WWE’s handling of the ECW brand, particularly during its revival, has been met with widespread criticism, including from some of the promotion’s original stars like Rob Van Dam. On a recent episode of “The Stevie Richards Show,” former ECW World Tag Team Champion Stevie Richards shared his thoughts on the infamous Mike Awesome vs. Masato Tanaka match from ECW One Night Stand 2005, which is remembered as one of the most violent nights in professional wrestling.
Richards Reflects on the Match and Criticizes the Risks
Richards, recalling the event, shared his experience meeting Mike Awesome backstage. While he described Awesome as a “kind, easygoing guy,” Richards did not hold back his criticism of the match itself, which was full of high-risk spots. Like many of his peers, Richards took issue with the match’s level of brutality and the dangers taken by both Awesome and Tanaka, which were hallmarks of the ECW style. Richards wasn’t alone in voicing concerns over the violence, as the match was filled with brutal spots that left many questioning the safety of the performers.
Criticism of the Finish: Out of View of the Audience
Richards’ main critique was aimed at the finish of the match, where Mike Awesome was propelled through a table. However, the finish took place over the barricade, which caused it to be out of sight for a large portion of the audience. Richards emphasized, “The finish happens where three-quarters of the people can’t see the finish in the audience; you could’ve done this spot even in the ring.” For Richards, the lack of visibility for the live crowd diminished the impact of what should have been the match’s defining moment.
The Exhaustion and Fear of Extreme Matches
Richards also criticized the overall emotional toll the match took on the audience. While the violent, high-stakes nature of the match kept fans on the edge of their seats, Richards pointed out that it left them feeling exhausted and fearful. Instead of being excited by the action, fans were concerned whether either man would even be able to walk out of the match alive. According to Richards, the sheer danger of the contest overshadowed the thrill of watching a competitive wrestling match.
Legacy of ECW One Night Stand 2005
While ECW One Night Stand 2005 remains a landmark event for hardcore wrestling fans, Richards’ comments provide a more nuanced perspective on the excessive violence that defined the show. The event was undoubtedly a celebration of ECW’s extreme style, but it also highlighted the potential consequences of pushing the limits too far. In the years since, wrestling has become more aware of the long-term physical toll extreme matches can take on performers, making Richards’ concerns even more relevant today.
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