Can you name a WWF New Generation (1993-1996) star not named Michaels or Calloway or Hart that got WWF Title shots in both the New Generation and the very differently packaged Attitude Era (1997-2002)? It was the British Bulldog / Davey Boy Smith transcending those eras, proving a draw at both ends of the decade in the WWF, as he had been a tag team draw in the era of Hulkamania before.
Among WWF stars who spanned the New Generation (1993-1996) and the Attitude Era (1997-2002), the British Bulldog, Davey Boy Smith, stands out. Unlike Shawn Michaels, The Undertaker, or Bret Hart, Davey Boy Smith proved to be a draw at both ends of the decade, demonstrating his enduring appeal in the WWF. His career had already made waves as a tag team draw during the Hulkamania era.
In the New Generation, Davey Boy Smith was in the title hunt alongside Bret Hart, The Undertaker, Shawn Michaels, Yokozuna, Razor Ramon, and Diesel. He and Michaels, in particular, were the survivors who transitioned into the Attitude Era, continuing to challenge for the WWF Title amid the rise of Austin, Foley, Triple H, and The Rock.
However, there are some key nuances. While every wrestler mentioned won the WWF Title at some point, Davey Boy was always booked to lose. Bret Hart, champion at the start of the Attitude Era, faced challenges adapting to the evolving wrestling landscape, which led to the infamous Montreal Screwjob. Interestingly, Davey Boy survived in the title hunt longer than his brother-in-law Bret Hart during the Attitude Era.
Both Hart and Smith, along with Kevin “Diesel” Nash, are notable for having received title matches in WCW as well. Extending this observation, Nash and Davey Boy are the only two among the group to have received WWF Title shots after returning from WCW. Nash’s return occurred after the acquisition of WCW, marking a transition from the Attitude Era to the Ruthless Aggression Era.
Why focus on Davey Boy Smith, who never won the title and often seems overshadowed by his peers? Personal bias plays a role—I was a fan of the Bulldog, and his in-ring prowess always impressed me. From a historical perspective, I believe his significant contributions to wrestling are often overlooked.
The WWE’s decision to induct him into the Hall of Fame is a step in the right direction, but it’s worth noting that this accolade doesn’t always reflect the impact of a wrestler’s career. Koko B. Ware, Mr. T, and X-Pac are also Hall of Famers, which doesn’t necessarily denote a wrestler’s place among the most influential of their era.
There are understandable reasons for this perceived lack of appreciation. Davey Boy Smith and Yokozuna, who have passed away, haven’t been able to share their side of the story through books, shoot interviews, or podcasts. Their stories are often overshadowed by the more vocal surviving stars. Smith’s struggles with addiction and incidents of violence also contribute to his mixed legacy. Bret Hart’s accounts of their 1992 SummerSlam match paint a picture of Smith struggling due to substance abuse, but I believe this portrayal is exaggerated. Davey Boy displayed significant skill during that match, executing moves and reversals that suggest he was more in control than Hart implies.
Diana Hart’s book, though criticized for errors and libel, also paints a grim picture of Smith’s personal life, including accusations of abuse. These accounts, coupled with media coverage of his struggles, have overshadowed his accomplishments in the ring. Despite these issues, Davey Boy Smith was a prominent figure in the ring. His first WWF Title shot came against Bob Backlund in the brief period between Backlund’s victory over Bret Hart and Diesel’s win over Backlund. Though Davey Boy defeated Backlund at a house show, it was a countout win, not a title victory.
In January 1995, Davey Boy was part of a dramatic Royal Rumble finish, but Shawn Michaels’ controversial reentry allowed Michaels to face Diesel at WrestleMania XI. Davey Boy’s subsequent match against Diesel at In Your House 4 saw him win by disqualification due to Bret Hart’s interference.
When Davey Boy faced Bret Hart for the WWF Title at In Your House 5, fans, including me, hoped for a repeat of their 1992 SummerSlam match. Unfortunately, Bret retained the title, much to our disappointment. Davey Boy’s final title shot came during the 1996 Royal Rumble and In Your House 8: Beware of Dog, where he again came close but ultimately did not win. His return to the WWF in 1999 saw him challenge for the vacant WWF Title in a six-man match, showcasing his enduring appeal.
Davey Boy Smith did win the Hardcore and European titles during his last run, but it was bittersweet, as his opportunities for the top title eluded him. Despite understanding why the WWF did not put the title on him, the nostalgic desire for Davey Boy Smith to have won the WWF Title remains strong.
Rest in peace, Davey Boy Smith.
