More than 250 pro's and amateurs came to Münster to compete for the title "Champion of the World" and to rip the new pool at the skatepark in town. (Münster Monster Mastership 1989 Contest) By this year, riders had significantly improved their skills, aided by the advanced technology of the late '80s. Hawk and the Powell-Peralta team dominated the street course, clearly outshining the European pros. While the Europeans gave it their all, they struggled to compete with the Americans. The difference became even more evident during a halfpipe demo featuring Hawk, Steve Saiz, and Ray Underhill. In the demo, Tony nailed stalefish 540’s, Saiz landed his first McTwist, and Ray executed flawless blunt-to-fakies. The advancements in both skill and technology were on full display, highlighting the American dominance in skateboarding at the time. The gap between the American and European skaters was unmistakable, as the Americans' innovative tricks and techniques set them apart from the rest.