10 Wrestling Matches Neither Wrestler Could Afford To Lose

8. Steve Austin vs. Kane (WWF King Of The Ring 1998)

In the summer of 1998, Steve Austin was riding the crest of a wave as WWF Champion. He was the man in the company at that point, and he was fresh off toppling D-Generation X chief Shawn Michaels at WrestleMania XIV. Life was good, then someone piped up and suggested a 'First Blood' brawl against Kane.

Kane, a guy who wore a red and black bodysuit and could only really be seen bleeding from his hand.

Gotcha.

That wasn't the only issue. Kane had only been beaten by The Undertaker at this point (something fans were willing to overlook and accept), but now he was in there with the federation's hottest ticket. Something would have to give. Either Austin had to join 'Taker in slaying the beast or Kane had to prematurely end Steve's title reign.

Bosses chose the latter, then reversed it 24 hours later on Raw and gave Austin his belt back. Why they bothered booking this at all is a question that must be asked until the end of time. Neither man would've looked good by losing.