In an exclusive interview, Charles Wright, the man behind the legendary WWE persona The Godfather, has revealed some of the most shocking and intriguing aspects of his wrestling career. From his close call with joining the infamous New World Order (NWO) in World Championship Wrestling (WCW) to the true inspiration behind his iconic character, Wright has given us an intimate look into the making of a WWE legend.
A Near Miss with the NWO
Wright, who spent a significant portion of his career portraying The Godfather, has revealed that he was indeed approached by WCW to join the NWO, a faction that dominated the late 1990s wrestling landscape. According to Wright, the opportunity to join the NWO came at a time when his WWE contract was up for renewal, and he was considering a move to WCW.
“I had just finished my run as Papa Shango, and I was looking for a new challenge,” Wright explained. “I had a great conversation with Eric Bischoff, who was the President of WCW at the time, and he offered me a spot in the NWO. It was a tempting offer, but I ultimately decided to stay in WWE.”
Wright’s decision to stay in WWE would ultimately prove to be a wise one, as The Godfather would go on to become one of the most iconic and beloved characters in WWE history. But what was it about the NWO that drew Wright in?
“I think what intrigued me about the NWO was the edginess and the rebelliousness of the group,” Wright said. “They were a group of outsiders who were pushing the boundaries of what was acceptable in professional wrestling, and I was drawn to that energy.”
The True Origin of The Godfather Character
One of the most intriguing aspects of The Godfather character was its unique blend of voodoo and Southern charm. Wright has revealed that the character was inspired by his own experiences growing up in New Orleans, where voodoo was a deeply ingrained part of the culture.
“I grew up in New Orleans, where voodoo was a big part of the city’s fabric,” Wright explained. “I was fascinated by the mysticism and the spiritual aspects of voodoo, and I wanted to bring that into my wrestling character. I also drew inspiration from the classic Southern gentleman archetype, with his charm and his charisma.”
Wright’s portrayal of The Godfather was a masterclass in blending these two seemingly disparate elements. His character was equal parts menacing and charming, making him a fan favorite in the process.
A Lasting Legacy
The Godfather’s impact on WWE cannot be overstated. His character was a staple of the Attitude Era, and his influence can still be seen in wrestlers today. But what does Wright think about his legacy, and how does he want to be remembered?
“I’m proud of what I accomplished as The Godfather,” Wright said. “I think I helped to create a character that was both unique and memorable, and I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to be a part of WWE’s history. I hope that my legacy will be remembered as a wrestler who was true to himself and his art form.”
As Wright looks back on his career, it’s clear that he has no regrets about his decision to stay in WWE and pursue his dream of becoming The Godfather. And as for the NWO? Wright has no hard feelings about the opportunity that got away.
“I’m happy to have had the experience, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of something so special,” Wright said. “But in the end, I made the right decision for me, and I’m proud of what I accomplished in WWE.”
A Lasting Impact
The Godfather’s impact on WWE extends far beyond his own character. His influence can be seen in wrestlers like The Undertaker, who has cited The Godfather as a major inspiration for his own character. And while the wrestling world has changed significantly since Wright’s heyday, one thing remains the same: the enduring legacy of The Godfather.
As one WWE insider noted, “The Godfather was a trailblazer in every sense of the word. He paved the way for future generations of wrestlers to be more confident and more authentic in their performances. His legacy will live on forever, and we’re grateful to have had him as a part of our WWE family.”
In the end, The Godfather’s story is one of perseverance, creativity, and a willingness to take risks. It’s a reminder that even the biggest stars in WWE started somewhere, and that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible.