The History Of WWE's New Generation Era In 10 Matches
4. Bret Hart Vs. Diesel (Survivor Series 1995)
Throughout 1995, Diesel remained WWF Heavyweight Champion. During his reign, he did get to work with friends like Shawn Michaels, but he was also saddled with big man matches against the likes of Sycho Sid and the calamitous Mabel. A match between that latter man and Diesel from SummerSlam 1995 sticks out for negative reasons.
In his autobiography, Bret Hart claimed that Diesel was delighted to work with him again come Survivor Series in November 1995. At the very least, Diesel likely knew that the match would be enjoyed by fans and be in the headline position at the same time.
It was at this point that the WWF began experimenting with slight changes in presentation. Hart was bumped through a ringside table, something rarely (if ever) seen in the company. The fall came across as fresh and vibrant, offering something different from the often-cartoon like product fans were used to seeing up until that point.
After almost a full year as champion, Diesel was dethroned at Survivor Series. Bret Hart was back in the hot seat, and there was a distinct reason for that.