In the world of professional wrestling, a single match can make or break a career, and the story of the Skyscrapers' encounter with a jobber who refused to sell is a prime example of this. This tale, which took place in 1989, showcases the fine line between success and disaster in the ring.
The Rise of the Skyscrapers
Dan Spivey and Sid Vicious, towering figures standing at nearly seven feet tall and weighing over 300 pounds each, were on a roll. Managed by the legendary Teddy Long, they dominated the competition, leaving a trail of defeated opponents in their wake. Their size and skill made them an unstoppable force, and they were poised to become wrestling's next big thing.
A Match Gone Awry
In a match against Avalanch and Mike Blackwell, the Skyscrapers' dominance was initially on full display. Vicious quickly dispatched Avalanch, while Spivey handled Blackwell with a powerful belly-to-belly suplex. However, it was at this moment that the match took an unexpected turn.
Blackwell, the jobber, defied wrestling etiquette by refusing to sell the move. Instead of staying down, he rose to his feet, seemingly ready to take on both giants. This was a bold move, and one that immediately caught the attention of wrestling veteran Stevie Richards, who later described the scene with astonishment.
Professionalism Under Pressure
What's fascinating is how the Skyscrapers handled this situation. Despite Blackwell's defiance, they continued to work with him professionally. They didn't resort to cheap shots or attempt to hurt him; instead, they maintained their composure and tried to continue the match. This speaks volumes about their skill and their understanding of the unwritten rules of wrestling.
The Cardinal Sin
However, Blackwell's refusal to sell eventually led to his downfall. After taking a double powerbomb, he had the audacity to rise to his feet, still defiant. This was the last straw for the Skyscrapers, and they unleashed their frustration on Blackwell. With Teddy Long egging them on, they pummeled Blackwell with stiff punches, sending a clear message.
In a 2019 interview, Spivey revealed that Blackwell's backstage experience was even worse. He had no explanation for Blackwell's actions, but it's clear that the jobber paid a heavy price for his refusal to follow wrestling protocol.
The Aftermath and Legacy
Interestingly, this match didn't hinder the Skyscrapers' push. It was an injury to Vicious and Spivey's departure from the company that ultimately ended their team. Both went on to have successful careers, with Vicious becoming a wrestling legend and Spivey inspiring characters like Bray Wyatt.
Stevie Richards believes this match serves as a crucial lesson for aspiring wrestlers. It's a reminder of the importance of selling and the consequences of defying wrestling's unspoken rules. As Richards puts it, this match is a perfect example of what not to do in the ring.
In my opinion, this story highlights the intricate dynamics of professional wrestling. It's a world where size and skill matter, but so does respect for the art and the unwritten rules. The Skyscrapers' encounter with Blackwell is a cautionary tale, reminding us that even the mightiest can be brought down by a simple refusal to play by the rules.
