In 1996, wrestling experienced a monumental shift when Scott Hall transitioned from WWF (later WWE) to WCW. Although hardcore fans were somewhat aware due to the notorious "Curtain Call" incident and reports from sources like Dave Meltzer, Hall’s appearance on "WCW Nitro" still stunned many. Hall made a surprise entrance during a match, bewildering commentators Tony Schiavone and Larry Zbyszko, while spectators were left uncertain since they believed Hall was still with WWE. He climbed over the barricades, disrupted the match’s conclusion, grabbed a microphone, and delivered a memorable promo. Hall referenced backstage hints, directly addressed media mogul Ted Turner, announcer Gene Okerlund, and "Macho Man" Randy Savage, and suggested that his presence defied the rules. Although the situation was ambiguous, Hall’s closing words, "Do you want war? You’re going to get it," firmly established the start of something new.
Following this, WWE quickly restricted Hall’s character Ramon from TV to protect their interests. Nevertheless, the storyline advanced with Kevin Nash (formerly Diesel) joining Hall a week later, hinting at a third member. This mystery ended with Hulk Hogan’s shocking heel turn during the 1996 WCW Bash at the Beach event. The formation of the New World Order (NWO) swiftly dominated WCW programming, leading WCW to surpass WWE in ratings for over a year. Faced with fierce competition, WWF’s Vince McMahon escalated his efforts, which, combined with the emergence of stars like "Stone Cold" Steve Austin and The Rock, ushered in WWE’s famed "Attitude Era."
Meanwhile, WCW’s NWO faction kept expanding, with numerous wrestlers joining as the company sought to exploit the group’s massive popularity. While Hall, Nash, and Hogan were key members, Nash uniquely stayed with the NWO throughout its entire duration. Eventually, WCW’s quality and viewership declined, and the show was canceled after Time Warner acquired Turner Broadcasting. WWE then bought WCW’s rights, and many former WCW wrestlers, including Hall, Nash, and Hogan, returned to WWE. Tragically, Scott Hall passed away in 2022 at age 63.
Fan Take:
Scott Hall’s groundbreaking WCW debut ignited one of wrestling’s most influential eras, redefining competition and storytelling in the industry. For WWE fans, this moment not only marks a pivotal chapter in wrestling history but also highlights how boundary-pushing rivalries can elevate the sport to new heights.
