The ladder match between Razor Ramon and Shawn Michaels for the Intercontinental Championship at WrestleMania X is widely regarded as one of the most groundbreaking and influential matches in WWE history. Taking place on March 20, 1994, at Madison Square Garden, this match revolutionized the use of ladders in professional wrestling and set a new standard for high-risk, athletic competition.
At the time, both men had a legitimate claim to the Intercontinental Championship. Shawn Michaels had been stripped of the title months prior, but he never officially lost it in a match. Meanwhile, Razor Ramon had won the vacant championship, making him the recognized champion. To settle the dispute, WWE set up a ladder match in which both championship belts were suspended above the ring. The first man to climb the ladder and retrieve them would be declared the undisputed Intercontinental Champion.
The Match Begins
From the opening bell, it was clear that this was not going to be a typical contest. The action was fast-paced, with both men utilizing their athleticism, psychology, and physicality to tell a compelling story. Shawn Michaels, accompanied by his bodyguard Diesel, used his quickness and technical skills to gain an early advantage. However, Diesel was ejected from ringside by the referee after interfering on Michaels’ behalf, ensuring that the match would be a fair one-on-one contest.
Innovative Use of the Ladder
As the match progressed, both competitors introduced the ladder as a weapon, something rarely seen in WWE at the time. Michaels was the first to use it, smashing Razor with it before using it to inflict more damage. He executed a series of high-impact moves, including a breathtaking splash from the top of the ladder, a moment that remains one of the most iconic visuals in WrestleMania history.
However, Razor Ramon was just as determined. He fought back, using his brute strength and resilience to counter Michaels’ speed and agility. He delivered several punishing moves, including using the ladder to slam Michaels onto the mat.
The Climactic Ending
As both men fought through exhaustion, the finish of the match became inevitable. Michaels made multiple attempts to ascend the ladder, but Razor constantly found a way to knock him down. At one crucial moment, Michaels was tangled in the ropes, giving Razor the opportunity to climb the ladder uninterrupted. With Michaels unable to recover in time, Razor Ramon reached the top and retrieved both championship belts, officially becoming the undisputed Intercontinental Champion.
Legacy and Impact
This match is considered one of the greatest in WrestleMania history and one of the defining moments of both men’s careers. It elevated the prestige of the Intercontinental Championship, showcased the potential of ladder matches, and set the stage for future high-risk matches in WWE. Shawn Michaels’ performance cemented him as a top-tier superstar, while Razor Ramon walked away with a career-defining victory.
Even decades later, this match remains a benchmark for innovation, storytelling, and drama in professional wrestling and is still celebrated as one of WWE’s all-time classics.
