World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) is probably the most popular form of wrestling known across the world. Its popularity has been sustained for the last three decades without any threat. It may lead to some thinking that they know everything there is to learn about WWE, and it is certainly not the case. Here are the top 11 mind-boggling facts about wrestling.
11. There are big professional wrestling promotions in countries other than the US
Contrary to popular opinion, even though WWE is the most marketed wrestling company, UK also boasts tens of promotions and championships. Wrestling is more than just a sport.
It has grown to be a multi-billion dollar industry with multiple TV shows and celebrities surrounding it, an industry where wrestling tickets are sold out almost instantly, but it doesn’t only exist in the United States. For instance, there are tens of wrestling promotions in the UK. On the same note, the first real traces of the development of wrestling date back to the ancient times of the Sumerian civilization, almost 5000 years ago.
10. Shawn Michaels’ named as Mr. WrestleMania for all the wrong reasons
Shawn Michaels is known as the Mr. WrestleMania, but not for being immensely successful in this tournament. He actually has one of the worst all-time records (6-11) having been on 17 editions. Even though those six victories were quite extraordinary, people will always remember him for the losses and the arrogant character he is perceived to possess.
9. WWF actually started in 1960s
Vince McMahon is instantly recognised as the man who created WWF, but the name has its origins in the 1950s. Toots Mondt and Jess McMahon set up the Capitol Wrestling Corporation with the latter passing away soon after. This led to the entry of Vincent J McMahon, who formed a great partnership with Toots to take the brand even further in the 1970s.
8. Undertaker passed a win in his streak match
Undertaker’s long unbeaten record in the Wrestlemania is probably one of the biggest talking points of the competition. Yet, the unbeaten record comprises of a match in which he did not have to officially beat his opponent. Giant Gonzalez was disqualified for cheating in 1993 and Undertaker was given a free win.
7. WWE’s incredible popularity
WWE is hugely popular and it is demonstrated by the 318 live events conducted in 2014 alone. It is a hugely surprising figure considering that year only has 365 days. Out of the 318 events, 54 were on international locations.
6. People were serious about getting rid of Vince McMahon
Vince McMahon has admitted that his attempts to create a single monopoly in the wrestling world have not been received well by his competitors. He has claimed in the past that there have been attempts on his life.
5. Royal Rumble could not have existed
One of the iconic aspects of Royal Rumble may not have existed since Vince McMahon did not believe that the idea would be a hit amongst the viewers. However, Pat Patterson stood by the concept which was introduced in 1987.
4. Almost bankruptcy in the 90’s
Despite the huge popularity, WWF came close to filing for bankruptcy in the 1990s since stars like Shawn Michaels were simply not making the sales. McMahon claims that it was not a nice feeling to have a house under mortgage in order to keep the business going.
3. WrestleMania 19 featured real names
WrestleMania is not known for using the players’ real names, but the two big exceptions are Brock Lesnar and Kurt Angle. The duo’s appearance in the WrestleMania 19 made it the only such competition to have at least one player with a real name. In every other WrestleMania, WWE has resorted to using fake names.
2. SmackDown was only meant for Divas
Thursday Night SmackDown is one of the popular elements of WWE, but it was initially formed as a direct competitor for WCW’s Thunder. However, it turned out to be one of the hugely popular elements of WWE after it was made into a program similar to the Monday night RAW. Would SmackDown have achieved the same levels of popularity if it was a Divas exclusive? It still remains one of the puzzling elements of the WWE.
1. Vince McMahon Sr. came close to selling WWF
Vince McMahon Sr. came close to selling WWF as he felt that McMahon Jr was not able enough to run the business. Gorilla Monsoon came close to becoming the next owner, but history would show that McMahon Jr not only attained ownership but also had Gorilla Monsoon as one of his employees.
