Natalya, a renowned name in the WWE universe, has experienced her fair share of controversies throughout her illustrious career. One of the most memorable, albeit uncomfortable, moments for her was the infamous flatulence gimmick pushed by the former WWE CEO, Vince McMahon. This storyline, while intended to be comedic, left many fans and wrestlers alike uncomfortable and questioning the creative direction of the company.
Natalya’s Career and the Farting Gimmick
Natalya, known for her exceptional technical wrestling skills, has been a staple in the WWE for years. Despite her talent, she was once saddled with a gimmick that many would rather forget—her on-screen persona was known for passing gas, which was meant to be humorous but ultimately fell flat with fans. This gimmick, which lasted for about six weeks, was heavily influenced by Vince McMahon’s fondness for toilet humor, as seen in several other WWE storylines and segments[1][2].
“I’ve always been a performer who can roll with the punches,” Natalya once said in an interview. “Even when given something as unusual as a flatulence gimmick, I tried to make it work. I’d joke about eating too many protein bars and would dress up in vintage couture to make it memorable. It wasn’t the easiest thing to do, but as a pro, I aimed to make it entertaining”[4].
Backlash and Uncomfortable Moments
The farting gimmick was not well-received by fans, who found it more embarrassing than amusing. Backstage, there were mixed reactions, with some understanding the intent behind the humor but others feeling it was a step too far in terms of taste. According to a WWE insider, “The whole crew was divided on it. Some thought it could bring in a younger audience, but others were convinced it would be a career-killer for Natalya. Vince was adamant it was funny, but you could tell not everyone was on board with it.”
Sound effects were frequently used during Natalya’s segments to emphasize the humor, but the reliance on these gimmicks led fans to question the company’s creative direction. The storyline was eventually phased out due to negative fan response, marking a turning point for Natalya as she moved on to more serious and respected roles within the WWE[7].
The Legacy of Vince McMahon’s Creative Choices
Vince McMahon has been known for his love of bathroom humor, which has sometimes led to mixed reactions from fans. From Natalya’s farting gimmick to other infamous segments like Droz’s puking character, these moments often left viewers divided. While some appreciated the humor, others found it to be low-brow entertainment that detracted from the athletic prowess of the wrestlers.
“Vince has always been about pushing boundaries and making people talk,” observed a WWE veteran. “Sometimes it works out, but other times, like with Natalya’s gimmick, it just doesn’t resonate. It’s a fine line between being innovative and being off-putting.”
Natalya’s Resilience and Career Evolution
Despite the challenges posed by the flatulence gimmick, Natalya has shown incredible resilience and adaptability throughout her career. She has evolved into one of the most respected figures in the WWE, known not for her past gimmicks but for her technical expertise and dedication to her craft.
Sources close to Triple H indicated that there’s a deliberate effort to focus on Natalya’s technical skills now, moving away from past controversies. This shift in focus reflects the company’s broader strategy to highlight the athletic aspects of wrestling, providing a more balanced narrative for its performers.
The Impact of Vince McMahon’s Style on WWE Narrative
Vince McMahon’s influence on WWE storylines has been profound, with his love for unexpected humor often leading to memorable moments, even if they are not always well-received. The use of bathroom humor, while polarizing, has become a part of WWE’s history, reminding fans of the unpredictability of professional wrestling.
However, the transition away from such gimmicks under new leadership signifies a changing landscape for WWE, where athletes are valued for their skills in the ring rather than for being part of a questionable comedy routine. This evolution reflects the growth of the industry, acknowledging that while humor can be a part of entertainment, it must be balanced with respect for the performers and the audience.
Conclusion
Natalya’s experience with the flatulence gimmick serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of professional wrestling and the challenges faced by performers under the direction of creative leaders like Vince McMahon. Despite the initial discomfort, Natalya’s career has flourished, and she remains an integral part of the WWE universe. As the company continues to evolve, focusing on the athleticism and respect for its superstars will be crucial in building a more sustainable and engaging narrative for fans worldwide.