Jim Cornette's Watch Along: Hulk Hogan vs. The Rock at Wrestlemania 18

From Episode 158 of Jim Cornette's Drive Thru
Artwork by Travis Heckel!
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[@piccolo5346]

The Rock is the only wrestler to beat Hogan,Austin and Cena at Wrestlemania.

[@noahhossman7070]

And most importantly.... The Sultan.

[@jonathanturbide2232]

Great observation, Piccolo. That's why you'll always be my favorite DB warrior.

[@trosinesss]

And Erick Rowan

[@akbarmalik5661]

The 3 biggest box office draws alongside him. Solidifying himself as the biggest star and arguably the greatest of all time.

[@Baastilein31]

@@trosinesss Erick Rowan had a match at Wrestlemania with The Rock. Damn.

[@jamirimaj6880]

"He beat Andre the Giant with that move!" I almost forgot that pro wrestling used to be so captivating.

[@TheBorwig]

One of the best calls. Thats how you weave together a universe.

[@thesearentthedroidsyourelo2504]

He also had that legendary quote at WM17 “Stone Cold is shaking hands with Satan himself”. JR was incredible.

[@Dr170]

Now the very same man is audibly having his soul sapped away on a weekly basis calling matches about minivans because the other promotion won't have him. What a world...

[@fd2blk78]

Best call of all time.

[@jamirimaj6880]

@@Dr170 MLW or ROH or even NWA Powerrr if they come back should really be JR's last stand of calling wrestling matches.

[@jsoto8229]

On behalf of everyone keep these watch alongs coming

[@emperortrevornorton3119]

@Nathaniel Baxter yes sir I enjoy the class on classic and retro pro wrestling

[@smarkslowplay3512]

@What a Maneuver! Great American Bash 91 would be a good start😄

[@noahlsmith2488]

I hope they do.

[@smarkslowplay3512]

@What a Maneuver! That was 90 but another headscratcher sure😂

[@kennethfurtado7754]

Yes please!!!! I love these watch along segments!!! Just amazing and we get an in depth look at the match from a pro who knows what he is talking about. Love you Jim and Brian!!!

[@williamthomas5215]

One of my favorite calls in wrestling is when JR goes “THE BIG LEG!!! HE BEAT ANDRE THE GIANT WITH THAT MOVE!!!” Still gives me goosebumps

[@tommyhallum2054]

Only JR

[@dickmarx1298]

JR has some of The Greatest calls in wrestling

[@daveyparent5901]

Awesome, JR had shit on Hogan and the leg drop for years and now had to sell it as a legit move. “He beat Andrea the Giant with that move” gives it instant credibility

[@slabbusterrtr7690]

Good gawd!!! good gawd!!! Jr voice

[@martyc909]

The number of JR legendary calls are unmatched by any other announcers. And the leg drop one is in his top 5. I remember watching live on PPV when he said that, I popped hard!

[@peterjames159]

That last couple of minutes about Jim saying we'll never see the likes of Hogan and The Rock again just made me feel sad. He's 100% right.

[@jkokubu1984]

It's true, it's damn true...though was hoping for similar potential with Angle v Cena but they went with Corbin instead (yes, Cena was already established, but wanted to see that relationship come full circle.)

[@Kas58223]

JKokubu I would have preferred Cena vs Angle one more time at wrestlemania the people would have ate it up

[@LMLR187]

It really goes across the board. We'll probably never have a boxing match as big as the last one with Pacquiao and Mayweather. I doubt we'll find any major MMA fight as anticipated as Conor and Khabib bout. And aside from star athletes of the last ten years, (with some exceptions) most athletes are surprisingly unremarkable by comparison.

[@mikehunth5765]

It’s almost like WWE doesn’t want mega stars anymore they don’t like the idea of a wrestler overshadowing the brand which blows my mind because mainstream stars bring mainstream exposure and WWE would do anything to be taken seriously by the mainstream media

[@brucebigg919]

So true and so sad. We will never have wrestling stars this larger than life again. People in my life at the time who didn't even watch wrestling knew this match was happening and the significance of it. Today, people who don't watch wrestling couldn't pick the current stars out of a lineup.

[@daredevilcan]

Here's the deal, i was at WM 18 and don't remember anything about it except this match. 70,000 people going crazy, it was insane.

[@csaund4836]

This match had 4 wrestling moves discounting finishers. A spinebuster, a DDT, an abdominal stretch and a sharpshooter. Jim is right on what draws and what doesn't. You don't need 450 splash's and shooting star presses with 15 near falls to have a 5 star classic. When crowds nowaday see that acrobatic shit, they chant ''holy sh#t'' or ''this is awesome'' or even worse ''fight forever'' (cringe) but they are cheering the moves. These fans in in Toronto were cheering the performers and losing their minds. Nothing can surpass that level of emotion no matter how many suicide dives you do.

[@anomaly_1417]

I honestly hate wrestling chants that they have today besides holy shit but chants like you deserve just to boo the same guy 5 months later shows where wrestling is as a sport but the fan chant anything and get the stupidest shit over

[@BenTIStudios]

@Mr MT It can be. The danger of the move isn't what gets it over. The people in the ring do. That's what so many wrestlers have misunderstood the last decade to decade and half.

[@mengus6513]

nah you just need 20 years of buildup

[@tylerdurden6060]

Because idiots at that time believed wrestling was real. Now kayfabe is dead. so 4 boring moves ain't gonna keep the fans interested in a fake fight.

[@mengus6513]

@@tylerdurden6060 trust me people knew wrestling was predetermined in 2002 i was there.

[@joshct9426]

If Hogan vs rock wasn't a 5 star match then NO match should ever be a 5 star match

[@bdot187um]

Facts

[@paulwoodford1984]

No match is a five star match. No match is perfect ever. This was a four and a half star match.

[@artisticskillz01]

​@paulwoodford1984 Dave Meltzer. Is this your burner account?

[@paulwoodford1984]

dave and his star rating system is a joke. it’s not an official rating system. he’s too biased towards certain people. none of his ratings are correct. he gives out too many five , six and even seven star ratings, it’s ridiculous. @@artisticskillz01

[@anthonyanderson9303]

​@paulwoodford1984 Bret vs Austin at WM 13. That's a 5 star match.

[@RunningPuma]

Characters make wrestling great, not spot-fests.

[@TheWinstonSlip]

This^^

[@billyjoe6787]

Can't disagree tbh. That's why Roman Reigns vs Jey Uso was so amazing

[@jamirimaj6880]

@@billyjoe6787 No wonder Corny is on it too. He noticed that there's not too much wrestling, but he said it's alright because Reigns vs Uso is hitting the main goal, and he's fine with it.

[@ferox965]

Yep.

[@pizzahighfive2612]

This post seems like it can be a shirt that'll sell a lot.

[@RedVDaveRVDTV]

The fact there was no "this is awesome" chant makes this match.

[@MrJjburgess11]

Yeah these days . A guy will kick out on 2 faults finishes . They start that crap .

[@jamirimaj6880]

only genuine cheers and boos

[@eljuniorcen2675]

Agreed,I honestly don’t want to imagine that,I feel it would’ve set kind of a underwhelming vibe,this was one fucking hell of a match!

[@eiephants]

They pipe those in I swear.

[@Krillep]

Everyone feel it's awesome. And so emotional invested in the match, that they don't even have to say it. It's like chanting "This is awesome" under Game of Thrones serie, you don't, you just enjoy it.

[@MilMaska]

"Well, Ladies and Gentlemen. You can love him or you can hate him and there are a lot of Fans here in the Skydome that love this legendary figure. Hollywood Hulk Hogan" - Jim Ross

[@barrystewart5946]

Mil Maska The Immortal Hulk Hogan is the legendary figure. The fans cheered the goodness out of “evil” Superman.

[@KingJonathanThe1st]

Love hulk hogan. Hate the Politician he is outside of his Character.

[@DOHCtorJ]

@@barrystewart5946 well said, great analogy!

[@ferox965]

Us Canucks aren't gonna boo Hulk Hogan. Wasn't going to happen. Hogan and the Harts don't really get booed here.

[@jonathanturbide2232]

The moment Hogan Hulks up still gives me goosebumps, and forever will. One of the best Wrestlemania moments of all time. These watch along are really fun, please keep them coming Corny! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟✌

[@jkranites]

One of the loudest pops ever recorded ever I believe

[@stinkypinkeee5085]

@@jkranites Almost...nothing beats The Road Warriors coming out to "Iron Man"...holy cow what a ruckus...

[@Themaskplague]

Yer that bits incredible , and the two count after he hits the leg drop.JRs commentary helps make it aswell “HE BEAT ANDRE THE GIANT WITH THAT MOVE!!”

[@jamirimaj6880]

@@stinkypinkeee5085 damn Corny should do a lengthy tribute about the true Road Warrios 🙏

[@stinkypinkeee5085]

@@jamirimaj6880 I agree...

[@doctorrobotnik4209]

Corny's star ratings make a hell of a lot more sense than Uncle Dave's do

[@dib4calmahadi684]

Well Its Cornette who actually give idea of 5 Star rating Systems

[@jamirimaj6880]

@@dib4calmahadi684 Actually yeah hahaha he should really point it out to everyone, another historical fact.

[@marklogan8112]

Dementia Dave

[@eoinreid3774]

I like Dave's actual reporting but his hatred for Hogan is real. I'm convinced Dave watched this whole thing with his teeth barred and nails grinding into his armchair the moment the crowd went full 1985 Hulkamania.

[@SuperPeterok]

@@eoinreid3774 why does he hate him?

[@chris2423]

“This match is a god damn masterpiece!” -Amen, Corny :-)

[@gordonirvine726]

Amen brothooooooor

[@ALT_RIGHT]

That's VERY high praise from Jim

[@vicalsi1568]

I kept rewinding to that part! Hilarious, but true!

[@eljuniorcen2675]

Amen!

[@thehandoftheking3314]

"Out of your fucking rabid ass mind"

[@Squeakypickles619]

"HE BEAT ANDRE THE GIANT WITH THAT MOVE!!!!" - JR GOOSEBUMPS....

[@FirebrandOP]

That comment was sick that's why i love jim ross

[@Awells89]

King’s line about this match being the equivalent of Mike Tyson vs Muhammad Ali or Babe Ruth vs Barry Bonds always gets me.

[@dominiquejones3805]

True words spoken

[@LanceJ.]

The whole match was brilliance from everyone involved. Rock, Hogan, JR and King.

[@elojovirolodehbk9402]

"This is professional wrestling" that sums it up perfectly

[@85futureshock]

This is possibly the greatest analysis of any wrestling match ever. It's not about there being just 4-5 moves. It's about the hottest young star of his day wrestling the biggest star in history in front of a crowd who is so happy to see their hero again. Those big stars made every move count towards a bigger story. Dave Meltzer is a great historian but he doesn't understand a match as much as he thinks he does. In 20 years, no one will care about Chuck and Trent vs Santana/Ortiz. They will remember this match for the emotion they made them feel.

[@Matthew-mf6xg]

It hurts to see, because these guys in AEW are killing themselves for a cheap pop. This is an example of how wrestling should be constructed.

[@HavanaOutpost]

This is a 5-Star review for a 5-Star match.

[@bkjbearcat78]

Love the match. No flips, flops or dives. No 14 Canadian Destroyers. No 19 chair shots to the head only to be beat by a tombstone piledriver. Love it.

[@Matthew-mf6xg]

What the hell happened to wrestling? Why does no one sell anymore? Why 14 Canadian destroyers and 23 superkicks for constant near falls? The good ol days are dead.

[@zlinedavid]

@@Matthew-mf6xg The answer: video games. It’s all about the one doing the moves, not the one receiving/selling.

[@shawnmoney8055]

This is five stars, no flipping and diving just guys who are bigger than life and know how to work the crowd. So when people say there are better athletes today who cares if nobody cares about them

[@anomaly_1417]

Seriously like people really call Okada and Omega the greatest pro wrestling match of all time when all they did was spam finishers yes they had some good spots but dammit don’t say it’s the best because of finishers and near falls they need to call it a good match because of the storytelling, psychology, and emotions

[@hattybryanfield4408]

So true. I ain’t about what moves you can do or how many, it’s making what you do do get over.

[@anomaly_1417]

Hatty BryanField but the “fans” today aren’t even hardcore anymore just casual and they just get the stupidest shit over

[@BenTIStudios]

@@anomaly_1417 Your reasoning here is why I never was in love with the Shawn/Taker Mania matches. I called the finishes both time before the match happened to my best friend. He agreed 100 percent. Just do a crap load of finishers. Shawn losing in the end. They were good don't get me wrong. But unlike this match, we all knew who was winning. Anyone that didn't think Taker was winning that match, was at least for those matches , clueless.

[@Yeneo]

Agree. Dave Meltzer is on drugs

[@AmericanWrathchild]

The moment when Hogan hulked up and the crowd popped. That moment was amazing. I watched it on ppv when I was a little kid and it was the first Hogan match I had ever seen.

[@ferox965]

I'd say it it went beyond pop...more like a sonic boom haha.

[@louiscyphere7975]

I was there.

[@sheepdavis]

Hulking up is so cliche and boring

[@aoisora1445]

@@sheepdavis Hulk Up rather than Super Cena

[@CompelledUsername]

@@sheepdavis Yet he did more with that than your flip merchants will in their careers.

[@StonexxDemonmaggot]

Jericho even said that this match should have been the main event. Too bad Triple H’s ego wouldn’t allow it.

[@SuperPeterok]

His big ass nose

[@dante040]

World championship should be on last

[@dazitmane8905]

HHH suffered the same thing almost a decade later when HBK Taker stole the show at Mania 25 and HHH had a dud with Randy Orton .

[@AlexanderMacAoidh]

Or maybe winning the Royal Rumble when his return was red hot. Plus that’s RR rules

[@fc775]

@El Gusanillo Del Juego can't you stop saying we didn't get that match rock vs Hogan was damn near perfect

[@arnavbhagwat4232]

Finally....Cornette building up to this watch long had more long term storytelling than WWE has had in years...

[@emilsharifov8699]

Thats a fact

[@jamirimaj6880]

They have a chance with Tribal Chief Roman though

[@arnavbhagwat4232]

@@jamirimaj6880 I hope they don't fuck up The Tribal Chief

[@jamirimaj6880]

@@arnavbhagwat4232 So far, so good though. This was what they should've done with Cena, good for Roman that it's not too late for him.

[@arnavbhagwat4232]

@@jamirimaj6880 Cena can still come back as the nWo gimmick

[@rosiegratz8377]

Corny is the absolute most passionate man in pro wrestling history, love hearing him talk about these matches it definitely puts you in the ring and the full phycology behind everything.

[@cbizzlenizzle]

Hogan v. Andre is probably #2 if you judge by reactions of the crowd

[@mattthomas1442]

Hogan put on a master class on how to work the crowd and showed why he was the biggest star in modern wrestling history. A lesser wrestler wouldn't have been able to hold the crowd for that entire match like they did.

[@jonathanturbide2232]

So well said. Today it's fashionable to bash Hogan's career just because a lot of people think it makes them more cool or more knowledgeable (when it's the opposite), but Hogan will always be one of the greatest performers of all time and THE biggest wrestling star in history. Fact.

[@professorx1544]

Hogan was on top for like 6 years straight before “passing” the torch to Warrior. More years than Austin and Rock.

[@RandalfElVikingo]

@@professorx1544 Rock got screwed by WWE and decided to become a megastar in Hollywood. Austin got injured and he believes he could've lasted until 2006 if his neck was good. If Rock wanted to, he could've been on top for a whole decade.

[@jamirimaj6880]

and it's not like he's a shitty wrestler, he's actually the modern agile big man, watch his stint in NJPW. Ironically, that "lame" and "boring" leg drop costed him years of his career (and perhaps his life) because he sacrificed his back for that move with numerous back surgeries already.

[@jamirimaj6880]

@@jonathanturbide2232 and add the fact that he was almost 50 here, but for his size, he still does the leg drop beautifully, I mean he still jumps and not just falling to hit the opponent on the ground. If people can see his work on NJPW in the 80s, they'll see that Hogan is an above-average worker.

[@jmnyc212]

I was so shocked he called it a masterpiece in the end but it reinforced my thoughts that Cornette really is one of the few who still gets how pro wrestling truly works best. This match was a tremendous example of ring psychology and crowd control. If not the best of the modern era. I regret never seeing it live since I missed that WM after the clusterfuck ending to 17 which had the best main event build up ever. I just stopped watching wrestling altogether after WM 17.

[@jkranites]

Well it was Austin's idea, and what he wanted. Vince didn't want to, but he convinced him. Stone Cold admitted as much

[@caseykod4406]

@@jkranites He also has admitted that it was a mistake.

[@jkranites]

@@caseykod4406 I know, but at the time it was bad

[@kaqueburlington4278]

Austin vs Rock @ WM 17 was one of the greatest matches ever

[@QueLindoFilms]

WM17 is when I checked out too - the Stone Cold heel turn was poison to the character: you’re not the ultimate badass if you desperately need help from McMahon and his cronies

[@MilMaska]

"Looks at this fans JR. They are on their feet they are clapping" - Jerry Lawler

[@stevenlornie1261]

Kids don't really know these days but THIS match is exactly why my generation love Hulk Hogan.

[@jkokubu1984]

Agreed.

[@Dr170]

Kids these days know how to breathe, and precious little else. The more gifted amongst them can do it with their noses, even! 😏

[@arnavbhagwat4232]

@@Dr170 way to be condescending to people who are younger than you, and then you get offended when we call you a boomer....

[@Dr170]

@@arnavbhagwat4232 Real people don't use expressions like that and thus they have no meaning. Try harder next time you get triggered.

[@sandmantn77]

I always hated Hogan. No doubt he could work a crowd, though.

[@anthonyhale6093]

I know it’s a little late, but on peacock the time stamp for the match start is 2:29:29

[@carterbomeli8433]

You’re a blessing. Thank you for this. Just used it

[@AustinAaq]

Every comment section got at least one GOAT

[@proximacentauri2262]

Can you imagine Dave meltzer has rated this match and orange Cassidy vs Chris Jericho the same rating. RIP Wrestling

[@Hoffanheim]

How many stars?

[@viperxtj61x78]

@@Hoffanheim 3

[@YorrB]

Meltzer should retire while he still has a shred of credibility left. Won't be long before that is gone to.

[@Hoffanheim]

Viper XTJ61X only 3 is it because of the Match Quality?

[@viperxtj61x78]

@@Hoffanheim he just doesn't understand real wrestling

[@dadumbfuck420]

The Rock started semi retirement after SummerSlam '02. He was like 30. He was supposed to be the guy in WWE throughout the 2000's, but he became Hollywood's guy.

[@Robman0908]

The minute he started doing movies it felt like his wrestling time was coming to a close.

[@frizzyrascal1493]

It was insane looking back at it. Rock in 2000 was the most over guy the WWE ever had, as much as the WWE loves to push the narrative that it was Stone Cold vs Corporate that saved the WWF, Rock‘s ratings were better than Austin‘s (compared to both 98’ and 99‘) and that year was the tipping point. Who knows how things would‘ve played out if the Rock didn‘t opt for Hollywood…

[@dilloncooke3976]

It’s nice to hear Jim actually enjoying wrestling.

[@Willverinerage]

"he sells more than Jon Moxley sells being run over by a car from 2 punches and a kick"..........ouch

[@slyfox2022]

Im waiting for AEW marks to reply

[@warrensantos9732]

You should watch the Rock's take on this match. He has his own video about it. Exactly what Corny says, on the first lockup bump he took, The Rock decided to improv & take it like a heel and oversell the facials because of the pop that it got.

[@Hoffanheim]

I hope they do a Watch Along for the HBK vs Hogan at Summerslam 2005😅

[@peterlee6374]

Hogan be visibly pissed when he realises HBK trolling him with the overselling

[@professorx1544]

That match was fun as hell. Screw the haters.

[@Hoffanheim]

Don’t be nice. Be like Mike. Yes i would also give this match 3 Stars, because when you overlook the overselling, than you will see that it was a good match

[@louis3141]

I would still watch that than that his match against the dungeon of doom

[@stephcurrytheg.o.a.t]

That was my first PPV I ever ordered

[@davidedelman2984]

This entire match encompasses exactly what pro wrestling is all about. The crowd reaction, the selling, the psychology. It’s the greatest wrestling match of all time.

[@gordonirvine726]

I love the unwavering POSITIVITY throughout this entire comments section. So refreshing. The emotional reaction of the crowd feeding off these giants makes this an absolute joy to watch. Corny's authenticity shines through also. Bravo.

[@marywilliams1243]

The positivity in the comments section is fucking amazing.I have never seen so many people be civil and level headed about there opinions on a wrestling match.

[@jimmyburch87]

They had the crowd in the palm of their hands, absolutely amazing match.

[@file91e]

If I was going to show a non-wrestling fan a “pro-wrestling” match this would be one of them. The other would be Bret vs. Austin. And maybe one of the Shawn Michaels/Taker matches.

[@shoeplayisbad1]

Ric Flair vs Ricky Steamboat

[@file91e]

shoeplaylover - thats a good one too.

[@shoeplayisbad1]

the psychology is missing from wrestling now

[@file91e]

shoeplaylover - agreed. Though that O’Reilly/Balor match was insane. It was snug but believe lable. Give me a match or two just like that on each card and I’ll be happy. I’m not that greedy. Lol

[@amrey3628]

​@@shoeplayisbad1those were before my time (90s baby) but you are right. Hart vs Austin, HBK vs Taker, Hogan vs Rock are some of my all time favorites though. I remember being a preteen and then young teenager and losing my mind at these matches. I really miss the WWE being able to convey emotions and psychology in the ring like this.

[@TheeCoachg]

Dewayne Johnson has eclipsed “The Rock” as a Wrestling persona but Rock is so underrated as an IN RING talent. His ability to sell and even as a Heel on the mic,he’s just such a babyface in his technique. His facials,his cardio,his ability to give the audience whatever energy they give him right back is just magnificent. If I were a Wrestling teacher i’d make The Rock’s entire WWF/E run a docuseries on GETTING OVER and STAYING OVER!

[@stinkypinkeee5085]

His facials were absolutely the best of his generation...The Rock was a treat to watch in his prime...

[@TheRealTurkFebruary]

How is he underrated as an in-ring talent? His move set put him over as much as his promos. The way he executed a DDT, his version of the spine buster.... his matches were always good.

[@donovanwilliams9006]

@@TheRealTurkFebruary I think a lot of people view Rock as an entertainer more than a wrestler.

[@donovanwilliams9006]

@J Crash let's not get carried away

[@donovanwilliams9006]

@J Crash I appreciate The Rock as much as the next guy and he's underrated as a worker imo. Corporate Rock was my shit. But better than Bret? Not for me. But hey, some guys like chicken, others prefer beef.

[@josenegron7263]

I always wanted Jim Cornette's opinion on the Rock vs. Hogan match at WM18....finally.....it's here!!!!😃😀😃💯👍👏👏👏👏👏👏👏🙏

[@worstinthelobby8022]

Hogan''s performance here for me defines the phrase. I may not be as good as I was but for one night I can be as good as I ever was. This match was magic.

[@marcuslee1927]

Shawn Michaels-Undertaker, WrestleMania 25 I think Jim would love that too, plus I enjoy hearing him begrudgingly compliment Michaels

[@aninfinateregressionanapot2979]

I always loved the psychology of this match. Can't believe I finally get to hear corny analyze it now

[@Godson0771]

The Rock v Hulk Hogan is the greatest match of all time! Wrestlemania X8 will go down as a classic. HHH v Jericho was the official main event, but this was the people’s main event.

[@theuniverse7227]

I NEED Cornette to do a watch along of Taker vs Micheals WM25

[@mitchie2267]

Yesss

[@markrogers4050]

And their rematch at WM26

[@unclelloyd]

Co-sign on that, as well as Austin/Rock WM19.

[@BenTIStudios]

I just commented above to another comment my thoughts on Taker/Michaels Mania matches. I'll go ahead and copy and paste it within this comment. here is why I never was in love the Shawn/Taker Mania matches. I called the finishes both time before the match happened to my best friend. He agreed 100 percent. Just do a crap load of finishers. Shawn losing in the end. They were good don't get me wrong. But unlike this match, we all knew who was winning. Anyone that didn't think Taker was winning that match, was at least for that match, clueless.

[@BenTIStudios]

There was never 1 second during either match that I ever thought Shawn was winning. Every kick out in BOTH matches I called.

[@Ryandookie]

"This is a goddamn masterpiece!" Completely agree.

[@brianlogan4243]

Hogan being the first megastar of the ppv tv era, was THE GUY everyone wanted to face in a mania PPV main event. This was torch passing done the right way!

[@ikill4klondikebars]

John Cena was the last guy of the business to come in, get super over, and make himself a household name to anything even remotely close to Hogan, Rock, and Austin. So Jim is absolutely right. Nobody watches wrestling anymore, nobody takes it seriously, and nobody is a powerful enough draw these days.

[@jasonrojas106]

What’s sad is that Daniel Bryan & CM Punk were on there way to being that next guy, but the WWE killed it. It was happening organically & the WWE doesn’t like it when people get over on their own. Bryan & Punk could’ve been that next great rivalry & then they could’ve injected AJ Styles to it. It would’ve been epic. But stupid WWE missed a golden opportunity for it.

[@billyjoe6787]

It's because the wwe didn't pull the trigger on the wrestlers that were over, and gave wrestlers the wrong gimmick. If Punk stayed, Daniel Bryan never getting injured, and Roman Reigns being The tribal Chief years ago, I think they'd be good

[@set1237]

Feels like the end of time when reading comments like this!

[@jasonmyers8600]

@@jasonrojas106 Punk was garbage.

[@yoitsSmitty2004]

@@jasonrojas106 It would’ve been different if DB didn’t get injured but yet again that Heel turn was dumb

[@NickPoeschek]

Even though I was about 20, this was the last match that made me believe again. I knew wrestling wasn’t “real” but the whole package was there. It wasn’t just performers in the ring, the crowd gave it an unreal atmosphere and JR gave it that big-match feel with his call.

[@starshipfame1]

Best “Pro Wrestling” match of all time. I remember hearing Cody Rhodes saying this was the best match of all time and it made me rewatch this match.

[@timf7413]

I remember watching this match live and being seriously impressed that Hogan still had it in him to have a top quality PPV match by 2002 standards. I honestly think this was the best in ring performance of his career.

[@thorodinson5520]

This was the greatest match on an emotional level. I was there and the audience led the way. Hulkamania ran wild.

[@darkghoulrecords]

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ match and commentary from Jim!

[@theandroidsoldier000]

He beat andre with that move!!!!!! Classic shit right there man god i miss this era of wrestling so much.

[@zanon__]

I think that Brian's thing with "remove 1.5 stars to adjust Dave's rating" needs to go for about actually 5 stars. Meltzer would never know what a 4 or 5 star match is even if it slapped him in the face.

[@CarnageRulez469]

Facts

[@stevelowe2647]

If he doesn't know, & you do, why is his opinion so respected, & NO one gives a fuck about you?

[@rocknorris9508]

My wife and I were in attendance at this Wrestlemania, and I just cannot describe to you how or why it happened, but when The Rock first appeared on the big screen, I want to say someone close to ringside got himself and some buddies to start the “Ro-cky SUCKS!” chant, and since so many of us had been sitting on our hands up until that point, I guess it just gave us something to do, so slowly people started to get into it. I don’t know here the tipping point was, but once you could tell that a significant portion of the crowd was chanting it, others joined in as the anonymity of the crowd allowed you to yell it loud without turning heads. So when The Rock came out, we just went into it again, and it just never let up. And THEN both The Rock and Hogan realized that the crowd had decided who to boo, and swapped roles on the fly, and the crowd all felt INVOLVED in the match. It was all anyone could talk about coming out of the event and carried the show for many of us.

[@frezericks]

You actually want to start it at 2:29:26

[@Kas58223]

I don’t care if it wasn’t a master class of wrestling this match is so much better than the flipping flop bullshit, I loved the match from start to finish the announcers sold it JR saying he beat Andre the Giant with the leg drop and the back and forth of the crowd

[@mattthomas1442]

I get chills every time JR says that. Such a good call for more reasons than 1. Not only did it sound awesome but it also served a purpose. There were many new fans that started watching wrestling since Hogan was in his prime in the WWF, so they may see a lame move like the leg drop so JR's call put it in perspective. Even if you were a new fan you heard of Andre the Giant so if he beat Andre with it than the move must be pretty devastating.

[@Kas58223]

Matt Thomas yea back then wrestlers would hit there finisher once and you knew it was over just the gasp after the kick out Hogan and Rock had that crowd in the palm of their hands I even went nuts Hogan hulking up and no selling it was the best one he ever did

[@tylegend1986]

Agreed 💯

[@tylegend1986]

Matt Thomas great catch. Great call

[@jamirimaj6880]

JR was not really the same since he left the WWE a decade ago... it's painful to see a guy in his age just cashing in money in exchange of his passion and desire in this business. Sad.

[@TheeCoachg]

“HE IS PLAYING THESE PPL LIKE A FUCKING FIDDLE” 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂 You can really hear the Worker in Jim in that moment. As a fan I can see the obvious but as someone who’s been in the business 40yrs,to see the ppl’s emotions sooooo invested HAS to make you feel good.

[@AliSubhi-xs4rn]

I remember watching that match for the first time with my grandpa(who was a massive Hulk Hogan fan) a few days after it actually happened. Unforgettable experience. Thank you,Jim and Brian for yet another really entertaining watch along.

[@Golgabbg]

nearly 20 years later and still a 5 Star Match all day long. Beautiful Match

[@markleopard8960]

This is why ive watched wrestling for moments like that match.

[@markleopard8960]

This is why ive watched wrestling for moments like that match.

[@greenkidd529]

but Meltzer said it was only 3 stars!?

[@Koopa13]

@@greenkidd529 this match ? Of course cause it ain’t new Japan 😅

[@JK-hu4lu]

The peoples elbow was so popular, I don't get why people only complain about it now. Its a showboat finisher that usually combines with the spinebuster or the rock bottom, so it works for someone as eccentric as Rocky.

[@pizzahighfive2612]

It's the most electric move in sports entertainment. The Rock wasn't about a technical moves.. he was literally the most flashiest wrestler of all time. The way he moves, the way he emotes, even the way he breaths is flashy.

[@AdamHauger]

Yeah I never really thought of it as a finisher. It was more like an insult to a guy who's already beat.

[@hattybryanfield4408]

I watched the match live with friends and family who were big Hogan fans (my uncle saw Hogan a few times in the 80’s and in WCW in ‘97) and we were hoping Hogan would come out in the red and yellow lol We were wondering if Hogan would “hulk up” or not, being a heel and when he did, we were all jumping up and down and cheering. Never will forget that...

[@hitfan2000]

I watched this match with a group of 20 people at a friend's house on PPV. We were all transfixed and emotionally invested in the outcome. The room was 50/50 in regards on whose side they were on. But as for me, even though I had become a cynical "Hogan hater" on the internet I was brought back to the days of my youth. Something stirred inside of me and I suddenly began cheering for Hogan and I believed in him again. All of the so-called dirty tricks and politicking that he was responsible for did not matter anymore because I was a Hulkamaniac again. From failing hands, the old warrior Hogan who had seen his share of epic battles had gallantly passed the torch in an inspiring and moving performance. A fitting swan song to the most important professional wrestler in history (everything Hogan did afterward is just epilogue--there was really nothing to prove after this). This is a 5 STAR match, easy. To hell with the smarks who shit on this.

[@gordonirvine726]

I got misty eyed at sections of this. I dunno why, but Jim's enthusiasm for this masterpiece was awesome. It's still real to me damn it!

[@JamesSmith-sw3nk]

We were there. We lost our voice cheering for Hogan. We left after the Hogan & Rock match because we had a 4hr drive to get home. We attended Raw in Montreal the next day. The place popped HUGE for Hogan.

[@nirvanajunkie19]

This is professional wrestling at it's finest. Total emotional involvement by the crowd with two of the greatest of all time bending them to their will. I watch with tears in my eyes everytime because when Hulk is out there posing I'm 10 years old again and life is good. What a story this match told and it didn't need a bunch of flips, just STARS that people care about. 5 stars all day long.

[@zeebosgazebo9101]

I love the points Jim made at the very end, The wrestling business has completely shit the bed. It will never be as big or have real stars ever again.

[@lennonlikejohn5549]

I literally teared up watching this. Thanks so much for the watch along.

[@markleopard8960]

For the smart fans who dont think Hogan Could work. That kids was working. By what i consider the greats pro wrestler in History.

[@michaelpachuau3885]

A true smart fan wouldn't think that

[@alanorange9376]

If anyone wants to see Hogan's actual workrate in terms of holds and moves, watch his Japan matches

[@toxiciwctweets5191]

You should've put smart fans in " "

[@gordonirvine726]

Amen brothooooor

[@gordonirvine726]

@@michaelpachuau3885 drawing money by eliciting an emotional reaction from the fans is working. Hogan is one of the greatest. "Smart" fans think "working" is a spot fest in front of hardly anyone

[@joseescalera7560]

Keep em coming im looking forward to em the watch along has really helped me understand some stuff i never would have thought of

[@briandunlap3243]

My friend and I bought this PPV as our last in high school, and I couldn't have been happier. Seeing all the guys that we grew up with vs. the guys we GREW UP with was incredible.

[@kckc6578]

This…… is 100% why Austin didn’t want that match. Austin’s ego couldn’t handle being in a ring with the crowd behind Hogan. The Rock didn’t care, he just went along with it bc he knew it was magic.

[@bdot187um]

Exactly, he couldn't handle the fact that he was going play second fiddle to the hulkster and even when he refused to work with him, he was mad about being in mid card hell😂

[@tyyrreekk9005]

The Rock also didn't mind putting people over he didn't have to win every match and hog the spotlight like others.

[@mhj626]

And it's this very reason the rock to me is the best character in WWE/ f history, you didn't need him to have the best storyline because the rock is the story.

[@donnieburgess8488]

This match contains my favorite commentary line ever: *"HE BEAT ANDRE THE GIANT WITH THAT MOVE"*

[@Saddler1944]

"He sells more than John Moxley being hit by a car from 2 punches and a kick." This right here is what every wrestler needs to learn. People don't think you are tough because you get up from being hit by a car. It just makes wrestling look phony.

[@bdot187um]

Exactly

[@EwanCumia]

Moxley wouldn't sell, but he would blade.

[@spaceloser20]

I didn't watch this match until 8 years after it happened. I knew the finish and it was still magic. Shame we didn't get Hogan/Austin.

[@peterlee6374]

Love how on meltzers T-shirt it’s got a 7 on it

[@MrSpeed-lt8gr]

Is that because he gave some match 7 stars? Probably Okada/Olivier?

[@btmz1753]

Eric John Schwab Okada omega was a better match

[@btmz1753]

Ze TheGame great jokes, can you come up with any of your own or do you only use daddy Cornettes jokes?

[@btmz1753]

Big Poppa Trump it’s true but you aren’t ready for that conversation

[@midlifecrisisoninfiniteear3322]

These watch alongs are so informative and valuable. Thanks for doing these.

[@jamirimaj6880]

Hogan vs Rock: 3 stars Young Bucks vs Jurassic Express: 4 1/4 stars 💩💩💩💩💩💩💩💩💩💩

[@penguinsinorbit2034]

The young bucks vs Hangman and omega.. 6 stars..

[@jamirimaj6880]

@@penguinsinorbit2034 They are also manipulating my emotions, but not like Hogan vs Rock did. It's like, I have a great mood today, how will i ruin it? Oh alright, I'll watch AEW then hahahaha

[@clarencegutsy7309]

I was in the crowd that night. This match aged my hearing by 20 years but goddamn was it worth it. You could feel the floor shake.

[@YorrB]

Hahaha love how the artwork is simular to the 'Meltzer gives blading buck the most 4 stars artwork' only now its Corny giving the stars 😂😂

[@maxxdahl6062]

I agree more with Cornettes star ratings any day. lol

[@YorrB]

@@maxxdahl6062 hahaha me to

[@NAustin518]

One of my favorite matches of all time with my favorite Jim Ross call on the Hogan leg drop false finish. “He beat Andre the Giant with that move” makes my arm hairs shoot straight up even to this day when I hear it. Five star match without a doubt.

[@Hulkamania4eva]

Finally my opinion on this is vindicated

[@jamaalmoses8821]

Hogan's best match since WM6?

[@Hulkamania4eva]

Jamaal Moses I think it’s top 5 best WrestleMania matches ever.

[@jamirimaj6880]

I don't really know people who are shitting on this great match at WM18. If anything, they say that it's the last great match of the Attitude Era, which I really agree.

[@joshbouman1654]

I'm still waiting for someone to vi dicate my opinion of the People's Elbow as an all time great finish. Corny met me halfway I guess haha

[@jamirimaj6880]

@@joshbouman1654 Here's your vindication: i guarantee you that wrestlers dream of having a finisher as over as the People's Elbow.

[@ej55033233]

I love hearing Jim so excited talking about the wrestling business he loves.

[@DolchOfHate]

A 42 minute video about one of the greatest matches of all time? I'm in.

[@SantaDog81]

I just realized that the ads didn't come in until after the match was over. Thank you uploader(s?) for making the fans and advertisers happy!

[@diywrites8703]

Being in this crowd during this match was insane. I didn't think this match was going to be anything but about a few minutes in and EVERYONE in the arena was hooked.

[@kingkold]

22:41 Jim's eye for pro wrestling is really amazing. I was just watching a interview with Hogan saying he really didn't wanna do that last rock bottom and rock had to pick him up. And hot damn Jim picked up on that.

[@darrenj7492]

I have always put this as my favourite match of all time. The crowd gives me goosebumps watching it. JR was on fire as well. Hogan and Rock were truly the puppet masters here.

[@mojo-eq4ln]

@18:55 Hogan tapped out to Kurt Angle

[@bdot187um]

Corny is just a hogan hater!

[@davey3884]

Hogan was 49 years old here..

[@bdot187um]

And at 49 he stole the show and that years mania so much so that vince had to give him one Last run with the strap.

[@pmcruz1112]

Cornette became a hulkamaniac on this day 😂

[@bdot187um]

Even while being a hulkamaniac he couldn't help himself and still took some potshots at the hulkster

[@gordonirvine726]

"This is a god damn masterpiece"

[@seanmulligan3037]

Thank you for doing this watch along!

[@fitpresenter2030]

Is that Meltzer behind the Rock? Travis Heckel, I don't know you but someday I will hire you. Brilliant!

[@slack37]

Normally, I listen to Corny to hear him rip shit apart. This was a wonderful change of pace. Jim loves professional wrestling.

[@gordonirvine726]

Ditto brother 👏👍🏻

[@mattmorris2141]

Yeah, this and the recent Animal and Kamala retrospectives, awesome

[@johnbollea]

This is Jim Cornette at his absolute best! Excellent work!

[@KC-kd5qh]

Rock and Hogan should of been the last match that night

[@selfiekroos1777]

But triple snout couldn't be upstaged

[@davidaames1624]

HHH sucked back then...robbed us of so many moments

[@QueLindoFilms]

In everyone’s memory, they were 🤣👍🏼👍🏼

[@dx91mike]

I'm pretty sure half that building was gone after the Rock vs Hogan bout. The fans knew hhh vs y2j was gonna suck anyways.

[@barry101ish]

Sorry as much as I love this the title goes on last everyday

[@turnupthesun81]

I loved this watch along. Jim Cornette explained the psychology of the match so well. It makes me appreciate what these guys were able to pull off. I saw the Rock wrestle CM Punk at Royal Rumble in Phoenix and I swear when the Rock hit the Rock Bottom the arena damn near exploded.