In this episode of the New to Wrestling podcast, hosts Xavier and Kelsey Silva explore the August 18, 1997 edition of Raw is War, offering a nostalgic journey through a night of unforgettable wrestling action. The episode kicks off with a thrilling match card featuring iconic duos like the Hart Foundation against the Legion of Doom, and culminates in a main event where unlikely tag teams Mankind and The Undertaker face off against Shawn Michaels and Hunter Hearst Helmsley. Throughout the show, Xavier and Kelsey share their insights and humor, discussing the dynamics of these legendary matches and the evolving storylines that captivated fans.

Listeners are treated to a mix of intense promos and unexpected alliances, with standout moments such as Rick Rude's bold declarations and the Nation of Domination's powerful presence. The hosts delve into the storytelling elements that make wrestling compelling, highlighting Shawn Michaels' fear of The Undertaker and the burgeoning partnership between Michaels and Helmsley. With their engaging commentary and deep appreciation for wrestling history, Xavier and Kelsey provide an entertaining and insightful look at this classic episode of Raw is War.

Match Card:

• The Hart Foundation (Owen Hart and the British Bulldog) vs. The Legion of Doom
• Flash Funk vs. Brian Christopher
• Ken Shamrock vs. The Sultan
• Jesse James vs. Brian Pillman
• The Patriot vs. Vader
• Mankind and The Undertaker vs. Shawn Michaels and Hunter Hearst Helmsley

Time Stamps:

• 0:00 Intro
• 6:12 Unlikely Tag Teams
• 12:42 Rick Rude's Insurance Promo
• 18:42 Legion of Doom vs. Hart Foundation
• 30:00 Brian Christopher vs. Flash Funk
• 36:01 Ken Shamrock vs. The Sultan
• 42:00 Nation of Domination's Bold Statements
• 48:00 Goldust and Marlena's Beach Segment
• 54:00 Vader vs. The Patriot
• 1:00:00 Stone Cold's Interview
• 1:06:00 Main Event: Shawn Michaels & Hunter Hearst Helmsley vs. Mankind & The Undertaker

The New To Wrestling Podcast follows two friends who enjoy wrestling but are in different stages of their fandom. Xavier Cruz serves as your guide through generations of professional wrestling while Kelsey Silva experiences these matches for the first time. Climb into the ring weekly to relive the famous matches beginning with the Attitude Era!

In this lively episode of the New to Wrestling podcast, hosts Xavier and Kelsey Silva revisit the August 11, 1997 edition of Raw is War, bringing a mix of humor and nostalgia to their analysis. The episode kicks off with a Halloween-themed introduction, as Xavier and Kelsey embody their favorite wrestling personas, Bret "Hitman" Hart and Dude Love. They guide listeners through a memorable match card, featuring Road Warrior Hawk's clash with Henry Godwin in a Country Whipping Match, and the main event showdown between Shawn Michaels and Mankind.

Throughout the episode, Xavier and Kelsey delve into the unfolding drama and iconic moments that marked the Attitude Era's beginnings. They discuss the unexpected twists, such as the Nation of Domination's evolving dynamics and the emergence of Degeneration X, highlighted by Rick Rude's return. The hosts also touch on the brewing tensions between The Patriot and Bret Hart, offering insights into the era's storytelling and character development.

With their engaging commentary, Xavier and Kelsey capture the essence of this pivotal Raw is War episode, blending historical context with personal reflections. Their enthusiasm and knowledge make for an entertaining listen, as they celebrate the era's legacy and its impact on wrestling history. Whether you're a seasoned fan or new to the wrestling world, this episode offers a captivating look at one of the most dynamic periods in WWE history.

Match Card:
- Road Warrior Hawk vs. Henry Godwin in a Country Whipping Match
- Scott Putzky vs. Tony Williams in a Light Heavyweight Division Match
- Flash Funk vs. Brian Pillman
- Ken Shamrock and The Patriot vs. The Hart Foundation
- Farooq vs. Chains
- Main Event: Shawn Michaels vs. Mankind

Timestamps:

• 0:00 Intro
• 5:06 Recap and Heartbreak Kid Interview
• 11:10 Country Whipping Match
• 18:27 Goldust and Marlena's Shattered Dreams Production
• 25:06 Dude Love Interview
• 32:52 Tag Team Match: Patriot and Ken Shamrock vs. Owen Hart and British Bulldog
• 39:26 Rocky Maivia Joins the Nation of Domination
• 47:05 Main Event: Shawn Michaels vs. Mankind
• 56:26 Undertaker and Kane's Imminent Arrival

The New To Wrestling Podcast follows two friends who enjoy wrestling but are in different stages of their fandom. Xavier Cruz serves as your guide through generations of professional wrestling while Kelsey Silva experiences these matches for the first time. Climb into the ring weekly to relive the famous matches beginning with the Attitude Era!

In this episode of the New to Wrestling podcast, hosts Xavier and Kelsey Silva explore the August 4, 1997 edition of Raw is War, offering a mix of humor and insightful commentary. The episode kicks off with a rundown of the night's match card, featuring Ken Shamrock's intense showdown with Kama Mustafa and a light heavyweight clash between Taka Michinoku and Brian Christopher. The hosts delve into the drama surrounding the Hart Foundation, with Bret Hart's controversial antics and Owen Hart's delusional claims taking center stage. They also discuss the unexpected twists, such as the Nation of Domination's shocking betrayal of Ahmed Johnson, adding layers to the ongoing storylines.

As the episode unfolds, Xavier and Kelsey provide a lively analysis of each match, from the comedic spectacle of Brian Pillman wrestling in a dress to the main event featuring Dude Love against Owen Hart. The hosts also touch on the evolving character arcs, including Shawn Michaels' new attitude and the looming presence of Kane, hinted at through subtle foreshadowing. With a blend of nostalgia and fresh perspectives, this episode offers wrestling fans a comprehensive look at the action-packed night, leaving them eager for what's next in the wrestling world.

Match Card:

1. Ken Shamrock vs. Kama Mustafa
2. Taka Michinoku vs. Brian Christopher
3. Hunter Hearst Helmsley with Chyna vs. Vader with Paul Bearer
4. The Patriot vs. The Sultan
5. Ahmed Johnson vs. Chains
6. The Godwins vs. The Headbangers
7. Bob Holly vs. Brian Pillman (in a dress)
8. Main Event: Dude Love vs. Owen Hart

Timestamps:

• 00:00:00 Introduction and Match Card Overview
• 00:06:00 Discussion on Hilary Duff Movies and Personal Growth
• 00:14:00 Recap of Bret Hart's Controversial Win and Hart Foundation's Delusion
• 00:22:00 Introduction of New Commissioner Sergeant Slaughter
• 00:30:00 Ken Shamrock vs. Kama Mustafa Match Recap
• 00:38:00 Hunter Hearst Helmsley vs. Vader Match Recap
• 00:46:00 The Patriot vs. The Sultan and Promo Analysis
• 00:54:00 Shawn Michaels' Interview and Undertaker's Response
• 01:02:00 Ahmed Johnson vs. Chains and Nation of Domination's Betrayal
• 01:10:00 Brian Pillman in a Dress vs. Bob Holly Match Recap
• 01:18:00 Main Event: Owen Hart vs. Dude Love and Stone Cold's Involvement
• 01:26:00 Closing Thoughts and Upcoming Storylines

The New To Wrestling Podcast follows two friends who enjoy wrestling but are in different stages of their fandom. Xavier Cruz serves as your guide through generations of professional wrestling while Kelsey Silva experiences these matches for the first time. Climb into the ring weekly to relive the famous matches beginning with the Attitude Era!