35 Years Of WWE WrestleMania Mistakes

28. WrestleMania VIII - No Hogan Vs. Flair

WWE Network

When Ric Flair finally turned up in the WWF in 1991, conditions could not have been better for a dream Hogan-Flair main event at WrestleMania VIII. 'The Nature Boy' had arrived in the company still holding the NWA title, whilst Hogan was carrying the WWF strap. A battle to determine the real champion seemed the only logical conclusion.

Wrestling fans' mouths watered at the prospect of a contest they'd anticipated for years, and a match between the pair was even promoted for the event.

But it never happened. Why?

One factor was drawing ability. The duo worked a house show programme before the big show, but attendance was much lower than expected. A more likely reason, however, was the presence of three huge egos. Hogan in particular didn't wish to do the job for Flair, whilst Vince McMahon had reservations about suggesting the NWA title was on an equal par with his promotion's. Instead of a dream encounter, we got Hogan against Sid Justice, with a botched finish by Papa Shango of all people. Some trade.

Editorial Team
Editorial Team

Benjamin was born in 1987, and is still not dead. He variously enjoys classical music, old-school adventure games (they're not dead), and walks on the beach (albeit short - asthma, you know). He's currently trying to compile a comprehensive history of video game music, yet denies accusations that he purposefully targets niche audiences. He's often wrong about these things.