Legendary WWE referee Mike Chioda recently opened up about one of the most brutal matches in WWE history. In an interview on Insight With Chris Van Vilet, Chioda reflected on the 2001 King of the Ring showdown between Kurt Angle and Shane McMahon, a match that left a lasting impact on both competitors.
Chioda described the intense nature of the match, stating, “You know, that night, whoo. I’ll never forget, you know, I thought I may not have a job coming back. You know, during there was several times during that match. You know, Shane had a lot to prove. You know, he rocks this match out. He gets through it. You know, it puts him on the chart of being a wrestler, you know what I’m saying? And he can hang with the toughest.”
The match itself was filled with high-risk spots, with Angle famously throwing McMahon through two glass panels. Chioda recalled the chaos surrounding this particular moment, saying, “And getting to the spot where he goes through the glass. And it just, you know, he didn’t go through the glass. I’m thinking are we at the wrong f*cking panel? You know, because there were certain panels and certain panels were breaking certain panels weren’t.”
Chioda also revealed the backstage instructions he received from WWE Chairman Vince McMahon during the match. He shared, “I’m going, Kurt. Don’t put him through the f*cking glass. No more. Don’t try it. No more. Don’t try it. I’m on his right side. He tries it doesn’t work again. I’m like, holy shit.”
Despite the intense nature of the match and the risks involved, Chioda admired the determination and toughness of both Angle and McMahon. He expressed his respect for McMahon, stating, “Shane, he’ll go through anything. It’ll do anything. I mean, tough, tough guy, man.”
This reflection from Chioda offers fans a behind-the-scenes look at the physical and emotional toll that professional wrestling can take on its performers. It serves as a reminder of the dedication and passion that these athletes possess.
In addition to his recent interview, Chioda has also shared insights on other memorable matches. In a previous edition of Monday Mailbag, he discussed the infamous SummerSlam matchup between Hulk Hogan and Shawn Michaels, specifically addressing Michaels’ overselling of moves. Fans can read more about Chioda’s thoughts on this match here.
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