Requiem Of The Brain: Long Live Bobby Heenan

What's happening folks? Once again, we, as the wrestling community (wrestlers and fans alike) are in mourning.  On the afternoon of Sunday, September 17th, WWE Hall Of Famer Bobby "The Brain" Heenan passed away after years of declining health, including a bout with lung cancer.  He was 73 years old.  Over the past three years, we've endured such heartbreaking losses in the sport.  We lost The Ultimate Warrior in 2014, Dusty Rhodes and "Rowdy" Roddy Piper in 2015, and now the legendary "Brain".  Quite frankly, this hurts every bit as much as the ones aforementioned.  The contributions he gave to the business are practically unparalleled.  He was stellar in every way.  From a manager to a color commentator to an all-out entertainer, none could hold a candle to the all-around package.  Even in the few times you would actually see him wrestle, he was one of the greatest sellers and bump-takers you would ever observe.

His career first really started to flourish as a manager in Verne Gagne's AWA, where he would manage the careers of the likes of Nick Bockwinklel, Ray "The Crippler" Stevens, and Jack Lanza of The Blackjacks.  However, it was when he went to the WWE (then WWF) where he became a true star.  Known for managing the most successful group of wrestlers known to this day, he had a stable known as The Heenan Family.  The group consisted of people such as Big John Studd, Ken Patera, "Ravishing" Rick Rude, Mr. Perfect, The Red Rooster, and Andre The Giant.  He has managed more Hall Of Famers than anyone, and that says a lot.

He was a heel's heel.  There had been reports that someone, at an arena show in the seventies, a patron had attempted to literally murder Heenan in 1975 during a match between Bockwinkle and Verne Gagne in Chicago.  He really knew how to get a crowd amped up and in near riots in his early days alone, much less later in his peak years.  Many longtime fans (think late seventies/early eighties) will remember him in "Weasel Suit" matches against Verne Gagne's son, Greg Gagne, a concept he would continue in WWE against The Ultimate Warrior in '88.  This brought along excessive comedy spots and put him as not only a hated manager, but also one that wasn't afraid to make fun of himself for the entertainment of the business and for the people.

When he ended his longtime run as the greatest manager in the business, he transitioned to the commentators table to call matches alongside Vince McMahon at first, however, it was his on-screen connection to WWE Hall Of Famer, the late Gorilla Monsoon, that took his career to yet another level.  The back-and-forth wit between the two was nothing short of magical.  The chemistry between the two is unlike anything else quite like it to this day.  The two would host Prime Time Wrestling, but also Wrestling Challenge and many pay-per-views together, including Wrestlemania VIII and Royal Rumble '92.  Compared to wrestling's version of Laurel & Hardy, they have often been referred to as the greatest broadcasting team in wrestling history.

When his WWE run ended, he went to WCW, where he would bring his form of razor sharp wit, humor, and insight to the promotion.  However, one could tell he wasn't the same "Brain", as something was missing from him. When former broadcast partner and friend Monsoon died, he publicly acknowledge him with tears in his eyes and narrowly avoided completely breaking down on a live Nitro.  It had been said his time in WCW was miserable, and his issues with Tony Schiavone behind-the-scenes didn't help matters much.  When he left the company in 2000, his love of the game never left him, and would still get involved in various wrestling-related projects.  In 2004, he was inducted into the WWE Hall Of Fame with overwhelming acclaim.

He was very much a part of my personal childhood and adolescence, as he was arguably the funniest heel I had ever seen.  He was a master of the microphone and knew how to really sell a match to anyone that had watched.  While nobody  could overlook or deny how much his health had been declining, as it was becoming more and more physically evident the more we would see him, it never stopped his fire of entertaining people and loving the business.  While we've seen many excellent managers along the way such as Paul Heyman, Jim Cornette, and Paul Bearer, but best believe, there will never be another Bobby "The Brain" Heenan.  We will forever love and miss this folk hero of an entertainer.  All prayers and respect go out to Heenan's family (his real family), friends, and colleagues.  Us "humanoids" are so glad we got the chance to witness the absolute brilliance of "The Weasel".

Best Events of Summer 2017

What's going on everybody?!  What a summer we have had this year in professional wrestling.  This year has been simply on fire with multiple critically acclaimed matches and super-exciting action, maybe even more so than in recent summer memory.  From the unforgettable G1 Climax 27 to the sizzling NXT Takeover Brooklyn show, there has been no excuse to not be an avid wrestling fan this summer or to say that everything has been bland.  There was something for everybody this summer.  With that being said, let's get into the five biggest events this summer.

Combat Zone Wrestling's event, Once In A Lifetime was centered around a deathmatch dream match between modern-day death match champion, and franchise player, Matt Tremont and Japanese deathmatch innovator, Atsushi Onita.  Onita has been in the business for forty years and has been regarded as the godfather of the death match scene.  The much younger challenger to the throne of deathmatch icon, "The Bulldozer" has spilled blood in various deathmatch tournaments all over the nation.  However, the rest of the evening wasn't bad at all either.  The best match of the night was clearly the excellent match between "Bad Boy" Joey Janela and newly signed NXT prospect, Leo Rush, in the conclusion to their incredible rivalry.  If you're not overwhelmingly familiar with CZW, peep them out when possible, especially this event.

The quickly evolving WhatCulture Pro Wrestling, based out of the UK, delivered an internationally based tournament called the World Cup that actually started as far back as the spring.  However, it was the quarterfinals, semis, and the finals that really made this tournament quite the watch.  Talent such as Will Ospreay, Ricochet, Jay Lethal, Mike Bailey, and even the legendary Rey Mysterio Jr. showed up and there were a multitude of incredible matches.  The finals between Ospreay and ROH TV Champion/IWGP Junior Heavyweight Champion KUSHIDA was one of the year's finest matches, and rivaled their unbelievable BOSJ Finals match from last year.  WCPW is quickly growing in acclaim and this could very well be their meal ticket to keep propelling to the next level.

If there was one WWE event that belongs on this list, hands-down it would be the third edition of NXT Takeover: Brooklyn.  While Summerslam was overall a dud of an event, NXT presented, arguably, their best event all year with Takeover Brooklyn III.  From start to finish, the evening was intense and was a virtual no-miss.  From the epic Ember Moon/Asuka match to the hard-hitting Itami/Aleister Black match and the decent main event, this event was the clear highlight of the weekend, and once again showed the main roster who's superior.

PWG is arguably the most invigorating indie promotion in the nation.  While they always deliver fairly great product, usually it culminates in their Best Of Los Angeles (BOLA) tournaments, and from what has been said, this may have been the best one yet.  Many, including revered and at times controversial journalist Dave Meltzer, have stated that this year's BOLA tournament was monumental and had plenty of five star matches.  Personally, I didn't think they could get much better than last year's, which hosted the greatest six man tag match in modern history with Ricochet/Sydal/Ospreay vs. The Bucks/Cole, it's possible this has eclipsed last years.  When the DVD/Blu-Ray becomes available to the public, this will get personally viewed, but you can't really go wrong when people in attendance said that this changed their lives as wrestling fans.  Go figure.

As usual, NJPW delivers all the goods with the twenty-seventh year of the G1 Climax tournament.  The nearly three week long tournament was a huge critical success and had very rare missteps.  While veterans such as Kojima and Nagata were winding down their time in the tournament, upcoming stars such as Juice Robinson and Takahashi used this tournament to further elevate their statuses within the company.  First timers such as Toma Tonga and Zach Sabre Jr. did well, but ultimately the closing weekend saw three of the best wrestling matches, not just of the year, but within the decade, especially the third match between Okada and Omega in their already historic rivalry.  Naito defeated Omega in a match that easily could've rivaled any of the Omega/Okada matches to become a two-time winner, but overall the tournament owned the summer and nothing anyone else delivered could match the overall entertainment and shear athletic showmanship of New Japan's annual tournament, which once again showed why they're legitimately the best promotion in the world.

Honorable Mentions

ROH Best In The World '17
WWE Mae Young Classic
NOAH Summer Navigation '17
CZW Tournament Of Death '17
CZW Down With The Sickness '17

These events, and more, made you believe that wrestling was definitely alive and well.  As summer 2017 comes to a close, the year is still not over yet, and one can only imagine how much more special moments we'll see this year.  If there were other events that you felt should've been included, please feel free to reveal them (no I do not count Summerslam).  Otherwise, if you haven't viewed these events, find a way, if possible, in regards to PWG BOLA '17, to view them.  There will be no regrets once you do.  Until next time!

Extreme Revolution: The Best ECW Matches Of All-Time

What's happening folks!  In all these lists of greatest matches and pay-per-views, we have yet to fully acknowledge a promotion that single handedly changed the entire landscape of North American wrestling.  What was once Eastern Championship Wrestling was overtaken by Paul Heyman and Todd Gordon and what resulted was an unbelievable uprising of counterculture and defiance from a traditional standpoint within professional wrestling as we knew it.  We had never seen an abundance of barbed wire, tables, fire, and excessive violence the way we had seen it in a mainstream capacity in North America.  Don't get it twisted: ECW was just as much known for amazing technical wrestling matches and introduced Lucha Libre to North American audiences.  Luchadores such as Rey Mystery Jr., Psicosis, and Juventud Guerrero got their start within America thanks to ECW and the results elevated the company even more.  Here, we will look at some of the most memorable matches in that company's history and why they still stand the test of time all these years after ECW closed its doors. Without further ado, let's get started.

15. Sabu vs. Terry Funk

ECW World Heavyweight Title/Barbed Wire Match

Born To Be Wired '97

We start this list with one of the most sadistic matches in modern wrestling history and arguably the most violent match in ECW history.  World Heavyweight Champion Terry Funk defended his belt against the infamous "Suicidal, Homicidal, Genocidal, Death-Defying Maniac" Sabu in a Barbed Wire Match.  While we've seen several barbed wore matches throughout wrestling, the most savage ones were usually in Japan, under the banners of FMW or BJPW.  These two brought the savagery to the states and what resulted was nothing short of unreal.  Early in the match, Sabu was viciously injured when he connected with the barbed wire and sliced his bicep open so badly, he later needed over a hundred stitches to close it.  What does the crazy SOB do in the meantime? Tape the damn wound shut!  Later these two would be surrounded in an enormous ball of barbed wire in which people had to cut the wire off of them.  It was truly a disturbing sight to behold and one that many ECW faithful still talk about to this day as one of the most insane things they've ever seen.

14. Spike Dudley vs. Mike Awesome

ECW World Heavyweight Title

Guilty As Charged 2000

If there was an underdog in ECW was the outcasted of the Dudley family, Spike Dudley.  The 5'5, 150-pounder was labeled a "giant killer", as he often fought and defeated guys three times bigger than him.  At Guilty As Charged 2000, he challenged then World Champion, Mike Awesome for the belt, and while it was a devastating watch seeing Awesome dismantle Dudley, we saw Dudley's unbridled grittiness and toughness, as he delivered an outstanding performance.  Even he was brutalized in defeat, he was looked at as one of the company's gutsiest acts.

13. Sasuke, Hamada, & Yokushiji vs. BWO Japan

Barely Legal '97

One of the most talked about pay-per-views in the history of ECW was its very first event, Barely Legal.  One of the more surprisingly standout matches was a six man tag involving members of BWO Japan, which consisted of Terry Boy, Togo, and former WWE star Taka Michinoku, against Hamada, Yokushiji, and The Great Sasuke.  It was chaotic and at times barely able to catch up with, but this was also a very exciting match that people were talking about just as much as the other big time matches of the night.

12. Tajiry vs. Steve Corino

Hardcore Heaven 2000

At Hardcore Heaven 2000, Corino was part of the heel faction, The Network, and Tajiry was as well, but due to a double cross, Tajiry found himself cheered, and had a match against the self-professed "King of Old School".  After a venomous and quite racist rant from Corino, Tajiry delivered one hell of a serious ass kicking to Corino, severely lacerating him and leaving Corino completely coated in blood.  However, Corino also showed his toughness as he brought the fight to the "Japanese Buzzsaw".  This was an out-and-out fight and was one of both men's best performances within the company.

11. Masato Tanaka vs. Mike Awesome

ECW World Heavyweight Title

Heatwave '98

One of the most intense rivalries in the company's history involved Masato Tanaka and Mike Awesome.  The feud really started in Japan at the notorious FMW promotion and spread to the States.  Once they got here, they resumed with utterly brutal matches, some for the ECW World Title.  Arguably their biggest match was at Heatwave '98 (yeah THAT Heatwave where The Dudley Boyz literally caused a riot).  It was a vicious affair, with plenty of unsettling blows and chair shots.  One can't help to this day but think that this rivalry had to have shortened both men careers.  Some would argue that their match at One Night Stand was every bit as rough, but one thing is for sure, this particular one was both uneasy to watch yet fascinating enough to not turn away.

10. Super Crazy vs. Tajiry

Guilty As Charged '99

Another celebrated rivalry within the ranks of ECW involved Tajiry and AAA star Super Crazy.  These two international gladiators were involved in some high flying spectacles over the years, but no match was better than their match at Guilty As Charged '99.  Crazy was, at times, just that...CRAZY with a few of his spots, while Tajiry was at his stiff kick finest. The magic between these two was inescapable and it showed more and more when they fought. This match nearly stole the show at this overall damn good event.

9. 2 Cold Scorpio vs. Sabu

Cyberslam '96

While many consider Sabu to be a certified legend within ECW, perhaps the most underrated star npt named Chris Candido in ECW was 2 Cold Scorpio.  Their match at Cyberslam '96 was just fantastic, filled with crazy flying spots and the usual Sabu craziness of going through tables and using (and being the victim of) his own chairs.  This match was a thirty-minute draw, but prompted the fans to chant "Five more minutes".  In the midst of the rest of the card, Sabu and Scorpio took the evening with them in what was a dazzling contest.

8. Pitbulls vs. Raven & Stevie Richards

ECW World Tag Team Titles/2 Out Of 3 Falls/Double Dog Collar Match

Gangsta's Paradise '95

The Pitbulls are considered one of the company's toughest teams, bar none.  They were one of the company's go-to teams for brutality and intensity.  At Gangsta's Paradise, they challenged Raven & Stevie Richards for the Tag Team Titles in a Double Dog Collar Match. Oh yeah, it was also Best Of 3 Falls.  This match was all over the place, but in a good way, as there were quite a few different elements that made this an awesome match and even more awesome to view it as a fan.  Between Richards being badly busted open early in the match to Pitbull #2 being injured and taken out to Dreamer being the temporary Pitbull to The Dudleyz getting involved.  Not to mention, Francine turning on The Pitbulls then going through the table and The Pitbulls winning.  It was a LOT, but it was so worth it.

7. 2 Cold Scorpio vs. Shane Douglas vs. Chris Jericho vs. Pitbull #2

ECW World Television Title/Fatal Four Way Elimination Match

Heatwave '96

There really aren't a ton of Fatal Four Way matches that are up there as memorable.  However, one in particular is still talked about today, especially when it comes to ECW's glory days.  The Television Championship was on the line as Chris Jericho (pre Y2J) defended against former champions Shane Douglas and 2 Cold Scorpion, as well as one half of The Pitbulls, Pitbull #2.  This match was a hard and tedious 40-minute match, and showed the best of each individual player involved in the match.  With Jericho being the first to get eliminated, we knew there would be a new TV Champion, and it ended up being Douglas, but not after an incredible showing by each guy involved in this marathon of pride and competition.

6. Sabu vs. Taz

Barely Legal '97

Talk about a Wrestlemania-styled build-up.  These two men legit hated each other, which means on and off camera, they didn't care for each other much if at all.  The back story has Sabu was gone for a year, and Taz had been goading him to get back in the ECW ring.  They finally teased a one-on-one collision, and it was finally signed for them to collide at Barely Legal in what was considered the company's dream match.  The match was intense and every bit as hard-hitting as we imagined. The interesting note was after the match, as there was a subsequent double turn, as Sabu had turned heel and Taz had become a babyface as his manager, Bill Alfonso, turned on him to join Sabu and Rob Van Dam.  This was just the beginning of one of the most physically awesome rivalries not just in ECW, but in the business at that time.

5. Rey Mysterio Jr. vs. Juventud Guerrera

2 Out Of 3 Falls Match

Big Ass Extreme Bash '96

The luchadores of ECW presented some very exciting matches that often times made them the most talked about guys of the evening minus anything involving the likes of Sandman, Sabu, or New Jack.  At Big Ass Extreme Bash '96, Rey Rey went to town against famed rival Juventud Guerrera.  These two had a simply great match that oozed of lucha libre.  These two tore it up within all three falls and showed the world, or at least those able to peep ECW, that lucha libre was in fact the truth.  Although they had some definite excellent matches in later years in AAA and WCW, this was the match that is considered their highlight.

4. Beulah McGillicutty vs. Bill Alfonso

As Good As It Gets '97

Sometimes the best wars don't involve traditional wrestlers.  Sometimes they just involved non-trained acts that don't do know much except to just beat on each other and make it look wonderful.  There wasn't a better case than two managers fighting the living hell out of each other, in the form of Beulah (Mrs. Tommy Dreamer) McGillicutty and Bill Alfonso.  Once Beulah nailed Fonzie with that metal plate and SEVERELY lacerated Alfonzo, the shit was on, and this was one of the most badass six-minute fights you'll come across to this very day.  Although Fonzie lost a disturbing amount of blood (think Guerrero, Cena, Taker, Muta levels), Fonzie didn't back down and took the fight to Beulah.  If you want unbridled intensity and graphic bloodletting in a microwaved version, look no further than this amazing fight.

3. Rey Mysterio Jr. vs. Psycosis

Mexican Death Match

November To Remember '95

What many consider the greatest lucha match during ECW's lucha explosion was Mysterio against Psycosis in a Mexican Death Match.  This wasn't just a regular lucha match.  Thee two did more than just execute crazy high flying spots.  These two used weapons, chairs, and even went into the crowd and outside.  This was a surprisingly very intense encounter and not too much like what we would usually see from them.  However, both men rose in clout and notoriety from this thrilling match that has even been given the title of "classic".  After you watch that match, you might be inclined to agree as well.

2. Rob Van Dam vs. Jerry Lynn

ECW World Television Title

Guilty As Charged '01

This, folks, was a hard one considering all of their matches. This rivalry was considered the Steamboat-Flair rivalry of the company.  Consistent underachiever, yet highly respected grappler, Jerry Lynn would have an unbelievable series of matches with one of the game's most naturally gifted athletes ever in "Mr. PPV" Rob Van Dam.  The longest reigning TV Champion in ECW history made nothing less than perfection with Lynn each and every time they fought, but it was their match at Guilty As Charged 2001 that may have all of their other encounters beat, if just barely.  Sequences galore, RVD and Lynn took the evening with them, as nothing could truly follow this bit of greatness.  

1. Eddie Guerrero vs. Dean Malenko

ECW World Television Title

Hostile City Showdown '95

Two of the sport's greatest in-ring talents met at Hostile City Showdown for the TV Title.  The late great Eddie Guerrero defended the belt against Dean Malenko in a stellar exhibition of athleticism and mat wrestling.  This was the proverbial game of human chess and was wrestling 101.  This nearly 30-minute match was a breath of fresh air amidst the hardcore and violence and blood of the rest of the event, and the people rightfully gave them both a standing ovation highly applauding their work and witnessing a sincere wrestling classic.  This was not just the best technical wrestling match in company history but became one of the greatest matches regardless of company all year.  While ECW will always be remembered for violence, excessive blood loss, fire, chairs, and barbed wire, it should also be remembered for great wrestling, and there wasn't a better pure wrestling match than Guerrero and Malenko.

Honorable Mentions

Bret Hart vs. Terry Funk/WrestleFest '97
RVD vs. Lynn/Hardcore Heaven '99
Taz vs. Bam Bam Bigelow/Living Dangerously '98
Shane Douglas vs. Bam Bam Bigelow/November To Remember '97
Taz vs. Misato Tanaka vs. Mike Awesome/Anarchy Rulez '99
Cactus Jack vs. Mikey Whipwreck/Big Ass Extreme Bash '96
Sabu vs. Terry Funk vs. Shane Douglas/Night The Line Was Crossed
Terry Funk vs. Sandman vs. Stevie Richards/Barely Legal '97
Tommy Dreamer vs. Jerry Lawler/Hardcore Heaven '97
Kid Kash & Super Crazy vs. Tajiri & Mikey Whipwreck/Massacre on 34th St. 2000
Tommy Dreamer & Terry Funk vs. Raven & Cactus Jack/November To Remember '95
Sabu vs. RVD/The Doctor Is In '96
Sabu vs. RVD/Guilty As Charged 2000
Masato Tanaka vs. Mike Awesome/One Night Stand '05

As you can see, these matches vary from very technical and scientific to high flying to straight up bloodletting and carnage.  One way or another, each of these matches are special in their own way and deserve high recognition for their contributions to wrestling history.  The promotion that paved the way for the Attitude Era and other "hardcore" promotions in the States such as IWA-MS and CZW still gets saluted by fans to this day with the occasional "EC-dubb, EC-dubb" chants.  Here's a toast to ECW, the most revolutionary and most fun promotion there may have been in the business in the mid to late nineties and early millennium.  Thank you for the memories.

Wrestling's Finest: The Best Matches From NWA/WCW

What's going on everybody?  This salute goes to a company that is among the richest in tradition in all of wrestling history.  Going back to the days of the Crockett family in the fifties and sixties, on up through the seventies until billionaire media mogul Ted Turner acquired the promotion in the early nineties, the NWA has been responsible for many of the sport's most memorable matches throughout time.  Once it went from the National Wrestling Alliance to World Championship Wrestling, even more memories flourished.  In fact, WCW was for the purist as heart in terms of wrestling, much like the AWA and Verne Gagne.  Once the mid-nineties came, a resounding change occurred, in which it was no longer a southern thing.  It became worldwide, having partnerships and talent exchanges with Mexico and NJPW.  Plus, the emergence of the NWO completely turned the wrestling world on its ear and actually defeated WWE for over a year straight in the ratings.  With that, here are several of the most impactful matches in the company's history.

25. Sting & Lex Luger vs. The Steiner Brothers

WCW World Tag Team Titles

SuperBrawl I

On paper, this was a dream match.  The best tag team on the planet at that time in Rick & Scott Steiner against close friends Sting and Lex Luger.  What was already a great pay per view in Superbrawl at that point got even hotter with this encounter.  This wasn't a long match, as this was barely under ten minutes, but those minutes were on fire with back-and-forth action.  While we weren't crazy with the finish, as Nikita Koloff blindsided and bloodied Sting for The Steiners to pick up the win, the match itself, in those few minutes were intense and makes one wonder what would've happened had there been another ten plus minutes.

24. Diamond Dallas Page vs. "Macho Man" Randy Savage

Great American Bash '97

This was quite possibly the best rivalry DDP was ever involved in within his career.  Who better than against an all-time great like Randy Savage?  Pushing boundaries like involving wives and families was just the boiling point needed to have some highly intense struggles between the two men.  Their rivalry was most exhibited at The Great American Bash of '97 in the height of the NWO era.  This was a hell of a match presented by Page and Savage was just begin the great in-ring general he hads always been.

23. The Road Warriors, Nikita Koloff, Dusty Rhodes, and Paul Ellering vs. Ric Flair, Arn Anderson, Tully Blanchard, Lex Luger, and JJ Dillon/War Games

Great American Bash '87

One of the most exciting gimmick matches in the sport at that time was War Games, a match in which there were two rings side by side with a fifteen-foot cage with a roof on top (think miniature Hell in A Cell) surrounding them.  Usually the matches comprised of two teams of four or five and the only way to win was submission, surrender, or if the referee stopped the match after all eight or ten men had entered the ring.  The first one on record was between the team of Dusty Rhodes, Nikita Koloff, The Road Warriors and their manager Paul Ellering against The Horsemen and their manager JJ Dillon.  This match was a true, all-out fight.  There was blood and brutality all the way around.  In fact, there were numerous injuries in the match, especially Dillon's severely separated shoulder.  There would be plenty more War Games matches, but this was the first one, and it was damn good.

22. The Fantastics vs. The Sheepherders

Jim Crockett Sr. Memorial Tag Team Tournament '86

Way before the world knew them as The Bushwhackers, Luke Williams and Butch Miller were the sadistic Sheepherders.  They were quite the physical and sick team throughout New Zealand, Canada, and the southern territories.  Perhaps their most known rivalry was the one they had with Bobby Fulton and Tommy Rogers, The Fantastics.  These teams spilled plenty of blood everywhere they fought, but at the Jim Crockett Sr. Memorial Tag Team Tournament of '86, they fought an incredible match that many still believe is the best match Luke and Butch had within their careers.  This was a rivalry that many longtime southern fans will quickly remember as one of the most vicious, but in this match, this was every bit as passionate and one of the best tag team matches you would ever see in the eighties.

21. Southern Boys vs. Midnight Express

The Great American Bash '90

Originating from Baltimore, The Great American Bash '90 was most known as the event that Sting finally became the man and defeated Ric Flair to win his first World Heavyweight Title.  However, there were many that were quite compelled by another match on that card, and it was the very first match.  Jim Cornette's Midnight Express of Bobby Eaton and Sweet Stan were one of the most fantastic teams on planet Earth, but there was a young up-and-coming team named The Southern Boys that were gaining steam.  Tracy Smothers and Steve Armstrong (brother of Brad, Scott, and Brian "Road Dogg") gave The Express absolutely all they could handle in what was a surprisingly very excellent match that really set the tone for a memorable event.

20. Cactus Jack vs. Vader

Texas Death Match

Halloween Havoc '93

One of the most vicious rivalries in the entire industry in the early nineties was the one between Cactus Jack and Vader.  Vader was quite the brutal stiff-hander and we obviously know how violent Cactus was during those days, so the rivalry was almost meant to happen.  We had never seen anyone take it to Vader like Cactus did at this time, and between the numerous head and facial injuries Vader had given him, it all came to a head at Halloween Havoc of '93 in a bloody Texas Death Match that saw both men just beat the living hell out of each other in a match that not only showed Mick Foley's devout toughness, but that Vader was without question, one of the most destructive men in the world.

19. Rey Mysterio Jr. vs. Dean Malenko

WCW Cruiserweight Title

The Great American Bash '96

The Bash of '96 was known for a couple of things.  One was when Eric Bischoff got powerbombed off the stage through a table by newcomers Hall & Nash, as well as the highly entertaining Chris Benoit vs. Kevin Sullivan Falls Count Anywhere match.  However, the match that stole the entire show was the match between Dean Malenko and Rey Mysterio jr. for Dean's Cruiserweight Title.  This match was dazzling, and showed that the smaller guy can upstage anything the bigger guys were doing at this point.  Yes, there were matches that were entertaining from a fighting standpoint, but in terms of straight athleticism and competition, nothing held a candle to this match.

18. Magnum TA vs. Tully Blanchard

I Quit Cage Match

Starrcade '85

Talk about a feud between two people that went beyond kayfabe.  These guys genuinely and legitimately couldn't stand each other.  One of the first known true scandals in the game, Magnum was married to Tully's ex-wife and raising Tully's children (reportedly) so before there was Kurt vs. Jeff and Matt vs. Edge, this was the real deal scandalous feud.  It resonated even more on camera in one of the most personal and intense feuds around.  Many memorable bloodlettings occurred between them, but it all culminated in an I Quit Cage Match.  Folks, this was absolutely brutal.  Like, it could literally stand up against anything of today's standards and give it a run for its money.  These two PUNISHED each other until a bloodied Blanchard screamed "YES" in response to the ref asking if he had quit.  This match was hardcore before hardcore was the thing to do.

17. Jushin "Thunder" Liger vs. Flyin' Brian Pillman

SuperBrawl II

Jushin "Thunder" Liger is highly recognized as one of the true innovators of the junior heavyweight/cruiserweight style all over the world.  His resume is that of legend.  He faced WCW's own version of Liger in the form of Brian Pillman in a great match filled with high flying and high risk maneuvers.  This was truthfully a match ahead of its time, as mainstream American wrestling wasn't extremely used to a fast, high-flying style throughout a whole match.  These two put on a mighty fine exhibition of where the cruiserweights and junior heavyweights could go in America.

16. Ultimo Dragon vs. Dean Malenko

WCW Cruiserweight Title

Starrcade '96

Ultimo Dragon is considered to be one of the single most decorated and accomplished champions in wrestling history.  At one point, he won the J-Crown Tournament and held ten championships all at one time.  Nobody has yet to accomplish such a feat.  At Starrcade '96, he faced another internationally recognized cruiserweight in WCW Cruiserweight Champion, Dean Malenko, in what was an amazing one on one encounter that displayed just how great Dragon was as a performer beyond Japan and Mexico, as well as how incredible Malenko was being seen as.  This was the most talked about wrestling match during the entire Starrcade event.

15. Sting vs. Lex Luger

WCW World Heavyweight Title

SuperBrawl II

In '92, the spot was open for the next big face of WCW, being that Flair had left.  Everyone knew it was Sting, but he needed a great antagonist to stand in his way of the conquest.  Enter Lex Luger, his real life best friend and former business partner.  On camera, Lex had become heel once again and was WCW Champion under the the managerial tutelage of Harley Race.  This match was a changing of the guard, as Sting solidified the torch being passed to him to officially carry the company on his back, but the match to get him there was a complete struggle, as this was one of Luger's best matches.

14. Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat vs. "Ravishing" Rick Rude

WCW U.S. Heavyweight Title/Ironman Match

Beach Blast '92

The legend affectionately known as "The Dragon" was known for some of the most memorable rivalries in the business, primarily his iconic rivalry with Ric Flair.  However, one feud that doesn't get as much praise as it should is his rivalry with Rick Rude in '92 over the U.S. title.  Their months long rivalry culminated into a thirty-minute Ironman Match at Beach Blast '92.  This was yet another match that showed the magnificent working ability of Steamboat, but also showed that Rude was almost just as great of an in-ring worker, as the story they told in the ring was simply great.  One of the best Ironman matches ever seen.

13. Ric Flair vs. Vader

WCW World Heavyweight Title/Career vs. Title

Starrcade '93

What a buildup.  This match saw Flair putting his (at that time) two decades plus career on the line against the mighty behemoth Vader for his World Title.  The story leading to the main event was quite emotional as they filmed shots of him with his children (including WWE's Charlotte at a very young age), as well as the long ride up independence Blvd. towards the arena.  The match itself showed Flair's heart, grit, and toughness against a vicious Vader.  At the end Flair walked out with another World Title, but the match is considered among Starrcade's most emotionally driven matches.

12. Tatsumi Fujinami vs. Ric Flair

NWA World Heavyweight Title

SuperBrawl I

Many consider the Japanese version of Ric Flair, in terms of accomplishments, in "The Dragon" Tatsumi Fujinami, who at the time was a dual champion, as he was IWGP Champion and NWA World Heavyweight Champion.  Flair lost to him at the much revered Japan Supershow, and this was the rematch.  This was an exquisite technical match, as both men showed why they're among the very best at their craft.  This was such an evenly wrestled match, and at an event that was so incredible as it was, this main event was the cherry on the sundae.

11. Sting, Flyin' Brian Pillman, & The Steiner Brothers vs. Ric Flair, Barry Windham, Sid Vicious, & Larry Zbysko/War Games

Wrestle War '91

War Games was traditionally the most anticipated gimmick match of the year within the NWA/WCW years, and this particular one of the very best.  Sting captained a team consisting of himself, Brian Pillman, and The Steiners against Flair, Windham and Vicious of The Horseman, and Larry Zybysko, who was filling in for a legit hurt Arn Anderson.  This match was as brutal as expected, but the story revolved around the smaller Pillman, who had come into the match kayfabe injured, but showed his toughness.  In the end, it was Vicious' two power bombs (one was legit botched) that decided the fate of Sting's team, but this is definitely considered among the best War Games matches during that era.

10. Barry Windham vs. Ric Flair

NWA World Heavyweight Title

Crockett Cup '87

Barry Windham was one of the most naturally gifted in-ring competitors to ever grace the ring.  During this time, this second-generation athlete was just on the cusp of stardom when he fought Ric Flair for the NWA Title at the HIGHLY underrated Crockett Cup tournament of '87.  In what was overall a decent night of action, this was the main event, and this match was very, VERY good and showed just how much of a star Windham had the capability of becoming.  Of course that next year, he would end up becoming a Horseman so go figure.

9. Lex Luger vs. Ric Flair

NWA World Heavyweight Title

Starrcade '88

Not long after he turned on The Horsemen, Lex Luger challenged Flair for the NWA Title at Starrcade '88, and much like others before him such as Sting and Barry Windham, his career was solidified after this match.  Luger showed his enormous potential to be a household, worldwide star, and he brought it.  This rivalry should be considered among the best rivalries during the eighties and of course Flair making Luger look like a million dollars showed how much he believed in "The Total Package".  This match was Flair at his working and selling best, and his ability to still walk out the champ made you either hate him that much more or respect him that much more.

8. Rey Mysterio Jr. vs. Eddie Guerrero

WCW Cruiserweight Title/Title vs. Mask

Halloween Havoc '97

Talk about two of the greatest in-ring competitors to exist.  Rey Mystery Jr. and the late, great Eddie Guerrero provided magic anytime they stepped inside the ring against each other.  While they resumed their rivalry in WWE years later, this particular match stands as their absolute best.  It was Eddie's Cruiserweight Title against Rey Rey's mask, and this match EASILY stole the show on an athletic storytelling level at Halloween Havoc of '97.  Two of the most iconic luchadors of this or any era were engaged in a contest that many still regard as the best contest they've seen either of them compete in.

7. Ric Flair vs. Terry Funk

NWA World Heavyweight Title

The Great American Bash '89

While we all mention names such as Dusty Rhodes, Sting, and Ricky Steamboat as Flair's greatest rivals, we can't, in all truth and honesty, forget about his bloody rivalry with Terry Funk.  The crazy man from Amarillo, TX was hardcore before it became popular to be so, but was also a fantastic in-ring worker as well.  Flair had returned after two months from a neck injury Funk inflicted upon him after Flair's unreal match against Steamboat at Wrestle War '89 and the two engaged in a hell of a war at The Bash.  Both men would end up bloodied, and there was a brawl after the match between them, The Great Muta, and Sting that showed that this rivalry would continue.  However, this match was the beginning of one of the most underrated rivalries of the eighties in NWA/WCW.

6. Sting, Nikita Koloff, Dustin Rhodes, Barry Windham, and Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat (Sting's Squadron) vs. "Ravishing" Rick Rude, "Stunning" Steve Austin, Arn Anderson, "Beautiful" Bobby Eaton, and Larry Zybysko (The Dangerous Alliance)/War Games

Wrestle War '92

There was never a more intense, violent, and brutal War Games match than the one at Wrestle War '92 between Sting's Squadron and The Dangerous Alliance, a faction headed by Paul Heyman when he was the shiesty Paul E. Dangerously.  An already heavily intense rivalry going into the match, this War Games was an all-out bloodletter.  A few of the men were severely lacerated (Dustin and Austin especially) but the shear toughness we witnessed from everyone involved is to be highly commended in this ruthless display of guts and supremacy.  This was the epitome of an enclosed street fight and everyone delivered.  Just remember before there was Hell in A Cell and Elimination Chamber, there was War Games, and this particular one was grotesquely beautiful.

5. Ric Flair vs. Terry Funk

I Quit Match

Clash Of the Champions: New York Knockout

Near the end of '89, the Flair/Funk rivalry had reached an incredible climax, and it was time to settle it all.  This was bigger than Flair's World Title.  This was a deeply embedded rivalry about who the true greatest was, and at the Clash in Troy, NY, these two got engaged in a phenomenal I Quit match.  While Funk was at his craftiest best, the story was Flair and an utter intensity we rarely saw at this time.  This was some next level intensity from "The Nature Boy", as he very aggressively delivered a beating to Funk that resulted in the Texas legend screaming, in front of the world, "I quit".  A definite classic going into the nineties, nobody outperformed and outwrestled Flair in the sport during this time.  Absolutely no one.

4. Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat vs. Ric Flair

NWA World Heavyweight Title

Chi-Town Rumble '89

The first of the most legendary trilogy of matches perhaps in wrestling history occurred at Chi-Town Rumble of '89, as Steamboat and Flair competed for Flair's World Title.  This match was just, as Larry Zybysko would call "a game of human chess", as two masters competed in wrestling brilliance.  This marked Steamboat's first and only World Title reign in NWA, but he defeated Flair in a display of what perfect chemistry really is inside the ring. Steamboat was already considered one of the best in-ring workers in the business at this time, but he was put on a whole other level at this time.  Yes, this is better than the match he had against Randy Savage at Wrestlemania III, and that's really saying something. A must watch for wrestling purists.

3. Sting vs. Ric Flair

NWA World Heavyweight Title

Clash Of the Champions '88

When we talk about stars getting made and careers breaking out, there's no better example of this than when Sting faced Flair for the NWA World Title at the first Clash of The Champions from Greensboro in '88.  Sting, at this time, was the proverbial guy who needed that one match to shatter the ceiling, and the match he had with Flair did just that and then some.  The chemistry displayed between them paralleled Flair rivalries with the likes of Dusty and that next year Steamboat.  We witnessed the birth of a young Venice Beach native becoming an official somebody in the sport, and this match that ended in a forty-five-minute draw proved it and it became the beginning of a truly legendary career.

2. Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat vs. Ric Flair

NWA World Heavyweight Title/2 Out Of 3 Falls

Clash Of the Champions: Ragin' Cajun

The New Orleans Superdome was the home of a truly magical event in the form of "Steamboat/Flair II."  This was the rematch from Chi-Town Rumble when Steamboat won the World Title from Flair, and this time it was a Best of Three Falls match.  Yet another display of wrestling mastery and athletic precision, these two legends competed in what many call, to this day, the greatest Best of Three Falls match of all-time, as these two wrestled for nearly an hour.  No gimmicks, just pure wrestling at its absolute best.  This match is simply golden and for the pursuits of heart, this is one that will leave you speechless.  Although the finish was controversial, it set the stage for their final encounter, but this match is a wrestling masterpiece.

1. Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat vs. Ric Flair

NWA World Heavyweight Title

Wrestle War '89

The finale of the greatest on-air trilogy of all-time in wrestling occurred at Wrestle War '89, as Steamboat defended the NWA Title against Flair, as Flair was going for World Title reign number six.  Not a lot to say here except this was arguably the most perfect wrestling match of all-time.  Arguably better than their prior two meetings (word has it that their matches were even better at arena and house shows, which is beyond the realm of thought), this match showed what true WRESTLING, chemistry, psychology, and storytelling is all about.  This was the match that made it okay to be a wrestling fan, as these two beautifully displayed athleticism in such magnificence that they really couldn't replicate it in later years.  Steamboat showed he was head and shoulders above most of his peers, but Flair won his sixth title, and proved that he was indeed "the man".  Although the moment afterwards was marred by a vicious assault from Terry Funk upon Flair, this match was, is, and will always be wrestling perfection.  

Honorable Mentions

Flair/Anderson vs. Hollywood Blondes (Clash 23)
Goldberg vs. DDP (Halloween Havoc '98)
Benoit vs. Sullivan (Great American Bash '96)
Cactus Jack/Maxx Payne vs. Nasty Boys (Spring Stampede '94)
Cactus Jack/Sullivan vs. Nasty Boys (Slamboree '94)
Sting/Luger/Savage vs. Hall & Nash (Bash At The Beach '96)
Hart vs. Benoit (WCW Nitro '99)
Sting vs. Cactus Jack (Beach Blast '92)
Hogan vs. Flair (Bash At The Beach '94)
Booker vs. Benoit (Great American Bash '98)
Benoit vs. Malenko (Hog Wild '96)
Sting vs. Vader (Superbrawl III)
Steamboat vs. Flair (Spring Stampede '94)
Fantastics vs. Midnight Express (Clash Of The Champions '88)
Luger/Windham vs. Anderson/Blanchard (Clash Of The Champions '88)

As you can see, NWA/WCW is very rich in outstanding, classic wrestling and are responsible for the some of the memorable matches in the sport's history.  Many would say they actually are the bar for pure, traditional professional wrestling.  Sadly, in today's times, NWA/WCW isn't mentioned quite as much as they should be, albeit it gets a decent amount of love on the WWE Network.  What can't be disputed is the historic impact they made on the sport and its unbelievably rich legacy.  For new and younger fans that would love to see true beauty displayed in the form of athletic showmanship (wrestling), find these matches, and more, to fully revel in the art that was the NWA/WCW.  Until next time!

Viva La Lucha: The Best Matches From Lucha Underground

What's happening kind folks?!  By now, we've all at least heard of this phenomenon called Lucha Underground.  It's a concept of famed director Richard Rodriguez, as well as Steve DeJoseph (former character in WWE known as Big Dick Johnson) and Chavo Guerrero Jr.  This is not a legit promotion in terms of traveling the world over, and it's even a seasonal series.  However, the level of excitement this show presents is damn near unparalleled and continues to reach audiences everywhere for those who either have the El Rey Network, or who subscribe to their YouTube channel or now catch them on Netflix, as the first two seasons appear.  This promotion involves mostly luchadors and luchadoras from the AAA promotion, as well as former WWE stars (Johnny Mundo, Mysterio) and famed indie stars (Prince Puma, Killshot, The Mack, Dante Fox, and others).  Mixing in soap opera-esque storylines with unbelievable athleticism, LU is virtually the CORRECT way to do the term "sports entertainment".  Basically it's WWE on steroids (I could go everywhere with that one), only with more intricate twists and turns.  This has garnered a mass cult following and now that we're approaching the end of season three, let's get into the best matches up to this point with the three seasons of LU.

15. Prince Puma vs. Mil Muertes
Ultima Lucha

The promotion's main fixture, or their franchise, is Prince Puma (world renowned high flyer Ricochet under a mask).  Puma is arguably the best overall competitor in the entire promotion and never fails to put on show-stealing performances in Dario Cueto's temple.  In the main event of their signature big event, Ultima Lucha, he defended the LU Title, against residential brute, Mil Muertes (former TNA, WWC, and AAA talent Ricky Banderas under a mask).  Muertes had been ravaging everything in his path, but Puma gave him a huge fight and an enormous effort.  Unfortunately, Puma's best wasn't good enough as Muertes captured the LU Title in a match that showed that Puma could in fact hang with the most physical of them all.  However, this also set up Muertes' role as the official head heel in the company and created a "darker atmosphere" for the temple for the following season.

14. Mil Muertes vs. Matanaza Cuerto
Season 2

If there were two men meant to beat on each other, they would be the two biggest, unstoppable behemoths, Mil Muertes and Dario's maniacal psychopathic brother Matanza Cuerto (excellent indie powerhouse Jeff Cobb in a mask and body suit).  These two three hundred pounders had the first of their two encounters midway in season two, and they beat on each others bones profoundly in a truly punishing match.  Nobody had taken it to "The Monster" the way Muertes had, and it would only get worse lkater in the season.

13. Aero Star vs. Drago (Match 5 out of 5)
Season 2

Dario wanted to put two of the most underrated, yet excellent, talents of LU against each other for a shot at the Gift Of The Gods Title (their version of the Money In The Bank contract).  These two legit luchadores had been tearing the house down with their best of five series, and when it came down to the final match, these two took the rest of the show with them.  This was a truly great match and showed the superb abilities of two of the most known luchadores in the AAA promotion and two of the most slept-on as well within Lucha.

12. The Mack vs. Cage/Falls Count Anywhere
Ultima Lucha

The Mack (known as Willie Mack in the indies, primarily in PWG) is a super tough, yet very agile and quick big man, and he met another man who is even more powerful, but every bit as agile and quick in Cage. These two had fought previously a week or two before, but these two men engaged in a WAR at Ultima Lucha I, and it's a surprise neither man saw a hospital bed.  This match had the people out of the palm of their hands from the beginning.  They had a rematch at the next Ultima Lucha but it didn't quite match the unbelievable display of straight toughness like the first one did.

11. Aztec Warfare
Season 1

Their signature match is a match called Aztec Warfare, which is a Royal Rumble formatted battle royal, only with pinfall or submission being how one gets eliminated.  This unique style of a match brought out some excellent in and out-of-ring action.  Everyone from Cage to Sexy Star to legendary masked mini-luchador Mascarita Sagrada competed furiously at the chance to become the first Lucha Underground, in which Prince Puma won the match in grueling fashion.  This match was hard-hitting from the jump and became one of the most exciting matches in all of Lucha Underground.

10. Mil Muertes vs. Matanza Cuerto/Graver Consequences
Season 3

While the first battle between Muertes and Cuerto was grueling and enough of an intense struggle, the rematch was even more intense, as impossible of a thought as that was.  These two big bulls competed in a Graver Consequences match and it was truly a vicious match.  We even saw some blood as Muertes had his mask ripped and was lacerated by "The Monster".  Keep in mind, this was for the Lucha Title that Cuerto had owned.  At the end, Muertes, and his valet Katrina, were both put in caskets, and the huge battle was over, but this was arguably the toughest fight that Cuerto had been involved in up to that point.

9. Killshot vs. Marty "The Moth" Martinez/Weapons Of Mass Destruction Match
Season 3

This match surprised a lot of people in terms of how good this match was.  Not because of the talents of these two, but because it wasn't a cheaply booked gimmick match.  In fact, this was an all-out assault from both men.  Killshot (indie fave Shane Strickland under a mask) and Marty Martinez (former Tough Enough contestant) had a somewhat peculiar and uninteresting rivalry going into this match, but the temperature was elevated way up for this match, as there were brutal spots, Martinez was lacerated, and his facial expressions and sells made him seem like a genuinely crazed man.  In the end, both men's clout was raided and they showed the world that they could turn out in the main event.  What an effort by both men.

8. The Mack vs. Johnny Mundo/All Night Long Ironman Match
Season 3

While we all know how incredible Mundo can be in a big match feel, or a main event, we needed to know just how good The Mack could be, as he definitely contained all the tools to be a big game player.  Well, in the All Night Long Ironman Match in season three, Mack became a bonafide star within Lucha Underground with this match.  The match was for the Lucha Underground Title and this was truly a match in which Mundo was more than willing to make Mack look incredible, and he did just that.  That's not taking anything away from Mack, as he's truly helping to redefine the big, agile super-heavyweight in the game, but with Mundo's nearly fifteen year experience and main event expertise, he ehlped Mack get to a new level, and the result became Mack's most exciting match to date in one of the best matches in entire three seasons trek of LU.

7. Aztec Warfare II
Season 2

With the fantastic success of the first Aztec Warfare, the levels were expected to get raised to even higher platforms, and the expectations were not just met, they were surpassed.  With the first one, it was strictly about the Lucha Title, and that was it.  This Aztec Warfare had a few different stories going into it.  For starters, the Lucha Title was on the line, as Fenix went into it as champion.  The second was the shocking and riveting debut in the temple of iconic superstar Rey Mysterio Jr.  The third story was the auspicious debut of Dario Cuerto's maniacal, homicidal brother "The Monster" Matanza Cuerto.  All of these elements made for a classic moment within LU history and one of the most genuinely exciting matches within the sport as a whole.  

6. Vampiro vs. Pentagon Jr./Ciero Miedo Match
Ultima Lucha

Ian Hodgkinson, also known as Vamprio, had been retired for over a decade due to back and neck issues.  He was also the voice of Lu alongside Matt Stryker (these two together are a great pairing together).  However, he was goated into a feud with resident sadist Pentagon Jr. and the result was Vampiro making a one night only in-ring appearance against Pentagon at Ultima Lucha in a Ciero Miedo Match (translated, it means "no fear", but it meant a No Holds Barred match).  This match was as intense and undoubtedly the most violent match in the short history of LU.  Both men lost blood, specifically Pentagon with his mask ripped, and it was truly for those that missed hardcore and edeath matches within the mainstream.  Blood, flaming tables, fluorescent light tubes, and thumbtacks were all used in this savage war with a twist so crazy it left the crowd in awe.  A memorable bloodbath but a hell of a showing for Vampiro to be willing to put his body through that kind of hell one time for the business.

5. Fenix vs. Mil Muertes
Season 2

The rivalry between Fenix and Mil Muertes had become quite an excellent one ot watch.  Fenix had gone from fantastic high flyer to a guy that could've seriously been considered as MVP for season two.  His Grave Consequences match with Muertes was unbelievable, and now he was getting a shot at the Lucha Underground Title held by Muertes.  Fenix has handed over his Gift Of The Gods Title for the LU title shot, and the match was almost every bit as excellent as their Grave Consequences match.  Once again Fenix bled profusely, but also once again, he continued to fight the big man tooth and nail.  A truly sweet moment, Fenix defied the odds and became LU Champion in a match that saw Fenix finally win the big one.

4. Prince Puma vs. Johnny Mundo/All Night Long Ironman Match
Season 2

Genuinely and legitimately, two of the best in the entire world put on a clinic for the Lucha Title as Prince Puma faced Johnny Mundo.  From the moment it was announced, we knew it would be nothing short of incredible, and didn't disappoint whatsoever.  Understand this, with commercial breaks and edits, it's very possible this match was not sixty minutes, and likely more so thirty minutes, just like Mundo and Mack.  Regardless, this match was a very sincere effort from both men to tear the house down and show themselves as certifiable phenomenons.  We already knew that about Mundo, but the more we see Puma (or Ricochet), the more we see him making every bit as much impact in the sport.  A benchmark in LU history.

3. Rey Mysterio Jr. vs. Prince Puma
Ultima Lucha Dos

The match the world was waiting on within the LU ranks was the icon vs. the franchise.  It was Mysterio against Prince Puma at Ultima Lucha Dos in a match that was truly phenomenal to watch and be invested in.  Puma showed why he was the star of the promotion all the way, but the iconic luchador showed that, after nearly thirty years in the business (don't forget he started when he was in his early teens in Mexico), Mysterio still had it, and had it well.  Multiple knee surgeries be damned, Rey Rey hung tough with the young phenom, and these two put on a match that will be forever remembered in LU history.

2. Fenix vs. Mil Muertes/Grave Consequences Match
Season 1

We are all compelled to be focused in on the David vs. Goliath stories within wrestling, and in the case of Fenix and Mil Muertes, that's what we got.  This match was phenomenal in showing the absolute brutality and viciousness of Muertes and the undying resilience and heart of Fenix.  This was their version of a Casket Match, and it was a doozy.  With his mask ripped and a bloody mess, Fenix looked like he was getting just short of killed in the match but would not stop coming at the big Muertes.  Somehow, the young luchador rose just like the mythical bird his named is penned after and scored a major win that put him officially as a star in that brand and put his career on a whole new level, especially in terms of respect.

1. Sexy Star vs. Mariposa/No Mas Match
Season 2

With the women's revolution all the rage within wrestling, seeing women main event a show where there's all or mostly men is a huge deal.  We've seen it with Charlotte vs. Sasha and Sasha vs. Bayley in the mainstream.  However, LU's version of Charlotte/Sasha was Sexy Star and Mariposa (indie vet Cheerleader Melissa in a mask).  The story going in was Sexy was stalked and kidnapped by Marty Martinez and his enigmatic sister, Mariposa.  The usually fearless Sexy was turned into a frightened, cowering luchadora when it came to them, but enough became enough and the match was on in a No Mas stipulation (translated: I Quit match).  Folks, these two put LU to a whole other platform.  These two ladies presented arguably the most physical and intense match in all three seasons of the promotion.  In spite of Sexy losing a lot of blood, she and Mariposa BRUTALIZED each other, and in arguably the most jaw-dropping moment of the match, Sexy let out an emphatic "FUCK YOU" when the ref asked her if she wanted to quit.  This match deserves a ton more credit in this game when it comes to how much women wrestling and main eventing has grown in the sport over the last couple years.  This was inspiring and hopeful of the future of women in the game, as Sexy and Mariposa put on a classic that should be mentioned when it comes to not just physicality, but its importance.  This was one of the most incredible I Quit matches this decade and the honors go completely to these two heroines.

Honorable Mentions

Prince Puma vs. Mil Muertes vs. Pentagon Jr. (Season 2)

Prince Puma vs. Drago (Title vs. Career)(Season 1)

Pentagon (Jr.) Dark vs. Matanza Cuerto (Ultima Lucha Dos)

Angelico/Ivalisse/Son Of Havoc vs. Disciples Of Death (Season 2)

Killshot vs. Dante Fox (Season 3)

Pentagon (Jr) Dark vs. The Black Lotus Triad(Season 3)

The Mack vs. Cage (Season 2/Ultima Lucha Dos)

Alberto El Patron vs. Johnny Mundo (Season 1)

Ivalisse vs. Muertes (Season 2)
Son Of Havoc vs. Texano (Bar Fight/Ultimo Lucha Dos)

Drago/Aero Star/Fenix vs. Mundo/Black/Evans (Season 3)
Drago/Aero Star/Fenix vs. Mundo/Black/Evans (Ultima Lucha Dos)

Mysterio/Puma/Azteca vs. Fenix/Drago/Aero Star (Season 2)

Aero Star vs. Drago (Match 3 out of 5) (Season 2)

Drago vs. King Cuerno (Last Lucha Standing) (Season 1)

Fenix vs. Prince Puma (Season 1)

Fenix vs. Pentagon Jr. (Season 1)

Fenix vs. Mil Muertes (Death Match) (Season 2)

Angelico/Ivalisse/Son Of Havoc vs. The Crew (Ladder Match) (Season 1)
Prince Puma vs. Pentagon Jr. (Season 2)
Fenix vs. King Cuerno (Ladder Match) (Season 2)
King Cuerto vs. Mil Muertes (Death Match) (Season 2)
Aztec Warfare III (Season 3)

With future of Lucha Underground in the air, cherish these moments and matches as much as possible.  Hopefully we will see more from LU, as it's bringing the lucha form of wrestling to a North American audience not seen since the days of WCW.  This is one of the single most fun promotions to watch and tune in to.  If the awesome athleticism isn't enough, the soap opera storylines that are written by some of the best writers around will keep you intrigued.  Here's to another season or five, as LU may be the refreshing and energetic promotion the industry needs.  Until next time!