People who changed wrestling
by Vishakh
Throughout wrestling history, there have been men who have almost single-handedly changed the sport. They not only helped it when it was sinking, but also helped it scale new heights when others thought further growth was impossible. This includes people like Vince McMahon and Hulk Hogan, who in the 80's, changed it forever, transforming it from sport to sport entertainment. Here are some of them.
Vincent McMahon, Sr.- Founded the WWF at a time when the NWA was synonymous with pro wrestling. Who knew that one day this very same organization would dominate pro wrestling, changing its very face at least thrice.
Vincent McMahon, Jr.- Not much was expected of him when he bought the WWF from his Father in 1983. But he has proved otherwise. He, in conjunction with Hulk Hogan, changed wrestling into an industry in the 80's. In 1993, he once again redefined wrestling with his 'New WWF Generation'. Once again in 1996, when people thought his company was headed towards bankrupcy thanks to competition from World Championship Wrestling, he repackaged wrestling into an adult-oriented 'male soap-opera', helping wrestling gain immense popularity.
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"Hulk" Hogan- Easily the most recognized wrestler in the world, Terry Bolea had an equal part (with Vince McMahon) in the rise of pro wrestling. Easily identifiable in his yellow tights, the man with a super-hero gimmick became one of the icons of the 80's. His matches with the likes of Andre The Giant, Randy Savage and Roddy Piper have drawn some of the biggest crowds ever seen. In 1993, when he jumped ship to WCW, he contributed (ironically) to the decline of the WWF. Sadly, the very same man has been the greatest factor in the recent trouble WCW is facing.
The Legion Of Doom- Hawk and Animal, the original Road Warriors, brought to wrestling what is today an integral part of the sport. In 1985, they shocked bookers and promoters alike with their face-paint and wrestling gear (also the legendary Road Warrior attitude). Although LOD is now OLD, their legacy will live on with every wrestlers who dons face paint and body armour.
Jimmy Snuka- The first high-flyer and truly 'hardcore' wrestler, The Superfly's aerial maneuvers are used by almost every self-respecting wrestler today.
Steve Austin- While his contribution may pale in comparision to the likes of Hulk Hogan, the fact remains that he was the harbinger of the current, adult-oriented era of pro wrestling.
Paul E. Heyman- When he founded ECW in 1992, nobody could have imagined the impact this organization would make. With a hardcore style and catering only to an adult audience, ECW was once dismissed as a flash in the pan. While ECW may be sinking, its style is now the industry standard and ECW will forever be hailed as the originator of hardcore wrestling.
