N
n_halifax
Guest
I think part of the reason some have trouble seeing D/W or V/M as OGMs is b/c there is such a tight race this season for the top. In almost every past Olys in dance there has been a clear fave coming in or at least a prominent first team. Only in 94 was there really anything like this year and even then there were differences. T/D were uncertainties b/c of their time off. U/Z were probably the co-faves but had weaker material that year. G/P were talented and decorated skaters but had not won a big event yet. So to look at that event in hindsight, G/Ps stature is due in some part to what they did in later seasons to solidify their win.
Looking at that fact and the fact that the last two world champs had never medalled before. I think it's safe to say that the judges are open to rewarding whoever skates best despite our own biases toward our faves.
Tying into your point, even Urmanov and Baiul that year were not the most decorated competitors in either field, respectively, but they won! It all comes down to who has "the skate" in the judges eyes when there are so many strong competitors in the hunt.