5 best submission matches in WWE history

Bob Backlund w/ Owen Hart v Bret Hart w/ Davey Boy Smith – for the WWE Championship

Owen’s theatrics stole the show

The rules of this match were simple, although such matches are very rare. One had to force the opponent’s “second” (the person accompanying the wrestler) to “throw in” the towel and thereby forfeiting on the wrestler’s behalf. Bob Backlund was an established veteran and Bret Hart was delivering some brilliant matches and was in the prime of his career. Bret and Owen’s parents were in the front seats.

Some brilliant action here too and the crowd was definitely behind The Hitman, who was the babyface champion. Bret Hart had Bob Backlund in the sharpshooter, but is attacked from behind by Owen Hart. Davey Boy Smith chases after Owen Hart and is made to trip on to the steel steps and loses consciousness. Bob Backlund starts to gain momentum and gets him the Chickenwing Crossface.

Meanwhile, Owen Hart gets theatrical after failing to revive The British Bulldog and begs his parents to throw in the towel, feigning new found love for his brother. Stu does not budge, but Helen, his mother gives in and throws in the towel after seeing her son’s believable theatrics and Bret Hart in the Chickenwing Crossface.