WWE In 1997 | Wrestling Timelines

Quarrelling Tag Team champions Owen Hart and the British Bulldog battle over the latter’s European title on Raw Is War. 

This one is far more heated than the scientific masterclass in Berlin. After Bulldog blasts Owen with a suplex on the new steel ramp, the ref gets bumped. When Owen fails to put Bulldog away with a spinning heel kick, he resorts to using a steel chair, but is foiled in the attempt. He then lands on it, brutally, off a short Bulldog lariat. Bulldog then motions to hit Owen in the forehead with the weapon before he is tackled to the ground by an interfering Bret. The pacing of the following scene is exceptional. 

It takes an age for Owen and Bulldog to simmer down. Owen is also pissed that his brother, his nemesis, is trying to act like he knows what’s good for him all over again. The scene drags on, but in order to account for every character’s motivation, drag on it must. 

After several agonising moments, Bret takes the mic. In another great promo, he blames the American fans, their lack of respect for family values and their thirst for blood, on the years-long tensions within the Hart family. Bret reminds Owen of happier times; eventually, soaked in tears, his resolve softens. The family reconciles; a new Hart Foundation forms, intent on humiliating America.

With Bret looking somewhat sinister, the commentary team immediately doubts Bret’s motives, teasing a glimpse of a potential year two of the storyline. Perhaps Owen will play face in a subverted continuation of 1994’s best rivalry.

There will be no year two.