so it was inconceivable to most that he would ever turn heel and align himself with someone as despised and hated as Bobby "the Brain" Heenan. Yet, that is exactly what happened in early 1987, when Andre made his intentions to challenge former friend Hulk Hogan for the WWE Championship at WrestleMania III. It was disheartening enough to see him confront the Hulkster with Heenan by his side but when he ripped Hogan's shirt off, taking his crucifix with it, fans were left with vivid imagery that made the unbelievable very real. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p7zjQnOSugs So intriguing and captivating was Andre's betrayal of Hogan and the impending match between the two that 93,173 fans packed the Pontiac Silverdome in suburban Detroit to watch the two industry icons clash at the biggest show of the year. Andre dominated the action and, for a moment, appeared to have Hogan right where he wanted him. Unfortunately, physical dominance did not overwhelm the Hulkster, whose heart, determination and resiliency proved to be the difference. Following the slam heard 'round the world, Hogan ended Andre's undefeated streak with a huge leg drop and continued his historic heavyweight title reign.
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.
