50 Things You Learn Binge-Watching Every WWE Royal Rumble
47. The Mega-Powers Implosion Saved 1989
It's clear when re-watching 1989's Rumble that fans were only so-so about Studd's career renaissance compared to something else making headlines amongst WWF viewers: Hulk Hogan being a bit of a git to Mega-Powers tag-team partner Randy Savage, then feigning innocence. That's actually something the Hulkster did a lot during his peak run in the promotion during the 80s and into the early-90s.
Really one of the '89 Rumble's only notable moments came when Hogan "accidentally" dumped Randy out of the match. Understandably given their ties, ‘Macho Man’ was fired up about it. This would be a penultimate stop on the road to Hulk vs. Randy at WrestleMania V for the title, but there's another layered observation at play here.
Most Rumbles now have multiple banner moments to shout about. WWE have become masters of the match, and they know how to push and pull various stories during approx one full hour of drama. That wasn't quite the case back when the bout first hit pay-per-view, meaning this implied trouble in paradise (due to Hulk's actions, for the record!) was the only key story beat which stood out from the pack.
It's definitely more urgent and compelling than Big John Studd taking home the win. Randy's enraged response to Hogan's little oops moment forged a heel turn that has to be considered one of the most justified in WWE lore. Savage had every right to question Hulk's intentions towards their partnership and Miss. Elizabeth. The man had lust in his eyes, for goodness sake!