SummerSlam 1999: A Night of Surprises and Dominance

Introduction

SummerSlam 1999, held at the Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota, marked a pivotal moment in professional wrestling history. With its unforgettable storylines, shocking twists, and legendary performances, this event captivated the hearts of wrestling enthusiasts worldwide. In this comprehensive article, we will delve into the thrilling details of SummerSlam 1999, exploring its impact on the sport and providing a detailed analysis of its most memorable matches.

The Card

The SummerSlam 1999 card featured a stacked lineup of some of the most iconic wrestlers of the era, including:

The Surprises

SummerSlam 1999 was filled with unexpected moments that left fans stunned.

• The Return of Vince McMahon: The former WWF Chairman returned to the ring to confront Triple H after he had won the WWF Championship, setting the stage for their heated feud.
• The Debut of Chris Benoit: The "Crippler" made his WWF debut in the Triple Threat match, showcasing his exceptional technical skills and earning the respect of fans.
• Chyna's Victory: Chyna became the first woman to hold the Intercontinental Championship, defeating Jeff Jarrett in a groundbreaking moment for women in professional wrestling.

The Dominance

Despite the surprises, SummerSlam 1999 was ultimately a night of dominance.

• Stone Cold Steve Austin: The "Texas Rattlesnake" retained his WWF Championship against Triple H in a brutal and physical main event, continuing his reign as the top star in the company.
• The Undertaker: The "Phenom" defeated Mankind in a classic No Holds Barred match, cementing his status as one of the most feared and respected wrestlers in history.
• Kurt Angle: Angle successfully defended his Triple Threat Championship, displaying his incredible athleticism and technical prowess.

The Impact

SummerSlam 1999 had a profound impact on the WWF and professional wrestling as a whole.

• The Attitude Era Peak: The event marked the peak of the WWF's "Attitude Era," a period of racy and edgy storylines that attracted a wider audience.
• New Stars Emerged: Chris Benoit and Chyna emerged as breakout stars, establishing themselves as major players in the WWF.
• The Rise of Women's Wrestling: Chyna's victory marked a watershed moment for women's wrestling, paving the way for greater opportunities for female wrestlers.

Memorable Matches

WWF Championship: Stone Cold Steve Austin vs. Triple H

The main event of SummerSlam 1999 was a highly anticipated clash between two of the biggest stars in the WWF. Austin and Triple H engaged in a no-holds-barred brawl that showcased their raw power and determination. In the end, Austin emerged victorious after hitting his signature Stone Cold Stunner, extending his WWF Championship reign.

No Holds Barred: The Undertaker vs. Mankind

This brutal and unforgiving match was a testament to the indomitable spirit of both The Undertaker and Mankind. The two wrestlers utilized every weapon at their disposal, including steel chairs, tables, and barbed wire. Ultimately, The Undertaker prevailed after chokeslamming Mankind off the top of the Hell in a Cell structure.

Triple Threat Match: Kurt Angle vs. Chris Jericho vs. Chris Benoit

This technical masterpiece showcased the incredible skills of three of the best wrestlers in the world. Angle, Jericho, and Benoit traded submission holds, high-flying maneuvers, and near falls. In the end, Angle retained his championship after hitting the Ankle Lock on Benoit.

Table of Key Statistics

Humorous Stories and Lessons Learned

The Al Snow Dummy

During the Hardcore Championship match, Al Snow's trusty mannequin head mascot, Head, was decapitated. This led to a comical moment where Snow tried to reattach Head's head, only for it to fall off repeatedly. This incident taught us the importance of having a backup plan, even in the most unexpected situations.

The Foley Catapult

In the No Holds Barred match, Mankind attempted to catapult Mick Foley onto The Undertaker through a table. However, the table collapsed before Foley could land, resulting in a hilarious mishap. This reminded us that even the most well-planned schemes can go awry.

The Queen of the Rings

Chyna's victory as the first woman to hold the Intercontinental Championship was a groundbreaking moment. It demonstrated that women can achieve anything they set their minds to and inspired future generations of female wrestlers.

How-To: Attend a Live WWE Event

Step 1: Purchase Tickets

Acquire tickets through official channels such as Ticketmaster or the WWE website. Plan ahead, as popular events can sell out quickly.

Step 2: Arrive Early

Arrive at the venue at least an hour before showtime to secure a good seat and enjoy pre-show festivities.

Step 3: Follow Security Instructions

Comply with all security measures, including bag checks and metal detectors. Be aware of prohibited items, such as weapons or alcohol.

Step 4: Be Respectful

Respect the wrestlers, referees, and fellow fans. Do not interfere with the show or engage in disruptive behavior.

Step 5: Enjoy the Experience

Immerse yourself in the atmosphere, cheer on your favorite wrestlers, and have an unforgettable night of entertainment.

Pros and Cons of Attending a Live WWE Event

Pros:

• Experience the spectacle and excitement live
• Create lasting memories with friends and family
• Support your favorite wrestlers
• Witness history in the making

Cons:

• Can be expensive
• Limited availability of tickets
• Potential for crowds and long lines
• May not be suitable for young children

Conclusion

SummerSlam 1999 was an iconic event that left an enduring mark on professional wrestling. With its unforgettable surprises, dominant performances, and memorable matches, this night cemented the WWF's position as the pinnacle of sports entertainment. The legacy of SummerSlam 1999 continues to inspire and entertain fans worldwide, reminding us that anything is possible when passion, determination, and innovation collide in the squared circle.