[10.0] "Probably the greatest match in WWE history. The storytelling was awesome cause it lead to the biggest double turn combined with an amazing wrestling match it made it perfect."
[7.0] "In terms of storytelling? Near perfect. Completely understandable why this match is as remembered as it is and it deserves it rating and importance in history. Marked a new era for the company and wrestling as a whole. But personally I was not super taken aback by the wrestling itself. Both have had matches that I have enjoyed more, but I will admit that this was a pretty important one for each of them."
[10.0] "Very simple yet effective match, with perfect storytelling and an amazing double turn. Bret works the injured leg of Steve Austin, who at some point during the match gets busted open. When Bret Hart locks in the sharpshooter we get one of the most iconic shots ever, with Stone Cold Steve Austin dripping in blood and refusing to tap out, ultimately passing out with the special referee Ken Shamrock interrupting the match."
[10.0] "This IS the greatest wwe match of all time, match of the year or sure, everything was golden here, bret turning here was the greatest thing ive seen, stone cold now being the new face is such a good sight. *****"
[10.0] "This match is in my opinion the true beginning of the Attitude Era, because it represented everything that this wonderful era of wrestling would end up delivering to the fans... fantastic superstars, crazy crowd and a complete madness, resulting in what's probably the best match in WWE history, and a personal favorite of mine. Bret and Austin delivered a brutal but at the same time perfect wrestling match, and they completely saved this WrestleMania edition. This match have a lot of brilliant stories, like the blading Bret did on Austin, which was forbidden at that time, and it was the first time Austin bladed in his life. This match has a deep meaning, because it came at a time that WWF was constantly losing to the rival WCW and failing to find an identity, but this non-planned amazing bout that happened with an fantastic rivalry really made WWF look strong, specially for establishing Stone Cold Steve Austin as their top face, after the most incredible double turn of all time, where the hero Bret Hart turned heel and Austin, the heel coming to the match, with all his bravery and resilience, left WrestleMania as the hero everyone needed. Everything was great in this match, the story, the selling, the build, Ken Shamrock officiating, the double turn... one of the best definitions of it I've read and I agree 100% is that it was a perfectly-executed simplicity. Perfect - {*****}"
[10.0] "I have no nostalgia for the Attitude era, it was a period well before my time, so I come at this with no real bias. I had no background knowledge until after watching the match and doing more research that it was considered the birth of the Attitude era. Isolated from all that, I still think this match was just that good. The psychology is perfectly executed from the start, and the ending is especially excellent as in a submission match neither man quits. In 2024 the sharpshooter is one of those holds that's too famous for its own good and has lost its impact, but seeing it here I got it, helped of course by Stone Cold's pure desperation. The iconic image of this match has always been Austin covered in blood screaming in pain in that sharpshooter, and for good reason. There's also an energy and aura to this match that you just can't get today, especially a fight into the crowd like that with basically zero security. And aside from all that, it's just a really well wrestled match from both men. Hits feel impactful, moves are clean, it's exciting without being excessive, and no spot ever feels excessively scripted or rehearsed, there's a really strong match flow. A lot of these older highly rated matches are still good but don't hit quite as hard when watched today, but this one still hits just as hard in every single way."
[10.0] "[5.0*] One of the best matches in WWE history and I really think it is the actually best if you do not count the NXT together. This match was very simple but it was the epitome of the simplicity done with perfection. The storytelling here is tremendous, there are not a lot of holy shit moments but you could feel every move, and Bret hitting Steve Austin with the ring bell was brutal. This match was not even supposed to happen and they did one of the best double turn spots ever, after the legendary shot of SCSA covered in blood refusing to quit until he passed out and then Bret attacking him post match. Incredible story all around that saved WWF."
"This is my first time watching this match in full. That ending of Stone Cold with his face covered in his blood, giving his all to break out of the sharpshooter, to then just pass out, refusing to tap out. Great semi-hardcore match for this era of wrestling."
[10.0] "There's nothing I can really say to do a match like this justice. It's an incredible match and one of the most important wrestling matches ever. I will say though that Austin's blood loss was so effective in this match because it happened at a time when blood was rare in a WWF match and also the match truly lived up to the No Holds Barred stipulation where it was was rare to see matches at this level of violence at that time. Hart throwing out the padded chair for a steel chair was a great character moment as he was willing to stoop to dark levels in order to beat Austin. The match ended up looking like a crime scene when it was finished with Austin passing out to the Sharpshooter but never giving up and the double turn at the end was masterfully done."
[9.0] "I'm a really hard sell on a walk and brawl, but once they're done getting crowd shots and start actually doing things in the ring, it's exactly as good as you've probably heard. Hart dissects Austin's leg brace and though Austin is always fighting under, the heart and heat he gets out of his underdog status, despite being "the heel" still, is brilliant and industry changing. I really don't have anything else to tell you about this match that you probably don't already know: it changed the industry, and set up the attitude era, and made both of these men legends. I took a point off for a walk n brawl that I don't think did anything for the match itself, but who the hell cares, right? This is one of the greatest matches of all time, no matter what I or anyone else says."
[10.0] "Not gonna lie, rating this a 10 instead of something like a 9 simply because of the absolute importance this match holds. If it wasn't for the face turn of Stone Cold Steve Austin during this match, it wouldn't have solidified him as the top guy in the promotion, and there wouldn't have been the massive boom period that was the Attitude Era. Let's just ignore that the double turn was made to eventually lessen the value of Bret Hart before being fired and screwed. Regardless, this match is still really fucking good, and the final spot was just a highlight in the entire show, so much so it practically saved the show from being one of the worst WrestleManias of all time. It still holds up to this day, even if I think it can't hold up exactly to the same level of today's greatest matches."
[10.0] "Holds up so good watching it through a modern day lens. Watching it now in todays landscape of wrestling especially wwe is such a mind fuck. Matches like this in atmospheres like this never happen and probably never will happen in wrestling especially wwe again. One Established star and one Red hot soon to be star going at it in a brutal submission match. Its damn near a perfect wreslting match. Established Austin as the next huge baby face star while cementing Bret as the next Big time heel. While also putting Shamrock over. Some nit picks you could probably find for sure. But then arent enough to take away from this match at all. Fantastic a must watch for any wrestling fan. 5/5"
[10.0] "This match is the epitome of greatness. Everything about it was perfect. The beginning, middle and end all complimented each other. The story and the structure in this match is second to none. The making of a legend and the much needed bringing of change for a great wrestler all cane from this match. It is truly one of the best WWE matches ever."
[10.0] "I can't believe I have just now gotten around to watching this match in March of 2024. It's like watching a movie for the first time that you have seen referenced thousands of times. Experiencing the full movie is just much better than the sum of the parts that you put together in your head. This match was so awesome. I heard a lot about the double turn, but I wasn't watching at the time and have only pieced stuff together from when I started watching in December of 97. It's also interesting to see how this match has influenced other matches. Specifically I feel like the ring bell spot was similar to the MJF / Bryan Danielson oxygen tank spot from 2023."
[9.0] "Influential to the history of wrestling, as it is one of the most important matches on wwe history, while also having some amazing wrestling, some hardcore moments, and the submissions which give a tension a pin would not be able to get."
[10.0] "In my opinion the best match ever in wwe history, and one of my favorite matches of all time. Great intensity, also has good storytelling between the two legends. Also the brawl in this match is the peak of pro wrestling. *****"
[9.0] "such an unbelievable match, the finish brings all of this together. the visual of austins blood soaked face, JR beinging so much energy to the match and Shamrock being the guest ref screaming at austin that if he doesnt respond he will lose. the selling of austins leg and the pace was incredible."
[8.0] "Wouldnt be remembered nearly as fondly without the ending of Austin passing out to the sharpshooter and the double turn. Both men have had better matches imo, but this one is as technically sound a match youll ever see really. I dont think Austin sold the leg throughout the match all that well tbh and I do wonder if there's some rose tinted glasses when it comes to the actual match, which wasnt anything groundbreaking."
[10.0] "A match that starts with a big brawl, and we have the right to it throughout. A legendary finish. Nothing needs to change to make the match better. The objects and decor are used very well. (5*)"
[9.0] "Watched this for the first time in forever (or maybe ever? ) a night or two ago. Such a brilliantly crafted brawl/technical match. Nothing fancy, just perfectly executed story and clash of styles. Austin walks into an unwinnable battle ready to do everything he can. The color in this match might be the best ever. ****1/2"
[10.0] "One of the greatest matches of the 90s and definitely in my top 5 in wrestlemania history, , as far as emotion a, storytelling and the classic ending and double turn this macth kind of changed were the wwf was going you knew at the time within a year stone cold would be the new top star that would surpass anything hogan did"
[8.0] "A masterful story, top notch work from both legends. But the match? Yeah, it's nothing more that just very good. Good leg work, good selling, etc. If not for the double turn at the end, and what it spawned, this match wouldn't have the reputation it has. Seriously, go out of your way to see this, it might just be one of the most important matches of a all time, but as wrestling has evolved and changed there have been hundreds of matches better in my opinion. But make no mistake, this is the best double turn of all time, and no one has come off a loss like this quite like Steve Austin. 4 Stars."
[10.0] "Contrary to popular belief, this match is not where Bret and Austin both turned. This match was more of a confirmation of the two turns. Bret had been the bitter heel that he ultimately became ever since his promo with Vince. Austin had been getting cheered for weeks in the leadup to this match. Despite that, this match is still a masterpiece. Bret showed that he wasn't just a technical wrestler by brawling with Austin all around the arena, and savagely choking him with an extension cord. The match is brutal, mostly thanks to Bret's selling and Austin's blading. The final iconic shot of Austin screaming in pain, drenched in blood but refusing to give up helped to build wrestling's next megastar and Bret's performance post-match solidified his switch into the best character he ever had. A landmark moment in pro wrestling. To think that this match wasn't even the original plan as Bret was supposed to face Shawn in the main event."
[10.0] "You know what's the only bad part of this match? The fact I couldn't watch it at the time it happened, 'cause all the emotions I feel for this feud and this match would've been so much bigger. Good god almighty, what a war! What a storytelling, what a display of psychology by both men, the perfect booking of the double turn at the end, the iconic shot of a bloody Steve Austin fighting through the hell of pain to not surrender. Ken Shamrock may be the best special referee of all time since his presence here wasn't for some cliche deliberated bad refereeing to benefit one side, but because he may be the only one able to control the situation between these two uncontrolabe mad men. The crowd was really wild for this one and the announcers sold the hell out of the match as well. Everything in this was perfect and it got all set up for the Attitude Era. One of the best matches I've ever seen and one of the most important in the history of the business without a single doubt. (*****)"
[10.0] "Even though this match doesn't have a lot of high spots, this was great regardless because of the astounding psychology and chemistry that these two have. Great match with possibly the greatest post match in wrestling history. The double turn was executed to perfection. With Bret Hart still trying to hurt a unconscious and bloody Steve austin. They portray Hart as a coward beautifully by refusing to fight Ken Shamrock after he slammed him and leaving the ring. The addition of Ken Shamrock as referee doesn't really add that much but I feel like the only reason why he was guest referee in the first place is because of that moment. I love how Austin walked alone after this match, with the crowd rooting for him now. (*****3)"
[10.0] "The double turn is what makes this match so special. As the match goes on, Bret Hart's attacks become more and more ruthless, even attacking an unconscious Austin after the match is over. This match is what cemented Austin as "the toughest S.O.B.", specifically the end of the match, where Austin is in the Sharpshooter, screaming in pain with blood pouring down his face, but still refuses to quit. Excellent storytelling and an easy 5/5."
[9.0] "It all comes to the double turn, but it was so masterfully done that it's no wonder. Austin in a Sharpshooter alone was one of the best spots in the history of wrestling with Stone Cold making the crowd fall in love with him just there. The build to the match was also great so the pure brawling throughout the contest felt powerful and you really wanted to see those guys beat the shit out of each other. Nothing fancy in terms of the in ring work, but when the participants, the story and the purpose are so over with the fans then it doesn't matter that much. Fantastic stuff."
[9.0] "As someone who is going back to watch these classic matches for the first time, I am always so surprised at how captivating these matches are. Just feels real in there and you can't but help yourself give in."
[10.0] "I honestly think this is the best WWE/WWF match of all time, I'm bias towards submission endings because they feel so genuine, but the double turn was executed so well. The image of Austin's crimson mask in the sharpshooter is absolutely iconic. 10/10"
[10.0] "One of the greatest matches of all time and also the best double turns ever executed. This match is so good that just because of this one match, WM13 is in many people's lists as one of the best manias ever, even though this is the only shining spot in the filth that is WM13."
"Often lauded as the greatest WWE match of all time, and the single shining light stopping WM13 being seen as one of the worst manias of all time, it is easy to see why. These two went out there and put on a psychological masterclass for the ages. Bret truly is one of if not the best in-ring workers of all-time when factoring in his ability to not only perform moves realistically, but also his perfect manipulation of how you perceive him as a heel or face at any given time (see also Bret VS Diesel at SS'95 and Bret VS Piper at WM8): his psychology is unmatched. I just really wish we lived in a timeline where this main evented the show. Stone Cold has my favourite gait of any wrestler of all time, which I think is an underrated and important aspect of a character. He is electric and not many others can make your heart rate spike from a mere flipping of the bird like him. As for this match itself, the early attitude era crowd adds to the intensity oozing from the hatred between the 2 characters. Bret's backbreaker and 2nd rope elbow were absolutely perfect as always. The placement of the bell seems to be very obvious until Bret smartly draws the attention away by switching his and our focus to the steel chair. Austin sells his leg well throughout the whole match. His comeback spots pop the crowd but realistically we knew he was walking into the lion's den having a submission match with Bret. The stipulation itself is my only gripe with the match, as at one point Austin gets a rope break. This shouldn't happen in a submission match, especially one that is explicitly stated as being a "no-disqualification submission match". This is obviously because if Austin grabbed the ropes and Bret didn't relinquish the hold, Ken would count him to 5 and then DQ him, but you cannot win via DQ in this match. Speaking of Ken, he was surprisingly good in this match. He done a good job of holding the crowd back in the brawl section and was not particularly noticeable during the match, which is what you want from a ref as a viewer. His segment throwing Bret after the match was superb too. Finally for the main selling-point of the match, the finish. It's perfect. Austin not tapping and almost breaking the sharpshooter while covered in blood puts over Bret, Austin and the sharpshooter, the best outcome. The JR call of "Austin never gave up, Austin never gave up! " is phenomenal stuff. Slightly, but not really, hypocritical point about the rope break, as I'm fine with Austin reaching for the ropes at the end while covered in blood (iconic visual), as he may have been able to pull himself out of the submission given the leverage, and not have been aiming for a rope break. I do not want to seem like a hipster for not giving this 5 stars, but the rules are very important in my opinion. Legendary match nonetheless and an absolute must watch for everyone. ****3/4"
[10.0] "One of the best matches ever, and a contender for my favorite match ever. Both Bret and Austin are in ring geniuses and it really shows here, as there isn't one second of this match where I wasn't captivated. This is also both men's best mania match imo. Ken Shamrock being ref is pretty funny but works well and makes sense for the finish and the aftermath, especially since at UFC 1 Ken Shamrock tapped out to Royce Gracie but the ref didn't stop the match since he didn't know what he's doing. Probably just a coincidence but I like that Shamrock was reffing a submission match after that shitshow, as if it's like he is the best fit as a referee since he knows what it's like. I kinda don't agree that this is really an out of nowhere double turn like everyone else says, I feel like Austin was already getting cheered a fair bit before the match and Bret was becoming more and more desperate in his matches and promos leading up to this, but I guess you could say this was the culmination of all that build up, and defined Bret as a heel and Austin as a face. Also, I love Austin's double leg takedown near the start of the match, and the bell spot later on is fun. I'm glad Bret decided to make Austin bleed as it made that absolutely iconic shot of Austin screaming in agony refusing to tap at the end of the match. And that ending, I love it. It's just so different and still makes both men look like complete badasses. Austin deciding he would rather pass out than tap to Bret Hart has to be the most bad ass loss in wrestling history, like I don't think theres ever been another man who still looked so strong in defeat like that."
[10.0] "Always admired this feud and moment but frustratingly didn't connect with the actual match as much, so I'm glad that's changed after a rewatch or two. It's a great psychological brawl to begin with that make both men look bloodthirsty and tough as nails, the authenticity of a Bret match meeting the energy of a Stone Cold match, and the in-ring somehow almost pales in comparison to the story, atmosphere, and character work. The perfect contrast to demonstrate how attitudes were changing as the violent disrespectful Austin is somehow becoming favoured over good old Bret, this being most of the way to a double turn but not black-and-white. Bret really stood out to me in that regard - how he hands his sunglasses to a young fan as per but does so basically on autopilot then goes straight to the ring, how he half-heartedly slaps some kids' hands on the way out instead of properly high fiving them because he's too busy flipping someone off, how he backs off from Shamrock at the end which is wise but only pisses the crowd off more after he's already taken cheap shots on an unconscious Austin. It doesn't beat you over the head with the turn and allows the hot Chicago audience to take an active role in the story. A bloody Austin passing out from the Sharpshooter is the legacy of this match, but if you want a good visual, this is just one cool bit after another. The crowd brawl where they're right in the mass of people, no space cleared out for them. Pulling at each other's gear to yank the other into posts and stairs. The ringpost figure four. Bret going for the bell, then a chair, then another chair, weighing up what'll work best while setting up the later finish. Austin's blood splattering on Lawler. Bret's daughter covering her eyes. Austin choking Bret with a cable then getting hit with that bell from earlier. The aforementioned Sharpshooter where Austin shuts his eyes tight and the blood squeezes out his temple. None of it complete without the post-match with Bret's fury at not winning conclusively and the Shamrock standoff, Stone Cold stumbling to his feet and vaguely acknowledging the chanting of his name, and the last shot of his drying blood on the canvas. Wasn't expecting to ramble out 2000 characters on this but it is just a perfect exercise on how less is more, putting someone over as the next big star, the real-time interactive nature of wrestling that makes it such an interesting form of storytelling, and if nothing else just a damn good fight between who you could very reasonably argue to be the top 2 best WWE guys ever. (*****)"
[10.0] "Perhaps the best WWE match and a Top 10 match in wrestling history. Just on pure narrative and historical significance this would be a classic, but the work in the ring is immaculate as well. As far as the genre its in; "wwe walk and brawl hardcore", its the formula perfected. But the submission element adds so so much more tension and intrigue. Bret is known as the top technical wrestler at this point and Austin, while being on the rise as the hottest thing ever, cant be expected to win given the circumstances. But they somehow make it work and Stone Cold has many legitimate hope spots here. There's also the final spot of Austin passing out, which is the best purely narrative spot ever in a wrestling match, and the double turn it executes to perfection. Just a masterclass in wrestling."
[10.0] "This is the greatest match I've ever seen, bar none. Just an absolute brawl, and an absolute masterclass in storytelling and character work. Why couldn't this main event? My dad, who doesn't watch wrestling, enjoyed this one. The double turn at the end is great. 10/10"
[10.0] "Obviously this is a stone cold classic, pun intended, there was a fantastic build and the continuation of a great story which culminated in a fantastic wrestling match / brawl. What I notice most going back and watching this (again) is the how much the crowd reacted to spots which nowadays would barely lift an eyebrow, such as the threat of Bret stamping on the chair when it was wrapped around Austin's ankle - less really can be more in wrestling, it would be great if modern wrestlers learned that from matches of old."
[10.0] "This is pro-wrestling perfection, a complete masterpiece. The build-up to the feud, the story the match told, the brawling, the submission holds from Bret and the incredible double-turn all executed perfectly. This match also happened to set-up perhaps the best baby-face run in history and elevate WWF over WCW in the ratings."
[9.0] "This is a masterpiece. The story was great, the crowd was great and the match was a wonderful showcase of technical wrestling. I liked a line that JR said halfway through the match while Bret continued to work on Austin's leg. He said "A methodical physical dissection of lower anatomy by Dr. Bret Hart on the patient Steve Austin." This sums up the whole match. The match was good but what makes this so iconic is what happened after the match. The double turn, the beginning of babyface run of SCSA which became not only the greatest babyface run ever but also something that changed the course of wrestling in America, the run that made WWE bigger than what it was at that time. Truly one of the most iconic matches and moments in WWE history."
[7.0] "I was excited to finally watch this match in full, but I was pretty disappointed when I finally got around to it. I don't really see how anyone can think that this is the "greatest match of all time" or frankly anything close to it. Sure, it was a pretty good match, but the action was pretty standard, and nothing really jumped out at me as being especially great. The pacing was kinda weird as well."
[10.0] "An absolute classic. This is the best ever WWF match. Bret Hart and Steve Austin put together a great story with tremendous action. Austin slowly becoming the more sympathetic figure as Bret systematically destroyed him. The brawling was incredible, such a good skill of Austin's, it felt like his only possible way to overcome Bret Hart, but ultimately futile, as he only had one major submission is the WWF, the million dollar dream, and that is something Bret Hart was to overcome in the past, which despite his rough exterior, made him the underdog, as it puts him severely weaker position, as Hart always has the Sharpshooter, and other submissions."
[10.0] "Austin's actions after being attacked in the leg were very interesting, he was a master of wrestling realism in this match and really conveyed his leg injury to the crowd. The match made the audience consciously view that it was Austin's leg that Hart had damaged (as Austin had the conspicuous gear strapped to this leg) After Austin fought back, the point that the audience was concerned about whether or not his leg was broken was put to rest, and I think it was a mistake that the audience stopped thinking about this point, and of course, the close-ups were given to the little girl who was too scared to look when it was happening, and that would have been the point that Heel hit the The psychology of the Babyface story. And the fact that it managed to make the story palpable to a small child was a major success for Babyface (and also for Heel.) The fact that Austin was countered after he thought he had regained the upper hand, and that he started to bleed after this counter, reinforces the story to a large extent. Who wins and how is Austin's leg doing? No longer seems to be the number one concern, now you can try to ask the two men in the match if Austin can get back up again? Is Austin dead? And as Babyface Hart, his mind seems to be worth thinking about, does he want to actually kill his opponent? Is he losing his mind as he goes crazy attacking his opponents weaknesses? When he regained the chair and attacked Austin's leg, he seemed to give the answer to the previous question, that his goal was to get Austin to surrender rather than kill him, and that he wanted to go through the leg and get Austin to surrender. This kind of conscious shift is something I think has a lot of food for thought for slow matches. Secondly the attacks on the vitals and the bell were both story turning points that were very well designed to make it seem like either Austin or Hart had a chance to win, creating a lot of suspense and hearing what was going on in the minds of both sides. Next was the final Sharpshooter that left Austin with nowhere to run, and his grimace was what all the viewers wanted to see, along with his unstoppable bleeding and pain control that managed to defeat Austin."
[10.0] "Remove the cultural context of launching Steve Austin, this match is still a 10. Bret Hart putting over Steve while still winning? Truly artistry. The story telling, the work in the ring and out, the set ups and pay off, the fantastic use of blood to really sell the end. Little things to sell Austin's attitude - from the stealing a drink in the crowd to animated smack talk. I will never tire of this match. And to think both men were thinking going into this match it would be a dud because it was a submission - crazy to think that looking back. Hard to overstate how good this match - flawlessly executed technically, and perfectly prosed storytelling. Two of the best at their in-ring peaks, with one of the best ever anoiting the new guy to set up the biggest ever era in WWF history. Timeless classic."
[10.0] "I always think about how Stone Cold does a grounded octopus stretch in this match, it's insane that he brought that out for the one and only time here. I wonder if he was watching El Samurai tapes. I know Kobashi does it later in his match with Misawa in October of this year, I wonder if he got it from watching this match. Anyway this is the best WWF match of 1997 and a top Wrestlemania match in general."
[10.0] "One of the most famous matches ever: even someone that doesn't give a shit of wrestling could have heard something about it. Well, it's great; but there are some flaws that no one talks about: 1) Stone Cold didn't sell his leg after Hart destroyed It with a corner figure four and other various locks and moves 2) The thing pissed me up more: this wasn't a submission no holds barred match but only a no holds barred: if they wanted to have a brawl why add the submission stipulation? In the entire match Austin performed only a submission, a double leg boston crab. I think that nowadays this match lost a bit of his magic. ****3/4"
[10.0] "I finally watched this match and it was long overdue. And I have to say this match is still fantastic decades later. My favorite part in this match is when Austin tried going for a powerslam but couldn't go all the way because he was selling the leg, also meaning that leg drive was needed to hit the move fully. Same thing happened with the superplex. Match deserves all the praise. *****"
[10.0] "I am rerating this because I have seen a lot more wrestling matches now so now I appreciate it alot more. This is one of the best brawls I have ever seen. It's just non stop action and gave me Okada Omega 2 vibes upon rewatch. Such a good fuckin match. I can safely say that this is one of the best brawls I have ever seen and one of the best matches I have ever seen."
[10.0] "This is an amazing match. Hart and Austin had an incredibly intense match. Engaging from bell to bell with an iconic ending. Can't really add anything that hasn't been said. A must watch for me"
[10.0] "In ring alone, this match isn't 5 stars, even though it does hold up EXTREMELY well for something from mid 90s WWF. This match is a masterclass in two things: crowd and story. This is one of the hottest crowds you'll ever see in a match - Hitman and Stone Cold had the fans eating up EVERYTHING they put on the table. And the story now. This match had PHENOMENAL selling from both guys and perfectly complemented the blood feud they had leading up to it. As amazing as this all is throughout though, this match gets its acclaim for one moment, and it completely deserves it. Bret locking Austin in the sharpshooter to the sound of Chicago losing it's collective mind, then Stone Cold almost breaking the hold but not escaping, then passing out with blood pouring down his face, then for Bret to keep the hold locked in. The cliche says that a picture can speak a thousand words, and the picture of Austin screaming in defiant passion with his face painted crimson is perhaps the richest image in WWE history. Might be a moment match, but what a moment. 10/10 / *****"
[9.0] "This match is classic for the moment and for the consequences that it would bring in the following years, an unexpected double turn that would change wrestling forever, in ring it's just ok, and the high rating is due to the historical context (****3/4)"
[10.0] "One of my favourite WWF matches, one of my favourite matches of all time. The chemistry between Austin and Bret is excellent. The work is done the hard way and a lot of the spots look brutal. The in ring psychology is amazing and the iconic scene of Austin refusing to submit is an amazing piece of television."
[10.0] "From an in-ring perspective, I hesitate to call this the greatest match in WWE history, but it forever changed the course of wrestling in North America. Austin and Bret had unreal chemistry, and just seeing how good Austin was at this point before the neck injury caused him to change his style is always something to behold. Sure, it's not a technical masterpiece (though they absolutely could've had that match if the feud necessitated it), but the crowd reactions are incredible, the commentary is really great (ESPECIALLY from JR, one of his finest outings ever), the work is a very strong mid-90s brawl with some technical elements sprinkled in, and the finish is iconic. While this match wasn't quite the shot into the stratosphere for Austin that subsequent attempts at revising history have tried to present it as, this was the second or third step in that process, and by the end of the year, there would be no doubt who the star of the future was."
[10.0] "Kurzum: Zwei der legendärsten WWE-Wrestler in einem legendären WWE-Klassiker mit einem der legendärsten Finishes überhaupt. Der Doppel-Turn wurde perfekt umgesetzt, der blutende und ohnmächtig werdende Austin ist ein Bild an das sich jeder Fan erinnert. Wenn es um die besten MainEvent-Matches bei einer WrestleMania geht, dann darf diese Schlacht nicht fehlen!"
[5.0] "A solid and serviceable match, but somehow I expected much more from two of the biggest names of the era. Who knows, maybe it's just the thing about submission matches that they tend to be slow and methodical, with a heavy focus on holds. Whatever the case may be, I found that the only memorable part of the fight was the finish - which, admittedly, was pretty clever, as it allowed to put Austin over (even more than he already was, that is) despite him losing the match, even though he technically didn't submit."
"One of the all-time iconic WWE matches. I cringe at the chair shot to the head, given how wrestling has changed since. Nonetheless, a fantastic match. Well-paced. Good energy. So many iconic moments."
[10.0] "This is one of the best matches of all time and is so classic it has so many iconic moment and this is a instant classic and started the rise of stone cold. *****"
[10.0] "Probably the greatest WrestleMania match of all time (although Taker vs. HBK from WM25 comes close) - a big fight feel, great double turn and of course the iconic image of bloodied Austin refusing to give up while being locked in Sharpshooter. If you somehow didn't watch this match, do it right now. You won't regret it."
[10.0] "It's such a unique bright spot for WWF. I don't think I'm the only one on this site who doesn't particularly care for the in-ring product that had been sold by VKM for decades, but this match stands up to 90s AJPW classics as a flawless battle between two guys who are all-time experts in the small details of pro wrestling. It firmly belongs on the list of great matches alongside 90s AJPW/AJW and recent NJPW."
[10.0] "One of the greatest WrestleMania matches in history. Start as a brawl, ends as one of the most iconic double turns in this business. Hard to believe that 6 months after this match was Montreal Screwjob. And after we have unfortunately never see another match between these two legends."
[7.0] "Not a fan of this don't actually get it but this match has a reputation that is spectacular but people don't even remember the stipulation like people have said it is an I Quit match but it's not"
[10.0] "A rugged, intense mix of brawling and mat-based offense, where slowly but surely, the double turn comes into effect. This match is a perfect example of how you can be put over without necessarily winning the match. This is my favorite WrestleMania match of all-time, and one my favorite period"
[10.0] "The greatest WrestleMania match ever-- and it's not even particularly close (okay, maybe HBK vs. Undertaker comes close). That shot of Austin in the Sharpshooter is probably top 5 WWE images/moments, ever. The storytelling here is masterful and meticulous-- truly a perfect match that didn't need "work rate" to deliver the goods. Watching this one with Austin's commentary giving more context to their decisions during the match only added more to the match. Also, I cannot forget to mention the double turn that was perfectly executed and set the bar for them forever."
[10.0] "Ein Klassiker, den ich bis heute tatsächlich nie gesehen hatte. Das hat sich jetzt zum Glück geändert, denn das Match ist großartig. Wrestlerisch schon sehr stark, sind es hier aber auch Story und Fans, die dieses Match eine Stufe anheben. Der Doppel-Turn von Hart und Austin haben die Fans perfekt gefressen. Während des Matches waren sie sich noch nicht sicher aber mit dem Finish turnen die Fans endgültig gegen Bret hart und zu Steve Austin, Entscheidungen, die in Zukunft eine sehr große Rolle spielen sollten. Das Match selber ist genau von dieser Dynamik und der guten Intensität geprägt, die man eigentlich aus der gesamten Fehde kennt."
[10.0] "9.5 The blood. So much blood. I don't know if this match would be near the epic it was without the hardway cut Austin took but it happened and it was great."
[7.0] "Little overrated in my opinion . Outside Brawl was boring . Inside action was mainly bret focusing on austin's leg . Other than this , Expertly done heel work from bret and that iconic ending makes this match great but it still is overrated"
[9.0] "The match that really solidified Steve Austin as a main event contender. They had been carefully building him up since King Of The Ring 96 and Bret and him put on this masterpiece to put over Stone Cold as a bad ass who won't tap out."
[10.0] "It's one of the best matches in both men's careers and Wrestlemania history. This is a true masterpiece and a rare instance of a perfect double turn!"
"This match from start to finish is one of my favorites of all time they went out and beat the tar out of each other for 20 minutes plus and the iconic sharpshooter the commentary played it perfectly shamrock played his role to perfection and Bret was Bret 10\10."
[10.0] "The match rules, the commentary rules - from pre-match video to fade out after Austin goes to the back on his own, this is one of the single best packages the WWE has ever put together, and that's saying something. Everyone involved, from the ref, production, props, set, wrestlers, commentators- every single one of them should be very proud of their involvement with this. Just amazing on every level."
[6.0] "Maybe it's only me, but I never understood why this match is so popular besides Austin bloody face. I find the brawl outside of the ring so boring, and the action in the ring itself it's only ok."
[10.0] "The best match WWF/E ever promoted. Two of the most iconic wrestlers ever at the top of their game, a bloody finish and the rare double turn stole the show and created a classic that cemented both men's legacies in the company."
[10.0] "This is the greatest match in WWE/F history. Bret isn't even fully done with his entrance yet Austin immediately takes him down and brings the fight to him. Bret would obviously recover from this before they slowly bring their brawl to the outside and even into the crowd. When they get done brawling on the outside and bring the match back to the ring Bret would pick apart at Austin's leg and Austin sells it brilliantly. The ultimate turning point of this match is when Austin is trying to choke out Bret but Bret instead catches him with a ring bell to his face allowing him to lock in the sharpshooter. The final moments of Austin refusing to give up and almost fighting out of the sharpshooter were perfect, but he would ultimately pass out which means Bret Hart won. The double turn was worked to perfection here, solidifying Austin as the badass face for years to come.*****"
[10.0] "In my estimation, this is a perfect wrestling match. I think fans often times lose sight about what workrate actually is and forget that, at its core, wrestling is storytelling. It drives me batty when fans try to rationalize their like or dislike of a match by stating a match works as a better story than as a wrestling match, as they're one in the same. This match is the culmination of a heated issue between the grizzled vet Bret Hart who feels disrespected and disgusted at the direction the World Wrestling Federation has taken, and Steve Austin, the brash, foul mouthed rising star who'll fight anyone and embodies the new attitude in professional wrestling. The story of this match is beautiful violence that's at once messy and perfectly executed. Everyone knows the finish, but how we get there is masterclass storytelling from two of the best to ever do it. 5 stars. 10 out of 10. Which ever metric you choose, this match stands as one of the finest in the history of the medium."
[9.0] "Blood, violence, storytelling and technique. This match has all these things. Started fast with a huge brawl and you could feel the animosity between Stone Cold and Bret Hart. Through the crowd they went brawling all over the arena. Once back in Bret Hart begins his work systematically disnantling the knee but Austin keeps fighting back again and again. Hart cannot put away Austin and even as he bleeds, Austin refuses to submit to Bret The Hitman Hart. Commentary was great but Jerry overstepped professional boundary when he insulted the daughter of Hart. Loved the ending as Austin falls unconscious but never gave up and despite loosing, he walked out his head held high and although he didn't win the match, he won the adulation of the fans and the roster. This was Austin's breakout match that propelled him to legendary status. ****3/4"
[10.0] "Although some people might not consider this as a great match unfortunately maybe because it had less great technical moves compared to great matches in Japan but watching this match in a different perspective we can notice how great this match is done psychologically, and how awsome it impacted storytelling in pro wrestling"
[10.0] "Nicht ohne Grund wird dieses Match immer genannt, wenn man über die besten Mania Matches aller Zeiten redet. Eine Fehde die nur auf Hass zwischen zwei Männern basiert und in diesem Match wurde die Geschichte perfekt umgesetzt. Kein Wrestling, sondern sofort prügeln sich die zwei durch die ganze Arena umzingelt von tausenden Menschen. Hart geht schon früh auf das Bein von Austin zu und richtet dieses ziemlich übel her. Austins selling war durchgehend da und sah super aus. Das Bluten von Austin hat dem ganzen noch die extra Note gegeben und darauf folgt ein legendäres Ende und DER Double-Turn schlechthin. In meinen Augen ganz klar ein Klassiker(*****)."
[10.0] "Bret Hart was in full conspiracy theory mode here, which made events later in the year more interesting. Stone Cold was getting more and more over with the fans at Bret's expense, and it seems Bret was genuinely unhappy about that, giving the match some real heat. Really, everything from the moment Austin stepped over the broken glass of his entrance was pretty much perfect here. It was mostly a brawl, and it showed why to have a truly satisfying brawl on a wrestling show you need people who are top quality wrestlers, as they can do it without it becoming repetitive and meaningless. This is often cited as the best match in WWF history, and it's definitely in the running for it - I doubt there was a better one in that era at least."
[10.0] "An absolute classic. Two of the greatest of all time at the peak of their game. I don't think either guy has had a better match and that's saying something. It's pretty much perfect."
[10.0] "Easily one of the most exciting and best worked matches I've ever seen. You go in expecting something special when two workers this good are booked together, somehow this exceeded even the most unreasonably high expectations."
[10.0] "Fantastic match. A great rivalry to go in and a fantastic match in which Austin and Bret beat the snot out of eachother. Shamrock doesn't detract from the match, which is a rarity for Mania matches with a special ref (I'm looking at you, Piper). Couldn't ask for a better match between two high class competitors."
"One of my all time favorites, and easily one of the greatest matches in WWE history. Great story telling, and an amazing performance by both contenders. [****3/4]"
[10.0] "One of the greatest in-ring stories ever told. The double turn was pulled off masterfully, neither Bret or Austin were the same after the bell rang and both were lifted to the biggest run they'd ever had in the business. Bret had every reason to be angry and aggressive in this match but had done such a great job of annoying the fans as "whiny" (i.e. totally justified anger) and Austin's constant provocation and attacks found a way to catch on with live crowds and viewers. The iconic image of Austin screaming in pain with blood dripping down his face is one of the greatest in the history of the business. My personal favorite Mania match of all-time and probably my favorite WWE match of all time."
[10.0] "A legitimate candidate for being the greatest wrestling match ever. Not only a technical masterpiece, but the epitome of a great brawl. Bret Hart and "Stone Cold" Steve Austin are obviously two of the greatest of all-time, and I believe many would argue that this is the best match of both men's illustrious careers. A story that had you on the edge of your seat and a double-turn that changed the industry forever. If not the best match ever, it certainly has an argument for being the most important match in American wrestling history. 5 stars, 10 out of 10 and it really goes without saying."
[10.0] "One of the greatest if not THE greatest match of all time. Everything about this was just perfect. There's not enough words to describe how incredible this is. That crimson mask Austin shot is pure legendary. This was a bloody, heated, intense brawl. Not only does it succeeded as a match, but it also put Austin over like a billion buck. Legit one of the top pro wrestling matches ever, no matter what promotion. No way you can hate on this. [*****]"
[7.0] "I know this is suposed to be iconic, but I can not really get why. The match is just a little above average, and I can t stand the 90's WWF overuse of fake blood."
[7.0] "Pretty good match with plenty of iconic shots such as the close-up on Steve Austin's bloody face, thought I find this much better to appreciate than to watch. The brawling kind of bored me and I find that people's love for the story is much more because of the smarky meta element rather than emotional weight, with the match perfectly marking the transition between the New Generation Era and the Attitude Era, the fall of the former's main star and the rise of the latter's main star."
[10.0] "Brilliant storytelling and with just one of the best endings to a match in wrestling history, there is a reason this match is considered one of the all-time greats. Pretty much everything about it works and it is arguably the best match in Wrestlemania history. *****"
[10.0] "Even watching these two trade punches is elite-tier stuff. They brawl throughout the crowd and it feels organic. The crowd, who have been quiet all night, wake up as soon as the crowd brawling starts. Once their back in the ring, Bret starts his assault on Austin's leg. Austin sells this so well, flailing all over the place. Austin tries to keep with Bret, but Bret keeps cutting him off. After getting cut open, Austin doesn't have much more to give. He tries to choke out Bret with an electrical cord, but Bret wails him with a ring bell. All the weapon spots have meaning and aren't just used to add a nice spot here and there. Austin passes out in the Sharpshooter, and Shamrock calls for the bell. J. R's call of Austin never giving up adding a lot to his face turn. This is so much more than just a good bladejob. So glad this holds up. Arguably the best match in company history."
[10.0] "Immer noch das beste Match in der Wertung bei Bret und Steve. Ich denke dazu muss man nichts mehr sagen. Das was man hier sah war Wrestling Geschichte (****3/4)."
[10.0] "Pretty clearly the best WrestleMania match ever in my eyes, with probably the best plucky babyface performance of all time by Austin. Not a single second is wasted, every move feels impactful. And it's all capped off with one of the most iconic images and finishes in wrestling history."
[10.0] "This match has so much going for it to make it an all-time classic. The match itself is great, the story around it was great, and then it ends up making the biggest superstar in WWF history."
[8.0] "Richtig großes und absolut legendäres Match! Es gibt kaum ein Highlightclip ohne den Sharpshooter-Spot! Es war viel Intensität und Drama, für mich aber ein bisschen zu viel. Dementsprechend kommt es bei mir nur mit einem ? gut? davon."
[10.0] "The greatest Wrestlemania match in history , this match was basically the introduction of the Attitude Era and Stone Cold Steve Austins coming out party and Bret Hart establishing himself as the legend that he is , this match from start to finish was flawless from beginning to end , as good as a pro wrestling match as you'll ever see."
[10.0] "This match was an excellent encounter between the best wrestler of the time battling the most over wrestler of all time. This was electric, with the match type playing heavily into Hart's strengths, while the brawling grudge style being perfect for Austin. That might not sound like it fits, but it really does, making both competitors look better than they did going in by fighting the other on their own playing field. Austin proved he was a great wrestler, and Bret proved he could have a believable fight as well as anybody else at the time. In total, this would equal a 9 level match, but what takes this over the edge is the ending. The ending of this match is iconic, and quite possibly the best ending ever done in wrestling. Austin was made into THE star in pro wrestling with this ending, and the shot of his bloody face will be around for as long as wrestling is a thing. Match quality, gimmick, storytelling, ending, cinematography, and historically, this match was one of the bests of all time."
[10.0] "Holy shit. What an incredible match. It has aged like fine wine. The "Austin! Austin! " chants as Stone Cold swims around in the sharpshooter is such an iconic moment. The blood pouring from his head is an insane visual. This did so much for Stone Cold's career and it made him look like a superstar. Additionally, the storytelling, having Bret Hart slowly turn heel is fantastic."
[10.0] "Well deserving of its place among WWE's greatest matches. Bret's slow acknowledgment of the changing times and embrace of a violent streak while the crowd is baying for violence is really something every fan should get to see. An absolute masterpiece."
[10.0] "Simply put one of the greatest matches of all time. This is Hart and Austin at their absolute best. Austin and Bret's rivalry came to a head in this bloody war, not for a championship, but just to prove something. There were moments of more technical work, usually initiated by Hart, and full on brawls courtesy of Austin. This worked amazingly well throughout the course of the match, with Hart's flawless and brutal targeting of Austin's leg, and career-defining selling throughout the match by Stone Cole. Even when Austin's body gave up on him, he refused to quit, preferring to pass out in a bloody mess. This was an absolute war, and a huge spectacle at that. And what more can I say, it's 2 of the GOATs having a legendary battle in arguably the magnum opis of their careers. *****+"
[10.0] "One of the most important matches in wrestling history: this is the match that made Steve Austin the biggest star in the business, which in turn boosted the (at the time) dying WWF to a resurgence which would see them kill off WCW a few years later, dominating the industry to this day. It was perhaps the most significant use of the double turn in wrestling history: others have done it well, but never to this degree. Plus the wrestling was as good as anything you'll see. The image of Austin in the Sharpshooter with blood pouring down his face is one of the most memorable to anyone who knows a thing about wrestling. You must see this match at least once to call yourself a fan."
[10.0] "If I had to pick the best match in WWF/E history, this might be my pick. Not only is it a brilliant match, but the historical significance can't be overstated. This was a passing of the torch. It could be argued that this ignited the Attitude Era. It made Stone Cold the ultimate anti-hero. He was fouled mouthed and controversial, but how could you not cheer him after this. Lying in a pool of his own blood he refused to tap out to one of the most dominant submission moves in the promotion's history. It's absolutely magnificent story telling, as good as WWF/E has ever gotten. One of the contenders for best match ever to take place on North American soil. *****"
[10.0] ""what can I talk about? One of the best matches ever if not the best, both guys character work was incredible, bret working on austin leg was genius and Austin selling! Wow the ending was absolutely perfect and changed the whole industry *****""
[10.0] "Pro Wrasslin' perfection! These two rivalry was so personal and their matches were always indicative of that. The double-turn was the most genius move that could've been done: newest then turned biggest face of the company Stone Cold and the old hero turned bitter legend Bret Hart. I love when wrestling's done right! *****"
[10.0] "My favorite match in WWE history (in terms of main roster). A match with great brawling and storytelling. Bret working over Austin's knee all match long and Austin refusing to quit. Then the end comes, and it's absolutely perfect. Bret puts the sharpshooter on and Austin tries to fight out of it, before inevitably passing out, due to the excessive blood loss and pain. Then after the match, Bret holds in the sharpshooter and the double turn is cemented, resulting in the rise of Austin. Excellent match, can't recommend it enough. *****"
[10.0] "You could easily argue this as the best match in Mania history. The double turn with Austin's bloody face led up beautifully into the Attitude Era. Perfection."
[10.0] "The best WrestleMania match ever. Austin gained the worlds respect and love over this match. He got over in ONE match! Wow he sold so well in this match and Bret did too. This match is iconic for the drama they created especially in the ending when Austin was bloodied. *****"
[9.0] "An incredible match and one that is regarded as a classic for good reason, but not near perfect as many seem to regard it as. This match got me emotionally invested to a high degree despite it happening before I was born and despite me already knowing the exact finish. Additionally, this had one of the best executed double turns in history. It's easy to see Bret as the cocky, stuck-up prick and Austin as the fiery anti-hero that is often associated with them respectively, but going into this match that was NOT the case. Austin was pretty heavily booed during his entrance and ended up getting easily one of the biggest reactions of the night at the end. That said, though these two did an incredible job of creating a legendary story and summoning emotional involvement from the viewer, the in-ring work, while great, was not nearly incredible enough caliber to warrant a 5 star rating in my eyes. I would give this match a 9. 5/10, but alas that isn't an option. ****3/4-"
[10.0] "I first saw this match back in 1997 when I was 9 years old and it left an impression on me that still hasn't left to this day. Simply put one of the most captivating spectacles in the history of not just professional wrestling, but sports and entertainment in general. This match is iconic, legendary and leaves me awestruck each and every time."
[10.0] "The story Bret Hart and Steve Austin were cultivating since they started on the business (both different eras, mind you) is completely represented here, as both a resume and the climax. Hart's technical proficiency got defied by the rattlesnake, so he had to actually get into the "new times" for once so he could rise against the next WWF's big thing. Austin was big, but still hasn't prove himself (or be respected enough) to be considered a true champion, as his much less refined ring style and badass, outlaw sting (and a not-very impressive WCW run). As the brawl develops, Hart becomes ruthless and apathetic, and Steve Austin tries to give his best and never surrender as he's been doing for the last decade. The outcome? Bret becomes a desperate Heel trying to make a fainted, bloodshed piece of a man submit and abandon all. Everyone wants Austin to succeed as they see the long gone hero shredding the last gasp of air and almost kill his opponent, making this a grudge torture to his already almost-dead competitor. Austin went full babyface, Bret went full heel. This match is poetry."
[7.0] "A great match with an iconic status. I usually can't stand the "walk and brawl" aspect of WWE matches but it was done very well here. The brawling had a story behind it and both men played their characters perfectly. The intensity was shown. The selling by both men was fantastic. Stone Cold especially sold like a madman. I think the only problem here would be the overall wrestling. There isn't too much of it. It's 90% brawl. You don't even have to look at this by today's standard, because even back in 1997 the AJPW guys were putting on wrestling clinics. This isn't a wrestling clinic, but it's an iconic and entertaining match that still holds up to today and is a must watch for all fans. The final shot of the match is simply great. It's one of those matches where the story stands far above the wrestling itself. If this was more of a wrestling match, i would've been happy to give it a higher rating. ***3/4"
[9.0] "Storytelling as manual, no Bret and Steve Austin wrote a new page of the book. They go over the same story, they go over the same type of match. With rage, hate, pain and a little bit of selling they made a masterpiece and tells a story unique in his genre"
[10.0] "Brilliant storytelling, brilliant psychology, brilliant execution... Everything about this match is believable and makes sense. Not to mention the double turn at the end, which helped launch Austin into one of the biggest stars in the ENTIRE history of wrestling. My favorite WrestleMania match ever. My favorite WWE match ever. My favorite pro wrestling match ever. If you've never watched it and you love psychology and perfect storytelling, this one is for you! Highly recommended. *****"
[10.0] "Wow. I was truly depriving myself by not watching this match until now. Action right from the jump with both men beating the shit out of each other no matter where they needed to do it. Austins selling of the leg was brilliant as was Bret's double turn. The crowd was so far beyond red hot, they were on fire! The finish is iconic and one of my favorite visuals from all of wrestling. (*****)"
[10.0] "Bret tells the tale of the double turn, right from the start, perfectly w/ his work inside those ropes (& outside them too in the case of this match). An all-time legendary performance by the man, and Stone Cold puts on a show as well. The match is, simply put, a masterpiece - it's well worth all the hype, praise & the legendary status it has. *****"
[10.0] "One of the most lucky accidents in history. Famously Bret Hart was supposed to face Shawn Michaels, but he decided to be a cunt and exaggerated an injury. Thankfully Bret had a another feud in the background with one Stone Cold Steve Austin. They had a classic at Survivor Series and they definitely had some energy left in the feud with the Rumble controversy and Austin costing Bret the title. So thanks to that prick, we got this match. Best thing HBK ever did was lose his smile. Now onto two great wrestlers and an all time classic. If you haven't watched the match with Austin's commentary, please do. Austin does an excellent job at highlighting the psychology behind the match, what he called on the fly, the thought behind the match. He puts over Bret's selling, as well as his own. It's a great listen. The match itself is fantastic. Austin's selling of the leg was superfluous and selling is one of the aspects that Austin really doesn't get a lot of credit for and that's a shame. He is probably one of the best sellers ever. Every time he landed, he old his head, his arm, anything that was worked on, he sold excellently. Bret was great as well, he made everything click. His attack on the leg, his body language, his facial expressions, his bumps. It's a perfect match. *****"
[8.0] "Very good storytelling from two guys, who on paper, didn't look like they would match up well, especially in a feud that lasted almost an entire year. Good match, definitely the best of the night."
[8.0] "I always heard about this matchas one of WrestleMania greatest matches, and it was probably the last classic at the showcase of the immortals that I never saw , before yesterday. It was the first match that I wanted to see when I signed in to WWE Network. Let me get this straight, in every "Top 10" matches at Wrestlemania ranking I always saw it in first or second place. I consider it great, i saw it 20 years plus after, but I don't consider it the Greatest. Ok, there is a big part about personal feelings, I think the Taker matches against Michaels or Triple H at Wrestlemania 25 to 28 are the representation of perfection in this world and I think they are untouchable and they will always be, but besides that I don't consider it the perfect match, I can recall at least 10 matches at wrestlemania that were more epic than this one in my opinion (I will never be at the same page with Meltzer). Ok it was a different period than nowdays, but there were no real false finish, no real moments in which Austin Could really win the match, the stipulation in my opinion wasn't suitable for Steve austin that has no real submission hold (he used in his past the million dollar dream but he didn't used it in this match). Storytelling was good, but don't great, ok great the Bret's work on Steve's leg , ok great the turning events that chnged the two of them forever, but for most of the time it was a brawl and i personally can not consider a brawl a perfect matchand i don't like the "fighting in the crowd" spot, that was a main thing in this match. So in the end, the Austin scene locked in the sharpshooter bleeding and not tapping out is one of those cult scene that every fan (and not fan) of pro-wrestling have seen once in their lifetime, probably the most famous wrestlemania moment ever, but the match itself is not that perfect classic they told me it was for many years. Moreover, I personally don't like Bret as a worker, his facial expression and style didn't sti"
[10.0] "Often hailed as the creme de la creme, and for good reason. There isn't much to say about this match that hasn't been said already (and in better words) but it has it all: Excellent psychology, a dynamite crowd, amazing technical wrestling, sequence variation and intensity. And it just never stops. Austin spears Bret to start the match and the two just start brawling, engaging with the fans to the outside, ascending the stairs while they throw blows. There's barely any room to breath here and the cameraman struggles to capture the action. Hart hits Austin with a back-body drop onto the steps and they start their descent back toward the ring. Bret targets Austin's injured knee throughout the match with a variety of kicks, elbows and submissions (notably a figure-four around the turnbuckle), all which Austin sells beautifully. The Rattlesnake hits the stunner in desperation to get some air, but the Hitman continues to take it out on Austin's leg. There's a "Pillmanizer" callback, and then Austin gets the upper hand and takes liberties with the chair to Bret. All of the subtleties and mannerisms are what really make this match shine. Austin's aggression while "stomping a mudhole" in Hart while the crowd goes wild, then shooting the double-birds and continuing his assault is a great moment. The climax of the match comes when Hart locks in a picture-perfect Sharpshooter while a bloodied Austin howls in pain. Austin barely manages to break the sharpshooter, Bret locks it back in, and Austin passes out to the pain, keeping his promise in the process. *****"
[10.0] "Simply put, this is one of the most historically significant matches in WWE history. It combined fantastic action, great drama, and perfectly executed storytelling. A lot of people consider this to be the greatest match in Wrestlemania history, and they're not wrong."
[10.0] "Dieses Match gehört zu meinen wenigen *****-Matches. In dieser Sammlung ist es mit Sicherheit das technisch schlechteste, auch wenn SCSA hier von Bret zu einem auch objektiv guten Match gezogen wird. Ich bin großer Fan des technischen Wrestlings aber ich bin zuerst einmal einfach ein Wrestlingfan. Und dieses Match hat alles, was das Wrestling so großartig macht: Zwei herausragende Hauptdarsteller, Technik, Show und Dramatik und Intensität. Die Begleitumstände sind spektakulär. Das zweite ganz große Aufeinandertreffen der beiden Ikonen nach SuSe 96. Beide wechseln gerade ihre Rollen und so wird Austin angefeuert, während Bret beginnt heelisch vorzugehen. Beides noch sehr zaghaft und in den Kinderschuhen. Die Stipulation (Submission & No holds barred) sorgt für eine irre Kombi aus Brutalität und Technik. Genau das wird von beiden auch genial umgesetzt. Das Match ist ein absoluter Meilenstein in Sachen Ringpsychologie, Matchführung und Intensität. Die Bilder des blutenden Stone Cold, der lieber ohnmächtig wird, statt aufzugeben, haben sich damals sofort in mein Wrestlinggedächtnis eingebrannt. Dieses ist das epischste Finish, das ich als Wrestlingfan je gesehen habe."
[10.0] "Simply put one of the greatest matches of all time, and the match that kick started the most popular period of WWE. A fantastic blend of brawling and limb work, with some great moments and a fantastic finish. I urge anyone to watch this match and to seek out Austin's commentary on it on his podcast, as he explains a lot of the nuances that make this match so classic. (*****+)"
[10.0] "this is a motherfucker of a match. it's pretty fucking intense! i hate the fighting-in-the-crowd segment (i hate ANY fighting-in-the-crowd segment, FWIW). after that, it's just goddamn intense, man. they beat the shit outta each other. it's all sold so well, and it's so believable - i trust every move they do. it's unreal. not my favorite match all around, but it is hard to deny that this is spectacular, ***** wrestling."
[10.0] "Jesus. F**king. Christ. This has to be the most fast paced 5 star match I've ever seen. When I heard how great this match was, I was expecting it to be at least 30 minutes or more, that's usually how long a match needs to be if it's going to be in that upper echelon of supreme in-ring action mixed with an amazing story, but this match never lets up, delivering all of that and more in a matter of just 20 minutes. There's not one rest hold in this match, these two hate each other, they want to beat the crap out of each other and boy, do they ever. The story going in was perfect, the story going out was even better. Austin won't let up on Bret, decimating him with nothing but his fists unless Bret brings a weapon in himself, and f**k me if that isn't one of the best chair shots in history on Bret by Stone Cold, just a straight thud on Bret's back. Bret keeps getting more aggressive because Austin just won't let him breathe, Bret keeps having to use weapons to slow Austin down, the barricade, the chair, even the ring bell. Austin is bleeding profusely from the face during the last 5 minutes. And finally, that famous climax, all that story-driven brawling leading up to that famous Sharpshooter spot, I don't even need to describe it, you know what it is. That double turn is brilliant, sure there's a few fans in the crowd that didn't catch on, but the other 90% did. They knew exactly what they just saw, Bret succumbing to the dark side just to put Austin away for good and Austin playing the valiant babyface who refuses to tap. The post-match angle with Shamrock somehow adds to the match even though it's not technically involved in any way. It's absolute perfection and it more than saves an otherwise forgettable WrestleMania. *****"
[9.0] "On first watch I thought this was very good, but not legendary. I still don't consider it deserving of legendary status, but I do now think it is absolutely an amazing match. Definitely one of the best WWE matches ever. Now, I usually HATE matches that are 90% brawls like this one, but the story and the selling from both men was just outstanding. Both men were taking each other to the limits all while pushing themselves even further. Bret and Austin were both awesome when selling the effects of the other's attacks, but Austin was especially outstanding during that Sharpshooter sequence. The visual of him screaming and writhing in pain while blood runs down his face as he refuses to submit is simply one of the most memorable shots in all of wrestling. The story of Austin passing out, and thus never giving up, solidified Austin as a badass, and I really liked the aftermath with Bret insisting on still going after Austin despite having already won. It furthered the idea of how much Bret hated Austin and how their rivalry was greater than their match. Bret was great playing the angsty, cowardly heel at this moment, and Austin was great at playing a sympathetic yet badass babyface as hits a Stunner on the ref that was trying to help him and then limps his way to the back, all while still bleeding. From someone who dislikes brawls and WWE, this was certainly an amazing match. ****1/4"
[10.0] "What surprised me about this match, watching it back, was how short it was. In my head, with what a massive match it was for me as a wrestling fan, I had it blown up to be at least twice as long. But Hart and Austin go at it at a relentless pace, it? s a violent, hard-hitting sprint of the match, where you can feel the hatred and boiling over emotions from bell to bell. People rightly praise Austin for his iconic, blood-soaked performance, the match that cemented him as the most popular star in the company and kickstarted the attitude era. But it? s perhaps Bret Hart who impressed me most of all here. He does great work with one of wrestling history? s most justified heel turns. He never changed: he still slaps hands and gives his glasses to little kids, he still believes in classic sportsmanship. It? s the fans who changed, who treat him with contempt while cheering on this foul-mouthed thug who treats them like crap and has spent months running Hart and his family down. At the end, soaking in the audience boos, Hart looks on with bafflement and even hurt."
"Arguably the greatest match in WWE history and a super important one as well. The culmination of a months long feud between rising star Austin and current face of the company Bret. This match was simply perfect. A hot Chicago crowd witnessed an all-out brawl that had everything you coul ask for. The psychology was on point, Austin's selling, Bret's aggressiveness, the brawling outside the ring. Everything was so well done. It was an Attitude Era-style match occuring before its time. Then of course the ending which culminated in the greatest double turn ever. Austin pasting out from blood loss became an iconic image and this match set him up to be the biggest star of his generation. (*****)"
[10.0] "2 legends just put on the performances of their careers. This was a legit Mania classic for sure. The story was simple when bret hart destroyed austin's left leg and austin's selling was definitely wonderful. A total masterpiece in terms of storytelling. The tension rose when austin's face was total bloody. Hart continued to target the bad leg and lock into the sharpshooter. Austin now played never say die babyface and refused to tap out. He even put over 100% effort to break up but unsuccessfully. Shamrock had no choice but to stop the match. Just insane, the double turn was well done. This turn austin into a mega star of wwe and the road to become a legend just began here. And crowd was really into this match. In my opinion, this was a true classic and the best match in wwe history."
[10.0] "An absolute classic, there are a few Wrestling moves, but the brawl style made Stone Cold Steve Austin famous, and Bret Hart was able to follow the stipulation. The crowd loved this match and the phases extra-ring were perfect. It's probably one of the most "Attitude" match for that time. That's why it is so good and the post-match was great too. *****"
[10.0] "Vielleicht hat das Match nicht so viele High Impact Spots wie Matches dieser Art heutzutage haben, aber es generiert einen Faktor, den ich heutzutage in vielen solcher Aufeinandertreffen vermisse: Den Realismus und die Legitimität. Nichts und rein gar nichts wirkt hier in irgendeiner Weise choreographiert und direkt vom Läuten der Ringglocke spürt man die immense Dynamik und Intensität, die diese Fehde zusammenhält; Steve Austin & Bret Hart stürmen aufeinander los. Und sie lassen nie an Tempo nach! Großartiger Brawl durch die Zuschauerränge mit viel verspürtem Hass und Crowd Interaktion. Hart entscheidet sich brutal Austin's Bein auseinander zu nehmen und tut das in brutaler und technisch makelloser Manier. Smartes Layout, das eben auch zur Stipulation passt. Was ich hier dran schätze, ist dass Austin als Heel den Body Work unfassbar gut sellt, damit die Charakter Ausrichtung nicht nur perfekt verkörpert, sondern temporär auch einstellt, um damit schon auf das notorische Ende aufbaut. Kaum macht Hart einen Fehler ist Austin wieder dran. Grandioses Come-back, bei dem die Crowd abgeht. Keine Flugeinlagen, keine technisch anspruchsvollen Konterserien, sondern einfach nur dynamische, brutale Hope Spots. Blutverschmiert und Kräftezehrend gönnen die Beiden sich dann noch eine Schlussphase, in welcher niemand auch nur ein Haar krumm machen möchte. Bemerkenswert ist die Animosität, der Wille über jede Hürde zu steigen nur um nicht zu verlieren. Es passt wie Austin erst den Low Blow setzt, dann einschlägt, den Mittelfinger zeigt und weiter eintritt. Großartige Dramaturgie, bei der sich nun auch High Impact Spots und variierte Waffennutzungen anreihen und plausibel aufbauen. Der Finishing Spot wird wohl und ist schon in die Geschichte eingegangen. Ein blutverschmierter Steve Austin, der sich weigert aufzugeben und mitten im Sharp Shooter das Bewusstsein verliert. Wrestling Perfektion komplettiert mit historischer Signifikanz. Eines der Besten Matches Aller Zeiten (*****)."
[10.0] "Wild, uninterrupted brawl between two legends at the peak of their powers. You can feel the hate between the two. The double turn is done very well and not beaten over your head. Bret as the disgruntled veteran and Austin as the scrappy, never-give-up younger competitor works very well. Highest recommendation particularly because of the excellent selling and the great usage of blood. *****"
[10.0] "Der Aufbau zu diesem Match war bärenstark und der gegenseitige Hass zwischen Austin und Bret auf einem neuen Hoch vor diesem Match. Noch bevor die Ringglocke ertönen konnte begann das Match mit einem schönen Brawl durch die Zuschauer, eher sie sich wieder in den Ring zurück begaben und die Intensität des Matches neue Ebenen erreichte. Bret versuchte in diesem Match mehr oder weniger Austin's Karriere zu beenden durch die gezielten Stuhlschläge auf Austins Bein und dem Figure Four an der Ringecke und erntete laute Buhrufe, während Austin's rebellische Aktionen ihm das 1. mal starke Zuschauerreaktionen entgegenbrachten. Das ganze Match kochte vor Emotionen und der Doubleturn war natürlich die perfekte Lösung für dieses Match in Anbetracht der Präsentation der beiden Wrestler zuvor. Es war die perfekte Grundlage für die Richtungen der beiden Wrestler, auch wenn die Akzeptanz der beiden in ihrem Rollentausch erst später ihre große Wirkung haben sollte. Im Gegensatz zu ihrem Survivor Series Match war das technisch nicht so hochklassig, aber was Storytelling an geht ein Meilenstein und ohne Zweifel ein legendäres Match mit großen Auswirkungen. **** 3/4 (1)"
[10.0] "I saw this match in a review when I was a kid , then I thought it was awesome , now i think the same , absolutely one of the best matches ever , hands down for the both of Bret and Steve Austin , never get bored not even a minute, and the storytelling in the ring was better than perfect and that's what's the most important *****"
[10.0] "The perfect blend of brawling and technicality with the greatest finish in the history of WWE, maybe even in Pro Wrestling (though that's a hell of a stretch). Hart and Austin were made to wrestle each other. They had the chemistry Hart had with Michaels, only without the crappy backstage drama behind it. Everything that happened from the beginning to the end was performed phenomenally. Its hard to say whether this, the Michaels vs Taker HiaC or Owen vs Bret in WM X is my favorite of the 90s (there are a few other contenders too) but one things for certain the face/heel turn in this one is the most memorable. Ken Shamrock was as good a choice for special ref as you could get."
[10.0] "Beide zeigen Wrestlerisch eine gute Leistung. Bret zeigt sogar das er ein guter Brawler ist und Austin, ist sowieso einer der besten. Sehr intelligent geführt mit der Beinbeartung Austins und Austin sellt das ganze gut. Historisch natürlich das Finish (vileicht das beste , was ich gesehn hab) mit einen blutenden Austin der Bewusstlos wird und natürlich das Doubleturn wo Hart ende des Matches ausgebuht wurd, was ganz andersrum war als Bret reinkam , Austin natürlich vice versa, es war ein anderes Match als in der Series, eine perfekte Mischung aus Technik und Brawl durch die Story wird das Match zu einen (*****) Match."
[9.0] "Hier wird zwar massiv am Doppelturn gearbeitet, aber dieser wird der Umstände halber auch noch nicht ganz vollendet. In einem brutalen Brawl, der einerseits technisch nicht auf Augenhöhe mit dem 96er Survivor Series Match liegt, aber andererseits im psychologischen Bereich Maßstäbe setzt, deutet Hart immer wieder ungewohnte Heel-Taktiken an (Figure 4 am Ringpfosten, Einsatz des Ringgongs noch in Notwehr), während Austin ersten eindeutigen Zuschauerzuspruch erfährt. Trotzdem - Hart benötigt noch am selben Abend vier Eingriffe in den späteren Main-Event um seine neue Rolle vollständig verständlich zu machen, während Austin seinen Face-Turn in den Folgewochen etwas schleichender vollendet - das Match macht da bei beiden zwar den Großteil, aber eben nicht 100% der Neuausrichtungen aus. Trotzdem ist diese Ansetzung ein Meilenstein an Dramatik und Intensität, und alleine von daher schon ein absolutes 'Must-See' Match."
[10.0] "Bret Hart vs Stone Cold Steve Austin von Wrestlemania 13 ist ein Match welches ich als Perfektes Match bezeichnen würde. Es hatte alles was ein Match haben kann. Hardcore bzw Brawl elemente, intensität, Brutalität und die gewisse Technik. Dazu gab es auch noch ein nahezu perfektes Booking. Denn sowohl bret Hart als auch Stone Cold wurden geturnt. Völlig zurecht das 5* Rating von Meltzer. *****"
[10.0] "The greatest match of both their careers , fantastic brawl and the heat between the two was absolutely awesome , intense .... the finish of the double turn also was one of the most memorable finishes in pro wrestling history in which Bret played the bitter and obnoxious heel to perfection after the end of the match.... the image of Austins blood pouring over his face while he was screaming in the sharpshooter to never give up will forever be one of the most iconic images in the history of pro wrestling ..... absolute classic"
[10.0] "Easily the best match in WWE history as everything was just perfect in this match. From the psychology to the selling Bret and Austin nailed their roles to perfection and the double turn story was just amazing as well as both men came out of this bout even better prior to this contest. Just a stellar match and one of the greatest matches of all-time. (*****)"
[9.0] "Endlich mal in voller Länge gesehen und ja, es war ein Meisterwerk. Die vollen 5 Sterne kann ich nicht geben, da mir Crowd-Brawling noch nie etwas gab und Austin nicht die volle Zeit sein Knie so herausragend sellt wie in den ersten Minuten. Dennoch was Storytelling, Psycholgie und Intensität betrifft ein Meilenstein. Diese Crowd Reaktionen (zumindest diese Art und Weise) sind heute kaum mehr vorstellbar oder nur selten zu hören. Hart & Austin gehen von Beginn an mit vollem Tempo an die Sache und lassen ihr Match wirken als ob hier Wirklich ein No Holds Barred Fight vor unseren Augen stattfindet. Zu dem grandiosen Ende wurde eigentlich schon alles gesagt. Für mich eines der großartigsten Finishes in der WWE Geschichte. So bleibt ein Klassiker mit ganz kleinen Schönheitsfehlern. ****3/4"
[10.0] "Eines der mit besten Matches bei einer Wrestlemania und DER Höhepunkt der Hart/Austin-Fehde! Richtige Ansetzung, I Quit-Regeln und dann noch den passenden Mann um es unter Kontrolle zu halten mit Ken Shambrock, der das Match abricht, weil ein blutender Austin im Sharpshooter das Bewusstsein verliert, hammerhartes Finish, allerdings nur in diesem Match, nicht in der Fehde!"
[10.0] "In my opinion this is the greatest WWE match of all time. I don't think there has ever been a better story told in the ring. Fantastic brawl with some decent psychology in the mix. Might possibly be the greatest match of all time. The final image of Austin passed out in a pool of blood and leaving the ring with the crowd chanting his name is worth a 10 rating alone. *****"
[10.0] "The greatest storytelling you will see in a WWE ring. Bret plays the disgruntled hero, Austin the heroic bad guy who wont quit. A superb brawl with great intensity and selling."
[10.0] "Anyone who had paid attention to the months of buildup (one of my fav wwf rivalries ever) understood why a match like this, outside of brets usual style, would be so heralded. Come into this with no buildup and it would ruin it because at the last ppv austin didnt get a huge pop but had some fans no doubt. Classic. All of a sudden brets a heel. This almost didnt happen, thank god shawn lost his smile."
[10.0] "Arguably the greatest match of all time. And definitely in my top 10 ever. Bret and Stone Cold told a fantastic story here, as they both hated eachother, and they beat rhe crap out of eachother. The double turn was amazing."
[7.0] "Another unpopular opinion on my behalf. I gave this match *** 1/2 stars out of 5. I thought the match was good and the ending left Steve Austin well off for the rest of his career. Honestly, I didn't find the action to be that great. Good but not great."
[10.0] "Best match in WWF/E history. An awesome brawl that turned Steve Austin into the biggest star in wrestling. The double turn was executed perfectly."
[9.0] "This was an awesome match and I can see why a lot of people call this one of the best matches ever however I have always had a bit of trouble with the match. I find myself not invested in the match as much as I would want to be. This rating just comes down to a slight difference in taste and I don't begrudge anyone the higher rating."
[10.0] "Zurecht WM Klassiker. Für damalige WWE Verhältnisse zeigten die beiden ein wirklich anderes Match, was aber richtungsweisend und auch anders war. Hier geht es nicht wer der bessere Techniker ist sondern einfach nur darum den Gegner zu zerstören. Ganz gut fand ich unter anderem den Swinging Neckbreaker von Hart. Auch die dauerhafte Beinbearbeitung Harts gegen Austin ist gut gemacht. Das Ende ist natürlich ein Wrestlemaniamoment für die Ewigkeit. Die Niederlage schwächt Austin in keinster Weise, sondern das Ende mit dem Double Turn lässt ihn noch stärker aus dem Match gehen. Einzig JRs Kommentar nach dem Match nervt. (5*)"
[9.0] "That was a legendary brawl with awesome storytelling. All that needs to be said about this match was already said. However, I missed something here that would make it a 5 Star classic. Awesome match, but not 5 star for me. **** 3/4*"
[10.0] "Very well might be the best match of all time. Just fantastic from start to finish, the change in Bret is a joy to watch and Austin plays his role to perfection. Austin's bloody face at the end of the match may be the greatest visual in wrestling history."
[8.0] "Für mich ist eine 5-Sterne-Bewertung deutlich zu hoch. Dieses Match ist für die Auswirkungen und einige Spots legendär, bspw. den Figure-4 am Ringpfosten, den Würgegriff mittels des Kabels und natürlich durch Austin's blutverschmiertes Gesicht im Sharpshooter, aber ansonsten konnte mich das Match nicht sonderlich aus dem Sessel reißen. Für mich war es hier zu viel Brawling und die Stipulation kommt auch erst am Ende zum Tragen, im Matchverlauf zuvor gab es nur wenige Aufgabegriffe, abgesehen von den Standards. Vielleicht war auch die Erwartungshaltung zu groß."
[9.0] "Kein verrückter Brawl, kein Spotfest, kein Technikfeuerwerk usw. usf. sondern genau die richtige Mischung. Unglaublich und fesselnd, ein wirklich faszinierender und "magischer" Kampf, ein echter Klassiker vor dem Wrestlingherrn."
[8.0] "Vielleicht war meine Erwartung zu groß, aber für mich ist dieses Match eine kleine Enttäuschung. Zwar haben wir es hier mit einem sehr intensiven und blutigen Brawl zu tun, aber mehr Tempo und Aktionen im Ring hätten hier meiner Meinung nach gut getan. So war das zwar ein guter Kampf, aber nicht der Überknaller, den die Punktwertung hier verspricht."
[10.0] "Eines der intensivsten Matches der Wrestlinggeschichte. innerhalb einer großartigen Fehde bekriegen sich zwei Ausnahme Wrestler bis aufs Blut. Das Finish ist eine der ganz großen Momente dieses Sports."
[8.0] "This match is a 4 star match. Giving it 5 stars is a bit of a stretch. It was a good brawl. The finish made Steve Austin's career. It told a good story and is a highlight of this ERA of WWF. I think it gets so many 5 star ratings because of the story behind it and how good their feud was. Like I said a good match, not the best as some claim. 8 of 10."
[10.0] "For how intense the feud was, this match had to reach a certain point of brutality in order to be a success and they were able to make it flow perfectly. The greatest double turn in WWF history. Bret Hart had been complaining for months about Austin constant attacks on him and his inability to remain WWF Champion. Stone Cold was over with the crowd no matter how dastardly WWF tried to make him look, such as cheating to win the Rumble, ruining the Sid/Bret where Bret lost the title twice in one Raw and the commentary (even King stopped supporting Austin's actions). The writers finally gave in and the rest is history, perhaps the hottest superstar of all time and it all truly starts with this match."
[10.0] "Outstanding match that helped propel Steve Austin into the stratosphere and become the star of the late 90’s. A wild brawl that became the blueprint for most of the Attitude Era main events. This is also an interesting match in that Bret Hart came in as the face and Austin the heel and by sheer ring work and ring psychology; Bret was the heel and Austin, who never gave up, the face at the conclusion. You can actually feel the crowd turning on Bret midway through the match; THIS is how you tell a story in the ring and is becoming somewhat of a lost art ***** my favorite match ever"
[10.0] "Very brutal submissions match. Lots of hate, this was more of a fight than an match. The ending picture of this match has become one of the most iconic images in pro wrestling"
[9.0] "Brilliant match, which had great repercussions on the future of wrestling. I consider it only a **** 3/4 for 3 reasons: the match has a very clear structure and segments (it doesn't feel spontaneous), some spots look bad (like when Austin has to jump aside to avoid the cameraman) and it is a little too short."
[10.0] "Legendärer Wrestlemania-Kampf, der rein von der späteren Bedeutung vielleicht sogar der wichtigste WM-Kampf aller Zeiten war. Sehr gutes Storytelling der beiden. Ich nehme beiden jederzeit den Hass auf den anderen ab. Einziger kleiner Kritikpunkt ist, dass Stone Cold sobald er die Oberhand im Match gewinnt das Selling seines angeschlagenen Beins vergisst. Aber egal, dass geniale Finish macht alles wieder wett. Auch wenn es "nur" ein Brawl war, darf der Kampf in keiner Top 5 der besten WM-Matches aller Zeiten fehlen. Definitiv ein "Must see"!"
[8.0] "Das Match war ganz klar das Highlight von WrestleMania 13. Trotzdem reicht es für mich nicht zur Höchstwertung, da mir ganz einfach auch die Wrestling-Moves gefehlt haben. Klar waren die an dieser Stelle nicht zu erwarten, aber ein reiner Brawl (wenn auch vom allerfeinsten) reicht mir da einfach nicht aus."
[8.0] "Ich kann den Hype um dieses Match überhaupt nicht nachvollziehen. Bis auf den Sharpshooter-Angle war das Match zwar gut, aber nichts was absolut herausragend ist, schon gar nicht ***** würdig ist. Aufgrund des Aftermaths noch 8Punkte"
[10.0] "Vieleicht einer der wichtigsten Kämpfe der WWE Geschichte! Ein neuer Superstar wird hier geboren. Zusammen mit dem CHicago Street Fight geht die WWE langsam richtung Attitude Ära."
[10.0] "Ein absolut fantastisches Match, dass perfekt den Hass den Bret Hart und Steve Austin aufeinander haben rüberbringt. Ein Match mit toller Härte. Es macht einfach Spaß hier zuzusehen. Und die Schlussphase mit dem blutüberströmten Austin, der gegen den Sharpshooter ankämpft ist legendär. Legendär sind natürlich auch die Reaktionen, die sich vor allem nochmal nach der Post-Match Attacke verstärkt haben. Einfach nur grandios."
[8.0] "IMO ein extrem überbewertetes Match. Klar war es absolut fantastisch und der Stein, der Stone Cold Steve Austins Aufstieg den Weg ebnete, aber erstens wurde der von vielen gerühmte Doppelturn nur angedeutet und zweitens hat mir bei dem Match trotz der großen, aber nicht übertriebenen Härte und des tollen Endes irgendwas gefehlt. Dennoch das beste Match von WM 13, wo die Fans auch unglaublich laut waren und richtig mitgingen und ein Match, was man sich als Wrestlingfan aufgrund der Wichtigkeit und dem generellen Status des Kampfes einmal ansehen sollte. Allerdings mMn wirklich kein *****-Match oder gar das beste aller Zeiten. Insgesamt gebe ich **** und 8 Punkte."
[10.0] "Das vielleicht intensivste Match der WWE-Geschichte, das Match ist zwar äußerst brutal, aber dabei nicht platt oder sinnlos brutal, sondern es erzählt eine Matchstory und ist sehr stringent geführt. Man nimmt den beiden den gegenseitigen Hass wirklich ab."
[10.0] "Für mich DAS Match der WWF. Kein anderes hat mich auch nur ansatzweise so begeistert wie dieses hier. ***** sind hier mehr als gerechtfertigt finde ich"
[9.0] "Ein fantattisches Match mit einem wahrhaft legendärem Ausgang. Leider gibt es einige eher langweilige Minuten die mir die ***** vermiessen. M-R:****3/4"
[10.0] "Unglaublich intensives Match, welches durch viel Härte und Dramatik geprägt war. Definitiv einer der wichtigsten Momente in der Karriere von Austin auf seinem Weg zum absoluten Top Star. *****"
[10.0] "Was für ein Kampf. Unglaubliche Intensität, eine dramatische Story und ein aufgeheiztes Publikum. Das Finish ist Wrestlinggeschichte und gehört zum besten was ich in über 17 Jahren Wrestling gesehen habe. Schade nur, dass es danach mit Brets Karriere steil bergab ging......"
[10.0] "Schnelles und einfach geiles Match. Klar, kein Technisches Feuerwerk, aber ich glaube es gab kaum eine langsame Szene, wo ich mich ruhig hinsetzen konnte und auf die nächste Aktion warten konnte. Der Doppelturn war perfekt gemacht, die Moves gut angesetzt(Keine Upfucks), es stimte bis auf die Technik alles. Der Beginn der Attitude Ära war damit geboren."
[9.0] "Der wirkliche Anfang von Attitude. Eine im Ring ausgetragene Wachablösung. Spannend, intensiv, viel Taktik, hart, brutal und auf die zum Match passende Art perfekt inszeniert. Egal was man von beiden halten mag, aber sie gehören mit Fug und Recht zu den besten im Wrestling."
[10.0] "Ein sehr intensiv geführtes Match, welches sich anfangs gleich mal in die Zuschauerränge verlagert, wo der Bret auch gleich mal ein bisschen Cola kosten "darf". Austin sellt sehr stark und sein Gesichtsausdruck als er selbst den Sharpsooter ansetzen will, ist absolut Gold wert ! Die Crowd ist unglaublich laut. Die letzten Bilder des Matches sind an Dramatik kaum zu überbieten und sind legendär ! Es ist Austins Breakout-Match, es ist genial gebookt und es ist völlig zurecht ein Stück Wrestlinggeschichte !"
[10.0] "Bestes Match aller Zeiten! Von vorne bis hinten genial. Gab alles in dem Match was sich ein Wrestlingfan wünscht, inklusive brutalem Ende. *****"
[10.0] "Ein großartiger Kampf! Meiner Meinung nach eines der besten Matches in den jeweiligen Karrieren beider Wrestler. Ein unglaublich intensiver Fight der an Dramatik, Spannung und Stiffness kaum zu überbieten war. Hart, Schmerzhaft und Brutal. Hart und Austin haben bewiesen , dass solche Matches im Gegensatz zu manch einen oder anderen ECW-Garbage Style Match nicht übermäßig viel Blut, 10. 000 Waffen oder gefährliche Bumps brauchen um diese drei Eigenschaften in sich zu vereinen. Ein Instant-Classic ohne jede Zweifel!"
[9.0] "War natürlich wrestlerisch nicht der Hit, dafür aber an Intensität kaum zu überbieten. Für mich das beste Match von Austin und mir hat es ausgesprochen gefallen obwohl ich von beiden kein großer Fan bin."
[9.0] "Würde ich zwar nicht als 5 Sterne Match bewerten, aber dennoch ein richtig gutes, was man sich von dieser WM als einziges Match öfters ansehen kann. Ein sehr gutes Match und eine sehr gute Fehde."
[10.0] "Was für ein Hammermatch! Ein Wendepunkt im Wrestling. Wenn man die ganzen Main Events nach diesem Match betrachtet, sieht man in so gut wie jedem, wie an dieses Match Tribut gezollt wird. Sei es das Brawlen durchs Publikum, der Bladejob oder das Einsetzen von allen möglichen Gegenständen. Man muss also sagen, dass es nicht "nur" ein grandioses Match ist sondern ein echter, zudem sehr einflussreicher, Meilenstein in der Geschichte der WWE und ganz nebenbei bemerkt das Sprungbrett für Austin aber das wurde ja oft genug erwähnt! :-)"
[10.0] "Dieses Match ist wirklich absolut Klasse, eine brutale Aktion nach der anderen, und die beiden schenken sich hier nichts. Das Finish ist natürlich so ausgebaut, dass es nicht zu Ende sein kann mit der Fehde, da Austin gar nicht aufgegeben hat. Also Platz für mehr, finde ich gut, ich gebe glasklare 10 Punkte."
[10.0] "Um dieses Match zu beschreiben, reicht eigentlich ein einziger Satz: Was für eine Schlacht! Die beiden gehen durchweg ein hohes Tempo, es gibt keine einzige Ruhepause im Kampf. Dazu noch die Dramatik mit dem blutenden Austin, der am Ende zwar verliert, aber doch nicht kleinzukriegen ist und eine Stimmung, die beinahe das Dach von der Halle gefegt hätte. Grandios!"
[10.0] "WM 13 war durch die Bank leider Mist, aber wäre nicht dieses Match gewesen, wäre Wrestling wohl nicht das, was es heute ist. Ich habe damals die Story komplett verfolgt (incl. des unfairen Royal Rumble Sieges von Austin, das Fatal 4 bei In your House, etc. ), und schon damals habe ich diesem Kampf entgegen gefiebert. Und Hart & Austin standen einander in nichts nach. Nie zuvor hatte ich den Hitman derart rücksichtslos & brutal gesehen! Und der blutende Austin tat sein übriges, um mir als Mark, der ich damals war, einen kalten Schauer über den Rücken zu jagen. Ganz grosses Kino & ein Meilenstein, wenn nicht gar Eckpfeiler des heutigen Business."
[9.0] "Mir fehlt leider der Bezug zu der Zeit in der WWF und da ich nur das Match selbst gesehen habe, kann ich auch nur dieses beurteilen. Unglaublich intensiv und ich dachte, dass einer der zwei das nicht überleben wird. Allerdings ist mir, abgesehen vom Blut und dem Sharpshooter, so gut wie nichts in Erinnerung geblieben. Deshalb nicht die Höchstnote."
[9.0] "Als reines Wrestlingamatch kann man es nicht bezeichnen, sondern eher als Brawl, daß es natürlich in sich hat und das Finish ist an Dramatik kaum zu überbieten und war sicherlich der engülitige Durchbruch zur Spitze von Austin."
[10.0] "Wäre als Schlusspunkt der Hart vs Austin Fehde eigentlich perfekt gewesen! Zwar empfinde ich das Match nicht als 5 Sterne Match, aber es war, obwohl wrestlerisch gar nicht mal so hochklassig, ein Bombenmatch und der Höhepunkt der Hart/Austin Fehde! Außerdem läutete es fast schon den Beginn der Attitude Era ein und ebenfalls bedeutete es den Heel Turn vom Hitman. Das Match ist einfach legendär und als zeitloser Klassiker anzusehen!"
[10.0] "Technisch gesehen kein schönes Match, aber es läutete den Beginn der einen Ära bzw. sogar schon fast das Ende einer anderen Ära ein. Erreicht wurde dies durch einen doppelten Turn. Der Hitman wurde endgültig zum Heel und Austin zum "Face". Durch dieses Match etablierte sich Stone Cold und legte den Grundstein für seine weitere Karriere."
[10.0] "Nach meinem Geschmack das beste Singles Match in der Fehde zwischen Austin und Hart. Obwohl das Match bar jeder technischen Finesse ist, kommt der Kampf doch unglaublich intensiv rüber. Außerdem war die Fehde zu diesem Zeitpunkt bereits wirklich super aufgebaut. Da standen einfach zwei im Ring, die sich "hassten", und genau so kam es auch rüber. Das Ende ist natürlich ein absoluter Klassiker und ein endgültiger Wendepunkt für sowohl Austin als auch Hart."