5 ways WWE Chairman Vince McMahon changed Pro Wrestling forever

Modified Aug 24, 2019 04:59 GMT

Vince McMahon, introducing us to WrestleMania 29

#4 Turned mid-carders into megastars who enjoy major fan followings today

Vince McMahon sensed the possibilities he had with Hulk Hogan as WWE's top face, and ran with the opportunity at his hand. The Result? Hogan is regarded today as possibly the most recognizable pro-wrestler of all time. Vince took 'The Ringmaster' and turned him into Stone Cold Steve Austin, who essentially saved him from going bankrupt and being defeated by WCW in the Monday Night Wars.

The Rock, a cringy babyface once, is now a major Hollywood star, and John Cena seems to be going the same way, now that he has bagged a role in Fast & Furious 9.

Also read: Former World Champion welcomes Seth Rollins to the 'family'

#3 Created Wrestling's own annual festival

People from various countries gather once a year to enjoy festivals pertaining to a variety of genres. Tomorrowland, an electronic dance music festival, is one such example. Vince McMahon put all of his eggs in the same basket back in 1985 and created WrestleMania. The event was a huge hit, and has now become an annual pro-wrestling festival, lasting a whole week.

Fans from more than 60 countries visit WrestleMania every year, plus several indie promotions make it a point to host shows on 'Mania weekend. Add to it the Hall of Fame ceremony, WWE Axxess, and the Raw after WrestleMania, and it becomes a festival a fan must visit at least once in their life.

Edited by Anirban Banerjee