The ECW December to Dismember DVD stands as one of the most talked-about releases in professional wrestling history, particularly among fans of Extreme Championship Wrestling. Released in December 2006, this pay-per-view event was highly anticipated because it marked ECW’s first original pay-per-view under the WWE banner after the original ECW brand was revived. Wrestling enthusiasts had high expectations for intense action, innovative matches, and the hardcore style that made ECW legendary during the 1990s. While the event had the potential to be a defining moment for the brand, it has become infamous for several reasons that continue to spark debate among fans and critics alike.
Background of ECW and the December to Dismember Event
Extreme Championship Wrestling, commonly known as ECW, was originally founded in 1992 and quickly gained a reputation for its hardcore wrestling style, boundary-pushing storylines, and dedicated fanbase. When WWE acquired ECW’s assets in 2003, fans hoped for a revival that could capture the original spirit of the promotion. By 2006, WWE re-launched ECW as a third brand alongside Raw and SmackDown, culminating in the creation of its first original pay-per-view, December to Dismember.
The Hype and Expectations
Before the release of the ECW December to Dismember DVD, anticipation was at an all-time high. Fans expected memorable hardcore matches, innovative spots, and the signature ECW atmosphere that had made the brand a cult favorite. WWE promoted the event heavily, focusing on the potential for high-energy performances and unforgettable moments. The event was supposed to showcase top talent from both the original ECW roster and the newer WWE-styled ECW wrestlers, creating a mix of nostalgia and fresh storylines.
Main Matches and Highlights
The December to Dismember DVD features several key matches that fans of ECW were particularly excited to see. Among them, the Extreme Elimination Chamber match for the ECW World Championship drew the most attention. Wrestlers like Bobby Lashley, Big Show, and Rob Van Dam were part of the card, and fans expected a series of high-impact moments and daring stunts reminiscent of classic ECW matches.
- Extreme Elimination Chamber MatchThis match became the focal point of the event, showcasing several high-profile wrestlers competing for the ECW Championship. While the concept was exciting, the execution left many fans disappointed due to pacing issues and lackluster in-ring chemistry.
- Hardcore MatchesTrue to ECW’s legacy, the DVD included hardcore-style bouts featuring weapons, extreme spots, and brutal physicality. Matches like these highlighted the raw energy ECW was known for, even if some sequences felt restrained compared to the original promotion.
- Underwhelming StorylinesOne of the criticisms often mentioned by fans is that the storylines leading into the matches lacked depth. While the wrestlers themselves delivered solid performances at times, the buildup did not always match fan expectations.
Production Quality and Presentation
The ECW December to Dismember DVD offered a polished WWE-style production, which was a noticeable shift from the gritty, underground feel of original ECW broadcasts. While the video quality, sound, and camera angles were professionally handled, some fans felt that the essence of the original ECW atmosphere was missing. The lack of intimate crowd interaction and smaller venue energy made the event feel more corporate and less extreme.
Reception and Legacy
Upon its release, the December to Dismember DVD received mixed to negative reviews from fans and critics alike. Many expressed disappointment that the event failed to live up to the hype, citing a combination of uninspired booking, over-promotion of certain wrestlers, and the departure from the hardcore roots of ECW. Despite the criticisms, the DVD has become a collector’s item for wrestling enthusiasts who are interested in the history of the ECW brand and its WWE revival.
Fan Reactions and Criticism
The DVD sparked strong reactions online and among wrestling communities. Fans were vocal about issues such as the limited screen time for original ECW stars, over-reliance on WWE-style storytelling, and the underwhelming main event. These criticisms have cemented December to Dismember as a controversial but historically significant entry in wrestling DVD collections.
Why the DVD Remains Popular Among Collectors
Despite its flaws, the December to Dismember DVD remains popular for several reasons
- Historical SignificanceIt represents WWE’s first major attempt to revive the ECW brand in pay-per-view format.
- Unique Match ConceptsFans of hardcore wrestling can appreciate the Extreme Elimination Chamber match as an ambitious, if imperfect, concept.
- Nostalgia FactorThe inclusion of some original ECW wrestlers gives fans a sense of connection to the promotion’s roots.
- Collector’s ItemDue to its limited popularity at the time, the DVD has become a sought-after item among wrestling memorabilia collectors.
Tips for Watching the ECW December to Dismember DVD
For those interested in experiencing the DVD today, it’s helpful to approach it with a mix of nostalgia and realistic expectations. Understanding that WWE’s version of ECW was different from the original can enhance appreciation for the event’s historical context. Fans should focus on the individual performances, creative match ideas, and the occasional hardcore spot that still captures the essence of ECW.
Suggested Viewing Approach
- Watch with a focus on standout matches rather than the overall storyline.
- Pay attention to individual performances from both original ECW stars and newer talent.
- Consider the event in the context of ECW’s evolution under WWE, rather than as a direct continuation of the 1990s promotion.
The ECW December to Dismember DVD is a complex piece of wrestling history. It showcases both the potential and the challenges of reviving a beloved brand under a corporate umbrella. While the event did not meet the lofty expectations of hardcore fans, it remains an important artifact for understanding the evolution of ECW within WWE. The DVD offers memorable moments, ambitious matches, and a glimpse of what ECW could have been in a new era. For wrestling collectors and history enthusiasts, it is worth watching-not just for the action inside the ring, but also for its role in the ongoing legacy of one of professional wrestling’s most influential brands.
Overall, the ECW December to Dismember DVD is more than just a wrestling show-it is a testament to the enduring influence of ECW on the industry and the complexities of balancing nostalgia with modern entertainment demands. Whether celebrated or criticized, the DVD continues to spark discussion, ensuring that ECW’s spirit, though evolved, remains alive in the hearts of wrestling fans around the world.