Everyone remembers the Hulkster's classic feuds with Andre the Giant, Roddy Piper, Randy Savage and Ultimate Warrior but his 1990 rivalry with Earthquake may be one of his best from a storytelling standpoint. On a memorable episode of the Brother Love Show, Earthquake attacked Hogan, delivering numerous Earthquake Splashes to the ribs of the Hulkster. The attack left pain coursing through the body of the beloved hero and questions about his future in the business abounded. WWE encouraged fans to send get well wishes to Hogan, who was not seen on television for weeks. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TTZvrV2I8Pw He would return to meet the gargantuan at SummerSlam in August, a match that overshadowed the WWE title match between Ultimate Warrior and Rick Rude, thanks to the emotional investment fans had made in the feud. There were very real doubts that Hogan could defeat Earthquake, who had demolished every Superstar unlucky enough to share the squared circle with him. Ever the fighter, Hogan did not let the physically imposing Superstar intimidate him. He fought back as only he could and ultimately defeated the big man via could. They would continue to wage war in house shows across the country but their war at SummerSlam was their one and only major pay-per-view singles bout.
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.
