Business Wars WWF vs WCW - Shock Tactics | 5
Sep 23, 2019
In 1996, the wrestling war heats up as WCW aims to steal WWF's audience with two brand tactics focusing on family and young males. Vince McMahon counters with a strategy embracing controversy, risking the WWF's network support. The intense feud between Brian Pillman and Stone Cold Steve Austin reaches shocking heights, blurring scripted lines and raising backlash. The tragic death of Pillman adds emotional depth, while Vince's betrayal of Bret Hart transforms the narrative landscape, solidifying his villainous persona amid escalating corporate pressures.
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Pillman's Home Invasion
- To boost WWF's ratings, Vince McMahon orchestrated a controversial "home invasion" angle with Brian Pillman.
- It involved a staged break-in by Stone Cold Steve Austin, with Pillman brandishing a gun.
WWF's Controversial Comeback
- WCW's NWO storyline, a group of wrestlers rebelling against the company, boosted their ratings.
- McMahon planned a comeback for WWF using controversy, shocking fans and wrestlers.
McMahon's Meeting with Koplovitz
- USA Network CEO Kay Koplovitz criticized McMahon for Raw's controversial content, including a home invasion angle and on-air profanity.
- Despite apologizing, McMahon believed shock tactics were working, as Raw briefly tied with Nitro in ratings.