50 Things You Learn Binge-Watching Every WWE WrestleMania
37. Ken Shamrock Was Necessary At 13
Some special guest referees can take away from a match if they're too heavily involved or don't know how to stay the hell out of dodge when wrestlers are running the ropes. Duff occasions like that reinforce the importance of a good official, so take a second to imagine the level of pressure Ken Shamrock must've been feeling heading into 'Mania 13.
The UFC fighter was drafted in as a peacekeeper of sorts between two bitter rivals, and that proved to be an inspired choice. The WWF positioned Shamrock as the only ref who could help these mortal enemies settle the score once and for all on the grandest stage. Even those who didn't know anything about mixed martial arts knew a little bit about Ken before ordering WrestleMania; that's how good a job the WWF did when introducing him.
Going 'No DQ' with the bout was another shrewd decision. That meant Ken could let everything fly and was only tasked with making sure the submission stip was adhered to. Every single beat of the presentation going in was painstakingly laid out so everyone could nail this, and they did. It's remembered as one of the best double turns in wrestling history for a good reason.
Shamrock's role in the show shouldn't be overlooked. He had more physical credibility than standard WWF refs, but he didn't make the match all about him. It's amazing how something so simple has this many layers to it. Ken's UFC background and the hatred between Austin and Bret mixed well. It didn't clash.
Kenny was necessary to make things feel more like a proper fight.