WWE RAW Results (05/12/08) Jim Ross welcomes us to the Joe Louis Arena as we go into the show with the lights out in the arena. The lights come back on and William Regal is in the ring...
In just two weeks time, wrestling fans around the globe will witness history. History that says, it may very well be, the last match ever, for the legendary Ric Flair. Those who have been following, know that this is a "career threatening" match against the one and only Icon, Shawn Michaels!
Now, it's no secret that I am a huge fan of Shawn Michaels; but when it came to Ric Flair, it took me quite awhile to really get into him. Over the past few weeks I have sat down and really studied the career of the Nature Boy, to really and truly get a feel for what he has done for the business. There's no denying that Flair has been a monumental part of professional wrestling, and one of the greatest champions of all time; and I for one cab't think of a better way for "The Man" to go out.
One thing I do know is this, Ric Flair is without a doubt one of the toughest men to ever lace up a pair of boots. Flair (as many may know) was involved in a very serious plane accident when he was just 26 years of age. The injuries to his back were so severe, that doctors said he'd never wrestle again. Flair never let that stop him, and just six months later, was back in the ring! SIX MONTHS!! Is that not the heart of a champion?
Flair's legacy is also one that spans many generations of wrestlers, as well as many different companies. From his time with the NWA promotion, to WCW, his first run in the (then) WWF, back to WCW, back to the WWE. Flair is also credited as being a part of two of the most dominating factions in wrestling history: The Four Horseman and Evolution, thus showing he can be both a mentor, and a team player.
The legacy continues with his inspiration on many of today's top stars. MVP, Batista, Triple H, and even his next opponent, Shawn Michaels. I think it's pretty neat how the WWE is showing the realism between michaels and Flair while building this program up, because there is indeed so much respect for Flair.
While there is no doubt Flair is one of the greatest, what I don't like is how little attention this program seems to be getting in comparison to others. Think about it, this is Wrestlemania, the grandest stage of them all! I have no problem with the majority of the focus being on the two title matches, as they are after all, for the titles. What bothers me the most is the fact that Big Show v. Mayweather has taken a front seat over the "career" of Flair.
I for one do not agree with pushing that fued over a career that has lasted a lifetime, and a program they have been building for months. As much recognition and congradulations they show Flair, he is somewhat casted aside because Floyd "Big Waste of Money" Mayweather is on the card. I understand that the WWE tries to bring in a big-name celebrity every year, but this should not over-shadow a match like Flair v. Michaels.
Both Flair and Michaels have given their lives and bodie to the WWE and deserve to be treated as such. ESPECIALLY if this is indeed going to be Flair's LAST MATCH of his career. Yet, because Floyd Mayweather is a celebrity (and all agree, one of the best boxers in the world) he becomes more important, and deserves more of the spotlight?
Again, I like the fued between Mayweather and Show, but don't agree that it should be in the forefront. If the career and retirement of flair is as important and historical as the WWE says it is, than treat it as such.
Sorry about that little rant, but it was something that I had to get off my chest. Now, some may argue that Shawn Michaels is not the opponent that desrves to face Flair in his last match. If the WWE was going to use this match for the purpose of elevating talent, than I agree. it would be much better suited for a future star; like Kennedy or even Jericho, or Orton. However, from what I have read, Flair WANTED to face Michaels and picked Michaels as "the guy."
In the end, I think it will be the perfect send-off and cap to one of the most legendary careers in the business. from a fan standpoint, I am happy HBK was chosen, as he can carry anyone. It will be a classic that's for sure, one that will be rememebered for all time. Even though Michaels may win, in the end, no one will ever really, beat The Man.
