5. Vince McMahon vs. Stephanie McMahon: "I Quit" Match - No Mercy 2003
The summer and fall of 2003 featured Vince and Stephanie McMahon feuding over the direction of SmackDown. McMahon saw the show as a platform for him to manipulate, torture and punish those who opposed him and his grand vision for his company. Hulk Hogan, Zack Gowan, Kurt Angle and Brock Lesnar all felt the brunt of the boss' oppressive rule. Stephanie, on the other hand, recognized the potential for SmackDown to be one of the best shows in WWE history. With so many talented competitors populating the roster, future Hall of Famers such as Angle, Lesnar Eddie Guerrero, Rey Mysterio, Undertaker and John Cena, it had all the makings of greatness. Father and daughter butted heads, leading to a very personal rivalry that incorporated both Linda McMahon and Sable en route to a huge "I Quit" match between the two at No Mercy in October. Vince was at his heel best, physically assaulting Stephanie in front of a rabid fan base in Baltimore. Every time he put his hands on his daughter, commentators Michael Cole and Tazz berated their boss and the audience echoed their sentiments, raining down on the boss with a chorus of boos. He relished in the hatred thrown his way, encouraging it with his body language and facial expressions. Stephanie attempted to fight back, doing so to a tremendous ovation, but her father repeatedly cut her off and regained control of the match. The torture and punishing assault continued for Stephanie until her mother, sickened by her husband's actions and concerned for her daughter's well being, threw in the towel and brought the match to a premature end.
Erik Beaston is a freelance pro wrestling writer who likes long walks in the park, dandelions and has not quite figured out that this introduction is not for Match.com. He resides in Parts Unknown, where he hosts weekly cookouts with Kane, The Ultimate Warrior, Papa Shango and The Boogeyman. Be jealous.
