Becky Lynch’s Meteoric Rise: How ‘The Man’ Became WWE’s Top Star
Rebecca Quin, popularly known by her ring name Becky Lynch from Limerick, Ireland, has been one of the most influential and iconic characters to have ever graced WWE. Her rise from obscure roots to being ‘The Man’ and face of WWE makes a story enriched on all counts by sheer perseverance, talent, and undeniable charisma. All this hard work in women’s wrestling in WWE is what has given Lynch her upward trend in the wrestling world. This is an in-depth look at some of the major moments and factors that helped Becky Lynch reach superstardom. Early Life and Wrestling BeginningsRebecca Quin was born in Limerick, Ireland, on January 30, 1987. She grew up in Dublin and since her childhood was actively involved in sports, majoring in swimming, basketball, and horse riding. Her interest in wrestling came later during the teen years, after her brother had already started training as a wrestler. Quin entered this wrestling world at 15 years old when she and her brother signed up to a wrestling school operated by Finn Bálor, another future WWE star. Quin made her professional wrestling debut in November 2002 under the ring name Rebecca Knox. She rose very fast in the ranks of independent wrestling—first in Ireland and then through most of Europe. From the technical strong style to the flying ability, the telling of a story through action in the ring drew wrestling fans and competitors who pay close attention to such things. Her rise, though, was egregiously derailed by a serious head injury in 2006 that kept her away from the ring for quite some time. Turning Adversity into Opportunity: Becoming a WWE SuperstarDuring her hiatus from wrestling, Quin developed other interests, such as acting and stunt work. In all these ventures, the interest in wrestling never left her. In 2013, she finally signed a developmental contract with the WWE. She reported to WWE’s developmental territory, NXT, where she began the process of fine-tuning her craft and refinement of the character. After making her televised debut in June 2014 on NXT, personable Lynch soon won over the fans by particularism—predominantly due to the color of her fiery red hair, along with steampunk-esque attire that matched her infectious enthusiasm. Her in-ring ability and charisma scored with many, hence making her one of the so-called “Four Horsewomen” of NXT alongside Charlotte Flair, Sasha Banks, and Bayley. The Revolution of WomenThe Four Horsewomen coming into WWE’s main roster opened the floodgates for change in how the company booked its women’s wrestling. In 2015, WWE concocted what has since been named the “Women’s Revolution,” a movement designed to provide better promotion and exposure to female wrestlers. Becky Lynch was at the forefront of this revolution. Lynch made her main roster debut on July 13, 2015, in a Monday Night Raw episode, where she came out alongside Charlotte Flair and Sasha Banks. It was huge, as it marked the beginning of the revolution in WWE women’s wrestling. The three made waves immediately, and Lynch’s popularity grew even further. She combines this with technical expertise, and that is what makes her an exceptional performer with the power to easily connect with the audience. The Making of ‘The Man’2018 was the year that really defined Becky Lynch’s career. Finally, after years of being the ultimate underdog and always seeming to be in someone else’s shadow, Lynch’s character shifted majorly. It all went down when, at SummerSlam 2018, she lost a Triple Threat match for the SmackDown Women’s Championship and, after the match, turned on her long-time friend Charlotte Flair. As it turned out, the payoff to this heel turn was unexpected—with the effusive booing of Lynch suddenly giving way to her rallying behind this recently edgy, determined version of herself.Embracing that fan support, Lynch would begin playing ‘The Man’: no-nonsense and confident, unapologetically a real-life bad-you-know-what. It was this character who spoke deep to the WWE Universe, capturing that Zeitgeist by empowering fans while making them feel a little part of Lynch’s journey. That charisma she exuded indulged her in realness and made her one of the most relatable yet compelling figures in wrestling at the time. Her popularity skyrocketed accordingly. One of the defining moments of Lynch’s rise came in November 2018 during the build-up to Survivor Series. Lynch led the invasion on Raw—broadly positioning her against Raw Women’s Champion Ronda Rousey. After a wild brawl where she would take a broken nose and concussion, she was pulled from what had been scheduled to be the main event match opposite Rousey. The picture of Lynch, bloodied yet defiant, standing tall in a sea of humanity, was nonetheless iconic in its own right. It solidified her as “The Man,” a true top star in the company. Heading to WrestleMania 35What Becky Lynch came into 2019 with was huge momentum: she won the Women’s Royal Rumble and the right to challenge for a women’s championship at WrestleMania 35 in January. What had occurred through it all—with all the odds and storyline twists seemingly geared against Lynch—was that she never lost an ounce of popular support or determination. On the road to WrestleMania 35, Lynch was embroiled in an ongoing argument with Ronda Rousey and Charlotte Flair. This détente came to a head at WrestleManIa 35 on 7 April 2019, in which Lynch competed against Rousey and Flair for a Winner Takes All match for both the Raw and SmackDown Women’s Championships. What made this match huge wasn’t just the fact that it was the very first time women were taking center stage at WrestleMania but was, for Lynch personally, about a full-circle moment from going from an underdog to WWE superfame. In an unquestionably physical and emotionally charged battle, Becky Lynch emerged victorious, pinning Ronda Rousey to capture the Raw and SmackDown Women’s Championship. When Lynch stood tall at that moment, it solidified her once and for all as truly being ‘The Man’ and the top star in WWE. That picture of Lynch standing with both
The Undertaker’s Streak: A Deep Dive Into Every WrestleMania Victory
The Undertaker, also known as The Phenom, may be one of the most iconic figures in the history of professional wrestling. A career over three decades in the industry has more to do with his numerous accolades, unforgettable matches, and a legacy that can justly be regarded beyond the sport. Perhaps the most notable part of The Undertaker’s career would be his seemingly unbreakable winning streak at WrestleMania, simply referred to as “The Streak.” Starting with his debut at WrestleMania VII in 1991, The Streak lasted through his twenty-first win at WrestleMania 29 in 2013. That would be the ultimate stamp in the annals of history for the sport. This paper takes us inside each win that configured The Streak, its context, opponents, and impact of these monumental matches. WrestleMania VII: The Beginning of The Streak Opponent: Jimmy “SuperflyHe debuted at WrestleMania on March 24, 1991, and piled it out with the legendary Jimmy “Superfly” Snuka. At that point in time, The Undertaker was pretty fresh in World Wrestling Entertainment, as he had just debuted a few months earlier at the 1990 edition of the Survivor Series. Although a rookie, he was already creating a storm with his dark and mysterious character and his greater intimidating presence.The Undertaker overwhelmingly won this match against Snuka, showing all of his big moves, including the Tombstone Piledriver, in virtually five minutes. IT was a portend of things to come of the featuring star’s monumental winning streak at the marquee annual event for the WWE. WrestleMania VIII: A World Champion Defends His Honor Against Jake “The Snake” Roberts Rival: Jake “The Snake” RobertsOn April 5, 1992, The Undertaker faced Jake “The Snake” Roberts at WrestleMania VIII. Who needed no introduction—a legend in his own light, quite possibly one of the greatest psychological warriors of wrestling. The point is that this was The Undertaker’s second appearance at WrestleMania, and at that stage, he challenged one of the most sinister characters that WWE fans had ever known.The storyline would lead up to Roberts attempting to manipulate The Undertaker and Paul Bearer but ultimately finding out that The Phenom was immune to his tactics. The result was listed as The Undertaker had defeated Roberts, and therefore The Deadman came back again as an unbeatable figure throughout WWE, with the Tombstone Piledriver ending another rivalry. WrestleMania IX: Giant Gonzalez Showdown Opponent: Giant GonzalezWrestleMania IX, April 4, 1993, delivered the ultimate test for The Undertaker as he stood opposite the towering Giant Gonzalez, well over the remarkable height of seven feet. The storyline that included the Giant Gonzalez told of his manager, Harvey Wippleman, wanting retribution because The Undertaker had messed up things and vanquished his old set of clients.The spectacle was the match itself, which took place during an outdoor event at Las Vegas’s Caesars Palace. It was more a bout of spectacle than technical; the highly overpowered sheer size of Gonzalez made The Undertaker take away the win by the conscious disqualification of Gonzalez from use of chloroform. So controversial was the finish not to kill The Streak but in a very odd fashion. WrestleMania X: The Deadman’s Reign Unwritten No-show at WrestleMania XThe Undertaker was not involved in action back at WrestleMania X in 1994. Well, after a Casket Match at the 1994 Royal Rumble event, against Yokozuna, The Undertaker was buried so he had time to heal and take time off. Everything did not stop, because even though this wrestler was not in the event, his legend grew bigger with the fans. WrestleMania XI: The Phenom vs. King Kong Bundy Rival: King Kong BundyThe Undertaker made his lone appearance of the year on April 2, 1995, returning to WrestleMania for WrestleMania XI to renew his feud with the members of the Million Dollar Corporation, this time King Kong Bundy. He tried to interfere on the behalf of diabolic love, but The Undertaker withstood all that came in his way, thereby outlasting the other in good form. The match was power-packed with moves and lots of gimmickry, and right at the finish, he delivered a flying clothesline. WrestleMania XII: A Grudge Match with Diesel Opponent: DieselThe year was 1996, and on March 31, The Undertaker was wrestling Diesel a.k.a. Kevin Nash during the professional fighting event WrestleMania XII. Their enmity had been fanned through Diesel’s interference in The Undertaker and vice versa in his matches.The match had been a slugfest, implicitly telling of the power and tenacity of each competitor. In the end, though, The Undertaker nailed a Tombstone Piledriver to secure his fifth-straight WrestleMania. And his reputation will grow further; come hell or high water, The Undertaker is always there when the match truly counts. WrestleMania 13: The Championship Challenge vs. Sycho Sid Opponent: Sycho SidAt the Grand Daddy of ’em All, on March 23, 1997, at WrestleMania 13, The Undertaker had a shot at wrestling the WWE Champion; he challenged the reigning champion, Sycho Sid.To the hard fight, full of heat and struggle, which seemed to be the main event, a match continued. The Undertaker never relented on his fierce desire to win back the WWE Championship, exhibiting more of his resilience. The grudged Bret Hart’s inference, the still hold of final Tombstone Piledriver deliverance upon Sycho Sid, and The Undertaker won the WWE Championship, extending The Streak to 6-0. WrestleMania XIV: A Brotherly Feud with Kane Rival: KaneOne of the most remembered and emotionally high matches in The Undertaker’s entire WrestleMania saga was on March 29, 1998, against his storyline brother, Kane. This match was full of supernatural overtones and comfortably settled into the storyline-heavy proceedings laden with betrayals and family dramas. Kane had brutalized The Undertaker ahead of time and was making all sorts of threats to finish off The Undertaker. And after all those tribulations – both emotional and physical – The Undertaker wins the match by hitting three turnstile Piledrivers in succession on his giant sibling. This match pushed The Streak to 7-0 and would settle the myth that
Royal Rumble Rewind: The Most Memorable Moments In Rumble History
The WWE Royal Rumble is one of the most awaited events in professional wrestling. With such a unique format, it promises human beings moments of a lifetime that they would never be able to forget. Since 1988, the Royal Rumble has always been a great event where wrestlers express themselves, make stunning comebacks, and forge occasions to be remembered for ages in WWE history. In this article, relive some of the most unforgettable Royal Rumble moments in history—drama, action, and purely unpredictable moments that define this iconic event. Birth of the Royal Rumble (1988)The first kind of event to be held under the brand name Royal Rumble was on January 24, 1988, at the Copps Coliseum in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. It was created by WWE Hall of Famer Pat Patterson, and the concept was that, unlike a typical battle royal, which would see all contestants there in the ring right from the get-go, in a Royal Rumble, there are timely intervals where a new wrestler would enter the ring. That innovation added yet another layer of strategy and excitement to the game, ensuring that every match would be a one-off spectacle. This first match in the Royal Rumble series, broadcast on the USA Network, had 20 participants and was won by “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan. Although, in its first days, that event did not yet carry the stipulation of being the real main event of WrestleMania, it still remains as a fixture on the WWE’s yearly calendar. Hulk Hogan’s Dominance (1989)Hulk Hogan – One of the biggest stars in WWE history, controversially helped make an indelible impression in the event’s formative years. By taking part in the 1989, 1990 and 1991 Royal Rumble matches, Hogan has engendered his legacy as a dominant force inside WWE. 1989: Hogan’s First RumbleExpanded to 30 participants for the 1989 edition, things seemed ready to explode. Hulk Hogan was considered the odds-on favorite coming into this one and sent speculators home happy since he eliminated nine, too, in what was the Rumble record that stood back then, proving his seriousness in both power and popularity. He was eventually eliminated by the Twin Towers of Big Boss Man and Akeem, setting up future feuds with that pair. 1990: Royal RumbleAt the 1990 Royal Rumble, Hulk Hogan secured the win, solidifying his position as the marquee performer in the WWE. His ability to throw out Mr. Perfect near the end of the Rumble through the ropes was quite notable, as was indeed his subsequent playground with the WWE fans—an image practically etched in everyone’s minds. Hogan displayed resilience and the ability to move the audiences in setting records that day. 1991: The Immortal One’s Second VictoryHogan made first-ever history in 1991 when he became the winner of two subsequent Royal Rumble matches. Coming in at number 24, Hogan grabbed the victory played out in the turmoil, getting stiff competition all over him, which included the likes of Earthquake. This further solidified Hogan’s legacy and the importance of the Royal Rumble in setting WWE’s Main Event scene. Ric Flair’s Iron Man Hang In (199This ranks among the very best Rumbles ever held, and that in large part is down to a canny brilliant performance from Ric Flair. There was an extra aspect of drama in the match, as the man who won would be declared the new WWF Champion, since the title was vacant. Endurance of FlairFlair drew number three in the lineup, which was hard; it took outlasting 29 other competitors. Throughout the hour-long effort, Flair once more illustrated stamina, technical prowess, and cunning strategy. His ability to survive those encounters with some of WWE’s top stars likely showed why Flair is one of the best wrestlers ever. The Last FourThe climax of the match saw Flair in the final four, which also included Hulk Hogan, Sid Justice, and Randy Savage. It was Sid Justice who was eliminated by Flair in the end to win and secure the WWE Championship, with an assist from Hogan. This post-match promo, where famously he said, “With a tear in my eye, this is the greatest moment of my life,” remains one of the most emotional and memorable in the history of Royal Rumbles. The Birth of Austin 3:16 (1997)It can be traced back that the meteoric rise of Stone Cold Steve Austin to superstardom began with the 1997 Royal Rumble. This performance was a clear masterclass of ruthless and tenacious competition, breaking this week’s five-man battle royal field open at number five. The Dominance of the RAustin eliminated ten competitors; a record at the time. Cementing his position as an unrelenting force, his antics throughout the match included his iconic moment where he sat atop the top turnbuckle, checked his imaginary watch, and looked at his wristwatch. CHE ProcastThe end of the 1997 Royal Rumble was controversial at best. After being eliminated by Bret Hart, Austin illegally entered the ring and tossed the confused Hart over the top rope to claim victory. This controversial ending set up Austin’s rise to the main event, cementing major feuds like Hart/Austin at WrestleMania 13 into prevailing legacies. Mick Foley’s Triple Persona (1998)Mick Foley’s presence in the 1998 Royal Rumble comments on one’s versatility and one’s readiness to please the Universe of WWE. Known to portray a host of various characters, Foley went on to make three difficult entrances in that particular match: Cactus Jack, Mankind, and Dude Love. Cactus Jack Foley came out as Cactus Jack, and he and Chainsaw Charlie (Terry Funk) started off by having an incredibly physical battle that went hardcore, waging war all the way to the mat, involving chairs and a gallon trash can. Their hardcore segments set the pace for the rest was going to be a wacky and insane Rumble. After his elimination as Cactus Jack, Foley re-entered the match disguised as Mankind. During his second stint in the match, he performed in his traditional aggressive style, including many of his normal offensive maneuvers in the
Crafting Stories: The Art Of WWE’s Storyline Development
Professional wrestling, particularly WWE, fuses athleticism with theater and storytelling. The WWE stays alive mainly because of its complicated storylines, which are put out to entertain an audience. These are what tend to make a wrestling match turn into an epic battle of good vs. evil or hero vs. villain, adding so much emotional depth to it. This paper looks into the art of storyline development on the case of WWE and how such stories have been conceptualized, produced, and evolved over time to retain interest among the fans. The Foundations of WWE Storytelling Character DevelopmentThe characters form the backbone of any interesting storyline. WWE Superstars are these larger-than-life characters with their own attributes, aims, and histories. Character development makes a person interesting and relatable to an audience. Heels and FacesIn WWE, characters are usually divided into two groups: faces (heroes) and heels (villains). This classic dichotomy then goes on to fit clearly defined storylines, where, as an audience or fanbase, it’s clear as day who you have to cheer for and who you have to boo. The complexity of characters today has Superstars embodying shades of gray, making them more multi-dimensional and realistic. The Importance of ArcsAll great stories have three things in common: a beginning, a middle, and an end. This is the foundation of every WWE storyline, but with a concept of how to keep interest over time. The character arc provides the art of growth and change, giving progression and evolution. Human-Centered StoryWhere WWE was traditionally known for long-term storytelling in which feuds and alliances were stretched for years, drifting in and out of the spotlight. These long-term narratives add richness to characters on center stage and give meaning to the interaction between those said characters. That one long-term constructed storyline has ensured the superstar legacy—that leaves a mark on wrestling history. The Creative Process What the writing team does.WWE’s is a combined result of producers, writers and the Superstars working together on the storyline of the company’s shows. They are to handle the storyline of the script of every weekly show, pay-per-view events and sometimes other special shows with the rest of the writing team. Collaboration with SuperstarsSuperstars could have a say in the development of their characters and storylines. Also, when that happens, the collaboration today gives more assurance to mere stories that are very compatible with both their personas and the appeal to the audience. The best storylines are when character and performer are on the same page, therefore fitting well together to display a truer and more interesting presentation. Effectiveness of Real-Life EventsWWE often takes actual real-life incidents and personal issues to illustrate its storyline. It provides a real flavor and emotional sense to the story, making those stories very much relatable to the audience. Personal FightsReal-life issues between Superstars can also be exploited in order to generate attention and interest from the fans. When the audience realizes that there’s some real animus between the competitors, it changes the nature of the matches and segments into something a little more volatile and engaging. Flexibility and adaptability.One of the challenges with the approach of WWE storytelling is found in its flexibility. When a storyline has to be changed due to injuries or unforeseen issues with someone’s contract, for instance, such demands an amount of flexibility. When flexibility is absolutely called on for, say, in the face of injuries or some other dual-edged blade that demands against script-writing issues, that’s where the onus of veritable penultimate interest lies—or truthfully should lie. Legendary WWE Storylines The Rise of Stone Cold Steve Austin ContextAt approximately the same time, WWE was really beginning to flounder against WCW. It was during this specific period that Stone Cold Steve Austin really developed into a popular anti-hero character; he changed absolutely everything about the WWE’s storytelling style. The Austin vs. McMahon FeudThe rivalry between Stone Cold and WWE Chairman Vince McMahon was perhaps one of the most memorable feuds in wrestling history. Austin’s renegade personality against McMahon’s tough authoritative character did magic on the audience, especially in the middle of the Attitude Era. ImpactNot only did this storyline skyrocket Austin to superstardom, but it also reignited the popularity of WWE. It proved that a lot really goes into storytelling, most especially the telling of a Superstar’s career story and the loop it can bring to a company’s profitability. The Streak BackgroundThe Undertaker, one of the longest enduring characters in the franchise of WWE, hailed from the legendary undefeated streak at WrestleMania. It went on to define his character in the audience’s imagination. Streak MatchesEvery year new exciting storylines were developed in perspective of who would end the streak of The Undertaker. These matches particularly turned out to be the most exciting ones during WrestleMania wherein opponents like Shawn Michaels, Triple H, and Brock Lesnar gave one hell of an experience adversarial. The End of the StreakIn 2014, Brock Lesnar snapped The Undertaker’s undefeated streak at WrestleMania 30. This shocking finale to a long-arc storyline struck a chord with fans and solidified WWE as being down with taking creative risks. The Mega Powers Explode ContextProbably one of the biggest storylines of the late ’80s was the alliance between Hulk Hogan and Randy Savage. This tag-team duo, known as the Mega Powers, became an instant favorite among fans, though their tensions were brewing beneath the surface. The PartingThis saga would eventually culminate when the duo would go their separate ways as Savage turned heel, accusing Hogan of wanting his girlfriend, former manager Miss Elizabeth. This personal and emotionally fueled saga ultimately concluded the moment that everyone in the audience was looking for—WrestleMania V. ImpactStories are the primary reason for the effectiveness of slow-burn storytelling; for example, gradually building tension increases effectiveness at the peak. It still stands as one of the most legendary storylines in WWE history.Modern Storyline General Innovations The Women’s Evolution BackgroundFor years, women’s wrestling in WWE was always a secondary thing. The advent of real, talented female superstars
Triumphant Returns: WWE Comebacks That Electrified the Crowd
Professional wrestling combines athleticism, storytelling, and spectacle uniquely; and this is nowhere more evident than in the world of WWE. One of the most highly expected and electrifying elements of WWE has to be the return of one or other favorite or iconic Superstar. These have been planned to the very minute and their execution ensures maximum emotional effect, hence leaving truly indelible moments within every fan’s mind. This article discusses some of the most electrifying WWE comebacks in history, what motivated them to come out of retirement, and why they have had such a lasting impact in wrestling history. The Art of the Comeback The Surprise ElementThat shock is key in building a great return. WWE is the best at keeping returns quiet so that reaction, when the music of that Superstar plays, is nothing but pure, unadulterated excitement. Whether it be with a well-placed swerve or just knowing how to swerve the crowd, the shock value can make a good return and turn it into an out-of-this-world one. AnticipationAnother crucial aspect is anticipation. More often than not, in WWE, the ball starts rolling weeks or even months before with subtle signals that give speculation for fans. This might be through cryptic vignettes, social media teases, or storyline advancements in storylines that foretell the comeback of a character. Thus, the anticipation skyrockets, while the eventual comeback becomes that much impactful. Emotional ConnectionThe most successful comebacks, however, are the ones that are meaningful on an emotional level. When you are a fan, there comes a time when one grows attached to his superstars. You have tirelessly strived though the process, wallowing in their wins and indulging in their victories. When, after a decent length of time, that very wrestler makes a comeback, it portrays that exact emotional bond, more importantly in its power outside the wrestling ring. Iconic WWE Comebacks The Return of The Rock (2011) ContextLeaving in 2004 to pursue Hollywood, after which The Rock became the biggest movie star in the world, he was never forgotten by his wrestling fans, and rumors of a return lived for years. The ComebackOn February 14, 2011, The Rock made his much-anticipated return to WWE television on Monday Night Raw and self-proclaimed himself the host for that year’s Wrestlemania XXVII. He lay down his return promo, showering the crowd with vintage Rock—it felt electric, charismatic, and was filled with iconic catchphrases. The crowd responded with deafening force, and there he was—in a ring—the single most beloved superstar in history.ImpactIf nothing else, his return to WWE helped bring interest back to many lapsed fans and gained mainstream publicity. The lines that followed with John Cena, CM Punk, and many others would stir up much controversy and lead to some of the most unforgettable matches and moments within the decade. This showed by itself the staying power of wrestling’s biggest stars in captivating audiences across different eras. Triple H’s Return From Injury ContextIn May 2001, Triple H tore one of his quadriceps during a tag team match, sidelining him for over eight months. Surgery and a long period of rehabilitation followed. The ComebackTriple H arrived back on Raw on January 7, 2002. When his entrance music started playing, Madison Square Garden was electrified with his return. Tears were in his eyes when he started trapping inside. It’s quite clear from the return promo to Triple H that he will do everything in hand to find his way back to the top of WWE and chalk up an avenue to headline WrestleMania for the rest of a year. ImpactIt was the second coming of Triple H, one of those really defining moments in WWE history. That really was the beginning of probably the most successful period of his career because after this, he got his hands on the Royal Rumble and the Undisputed WWE Championship at WrestleMania X8. His return further guaranteed that not only was he one of the top athletes within the organization, but he solidified a true legend amongst the greatest to have ever competed in a professional wrestling arena. The Resurgence of Shawn Michaels (2002) ContextOnce he had to retire from wrestling in 1998 because of a serious back injury, for four years, it was like he wouldn’t wrestle again. Although he did show some face every now and then during this absence, he never participated in any match. ComebackIn 2002, Michaels made a stunning return to WWE first as a member of the nWo, before eventually making his real comeback at SummerSlam against his former best friend Triple H in an Unsanctioned Street Fight. Could he still really go after the health concerns, and boy did he ever prove that the magic was still there? ImpactShawn Michaels’ return didn’t only excite the fans; it set the stage for possibly the wrestling world’s greatest second act. That translated into more than just eight additional years of tremendous matches, including the iconic back-to-back battles at Wrestlemania with The Undertaker. His return solidified his standing as an all-time great in a WWE ring, inspiring so many wrestlers and fans alike. The Return of Edge (2020) OriginThis gifted and charismatic performer was cut down in his prime, literally, when he had to retire in 2011 due to a career-hurt spinal injury. It looked like that was it for Edge and wrestling for almost a decade. Edge was a popular superstar, speaking of the man, his fans were always showing interest in the pool scenario that he was going to make a remarkable, very important, though mysterious return to wrestling. The ComebackThat miracle came at the 2020 Royal Rumble. The countdown clock had just hit zero for entrant number 21 when Edge’s music did hit—and the crowd erupted at Minute Maid Park in Houston. Truly, there was a feeling with Edge’s walk to the ring as tears welled in his eyes. What followed was nothing short of magical: his performance in the Royal Rumble match and a long-awaited reunion in the ring with former
NXT’s Impact: How WWE’s Developmental Brand Revolutionized Wrestling
When WWE, on the cusp of retooling its developmental territory, rebranded it into the NXT in 2012, it’s fair to say that no one really knew what kind of shockwave it would create to shake the wrestling industry. What had started as just another wrestling platform to carve out the WWE superstars of tomorrow evolved into a third global brand, setting the stage for the world of wrestling as we know it. The article explores the origins of NXT’s transformation into a wrestling phenomenon and how it has actually revolutionized the industry. Origins of NXT and Its Evolution The Early YearsFirst hitting the waves in 2010, NXT was first a competition-based show with the aim being to expose new talent to WWE audiences. Rookies were involved, each having a veteran from WWE as their mentor. This seemed to not work out well, but by 2012, it was realized that some alterations had to be made. Rename and re-launch In 2012, WWE began branding NXT as its developmental mainstay territory. The show was then shifted to Winter Park, Florida, at the Full Sail University location, finding an extremely welcome home crowd. From that rebranding, NXT emerged, over time, into the class that it is today. Originality in Style and Presentation Emphasis on Quality of WrestlingPerhaps one of the hallmarks of NXT is the emphasis on activity within the ring. While on the main roster, there is plenty of emphasis placed on entertainment and spectacle; for NXT, high-quality wrestling makes up plenty of a part of the presentation. This helped to draw in that hardcore wrestling fan who was looking for technical aptitude and quality storytelling. Character DevelopmentNXT gave its wrestlers enough time and a creative edge to make something out of their characters on their own expectation. New in contrast with the main roster where every time character was like playing a game of swapping and that is apart from the irksome fact of its presentation, in NXT, character building has the super ability to make the audience relate to it. The production values of NXT further contributed to making the brand different. Full Sail University, whose philosophy of high production standards is linked with WWE’s, close to each other, created the circumstance for this viewing experience to be unusual, different, and engaging. Against the proximity of wrestlers and fans, it comes very differently, therefore, making a presentation of every NXT event special and absolutely different from each other from any other show on the main roster of WWE. The Rise of NXT TakeOverThe first NXT TakeOver event took place in May 2014 and set up what would develop into a series of well-regarded shows. They showcased the best wrestling of the year and soon after were promoted events geared for wrestling fans of whom it was hard to ignore. Top TakeOver MatchesFrom the brutal ladder match pitting Sami Zayn against Kevin Owens, to the climactic one-on-one emotional collision between Johnny Gargano and Tommaso Ciampa, TakeOvers are always high drama with top-class in-ring competition. Influence of TakeOverNXT TakeOver became a success of their events because the wrestling fans demanded high-quality matches and good long-term storytelling. It put such pressure on WWE’s main roster that their shows improved overall, in-ring and in storytelling. Internationalization is a Star-Maker Machine and Talent Homegrown TalentNXT has been very instrumental in developing homegrown talents who went on to become major stars in WWE. Those superstars were Seth Rollins, Roman Reigns, and Charlotte Flair, among many other today series helpers, who had initial exposure and developed their skills in NXT before doing some capable work on the main roster. International StarsNXT has also served as a way for international talent to work their way into WWE. Guys like Shinsuke Nakamura, Finn Bálor, and Asuka all came into NXT with tremendous experience from all around the world, adding diversity and changing the landscape of that brand. Their first deal of success in NXT opened the doors for many more international stars within WWE. Independent Wrestling Scene IntegrationBut what was probably the most groundbreaking aspect of NXT was that it was promoted as part of the independent wrestling scene. The company’s practice of signing each of these wrestling promotions’ best independent talent began: Kevin Owens, Sami Zayn, Adam Cole. These signings brought their own fan bases to NXT. They elevated the product, bringing their blunter and riskier styles, which made NXT feel more mature and more familiar. And this strategy brought authenticity to the mainstream way that WWE treated independent wrestling. The Effect on the Main WWE Roster Making a DifferenceNXT’s emphasis on good quality wrestling grounded with storytelling has certainly raised the bar high for the WWE main roster. The shows on the main roster have been more like NXT, with supposition building and all that go with it and that which melded with the wrestling style of NXT have enriched the working on the main roster. With experience the wrestlers took from NXT and the clout of fan followings came, the selling and heat of the program raised over the main rooster shows. Impacting within WWE’s Woman’s DivisionNXT has been at the forefront of WWE’s Women’s Revolution. The brand gave these female wrestlers a platform to perform in a way not traditionally seen in WWE. The Sasha Banks vs. Bayley and then Asuka vs. Ember Moon series of matches truly set a higher standard for what women’s wrestling could be. Two of these matches showed that women could be in the main event slot and steal a whole show, so that’s how big WWE has gone for a change in the way that its main roster conducted the business of its female talents. Bringing New Stars to Life The truth is, NXT had probably affected the WWE’s main roster most profoundly in the one built-in characteristic: the ability to create new stars. With an insurmountable amount of talent like Becky Lynch, who became “The Man” after her run on NXT, NXT has headed a great stream
Unlikely Pairings: Unexpected WWE Tag Teams That Succeeded
In the world of professional wrestling, a tag team relationship is not usually established in a very much different way. Two wrestlers with something in common tend to come together for perform against enemies. Some interesting things are that some of the most memorable and successful tag teams in WWE history have come from the most unlikely pairings. Those mismatched duos have gone on to form tag teams that shocked everyone by becoming highly successful—a true testament to the fact that chemistry and charisma go further than any sort of reasoning. In this way, it tells the stories of several unpredictable WWE tag teams that worked together in the ring to capture fans’ hearts around the world. Team Hell No: Daniel Bryan and Kane ContextIn 2012, WWE wanted to revive their tag team division. At the time, technically gifted wrestler Daniel Bryan was embroiled in a red-hot feud against the monster that was Kane—incredibly, in Bryan’s power, their rivalry became rooted in a comedic one when they had to attend anger management classes together. Formation and SuccessThe unlikely duo of Kane and Daniel Bryan was quickly renamed to “Team Hell No” and became one of the most entertaining elements of WWE programming. Their comedy segments, such as the widely famous “Hug It Out” segment, were super received by all the fans. Meanwhile, they continued to bicker constantly, and almost miraculously, they really came together over time in the ring. Team Hell No went on to win the WWE Tag Team Championships at Night of Champions in 2012 and held the titles for a very impressive 245 days. Impact and LegacyAnd taking more seriously Team Hell No demonstrated WWE being capable of mixing humor with high-quality wrestling. The team itself showcased the versatility of both Kane and Bryan. It showed a Kane with dignity added to his character, which was built up prior, and a Bryan who was showing he was able to do both comedy and more serious stuff. Their origin had one of its buoys into the renewed tag team division, and it remains since then one of the more beloved chapters in WWE History. The Rock ‘n Sock Connection: The Rock and Mankind ContextIn the late 1990s, The Rock and Mankind were quite literally chalk and cheese in WWE’s very popular Superstar stable. Rock was everything: charismatic, arrogant; Rock was the People’s Champion. Mankind was the deranged hardcore legend. Their initial feud was quite literally run through mud, which earned them some brutal matches to fight out the finish, including the famous “I Quit” match at the 1999 Royal Rumble. Formation and SuccessThe Rock and Mankind shared nothing in common except for their mutual respect and love for the roar of the crowd. Their odd couple pairing really began when Mankind wanted The Rock to like him and offered him the present of a garish “Rock ‘n’ Sock” jacket. Doing comeback kid shtick in now legendary comedy segments, such as the “This Is Your Life” segment, became some of the highest-rated in WWE history. The Rock ‘n’ Sock Connection was the crucial and undeniable backbone that held three-time titleholders of the WWE Tag Team Championship together. Indeed, the matches they were both booked in personified a combination of The Rock’s athleticism and Mankind’s unorthodox style, producing unforgettable moments. Impact and LegacyThe Rock ‘n Sock Connection proved to be one of the all-time classic tag teams in the WWE. Their storyline proved that wrestling is all about character chemistry and how well they can narrate stories. Their victorious storyline and matches were proof that even unlikely pairings work magic amongst the audiences of the world, with bountiful triumphs coming along the way. Indeed something fans and wrestlers venerate.The Bar feat. Sheamus and Cesaro ContextSheamus and Cesaro were two of the most physically gifted and technically competent professional wrestlers within the WWE. But beyond that single facet, the divisions between them were great. In 2016, they found themselves embroiled in a bitter rivalry through a 7-match series. Chapter 7 of the series compilation features WWE management envisioning the possibility that these two star performers would get to relate with each other as part of a tag team. Formation and SuccessReluctantly teaming together, Sheamus and Cesaro were quick to develop a different kind of chemistry. Instead of straining each other, the latter worked that much harder on their partner because of the tension. One brought out the Ax and the other brought out the best, The Bar mixed Sheamuss hard-hitting style with Cesaros technical brilliance and athleticism. They ended up holding the Raw Tag Team Championship in several title reigns, which shows they could function efficiently even under all odds. Impact and LegacyThe success of the Bar revealed to one and all that even the most unlikely of tag teams could possibly flourish with the right combination of talent and chemistry mixed in. Always having excellent matches, they proceeded to become the best of friends through time, solidifying the duo from being reluctant partners to becoming just a single unit. Their run breathed new life into both Sheamus and Cesaro’s careers and became an inseparable part of the tag team scene. Rated-RKO: Edge and Randy Orton ContextIn the mid-2000s, Edge and Randy Orton were two of WWE’s top heels for their ruthless and cunning personas. Both had achieved considerable individual success, even winning world championships. In reality, though, their paths had crossed very seldom. Late in 2006, the two came together under the common goal to neutralize the common threat offered by Triple H and Shawn Michaels—better known as D-Generation X. Formation and SuccessRated-RKO immediately exploded onto the scene as a tandem to be reckoned with. Rated-RKO was unbeatable, mixing the technical aspect of wrestling with charisma and plain ruthless tactics. They quickly secured the World Tag Team Championship; more importantly, they had a series of high-profile feuds with top teams of the time, one of them being DX. That this pairing allowed both men to let other faces of
Viral Sensations: WWE Moments That Broke The Internet
In this digitalized era today, WWE stretches beyond the small screen and live events. Social media platforms, with the likes of Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube, give wings to WWE content globally. Some WWE moments have gone viral because of their shock value, emotional intensity, or pure spectacle, attracting millions of viewers across the globe. The viral sensations not only increase brand visibility but also allow the biggest stars involved to leave a memorable legacy. This article will look into some of the top WWE moments, which absolutely broke the internet and will cover why these moments took place, what impact they had, and the legacy they left behind. The Streak is Over: Brock Lesnar Defeats The Undertaker at WrestleMania 30 ContextFor over two decades, The Undertaker’s WrestleMania winning streak was probably one of the most hallowed and sacrosanct records in WWE history. With 21 straight wins, “The Streak” was, by this point, almost a franchise unto itself when it came to WrestleMania lore—it was what drew in viewers every year, waiting and hoping to see if this could be the time someone finally put a notch in the loss column. In April 2014, at the WrestleMania 30 pay-per-view, Brock Lesnar was supposed to be up against The Undertaker, but very few actually figured Lesnar to walk out with the win. That MomentApril 6, 2014, at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans, the unthinkable did take place. After three F-5s, Brock Lesnar finally pinned The Undertaker clean in the middle of the wrestling ring at WrestleMania 30, sending The Streak crashing again at 21–1. Utter disbelief peeked through the faces of every person in the arena, with many fans literally in silence. Of course, those who post via social media share, if not forcefully and unintentionally memeify, the image of a fan with his mouth agape. ImpactThe end of The Streak was a monumental moment in WWE history. It got mileage on all kinds of media; from ESPN to BBC covered its swan song-ness. Hashtags stormed Twitter with #TheStreak, #WrestleMania30 being trended worldwide. However, it was an outcome that completely shocked the fans and went viral with the emotions of the people. He rightfully submitted Brock Lesnar’s name to the annals of “The Beast Incarnate” and successfully landed WrestleMania 30 in some of the memorable events. CM Punk’s Return on AEW Rampage: The First Dance ContextWhen CM Punk left WWE in 2014, it clearly left a void in the hearts of his fans. For years, people have engaged in the chant “CM Punk” at the events organized by WWE, which goes to show all of the alarming signs. Despite numerous rumors and teases, Punk remained on the shelf as a professional wrestler. However, in August of 2021, AEW declared Rampage to be a special edition named “The First Dance.” That created an entrepreneurial spirit in a load of fans’ minds about CM Punk’s return. The MomentOn August 20, 2021, CM Punk made his tremendous return to pro wrestling at the United Center in Chicago. The crowd erupted in a deafening pop as the opening chords of “Cult of Personality” pounded through the speakers. In an emotional entrance and promo to follow, Punk simply acknowledged his trials and the perpetual support he continuously received from the fans. ImpactThis made CM Punk’s entrance go straight up in a viral boom. Within seconds, his entrance video would pull over a million views on YouTube and other social media platforms. Hashtags #CMPunk and #AEWRampage was trending worldwide, absolutely dominating wrestling discourse. CM Punk’s return did not only heighten AEW’s credibility, but it proved the power of wrestling narratives resides with fans. The Pipebomb: One of the Most All-Time Great Prom ContextIn June 2011, CM Punk was involved in one of the biggest storylines: his WWE contract was ending. So, one can receive a live microphone during an episode of Raw, and Punk delivered an incredibly harsh, unscripted promo—pretty much referred to thereafter as “the Pipebomb.” This obviously broke through all reprehension and, as a sign of resistance, had snowy elements—a clearance of integers between the actual and the possible. That MomentHe sat cross-legged in the middle of the ring and vented all his anger against WWE, against Vince McMahon, against Triple H, and alluded at various other wrestling promotions. This was Punk’s raw, unencumbered emotion laid in front of millions whose bitterness had metastasized for years. At last, officials cut off his microphone, striking up this act with one more touch of unpredictability and anarchy. ImpactThe Pipebomb promo instantly reigned over the web, as the reaction reflected fans of wrestling and non-fans. Through social media reflections there was no doubt the promo was being viewed and talked about the most in the WWE. Punk’s promo helped spawn new interest in the WWE product, especially his program with John Cena and the battle for the WWE Championship. It is considered one of the greatest promos in wrestling, as it works to further cement CM Punk’s legacy as a master of the microphone. Yes Movement: The Road to WrestleMania 30 of Daniel Bryan ContextIn the early 2010s, Daniel Bryan’s popularity skyrocketed because of his in-ring skills and the underdog persona common in his wrestling character. And despite his connection with the fans, WWE management viewed him prior as a “B+” player, not a player in the main event. The fans’ support towards Bryan, marked by “Yes!” chants, turned into a movement that WWE could no longer disregard. The MomentOn March 10, 2014, Bryan would lead a protest of what he called the “Yes Movement” where he and a group of fans filled the ring area until Triple H relented to face him at WrestleMania 30. And the victory over him will grant him a spot in the WWE World Heavyweight Championship match at that event. At WrestleMania 30, Bryan bested Triple H, Randy Orton, and Batista for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship, in the process giving rise to what has been described as arguably one of
Championship Evolution: The Changing Designs Of WWE’s Top Titles
The WWE Championship belts have metamorphosed greatly from its founding. These have been changes existing from the tastes, cultural influences, and the technological advancements in professional wrestling. In terms of attire, championship belt design represents something way beyond merely aesthetics; it stands for prestige, history and accomplishment on the part of the wrestlers who bear it. The following article will venture into the glory days and overall evolution of the top championship titles in wrestling, focusing on what their design changes bring to the wrestling world. Wrestling’s Most Prestigious Prize Origins and Preliminary DesignsThe WWE Championship was inaugurated in 1963 and it was first called the WWWF World Heavyweight Championship. Buddy Rogers was the first who held the title. It was quite a simple belt, according to nowadays standards. The first designs showed only a very big center plate, which carried the name of the company and an image of a wrestler with limbs spread in victory holding the globe. It was retooled in the 1970s; the yellow lettering was added and more ornate engraving and gold plating to the strap. It wasn’t until this period when more of a somewhat standardized appearance was finally achieved as the eagle was shown with wings extended and standing on top of the globe, which symbolizes reaching all over the globe the WWE has attained. The 1980s: The Winged Eagle EraAmong the most iconic of designs was the one followed in 1988 with the “Winged Eagle” belt. This version was fitted with one of the largest reproductions of an eagle with its wings splayed—signifying power and much more real estate upon which to apply color. The features of color depicted in the minutest skin represent a respected part of wrestling history. Legends such as Hulk Hogan, Bret Hart, and Shawn Michaels held this version, solidifying its place in wrestling history. The Attitude Era: Big Eagle and the Undisputed TitlesThe Big Eagle championship was introduced in 1998 at the peak of the Attitude Era. Larger and more imposing, this belt has a large eagle in the middle and the caption “World Wrestling Federation Champion” embossed across the width of this big beauty. This design would be held by the likes of Stone Cold Steve Austin and The Rock. It had a more streamlined design now, with a single central plate increased in size, and following the unification of the titles from both the WWF and WCW, this was the “Undisputed Championship”. The title was held by Brock Lesnar and The Undertaker. The Ruthless Aggression and the PG Era: Spinner Belt and BeyondIn 2005, the “Spinner Belt” line was introduced, signed by John Cena. This line has a spinning WWE logo in its center, symbolizing Hip Hop John Cena. Although it was controversial at the time, it has become the iconic symbol of this era, worn by such top stars as Edge and Randy Orton. In 2013, the spinner was removed and an updated, more simplified design was released. This belt was designed with a big WWE logo in the center and with the words “World Heavyweight Champion” inscribed beneath it. This apparently inscribed a step in the updating of the look to be more fit for the modern branding of the company. The WWE World Heavyweight Championship and Universal TitleThe year of 2014 blessed us with the WWE World Heavyweight Championship, which brings in it a look back at the previous designs entangled with a modern light approach. It featured a huge WWE logo in the center and was surrounded by gold plating with a black leather strap, showing design aspects that represent both retrospection and being modern. In 2016, the WWE Universal Championship was unveiled for the Raw brand. The design, largely met with a so-so reaction regarding the red strap, mirrored the WWE Championship with a large central logo and gold accents. Among the notable holders of this belt are Finn Balor, Kevin Owens, and Brock Lesnar. The Intercontinental Championship Early Designs: Classy LookIntroduced in 1979, when you think about some of the strides made by key WWE superstars, the Intercontinental belt is the stepping stone. The original lay out design was fairly minimalist though. A round center plate, with a sort of map of continents behind it. On top of it said, “Intercontinental Heavyweight Wrestling Champion.” An even more iconic look emerged in the 1980s, which had a white strap around it and large gold plates. This version, currently owned by the aforementioned wrestlers like Randy Savage, Ricky Steamboat, and the Ultimate Warrior, was the look of old school wrestling. The 1990s and 2000sNow, it has emerged to resurface several times with changes in its size, color, dressing details, among others. The Intercontinental title was first issued with the grim design of the belt when the New Era style had begun to emerge. The strap reverted back to the white design in 2011, rekindling its vintage look while paying homage to its rich history. Such a nostalgic look has seen it embraced by fans and wrestlers equally, with stars like Cody Rhodes, The Miz, and Dolph Ziggler proudly holding the title. Renaissance: Rough and OrnateAnother heavy redo has been made with the Intercontinental Championship in 2019. This title looks ultra-fresh with the new black strap, alongside the way more modern center plate and its busy design. In this way, we continue to add a prestigious heritage. The United States Championship Where WCW Began and Became WWE’sThe United States Championship started in WCW in 1975. The early designs gave it a simplistic outlook with the American flag. The title then was added to WWE title history when WWE purchased WCW in the year 2001. WWE RebrandsIn 2003, WWE came out with a brand new style for the United States Championship—much more lavish, some would go so far as to say gaudy, with a huge American flag on the central plate. The design was colorful and full of patriotism, befitting the title’s rich heritage. Many stars have held this title, like John
Real-Life Drama: WWE Storylines Inspired By True Events
Professional wrestling—specifically WWE—is well known for combining athleticism with theatrics. The outcomes are predetermined yet, more often than not, the stories told mirror real-life drama involving the emotional underpinning, struggles, and victories of daily life. Why some of the most engaging storylines in the WWE are pegged from a very real place, blurring those lines between reality and fiction, is what makes for great television. The following article explores the true events that inspired a WWE storyline, how these stories appear to relate and connect with the audience, and what comes of this in the world of professional wrestling. OriginOne of the most infamous events in pro wrestling history, the Montreal Screwjob, occurred at the Survivor Series ’97 pay-per-view on November 9, 1997, at the Molson Centre in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Bret “The Hitman” Hart was supposed to defend his WWF Championship against Shawn Michaels.Unbeknownst to Hart, Vince McMahon ordered an infamous finish in which the referee called for the bell with both foes in the ring and Hart held in a submission maneuver, despite the fact he had not submitted. Essentially, this act of betrayal provoked Bret Hart’s exit from the WWF and lit a real-life scandal between him and McMahon. The PlotAfter the Screwjob, Vince McMahon made the character transition from behind-the-scenes executive to on-screen villain, reveling in his role as the evil boss. This spawned the legendary feud between McMahon and “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, the renegade worker whose battle was against the oppressive employer. Thus, with this storyline nucleus emerging from actual tension from the Montreal Screwjob, this became one of the central elements of the Attitude Era and greatly increased WWF’s popularity. ImpactWhat made the Montreal Screwjob storyline so effective is that it struck a universal chord of betrayal and rebellion against authority. Because of where it blurred reality with fiction, it seemed more real than drama. That real life tension between Bret Hart and Vince McMahon only furthered its story and went on to create one of wrestling’s most explosive and iconic feuds of all time. OriginThe storyline in a feud between Eddie Guerrero and Rey Mysterio was partially based on events and experiences occurring in their real lives. Guerrero and Mysterio had both spent a long time in this business and became good friends outside the ring. This was far from the case for Guerrero, who had a history of personal demons, including addiction problems, to which he was quite vocal. The PlotIn 2005, WWE crafted a storyline wherein Eddie Guerrero brings out a revelation saying he is Dominik, the son of Rey Mysterio. This led to an ongoing battle for custody that really gained a super intense peak at SummerSlam in a Ladder Match, where the one left would win the custody of Dominik. This was a very emotional and powerful storyline, really putting Guerrero as a strong heel and Mysterio as a resilient babyface. ImpactThe storyline was greatly influenced by real-life events of Guerrero struggling with his fight and his relationship with Mysterio and hence included strong elements of realism in the narrative. The storyline was highly sentimental to the fans that related to the ordeal Mysterio faced and reacted strongly against Guerrero’s manipulative tactics. The real-life elements greatly focused on making the storyline engrossing and thus memorable in the storytelling of WWE. OriginCM Punk’s legendary “Pipe Bomb” promo in the June 27, 2011, episode of Monday Night Raw blurred the lines between scripted wrestling and reality. Punk was airing out his grievances about WWE’s management, creative direction, and treatment of wrestlers. His impromptu, fourth-wall-breaking soliloquy really struck a chord with the fans and called out many of the genuine issues that exist within the company. The PlotAfter the Pipe Bomb, WWE began to incorporate some real-life frustrations of Punk into a storyline where he threatened to leave the company with the WWE Championship. So, at Money in the Bank 2011, Punk defeated John Cena and did exactly that: he left the place with the title. This received so much interest and really put Punk on top of the heap. ImpactThe Pipe Bomb promo segment by CM Punk, along with the resultant storyline leading up to it, added an ounce of reality to WWE programming. The fans loved the bitterness and his mentioning of problems taking place behind the scenes. This once again rebuffed any naysayers of Punk’s charisma and mic work, establishing him as one of the most adept wrestlers of his generation. OriginThe real-life love triangle between Matt Hardy, Lita, and Edge was made into one of the most shocking storylines in WWE history. For a long time before that incident, Matt Hardy had been the lover of Lita, though strangely enough, the sudden termination of that relationship came about. Lita began an affair with Edge, effectively terminating her relationship with Hardy. The affair went very public, leaving Hardy temporarily fired from WWE. The PlotWWE used the real-life drama as a plot twist concerning Matt Hardy, who came back to be in the face of Edge and Lita. Hardy bore some unbearable resentment toward Edge, signaling that the matches had to be personal. This blurred the very issue of reality and fiction altogether in building up this rather hot rivalry in the history of WWE. ImpactThe Matt Hardy-Lita-Edge storyline was something that really made people like the concept because of its origin from real life. Tension and emotion are what gave this story depth and richness, making it so compelling. It further made WWE not shy away from using real-life situations to add drama to their programs and make them engaging. 5: Daniel Bryan’s ‘Yes Movement’ OriginDaniel Bryan’s rise to the main event scene of WWE almost ran parallel to his real-life underdog story. In fighting through issues that held him back in his career, including a major one to begin with—WWE’s reluctance to push him as a top star—Bryan showed raw magnetism before, but nothing was substantial. His grassroots support provided once again proved that being a