Pro Wrestling Chronicle

Match # 32: Scott Steiner vs. Sting (Nitro 5/27/96)

This match has the distinction of taking place on the night Scott Hall walked out on Nitro and started what became the NOW angle. It’s mentioned in passing at the beginning. Here we have two pure WCW created talents going at it, and I’m expecting Scott Steiner to carry the load, but you never know.

There’s some sloppiness in the early going, but it’s not bad. These two have been around enough to know how to tell a story. The movement is good, with Steiner using his power and wrestling skill, and Sting working back off counter moves. Sting and Cena remind me a lot of each other, when Sting is actually working hard that is. Sting does a great plancha to the outside. Steiner comes back with a good tiger bomb variation and belly-to-belly. I always loved Shane Douglas’ belly-to-belly, but I’d forgotten how boss Stiener’s was.

Steiner takes a boot really hard in the face and Heenan laughs hysterically. Awesome. It’s just a hope spot for Sting, but the crowd has died because Steiner getting the heat in a babyface vs babyface match doesn’t cut it. Bummer. It’s a nice little, better than average match. Steiner tries some Japanese inspired submissions that are too far ahead of their time for this crowd. Both guys blow up a bit, but recover.

Luger comes out to rally Sting, so out comes Rick Steiner. Sting really takes alot of high impact offense in this match, so he deserves some credit. Crowd heated again with the partners playing cheer leaders. Luger screws it up in about ten minutes with the DQ for interference. The locker room has to empty and lucky us we get some American Males holding the guys back. 2 ¾ and 5/10.