**1. WCW and the Turner Network’s Bizarre Relationship**
The “Who Killed WCW” documentary series highlights the chaotic relationship between WCW and the Turner Network. While Ted Turner wanted WCW on his network, the rest of the network was indifferent or hostile to the idea. This strained relationship culminated in WCW being dropped from its TV slot in 2001. Could WCW have fared better with a supportive network? It’s hard to say, but a positive relationship between a wrestling company and its network is crucial, as seen with WWE’s long-standing partnerships.
**2. Rey Mysterio’s Dangerous Request**
Kevin Nash revealed in the documentary that Rey Mysterio once requested to be thrown through a glass window during an iconic WCW moment. Nash wisely declined, opting instead to throw Mysterio into a production truck, creating one of WCW’s most memorable scenes.
**3. Hulk Hogan’s Original WCW Deal**
Hulk Hogan’s 1994 contract included four pay-per-views a year and full creative control. This power led to significant issues, such as the botched finish of the Starrcade ’97 match against Sting. Hogan’s creative control often resulted in controversial decisions that hurt WCW’s credibility.
**4. Hogan’s Idea to Turn Heel**
Hulk Hogan’s heel turn and the formation of the NWO were pivotal for WCW’s success. Eric Bischoff revealed that Hogan himself proposed the idea to turn heel, a decision that changed the wrestling landscape. Hogan’s heel turn was kept top secret until the last moment, adding to its impact.
**5. Eric Bischoff Didn’t Want Thunder**
In 1998, the Turner Network requested a secondary WCW show, “Thunder,” despite being embarrassed by wrestling content. Eric Bischoff opposed this idea, believing it diluted the product. The show was funded from the existing WCW budget without additional resources, leading to its eventual failure.
**6. The Logic Behind David Arquette’s Title Win**
David Arquette’s controversial WCW World Championship win aimed to generate mainstream exposure. While it did achieve short-term attention, it failed to convert new viewers. Arquette himself expressed regret, especially after learning that Booker T had never held the title at that time.
**7. Vince Russo’s On-Air Involvement**
Vince Russo, without Vince McMahon’s filter, became an on-air character and even booked himself to win the WCW World title. This move is often cited as a low point for WCW, signaling the company’s imminent decline.
**8. Russo’s Claim of Being Better Than 80% of the Roster**
Vince Russo’s inflated self-perception is evident in his claim that he was better than 80% of the WCW roster. This disconnect highlights Russo’s detrimental impact on the company’s creative direction.
**9. Goldberg’s Intentional Injury Accusations**
Vince Russo accused wrestlers, including Goldberg, of intentionally hurting him. A notable incident involved Goldberg spearing Russo through a cage, causing a concussion. However, this seems more a case of inexperience and miscommunication than malice.
**10. Kevin Nash Almost Beat Goldberg Clean**
Kevin Nash ended Goldberg’s winning streak at Starrcade ’98 with a controversial finish involving a taser. Former WCW booker Kevin Sullivan suggested that Nash should have won clean, which would have changed the narrative around the streak’s end.
**11. Forensic Investigation on Eric Bischoff**
Eric Bischoff was investigated for alleged misuse of funds, with suspicions that he was giving out large contracts for personal gain. The investigation cleared him, but the accusation severely damaged his motivation to continue with WCW.
These revelations paint a complex picture of WCW’s downfall, marked by internal conflicts, controversial decisions, and strained relationships. Leave your comments below and stay tuned for more wrestling content!
