WWE has delivered many memorable moments over the years, from Hulkamania’s explosive rise to the Attitude Era and positioning Cody Rhodes as the company’s centerpiece. However, they’ve also stumbled frequently by mishandling storylines, alienating fans, and mismanaging beloved superstars. Wrestling’s essence is about fulfilling fan expectations, yet WWE has often faltered on these fundamentals. While the entertainment value sometimes overshadows poor decisions, fans remember these major blunders vividly.
One significant misstep was delaying John Cena’s transition to a heel character despite fan calls for it over a decade. Although Triple H finally made the move, Cena’s heel run was underwhelming and failed to capture the fan’s dream storyline before it was too late.
Another major controversy involved Vince McMahon’s romantic angles, which have only worsened following serious allegations against him. His booking of himself in relationships with much younger female stars came across as an abuse of power, tarnishing his reputation and legacy.
WWE also harmed its “Hurt Business” faction by abruptly ending the faction despite its success, indirectly helping AEW capitalize by signing key members like MJF. Similarly, WWE’s attempt to honor Ultimate Warrior with a Hall of Fame award backfired due to Warrior’s controversial history, leading to the award’s eventual retirement after strong fan backlash.
The Nexus faction, initially seen as the hottest group since the nWo, was quickly dismantled following significant losses to John Cena, making them appear weak and ending what could have been a defining era for the company. The decision to have Brock Lesnar end The Undertaker’s iconic WrestleMania winning streak also upset fans, especially since WWE no longer works with Lesnar, adding complexity to the storyline’s legacy.
WWE controversially blocked Chyna’s induction into the Hall of Fame while she was alive, citing her past, which was later softened after her untimely death but still remains a sore point among fans. The company’s handling of Owen Hart’s tragic death was widely criticized, continuing the show despite the fatal accident, causing lasting distrust among Hart’s family.
Sting’s WWE tenure was disappointing, losing key matches and damaging his legacy, though he later redeemed himself with a strong farewell run in AEW. Moreover, future WWE leadership figures, like Triple H, have been criticized for racially insensitive remarks, notably during his feud with Booker T, which has stained their reputations and the company’s image.
Fan Take: These missteps highlight how WWE’s decisions can deeply impact fan trust and the legacy of wrestling heroes. For the sport to thrive, WWE must learn from these past errors and better respect both its talent and its audience to maintain wrestling’s cultural and entertainment value.
