WCW Spring Stampede 1994
(Chosen by Dave Green)
Of the various tape libraries from defunct promotions that WWE has acquired over the years, there’s no denying the most marketable footage they own bears the WCW logo. But for my money, up until now, WWE-produced DVD’s and documentaries have placed too much emphasis on themes like the NWA/JCP days, the Monday Night Wars and the NWO era from 1996-1998. So one thing I’m hoping the WWE Network will do is remind fans of some of the quality on offer in shows that the Atlanta-based office produced in the pre-Hogan era 1990’s.
Let’s not forget though, WCW from the early 90’s had many faults particularly during the days of Jim Herd ‘s rule in 1991 and so the appeal of WCW from way back when isn’t in the strength of the TV shows or consistently great matches week in and week out but rather the long list of top names to wrestle in WCW during this time and which, as years go by have come to be amongst the most revered and respected in wrestling history. This fact coupled with the realisation that so many had fantastic matches and careers either before or after their WWF stints, I honestly could have picked any one of about a dozen events to discuss here. Featuring the likes of Sting, Ric Flair, Big Van Vader, Rick Rude, Ricky Steamboat, Steve Austin, Brian Pillman & Mick Foley, limiting myself to just one suggestion which showcases these guys did prove to be a bit tricky.
Events like Great American Bash ‘90, Starrcade ’92 and Superbrawl IV are all personal faves of mine but perhaps the event which best illustrates WCW and its unique style, which proved to be such a respectable alternative to the WWF, is the awesome Spring Stampede ’94. Simply put from top-to bottom the card is just stacked with famous names, great wrestling and kick-ass brawling.
It’s not far from the truth to say that once Hulk Hogan rolled into town with his buddies, the southern-style feel that WCW always had was diluted and in my opinion WCW lost a big piece of its identity when that happened and I always thought that was a shame. So do yourself a favour, check out this quality piece of old-school WCW and you won’t be disappointed.