The Steel Cage Match

Designed to punish and inflict pain. It tears skin and leaves scars. It is the original gimmick match. It is the steel cage match.

On July 2, 1937 in Atlanta,Georgia, the first steel cage match took place and consisted of chicken wire surrounding the ring to prevent interference. From chicken wire to steel bars to chain-link fencing, the steel cage match has certaintly evolved over the years.

While there has been plenty of carnage in the ring, there has also been plenty of memories left in the cage. Jimmy Snuka flying from the top of the steel cage and delivering a Superfly Splash onto Don Muraco. It's still one of the most talked about memories in pro wrestling.

Ric Flair defeating Harley Race in a classic steel cage match to win his second NWA Heavyweight Championship.

The steel cage is also known for the match that's designed to punish the heel. Although the face may not always come out on top. As in the case of Edge versus Batista at One Night Stand 2007,where The Rated R Superstar retained the World Title. Or this year when Chris Jericho successfully defended the World Title against CM Punk and also regained the World Title from Batista.

You win by pinfall, submission or by escaping the cage with both feet touching the floor. Fans witnessed Hulk Hogan and "Mr.Wonderful" Paul Orndorff battle in the blue barred steel cage for the WWF Championship on Saturday Nights Main Event.When both men's feet hit the floor at the same time, the match was restarted and Hogan retained by escape.

You see it was this match that gave us the Elimination Chamber, the Triple Cage match, the Punjabi Prison match,Six Sides of Steel,Electrified Cage match and of course, the Hell in a Cell a.k.a the Devil's playground and before Hell in a Cell, there was the War Games match, made famous by the Four Horsemen.

The Steel Cage is a classic and has played a major role in pro wrestling, whether it was to help dish out punishment or end feuds. We certainly have more Steel Cage memories down the road.

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