10 Wrestling Sequels That Were Even Better Than The Originals
2. Bret Hart Vs Stone Cold Steve Austin (WrestleMania 13)
Steve Austin and Bret Hart's matches in 1996 and 1997 were among the most important in company history, but few matches in the history of the entire industry come close to matching their Survivor Series rematch at WrestleMania 13.
During his summer hiatus, Bret had referred to Austin as 'the best wrestler in the World Wrestling Federation', partly as a dig at Shawn Michaels but also to set the table for their technical masterclass in front of a rabid Madison Square Garden crowd.
The Chicago audience were no less vociferous in their Submission Match five months later, but were treated to an all-out melee that would radically alter company fortunes.
By this point fierce rivals after months of sneak attacks and screwjobs, Austin and Bret tore into one another from the off, with Hart ostensibly 'lowering' himself to the street fight tactics of a wicked 'Rattlesnake'.
Their double turn at the match's climax remains some of the finest storytelling to ever play out between the ropes. A blood Austin passed out from the pain of Bret's Sharpshooter, giving him victory but not the redemption he craved. The 'Hitman's continued beating and pull-apart with guest referee Ken Shamrock after the bell sent him to the back a sneering heel, whilst the defeated but determined Stone Cold left to the crowd chanting his name.