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Ah, the pro wrestling referee. Often vilified, rarely vindicated, frequently blamed for not catching the heel wrestlers cheat... but in reality, the unsung heroes--the heartbeat--of professional wrestling. If it weren't for the referee, how would wrestlers know to throw an opponent out of the ring and mug for the hard camera right before a commercial break? Who would throw up the "X" when a wrestler breaks his ankle? Even more, who would ask a wrestler if they want to submit, count them out of the ring, disqualify them for breaking the rules, or count a wrestler's shoulders to the mat--1, 2, 3? Referees play an important role in the drama of a wrestling match. But who were the best of the best? Which referees were trusted with the money-drawing main events? Who were on our television sets for years if not decades due to their skills? Who created their own memorable moments or trademarks? (Or who infringed on trademarks and sold knockoff T-shirts in the parking lot?) Nate and Eric count down their Mount Rushmores of Referees... make a clean break and listen!

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SHOW NOTES AND SPOILERS:

When Earl Hebner Fought Back!

The Rock & Earl Hebner Vs DX Part 1 - SMACKDOWN!

Tony Schiavone accuses Referee Nick Patrick of being in the NWO! 1996 (WCW)

Nick Patrick On Being The nWo Heel Referee

The greatest run in WrestleMania history

Charles Robinson: WWE's GOAT Referee On Brutal Bumps, His Viral Ramp Run, Iconic Matches, John Cena

Red Shoe Unno Diaries

Jim Cornette on Tommy Young: https://youtu.be/vtVG7ulUMdo?si=Sookunvxvopy6JE-&t=95

Arn Anderson on Tommy Young: https://youtu.be/NBT57Kv_uBk?si=OQjXcpZiAwky2vgi&t=31

Ric Flair on Tommy Young: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9DwKVUmO6Tw

Shawn Michaels paying tribute to Earl Hebner: https://youtu.be/TTArBJAVZog?si=sELvKXvw5F5uqYQl&t=230

Bret Hart on Earl… oops! https://youtu.be/U9ob-BZnhBQ?si=sSpJI4lEvsGam8XB&t=4309

Steve Austin on if Earl Hebner should go into the Hall of Fame: https://youtu.be/JiUTwJP-7mE?si=u28X9gNg_cyALs2F&t=19

056 The Mount Rushmore of Referees