Retro Wednesday: The Most Pivotal Moment Of The Monday Night Wars?

The King of the Ring pay-per-view series is no stranger to positive reviews. From its conception as a PPV in 1993, it has created a rich history in propelling midcard wrestlers to top guys. Namely, Owen Hart, Triple H, Kurt Angle, and Edge.

One particular person who benefited from a King of the Ring win was Steve Austin. During the early- to mid-1990s, Austin established himself in World Championship Wrestling (WCW) as a solid midcard heel, gaining the United States Championship, feuding with notable names such as Ricky Steamboat and Dustin Rhodes, and joining one of the most memorable stables of all time – the Dangerous Alliance. He also gained popularity in teaming up with Brian Pillman as the Hollywood Blondes.

Despite this, WCW executives did not believe Austin had what it took to be the top guy of the company. As a result, Austin was let go, and had to pursue employment elsewhere. Thankfully, Paul Heyman seized Austin shortly after the termination, and he became "Superstar" Steve Austin during his short tenure. During that time, he was permitted to voice his true feelings about WCW, really having the opportunity to hone his mic skills and create a rebel character.

This fully materialized during his time with WWE. After a forgettable stint as the "Ringmaster," managed by Ted DiBiase and spending his time feuding with Savio Vega, Austin transformed his gimmick into a no-nonsense antagonist that had a black heart to the beliefs of others.

Case in point: The 1996 King of the Ring.

After his very short match against a battered and bruised Jake Roberts which led to his King of the Ring crown, Austin was "coronated," and interviewed by Dok Hendrix. This commenced a speech that sparked a revolution. The Austin 3:16 Revolution. This defining moment not only caused much controversy, but it led to a spike in his popularity, becoming the highest drawing superstar in WWE history.

Interestingly enough, this happened two weeks before another momumental moment – Hulk Hogan shocking the world by turning heel and aligning with Scott Hall and Kevin Nash, initiating the New World Order (nWo).

It would be safe to say that the summer of 1996 was the most pivotal month in the entire timeline of the Monday Night Wars.

What moment was more defining – the birth of the nWo, or Austin 3:16? Sound off below.

@WrestlingFan2K contributed to this article.