History Of WWE's Attitude Era In 10 Matches
7. Steve Austin Vs. Shawn Michaels (WrestleMania XIV)
Winning the Royal Rumble for the second year running, Steve Austin gained more from his duplicate victory than he had from the original. As a result of winning the '98 version of the 30-man match, Stone Cold was heading to the main event of WrestleMania XIV. There, he'd face Shawn Michaels for the WWF Heavyweight Title.
Mike Tyson was drafted in to play a part in proceedings, standing outside the ring as a special enforcer. The boxer would have final say, counting the pinfall that accompanied Austin's title coronation and decking HBK post-match. It was a frenzy of activity, a far cry from the limp 'Mania 13 main event pitting The Undertaker vs. Sycho Sid.
The rise of 'Attitude' in the WWF/WWE can be directly traced back to Stone Cold's roots as a tough-talking brawler who said exactly what was on his mind. Fans lapped his promos and renegade actions up, revelling in the natural charisma and bad-boy antics Austin engage in.
At 'Mania XIV, he became their champion, and it seemed impossible to see anyone else in that role.