Episode 374: 30th Anniversary of SummerSlam 1996

On this episode of Grilling JR, Jim Ross and Conrad Thompson fire up the time machine and head back to August 18, 1996, for one of the most memorable events of the New Generation Era—WWF SummerSlam 1996 from the Gund Arena in Cleveland, Ohio!

JR shares his behind-the-scenes perspective on a card headlined by Shawn Michaels defending the WWF Championship against the monstrous Vader, a match surrounded by controversy, high expectations, and plenty of backstage stories. The guys also discuss the WWF debut of Kevin Kelly, Mark Henry signing a groundbreaking 10-year contract, and Brian Pillman's unforgettable "Time Bomb" segment that had the wrestling world buzzing.

Plus, hear JR's thoughts on The Iron Sheik's role in the company, the ill-fated Wrestle Vessel concept, Jake "The Snake" Roberts battling Jerry "The King" Lawler, and the escalating war between Mankind and The Undertaker that would forever change both men's careers.

From major business decisions and creative risks to unforgettable characters and classic SummerSlam moments, JR and Conrad cover it all on another can't-miss edition of Grilling JR!

 

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