Author: Today in Pro Wrestling History: On December 11, 1997, during a memorable episode of “RAW is WAR” at the Lowell Auditorium in Lowell, Massachusetts, a unique and controversial event unfolded in the world of professional wrestling.
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Triple H, a rising star in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF, now WWE), was scheduled to face his fellow D-Generation X (DX) member, Shawn Michaels, in a match for the WWF European Championship.
This match came about as a result of the intervention of then-WWF Commissioner Sgt. Slaughter. Sgt. Slaughter, seeking to challenge and potentially disrupt the rebellious and defiant attitude of DX, mandated this match between the two stablemates.
His intention was to create discord within the ranks of DX, known for their irreverent and rule-breaking behavior, and to restore some order and respect to the championship scene.
However, the match didn’t go as Sgt. Slaughter or the fans had anticipated. In a shocking turn of events, Shawn Michaels, the reigning European Champion at the time, executed an unexpected move that would become a memorable moment in wrestling history.
During the match, Michaels deliberately laid down in the ring, essentially offering himself to be pinned by Triple H without any resistance. This act allowed Triple H to easily secure the pin and win the European Championship.
This outcome was widely seen as a blatant mockery of both the prestigious title and the authority of the WWF Commissioner.
Instead of causing a rift within DX, the match further solidified their bond and showcased their cunning ability to manipulate situations to their advantage.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NVPe5VPLCac
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"Evan Ginzburg’s stories are a love letter to wrestling, filled with heart, humor, and history. A must-read for any true fan." — Keith Elliot Greenberg
Wrestling Rings, Blackboards, and Movie Sets is the latest book from Pro Wrestling Stories Senior Editor Evan Ginzburg. 100 unforgettable stories—from sharing a flight on 9/11 with a WWE Hall of Famer to untold moments in wrestling history. A page-turner for fans of the ring and beyond. Grab your copy today! For signed editions, click here.
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