Nostalgia has become one of the most popular methods of selling, whether it’s the earlier days of Survivor Series or practically any Disney Renaissance movie. Just ask any Millennial who went through the 1990s and they’ll tell you of the good ol’ days before they took on adult responsibilities.
But this was a different instance. On Friday night, I watched the 1989 iteration of the fall PPV. It featured all the heavy hitters, ranging from Hulk Hogan to The Ultimate Warrior. Heck, even the Bushwhackers made an appearance, invoking memories of the 2009 Royal Rumble, where they appeared pre-card.
Still, that’s not the point of this. We’re already approaching a massive weekend where Brock Lesnar and Roman Reigns will be partaking in the festivities, after all. So, what did I learn from watching this classic? Ironically, the answer will surprise you… or not.
Survivor Series In 1989 Proved That WWE Had A Unique Character
Now, this isn’t a knock on TKO of sorts. In fact, you still see these outlandish gimmicks and wildly popular figures grabbing the spotlight. Just look at what Joe Hendry’s doing right now. Ditto for Jey Uso.
However, 1980s WWE (or in this case, WWF) just hit different. I’m talking about watching The Ultimate Warrior decimate the weasely Bobby Heenan in the ring. Of course, that also includes those zany Bushwhackers, along with Demolition and their face paint teaming up with Hulk Hogan and Jake the Snake Roberts to form… the Hulkamaniacs.
Back in the 1980s, WWE was all about spectacle and pizzazz. It didn’t matter if it was the late Hogan “Hulking Up” before performing his patented leg drop or The Ultimate Warrior violently shaking the ropes. It had personality and character that the one and only Vince McMahon brought to life.
Sure, he had extracurricular activities that were horrific. But the product in the 1980s was unbeaten. Here’s hoping that the Survivor Series card next week delivers. That would bring back all sorts of memories.
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