Former WWE wrestler Mark Copani reflects on how his character, Muhammad Hassan, played a pivotal role in transforming WWE’s approach to controversial storylines. In an interview with Steve Fall before a Dark Side of the Ring episode, Copani stated that his character marked a significant turning point in wrestling history.
Copani explained, “It was the end of the Attitude Era, and WWE had to completely rethink how they portrayed different nationalities and situations. It was a real eye-opener for them.”
Introduced three years after the 9/11 attacks, Muhammad Hassan sparked a unique real-world controversy that went beyond typical wrestling drama. Unlike earlier foreign villains, Hassan’s storyline struck a sensitive chord in post-9/11 America, drawing reactions WWE wasn’t prepared for.
Copani recalled, “It might have been too late because the world was shifting around WWE, and suddenly what was once seen purely as entertainment was becoming too real. It felt like a cultural issue, and early on, we didn’t have the chance to adjust the character or his message, which led to him being removed from TV.”
This abrupt removal in 2005 pushed WWE to reconsider how cultural sensitivity blends with entertainment, resulting in new guidelines that still shape content choices today.
Fan Take: This reflection on Muhammad Hassan’s character is crucial for WWE fans as it highlights the importance of balancing storytelling with cultural awareness. It shows how wrestling evolves alongside society and underscores the need for responsible creative choices to keep the sport relevant and respectful.
