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The WWE Royal Rumble, one of professional wrestling’s most beloved and enduring events, celebrated its 35th anniversary last weekend. The inaugural event took place on January 24, 1988, at the Copps Coliseum in Hamilton, Ontario. Today, let’s take a look back at the historic match that started it all and highlight the three things we hated and three things we loved about the 1988 Royal Rumble.
A Historic Match That Set the Tone
The first-ever WWE Royal Rumble match saw 20 wrestlers compete in a single elimination contest. The event’s winner was ‘Hacksaw’ Jim Duggan, who managed to outlast a talented field of competitors to claim the coveted title. Duggan’s Royal Rumble victory marked the beginning of an incredible new chapter in his storied career, one that would see him go on to become a household name and beloved figure in the world of professional wrestling.
Three Things We Hated About the 1988 Royal Rumble
1. Lack of Depth in the Match Card
The 1988 Royal Rumble suffered from a lack of depth in its match card. While the event featured some notable names, including Duggan and Hulk Hogan, the overall lineup felt shallow. In hindsight, the event’s organizers could have done a better job of incorporating more well-known competitors and intriguing storylines to create a more engaging viewing experience.
2. Overemphasis on Hogan-Andre Contract Signing
While the contract signing between Hulk Hogan and Andre the Giant was an exciting development, it overshadowed the rest of the event. At times, it felt like the contract signing took center stage, leaving the Royal Rumble match itself feeling somewhat like an afterthought. In the end, however, the contract signing proved to be a pivotal moment in the careers of both men, setting the stage for their historic match at WrestleMania IV.
3. Limited Main Event Potential
In retrospect, the main event of the 1988 Royal Rumble – Duggan winning the match – felt somewhat low-key. While Duggan was an established star at the time, his victory didn’t quite have the same level of main event potential as some of the other competitors in the match.
Three Things We Loved About the 1988 Royal Rumble
1. ‘Hacksaw’ Jim Duggan’s Historic Victory
Duggan’s win at the 1988 Royal Rumble marked a pivotal moment in his career, cementing his status as one of the WWE’s top stars. The event was a testament to his hard work and dedication, and it served as a reminder that even the most unlikely competitors can achieve greatness with determination and perseverance.
2. The Birth of the Royal Rumble Concept
The 1988 Royal Rumble marked the debut of one of professional wrestling’s most beloved concepts. The event’s unique format, which saw a series of wrestlers compete in a single elimination contest, captured the imagination of fans worldwide. The Royal Rumble’s enduring popularity is a testament to the creativity and innovation of the event’s organizers, who managed to create something truly special.
3. A Star-Studded Lineup
While the event’s match card may have lacked depth, the 1988 Royal Rumble featured a star-studded lineup that would have been the envy of any modern-day promotion. Competitors like Duggan, Hogan, and Andre the Giant were all household names at the time, and their presence helped to elevate the event to new heights.
Looking Back: WWE’s Royal Rumble Legacy
In the years since the inaugural Royal Rumble, the event has grown into one of the WWE’s premier pay-per-view events. The match has become a staple of the company’s annual schedule, with fans eagerly anticipating the return of the iconic 30-man contest. As we look back on the 1988 Royal Rumble, it’s clear that the event marked the beginning of something truly special – a legacy that continues to captivate fans to this day.
According to a WWE insider, the 1988 Royal Rumble played a significant role in shaping the company’s approach to future events. “The 1988 Royal Rumble was a game-changer for the company,” the insider revealed. “It marked the beginning of a new era in professional wrestling, one that emphasized creative storytelling and innovative match concepts. The event’s success paved the way for future events like WrestleMania and SummerSlam, and it cemented the WWE’s position as a leader in the world of professional wrestling.”